The golf swing requires an athletic move and the equipment we use can mean a huge difference in performance and results. Usually, any “gear” discussion centers on playing the right golf ball or finding the right clubs to match your swing and almost never on the golf shoes. Overlooking our footwear may leave a difficult gap to bridge in the search for a better score.
Some golfers are happy choosing their shoes solely on price, and that’s OK. However, if someone is looking to improve and prepared to pay $500 for a new driver, $1,200 for a set of irons or $300 for a putter, perhaps a reassessment of the footwear budget is only logical. Modern golf shoe manufacturers emphasize performance, and the choices offered have never been greater.
So, if you are looking to help your game jump to the next level keep in mind the big four factors in selecting the right golf shoes:
- Comfort and fit – These are not givens. You can ask anyone who has ever walked the four-plus miles for a golf round in a pair of shoes that were uncomfortable, too short, too long or not wide enough…you get the idea.
- Support in the arch and along the sides – Again, the golf swing is an athletic move. Just as you wouldn’t play basketball in flip-flops, you can’t expect to make the best swing you’re capable of with shoes that don’t help you.
- Sole, either spiked or spikeless – Modern plastic spikes or cleats are wonders of design and can really enhance performance, but spikeless models should be considered. There’s an element of personal preference but don’t overlook the need to grip the turf during the entire swing.
- Style – Finally, don’t forget any new pair of shoes must be the right color, style, and price to fit your eye and wallet.
Having said all that, here are 2019 shoe models that caught our attention at the PGA Merchandise Show.
Adidas Tour360 XT ($200) & Tour360 XT-SL ($170)
The Adidas Tour360 XT golf shoes combine a leather upper with Boost midsole. A seam-sealed Climaproof 8-cleat TPU Puremortion outsole with X-Traction Secondary lugs provides stability. The XT-SL spikeless is also available with BOA.
FootJoy Flex ($90)
The all-new FootJoy Flex includes a mesh upper with Versa-Trax runner outsole along with a soft and supportive midsole. It’s spikeless with multiple traction zones across sole for all conditions.
FootJoy Fury ($170)
FootJoy’s Fury is a leather shoe engineered with a mesh upper and waterproof treatment. It features the TruFit system and a dual-density TPU outsole with 9 fast-twist cleats. It is also available in a BOA model.
G-Fore Saddle Gallivanter ($225)
Highlights include an ultra-lightweight sole and triple density footbed. It’s waterproof with a full grain leather upper and a washable anti-microbial foam cushion sock liner.
TRUE Linkswear X Linksoul Knit ($148)
A collaboration between TRUE Linkswear and Linksoul, this breathable knit upper shoe is water and oil repellant. The sock-fit forms to the foot for comfortable wear while Cross-Life tread grips the links. It weighs only 9.5 oz.
New Balance NB Tour ($180)
New Balance NB Tour golf shoes feature a waterproof microfiber leather upper with REVlite midsole for comfort and performance in any weather, as well as a welded form-fitted tongue.
Nike Air Max 1G ($120)
Nike’s Air Max 1G is a remake of a classic and is spikeless with raised nodes for added grip. A synthetic leather water resistant upper and full-length Phylon midsole along with no-sew synthetic overlays add to weatherproofing.
Puma IGNITE PROADAPT API ($200)
There are low profile cleats in the PROADAPT outsole. IGNITE foam provides stable cushioning and comfort. Watch for a special Arnold Palmer version with the umbrella logo and pink sock liner.
Sketchers GO GOLF Max ($90)
Skechers GO GOLF Max features include an ultra-lightweight midsole cushioning as well as a synthetic and mesh fabric upper. The TPU outsole with GOGA Max insole offers high-rebound cushioning. It’s water-resistant.
Under Armour Spieth 3 ($200)
The Under Armour Spieth 3 has a breathable and waterproof fabric and leather upper. The sole has 7 regular cleats and 2 asymmetrical. With a carbon fiber midsole insert, it’s lighter than previous models.
Shop all the latest footwear here! For more information on the latest equipment in golf, check out our equipment section here.
