The Best Golf Shoes for Walking 18 Holes Without Destroying Your Feet (Weekend Golfer Tested)
Your feet are killing you by the 14th hole. Again.
That familiar burning sensation creeps up from your arches. Your toes feel cramped. And you know you've still got four more holes to suffer through before you can finally kick off those torture devices masquerading as golf shoes.
Here's what nobody tells you when you're standing in the golf shop, trying on that $150 pair that "fits pretty good": walking 18 holes isn't just a stroll through the park. According to research by Dr. Steve Otto at the R&A, golfers average 6.6 miles per round—nearly 70% more than the scorecard yardage suggests. You're not just walking hole-to-hole. You're zigzagging after errant shots, circling greens to read putts, and hiking between tees.
And if your shoes aren't built for that kind of punishment, you're going to feel it.
Dr. Robert Fridman, president of the Northeast Division of the American College of Foot & Ankle Surgeons, puts it plainly: "Many golfers prefer to walk the course rather than ride a cart—and some courses even have rules requiring players to walk the course—so they may end up walking over five miles at the end of 18 holes…or more if they are having a bad game." That's when poorly chosen footwear transforms from minor annoyance into game-ruining agony.
But here's the good news: you don't need to spend a fortune or become a podiatrist to find walking shoes that actually work. Smart weekend golfers understand that the right shoes aren't just about comfort—they're about finishing strong, impressing your buddies by outlasting them, and earning the right to brag about walking instead of riding. This is how you finally improve your own game without expensive fittings or complicated decisions.
In this guide, I'll show you exactly what to look for in comfortable golf shoes built for walking, which features genuinely matter (and which are just marketing fluff), and my top 9 picks that weekend golfers actually wear and recommend. From budget-friendly options under $100 to premium choices that'll last multiple seasons, you'll discover shoes that keep you comfortable from the first tee to the 18th green.
What Makes a Golf Shoe Actually Good for Walking?
Most golf shoes are designed for one thing: keeping your feet planted during your swing. That's important, but it misses half the story.
Walking shoes need to do double duty. They have to provide the stability and traction you need when you're crushing drives down the fairway, but they also need the cushioning, support, and flexibility to carry you comfortably through those 6-plus miles.
Here's what separates walking-friendly shoes from foot-pain factories:
Cushioning That Lasts All Round
Weekend golfers who walk need serious cushioning in the midsole. Technologies like FootJoy's SofFoam, Adidas' Boost foam, and Skechers' Air-Cooled Memory Foam aren't just fancy names—they're the difference between fresh feet and hobbling by the back nine. The best golf shoes for walking 18 holes use materials that compress and rebound thousands of times without losing their support.
Dr. Velimir Petkov, a board-certified podiatrist at Premier Podiatry in Clifton, New Jersey, emphasizes this point: "The lightweight, microfiber uppers, and dual durometer EVA-footbed provide lateral support and medial cushioning, which are both necessary with each swing that you take to harness power during a golf swing."
Arch Support That Prevents Fatigue
Your arches are working overtime when you walk a golf course. Each step, each swing, each time you shift your weight—your arches absorb the impact. Without proper support, you'll feel it in your feet, knees, and lower back by the turn.
Look for shoes with built-in arch support or removable insoles that let you add custom orthotics. Brands like Skechers have built their reputation on arch support technology (their Arch Fit system is particularly popular with weekend golfers), while ECCO and True Linkswear focus on anatomical designs that support natural foot movement.
Breathability for All-Day Comfort
Nothing kills a round faster than overheated, sweaty feet. The best walking shoes use materials like mesh uppers, Gore-Tex membranes, or ECCO's proprietary leather treatments that let air circulate while keeping moisture out.
This becomes critical during summer rounds or if you're the type who plays 36 holes on Saturday. Smart weekend golfers understand that comfortable golf gear isn't a luxury—it's how you finish rounds strong when your buddies are ready to quit.
Weight That Won't Wear You Down
Every ounce counts when you're walking 10,000-plus steps. Heavy shoes might feel solid in the store, but they'll drain your energy by the back nine. The lightest walking shoes clock in around 10-12 ounces per shoe, while some traditional spiked models tip the scales at 16 ounces or more.
