Skip to content
Home » 4 Things to Consider Before Buying Golf Shoes

4 Things to Consider Before Buying Golf Shoes

Mizuno Cadence Wave Shoes

A golf shoe is still just a shoe, right?

Well, technically, yes. But any avid golfer will soon tell you that just picking up the first pair of shoes you see as you’re on your way out the door is a sure-fire way to ensure your day is as miserable as your technique will be.

Why? Because the right golf shoes support your feet when you’re traipsing the length and breadth of the linkway, and it offers unrivalled balance to help your shot and accuracy stay on-point throughout the day.

Basically, if you want to be comfortable and enjoy your day, you need a proper pair of golf shoes.

So now what? There are literally hundreds of different men’s golf shoe on the market, and they all claim to be the best, so what do you really need to know before you even start shopping?

Getting these four key areas straight in your mind before you begin browsing is our secret to success, so let’s jump straight in.

Weight vs Distance

Whether you enjoy a quick 9-hole round after work or spend full days on the green, knowing the types of distances you’re likely to be walking will have a direct impact on the type of golf shoe you opt for.

Let us break this down for you. The average 18 hole round takes around 4 hours to complete. That’s 4 hours of walking.

If you’re really into your golf, you might even opt for a 36 hole round, but with around 8 hours on your feet, you want to be sure the shoes you’re wearing aren’t going to cause an issue.

Ecco S-Lite Golf Shoes

So, consider weight vs. distance. That is to say, if you love a long game, you want to be opting for a lighter golf shoe that isn’t going to become uncomfortable, weigh you down or sap your much needed energy during game play.

Spikes or No Spikes

Probably one of the most frequently asked questions out there; to spike or not to spike? Well, it’s an important one and it certainly divides golfers the world over.

Spiked golf shoes can aid balance, add traction and prevent you slipping in wet or hilly conditions. There are loads of different types of spike out there, in a range of different materials too, making it easy to find one that suits your needs if that’s the road you want to go down.

On the other hand, spikeless golf shoes are usually much comfier and lighter on the feet. There are plenty of big named brands of men’s golf shoes that come without spikes, so it really does depend on your own preferences.

Adidas Men’s Codechaos Golf Shoes

Comfort

You could argue that your slippers are comfortable, but they won’t offer the support you need when out on the green. So, what about golf shoes? Could they possibly provide the support you need whilst being just as comfortable as your favourite pair of house shoes?

Well, yes. But the truth is you need to be sure that you’re getting one that offers comfort for the long walks and arduous weather conditions, not just some that feel good at the time of trying them on. So here are some features to look out for:

• A secure fit
• Breathable
• A foam sole
• Additional padding

Remember, you’re likely to be on your feet for many hours, so it’s important you spend a lot of time choosing your desired comfort level.

Material

Finally, it’s all about the material. We are in the UK after all, so if nothing else, you need a pair of golf shoes that will be able to weather the wet and rain that is a common feature of British golf. So, what’s on offer?

Nextlite Pro Thestron Golf Shoe

• Leather – probably one of the most popular options, leather adds a waterproof, tight fitting option that is unlikely to give and stretch with wear, making it a long-lasting option.

• Synthetic – if you’re on a bit of a budget, a man-made upper can be a great option. Lighter, so great for lengthy days on the links, and comfortable, these are a great option if you’re not looking to spend loads. Typically, synthetic golf shoes don’t offer the breathability that others provide.

• Waterproof – the ultimate option for arduous weather conditions is the waterproof golf shoe. Brands such as Goretex are renowned for their waterproof shoes, although other brands manufacture similar. Thick, water-resistant and breathable, these are ideal in the winter and autumn months (or let’s face it, any day where the weather is less than ideal!).

Ready to buy your first pair of golf shoes?

Okay, so now that you know what you’re looking for, you should be all set to get the ball rolling. Need somewhere to start?

Mizuno Cadence Wave Shoes

Clarkes’ Golf Store is a great place to buy from some of the biggest brand names in the sport, and with competitive prices on offer, there’s no time like the present to treat yourself to your first pair of golf shoes.