That 6-ounce difference might not sound like much, but multiply it by 13,000 steps (the average for mid-handicappers, according to Inside Golf Australia's study of 1,000+ rounds), and you're lifting an extra 50 pounds throughout your round.
Flexibility That Moves With Your Foot
Here's where it gets tricky: you need stability for your swing, but you also need flexibility for natural walking motion. The best walking shoes strike this balance with strategic construction—firmer in the midfoot for lateral support during your swing, but more flexible in the forefoot for comfortable walking.
I'm not totally sure why, but after switching to a more flexible shoe last season, I noticed way less fatigue in my calves during Saturday morning golf. Dave actually asked what I'd changed about my game.
Traction That Works on Any Surface
You'll walk across wet grass, dry fairways, muddy cart paths, slick tee boxes, and everything in between. Your shoes need to grip all of it without collecting half the course on your soles.
Spikeless designs have come a long way. Modern traction patterns from brands like Adidas (their 3D Traxion outsole), PAYNTR, and True Linkswear can match or nearly match spiked performance while being much more comfortable for walking.
Spiked vs. Spikeless: Which Is Better for Walking?
This is the question that divides weekend golfers.
The old-school answer was simple: spikes grip better, period. But that was before modern spikeless designs revolutionized the game. Now, the choice depends more on your priorities and playing conditions than any hard rules.
The Case for Spikeless Walking Shoes
Spikeless shoes have three massive advantages for walkers:
First, they're more comfortable. Without cleats digging into your feet, you get a more natural walking experience that's gentler on your feet, ankles, and knees over 18 holes.
Second, they're more versatile. You can wear them to the clubhouse, in the parking lot, even while running errands after your round. No more carrying an extra pair of shoes or clicking across the pro shop floor like you're wearing tap shoes.
Third, modern spikeless designs have closed the traction gap. According to testing by MyGolfSpy, top spikeless models like the Adidas Adizero ZG, PAYNTR All Day SC, and FootJoy Quantum provide traction that rivals traditional spikes in most conditions.
When Spikes Still Make Sense
That said, spikes aren't dead. If you play on hilly courses, in frequently wet conditions, or if you generate significant torque in your swing, traditional spikes still offer the ultimate in stability and grip.
Weekend golfers who live where morning dew is standard or where afternoon thunderstorms are common often stick with soft spikes. The confidence of knowing your feet won't slip during your backswing is worth the slightly less comfortable walk for many players.
From what I've noticed, playing once a week, the spikeless-versus-spiked decision really comes down to your typical course conditions. Jim said he wished he'd stayed with spikes after sliding twice on our local muni's wet bermuda grass.
The Hybrid Approach
Some golfers solve this dilemma by owning both: spikeless for dry conditions and easy courses, spiked for challenging terrain or wet weather. If you're on a budget, though, modern spikeless designs offer such good traction that they're the smarter choice for most weekend golfers who walk.
The key is choosing shoes with aggressive traction patterns—not the flat, minimal designs that look great but can't grip worth a damn when conditions get tricky.
Top Features to Look for in Walking Golf Shoes
Not all walking shoes are created equal. Here's what actually matters when you're choosing shoes that'll carry you comfortably through 18 holes:
Removable Insoles for Custom Orthotics
This is huge if you have arch issues, plantar fasciitis, or just prefer custom insoles. Many weekend golfers don't realize that golf shoes for plantar fasciitis can be customized with aftermarket insoles that provide better support than anything that comes stock.
Look for shoes with the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance, which indicates the shoe has been reviewed by podiatrists and found to promote foot health.
According to experts at WeTreatFeet Podiatry, custom orthotics designed specifically for golf's unique biomechanics can dramatically improve comfort and prevent injury. But they're useless if your shoes don't have removable insoles.
Waterproofing (But Not at the Expense of Breathability)
You need shoes that keep your feet dry when you walk through morning dew or encounter unexpected showers. But completely waterproof shoes that don't breathe become sweat chambers by the back nine.
Look for shoes with breathable waterproof membranes like Gore-Tex or proprietary technologies from ECCO, Adidas, and FootJoy. These materials block water from outside while letting moisture vapor escape from inside. The result: dry feet, whether from rain or sweat.
True-to-Size Fit
Shoes that run large or small are the enemy of comfortable walking. The best golf equipment buying guide advice is simple: try shoes on in the afternoon when your feet are slightly swollen (just like they'll be during a round), and make sure you're wearing the same socks you'll play in.
Your heel should stay locked in place, your toes should have about a thumb's width of space in front, and the widest part of your foot should align with the widest part of the shoe. If any of these are off, keep looking.
Durable Outsoles That Don't Wear Out
The cheapest shoes might feel good for the first few rounds, but if the outsoles wear down after 10-15 rounds, you're not saving money—you're just buying shoes more often. Quality rubber compounds and reinforced high-wear areas are what separate shoes that last one season from those that last three.
Heel Cups That Lock Your Foot in Place
A well-designed heel cup prevents your foot from sliding during your swing while still allowing comfortable flexion during walking. Shoes without proper heel cups lead to blisters, hot spots, and inconsistent swing mechanics as your foot moves around inside the shoe.
👟 The Weekend Golfer's Walking Shoe Checklist
- ✅ Serious midsole cushioning that lasts all 18 holes
- ✅ Built-in arch support or removable insoles for orthotics
- ✅ Breathable waterproof materials for dry feet without sweat
- ✅ Under 14 ounces per shoe for reduced fatigue
My Top 9 Golf Shoes for Walking Weekend Golfers Actually Wear
I've tested dozens of walking shoes over the past few years, talked to fellow weekend golfers about what works, and researched what podiatrists actually recommend. Here are the shoes that consistently deliver for golfers who walk.
1. FootJoy Quantum - Best Overall Comfort
If you could bottle "cloud-like comfort" and turn it into a golf shoe, this would be it. The Quantum's SofFoam technology in the midsole and heel provides cushioning that remains consistent through 18 holes and beyond.
During testing by Golf Monthly, reviewers noted "no aches or pains no matter how long we wore these shoes for." That's the kind of feedback that matters when you're walking 6 miles in a round.
What makes it great: The Ortholite Impression FitBed molds to your foot over time, creating almost custom-fit comfort. The spikeless outsole provides solid traction in most conditions, though it's not quite as grippy as some competitors in wet grass.
Price range: $180-$200
Best for: Weekend golfers who prioritize comfort above all else and play in mostly dry conditions.
2. Adidas Adizero ZG - Best Lightweight Performance
At just 10.5 ounces per shoe, the Adizero ZG is one of the lightest walking shoes you'll find. But don't mistake light for flimsy—this shoe punches way above its weight class.
Golf Monthly testing found the outsole design "matches the grip and security you get from a conventional spiked shoe almost identically." That's remarkable traction for a spikeless design, and the aggressive lugs on the perimeter provide excellent lateral grip during your swing.
What makes it great: The dual-foam midsole gives you step-in comfort that doesn't sacrifice stability. The lightweight construction means less leg and foot fatigue, especially on hilly courses.
Price range: $130-$150
Best for: Weekend golfers who want to walk fast, play fast, and finish strong.
3. Skechers Go Golf Prestige - Best Budget Pick
I could be wrong, but I think Skechers might make the most comfortable budget golf shoes on the market right now. The Go Golf Prestige combines their famous Arch Fit technology with slip-in convenience for under $120.
Reviewers with flat feet consistently praise this shoe for its arch support, which uses biomechanical engineering to gently lift the arch and reduce foot fatigue. The slip-in design makes them easy to get on and off, while the heel pillow adds comfort both in the clubhouse and during your round.
What makes it great: The ultra-soft heel prevents blisters, and the Arch Fit support helps golfers with problematic feet stay comfortable all round. For the price, the quality is wickedly effective.
Price range: $100-$120
Best for: Budget-conscious weekend golfers with arch issues or flat feet.
4. ECCO Biom H5 - Best for Wide Feet
ECCO's reputation for comfort is well-earned, and the Biom H5 might be their best walking shoe yet. The anatomical last design accommodates wider feet without sacrificing support, while the Fluidform Direct Comfort Technology provides subtle bounce and energy return.
What sets ECCO apart is their leather quality. The premium soft leather upper not only looks sharp but comes with a two-year waterproof guarantee. Combined with the Ortholite insole and Biom Natural Motion technology, you get a shoe that feels custom-made for your foot.
What makes it great: The generous toe box and overall width make this perfect for golfers who struggle to find comfortable shoes. The lightweight build (around 12 ounces) doesn't sacrifice durability.
Price range: $180-$220
Best for: Weekend golfers with wide feet who want premium materials and exceptional comfort.
5. True Linkswear OG Cush - Best Zero-Drop Design
Here's something different: a zero-drop golf shoe that puts your heel and forefoot at the same level. It sounds weird until you try it—then you understand why it's such a game-changer for walking.
The wide toe box gives your toes room to spread naturally, while the zero-drop platform promotes better posture and more natural movement patterns. According to Golflink testing, "it's the most comfortable golf shoe for walking the course that I've tested in the last few years."
What makes it great: The natural foot positioning reduces strain on your ankles, knees, and lower back over 18 holes. The spikeless outsole grips well in dry conditions, though you'll want something more aggressive for wet courses.
Price range: $140-$160
Best for: Weekend golfers who value natural foot positioning and want to reduce lower-body strain.
6. PAYNTR All Day SC - Best Premium Spikeless
The name says it all: these shoes are built for all-day comfort. The PMX Nitro+ midsole and footbed provide exceptional cushioning, while the premium leather upper looks and feels bulletproof.
MyGolfSpy testing ranked this as one of the most comfortable spikeless shoes of 2025, with testers praising the overall fit and traction that rivals spiked offerings. At $200, they're not cheap—but you're paying for materials and construction that'll last multiple seasons.
What makes it great: The combination of premium comfort and excellent traction makes this shoe equally adept at walking and performance. The traction pattern is among the best for spikeless designs.
Price range: $200
Best for: Weekend golfers who want the absolute best and don't mind paying for it.
7. Puma Ignite Elevate 2 - Best Value for Walking
At $129, the Ignite Elevate 2 delivers remarkable value. It's comfortable, breathable, waterproof (with a one-year warranty), and looks sharp enough to wear off the course.
Golflink testing noted these shoes perform as well as models costing $50 more, with testers finding them just as comfortable after three years of regular use. That's the kind of durability that makes them a genuine bargain.
What makes it great: The spikeless outsole provides all-conditions grip, the breathable construction keeps feet cool, and the overall quality exceeds what you'd expect at this price point.
Price range: $120-$140
Best for: Budget-conscious weekend golfers who walk frequently and want shoes that'll last.
8. Under Armour Phantom Fore - Best Versatility
These shoes blur the line between golf shoes and everyday sneakers—in the best possible way. Golf Monthly testing found them "one of the most comfortable golf shoes" they'd ever tried, both on the course and off it.
Testers wore them to the gym, on mountain walks, and for everyday errands without any discomfort. The breathable knit construction keeps feet cool, while the NeverWet treatment and waterproof membrane provide rain protection.
What makes it great: The sock-like fit is easy to get on and off, the breathability is exceptional for summer golf, and the all-day comfort makes them perfect for 36-hole weekends.
Price range: $110-$150
Best for: Weekend golfers who want one shoe for golf and everyday wear.
9. FootJoy HyperFlex Carbon - Best Stability for Walking
If you generate significant power in your swing but still want to walk, the HyperFlex Carbon balances stability with comfort better than almost anything else. The carbon-fiber stability shank provides torsional rigidity during your swing without making the shoe feel stiff while walking.
At $100 on sale, these offer serious value for golfers who need extra support. The Jet Boost cushioning provides solid all-round comfort, though this shoe is slightly firmer than pure comfort models like the Quantum.
Price range: $100-$140
Best for: Weekend golfers with aggressive swings who need stability without sacrificing walkability.
It might just be my experience, but after trying these during a particularly long 27-hole day, I was surprised how well my feet held up. The guys noticed I wasn't complaining by the end like usual.
💰 Budget Breakdown for Smart Weekend Golfers
- 💵 Under $120: Skechers Go Golf Prestige, Puma Ignite Elevate 2
- 💵💵 $120-$160: Adidas Adizero ZG, True Linkswear OG Cush, Under Armour Phantom Fore
- 💵💵💵 $180-$200: FootJoy Quantum, ECCO Biom H5, PAYNTR All Day SC
- 🎯 Best value: Puma Ignite Elevate 2 delivers premium performance at mid-range price
Common Walking Shoe Mistakes That Kill Your Feet
Even smart weekend golfers make these mistakes when shopping for walking shoes. Here's what to avoid:
Buying Based on Brand Loyalty Alone
Just because you loved your last pair of FootJoys doesn't mean their latest model will work for you. Brands redesign shoes constantly, changing lasts, materials, and construction methods. Every shoe needs to be evaluated on its own merits.
I learned this the hard way when I bought the "updated version" of shoes I'd loved for two seasons. The new model fit completely differently and gave me blisters for three rounds before I admitted defeat.
Ignoring the Fit in Favor of Style
Golf shoes have gotten much better looking in recent years, which is great—until you prioritize appearance over fit. The coolest-looking shoes won't impress anybody if you're limping by the 15th hole.
Remember: you're buying these shoes to walk 6+ miles in comfort, not to win a fashion show. Style is the tiebreaker, not the deciding factor.
Not Breaking in New Shoes Properly
Here's a rule that'll save you agony: never wear brand-new shoes for a full 18-hole walking round. Even the most comfortable shoes need a break-in period to conform to your feet.
Wear new shoes around the house for a few days, then for 9 holes, before committing to a full walking round. Your feet will thank you.
Choosing Shoes That Are Too Tight "Because They'll Stretch"
This old wives' tale has destroyed more feet than bad swing mechanics. Golf shoes—especially modern synthetic materials—don't stretch like old leather brogues did. If they're tight in the store, they'll be tight on the course.
Smart weekend golfers know that golf shoes are necessary investments, and the right fit is non-negotiable. Shoes that are too tight cause blisters, numbness, and cramped toes. Shoes that are too loose cause instability and hot spots.
Neglecting Proper Golf Socks
This might seem minor, but the wrong socks can ruin even the best walking shoes. Golf accessories like moisture-wicking socks with cushioned soles make a genuine difference in comfort over 18 holes.
Avoid cotton socks that hold moisture. Instead, choose synthetic blends or merino wool that wick sweat and reduce friction. The few extra dollars you spend on quality socks will prevent blisters and keep your feet more comfortable.
Waiting Too Long to Replace Worn Shoes
According to podiatrists at Midwest Podiatry Centers, worn golf shoes with flat insoles need to be replaced—yet weekend golfers often squeeze extra rounds out of shoes that have lost their supportive properties.
As a general rule, walking shoes should be replaced every 40-60 rounds or when you notice the midsole has compressed significantly. If you're getting foot pain in shoes that used to be comfortable, that's your signal.
How to Make Any Walking Shoe More Comfortable
Even with the right shoes, these tips will boost comfort and prevent common walking-round problems:
Add Custom Insoles for Personalized Support
The stock insoles in most golf shoes are adequate, but custom or upgraded insoles can transform good shoes into great ones. Brands like Superfeet, Powerstep, and Spenco make golf-specific insoles that provide enhanced arch support, cushioning, and shock absorption.
Dr. Paul McMullan, a leading podiatrist who has treated over 25,000 patients, emphasizes that custom orthotics designed specifically for golf's biomechanics can prevent long-term foot injuries while improving comfort during play.
Use Anti-Friction Balms to Prevent Blisters
Products like BodyGlide or petroleum jelly applied to hot-spot areas before your round can prevent blisters from forming. This is especially important when breaking in new shoes or during particularly long walking rounds.
Rotate Between Two Pairs of Shoes
If you walk regularly, owning two pairs of walking shoes and alternating between them extends the life of both pairs. It also gives the midsole foam time to fully decompress between rounds, maintaining better cushioning properties.
Keep Your Shoes Clean and Dry
Mud, grass, and moisture can break down materials and reduce the lifespan of even premium shoes. After each round, remove debris from the outsole, wipe down the uppers, and let your shoes air dry completely before storing them.
Never put golf shoes in the dryer or leave them in a hot car—the heat can break down adhesives and deform materials.
Consider Using Golf Push Carts to Reduce Foot Fatigue
While carrying your bag is great exercise, it also increases the load on your feet and can accelerate fatigue. A quality push cart lets you walk the course while reducing the strain on your feet, ankles, and lower back.
This is particularly smart for weekend golfers over 40 or those with pre-existing foot issues who want to keep walking but need to reduce stress on their lower extremities.
Do You Really Need "Golf Shoes" for Walking, or Can You Use Athletic Shoes?
Here's a question weekend golfers ask all the time: why can't I just walk the course in my running shoes or trail shoes?
The honest answer: you can, but you shouldn't.
Why Golf-Specific Shoes Matter
Golf shoes are designed for lateral stability during your swing—something running shoes completely lack. When you swing a golf club, you generate rotational forces that running shoes aren't built to handle. The result: your feet slide inside the shoe, reducing power and consistency while increasing injury risk.
According to research published by the American College of Foot & Ankle Surgeons, the biomechanics of golf are distinct from running, walking, or other sports. Golf shoes provide the lateral support, torsional rigidity, and grip needed for the golf swing while still allowing comfortable forward motion during walking.
When Athletic Shoes Might Work
That said, if you're playing a casual round with friends, on a perfectly dry course, and you're not worried about optimizing your swing, quality trail running shoes can work in a pinch. They won't damage the course (unlike basketball shoes or other inappropriate footwear), and they'll provide decent traction on most surfaces.
But for regular walking rounds where you're trying to improve your game and impress your buddies with consistent ball-striking, golf-specific shoes are worth the investment. The difference in stability and confidence during your swing is noticeable.
What About "Hybrid" Shoes?
Some brands make shoes designed for both golf and everyday wear. These typically use spikeless outsoles with aggressive traction patterns, athletic shoe styling, and construction that balances golf performance with off-course comfort.
Shoes like the True Linkswear models or certain PAYNTR designs can work well for weekend golfers who want versatility. Just make sure whatever you choose provides adequate lateral support for your swing.
🏆 Your Journey to Pain-Free Walking Golf
- 😤 Round 1: Suffering through 18 holes in uncomfortable shoes like every weekend golfer
- 💡 Round 2: Discovering proper walking shoes changes everything about your experience
- 🎯 Round 3: First breakthrough when you finish strong and outlast your buddies
- 🏌️ Round 4: Earning the right to brag about walking instead of riding
Key Takeaways: Find Your Perfect Walking Shoes and Transform Your Rounds
Walking 18 holes shouldn't feel like a death march. With the right shoes, you'll finish as strong as you started, stay focused on your game instead of your feet, and earn the respect of buddies who can't believe you're still walking while they're begging for a cart.
Remember these essential points as you shop for walking shoes:
Cushioning, arch support, and breathability aren't luxury features—they're necessities for walking 6+ miles comfortably. The best weekend golfers understand that investing in quality footwear is how you improve your own game without expensive lessons or complicated solutions.
Don't get hung up on the spiked-versus-spikeless debate. Modern spikeless designs provide excellent traction for most conditions while offering superior walking comfort. Choose based on your typical playing conditions and personal preferences.
Fit matters more than brand names or price tags. A $120 pair that fits perfectly will outperform $200 shoes that don't match your foot shape. Try shoes on in the afternoon with golf socks, and don't compromise on fit.
Budget-conscious weekend golfers have excellent options under $150 that deliver performance rivaling shoes costing twice as much. The Skechers Go Golf Prestige, Puma Ignite Elevate 2, and Adidas Adizero ZG all punch above their price points.
Break in new shoes gradually, maintain them properly, and replace them when they've lost their cushioning. Your feet carry you through every round—treat them with the respect they deserve.
This is how weekend golfers who live by the manifesto approach equipment: make smart, self-directed choices that support long-term enjoyment of the game. The right walking shoes aren't just about comfort—they're about maintaining the lifestyle that makes you a weekend golfer in the first place.
Now get out there, find shoes that actually fit your feet and your game, and show your buddies what it means to finish 18 holes strong. That's what smart weekend golfers do.
Frequently Asked Questions About Golf Shoes for Walking
How often should I replace my walking golf shoes?
Replace your walking golf shoes every 40-60 rounds or when you notice significant midsole compression. If you walk frequently and play year-round, expect to replace shoes annually. Signs it's time for new shoes include: visible wear on the outsole tread, compressed or flat-feeling midsoles, separation between upper and sole, or new foot pain in shoes that used to be comfortable.
Are expensive golf shoes worth it for weekend golfers?
Premium shoes ($180-$220) typically offer better materials, more advanced cushioning technologies, and longer-lasting construction than budget options. However, excellent walking shoes exist at every price point. The "worth it" calculation depends on how often you walk—if you walk 40+ rounds per year, premium shoes become more cost-effective. Weekend golfers playing 20-30 rounds annually often find the best value in the $120-$150 range.
Can I wear spikeless golf shoes in wet conditions?
Modern spikeless shoes with aggressive traction patterns (like the Adidas Adizero ZG or PAYNTR All Day SC) provide solid grip in wet conditions, though not quite matching traditional soft spikes. For consistently wet or hilly courses, soft spikes still offer the ultimate traction. Many weekend golfers who walk regularly own both: spikeless for dry conditions and normal terrain, soft spikes for challenging weather or steep courses.
What's the best way to break in new walking golf shoes?
Start by wearing new shoes around the house for 2-3 hours to identify potential hot spots. Next, walk 9 holes before attempting a full 18-hole round. Apply anti-friction balm (BodyGlide or petroleum jelly) to any areas that felt tight during your trial walk. Most modern golf shoes require minimal break-in, but this gradual approach prevents blisters and discomfort. Never wear brand-new shoes for an important round or tournament.
Do I really need waterproof golf shoes if I mostly play in good weather?
Morning dew alone can soak through non-waterproof shoes, even on sunny days. Waterproof shoes also tend to be more durable overall, as the treatments that keep water out also help materials resist wear. That said, if you live in an arid climate and never play early morning rounds, breathable non-waterproof shoes might be fine. Most weekend golfers find waterproof shoes worthwhile for the versatility and peace of mind.
Should I buy golf shoes online or try them in a store first?
If possible, try shoes in person first—especially if you're trying a new brand or model. Golf specialty stores and larger sporting goods retailers often stock multiple sizes and widths. Once you know your size in a particular model, buying online (especially for past-season models at discount) becomes safer. When buying online, verify the return policy before purchasing and be prepared to exchange for proper fit.
Can I use running shoe insoles in my golf shoes?
Running shoe insoles can work in golf shoes if they provide adequate arch support and don't make the shoes too tight. However, golf-specific insoles are designed for the sport's unique biomechanics—they provide more lateral stability for your swing while still offering cushioning for walking. Brands like Superfeet, Powerstep, and FootJoy make golf-specific insoles that typically outperform generic running insoles for golf applications.
What's the difference between men's and women's walking golf shoes?
Beyond sizing, women's golf shoes typically feature narrower heels, different arch placements, and occasionally softer midsole materials to accommodate biomechanical differences. Women with wider feet sometimes find better fits in men's narrow widths, while men with narrow feet occasionally prefer women's styles in larger sizes. Focus on fit rather than gender labels when shopping for walking shoes.
Related Pages for Weekend Golfers Who Walk
Discover more resources to help you improve your own game and make smart equipment decisions:
