The 7 Best Golf Shoes for Wide Feet That Finally End the Pain (Weekend Golfer Edition)
You know that moment around hole 14 when your feet start screaming at you? When every step reminds you that your "regular" golf shoes are squeezing your feet like a vice? When you're so focused on foot pain that you can barely concentrate on impressing your buddies with that crucial approach shot?
Yeah, I've been there. Too many times.
Here's what smart weekend golfers with wide feet understand: the wrong shoes don't just hurt—they steal your ability to improve your own game. Research shows that wearing the wrong golf shoe can actually cause injury, with properly fitted shoes potentially increasing your swing performance by up to 21%.
That's not just comfort. That's the difference between a good round and a great one.
This guide covers the 7 best golf shoes for wide feet that weekend golfers actually wear—shoes that feel great from the first step, support your swing through all 18 holes, and help you finally focus on your game instead of your aching feet. We're talking FootJoy, Skechers, Ecco, and other proven brands that understand not everyone has narrow feet.
Because when you're just one round away from your best golf, the last thing holding you back should be your shoes.
Why Wide-Footed Weekend Golfers Struggle to Find the Right Shoes
Let me be straight with you: finding golf shoes for wide feet shouldn't be this hard. But here's the reality that fellow weekend golfers face.
According to FootJoy's research, 70% of golfers wear the wrong shoe size. That's not a typo. Seven out of ten golfers are walking 18 holes in shoes that don't fit properly. For those of us with wide feet, that percentage is probably even higher.
The problem? Most golf shoe manufacturers design for "average" feet—which leaves those of us with wider feet cramming our feet into shoes that pinch, rub, and create blisters. Dr. Steven Gershman, a podiatrist specializing in sports footwear, explains it perfectly: "Wearing the wrong shoe size is one of the most common reasons people experience foot pain and discomfort. If your shoes are too tight or too loose, they can cause blisters, pinched toes, and other issues that cause foot pain. That's why getting the right size is essential, and by size, I mean both length and width."
Here's what happens when weekend golfers ignore width and just focus on length:
The Squeeze Effect: Regular-width shoes compress your foot, restricting blood flow and creating pressure points that turn into blisters by the back nine.
The Stability Problem: When shoes are too narrow, your foot can't properly spread and stabilize during your swing, undermining every bit of swing improvement work you've done.
The Fatigue Factor: Cramped feet work harder just to walk, draining energy you need for maintaining focus and improving your golf game through the final holes.
The Injury Risk: Ill-fitting shoes don't just hurt—they can lead to blisters, bunions, calluses, neuromas, and even stress fractures that keep you off the course for weeks.
And here's the kicker that really gets me: nearly 40% of people should be wearing shoes that are narrower or wider than they think. But most weekend golfers never get properly measured. They just grab their "usual size" and hope for the best.
That's like using the same club for every shot and wondering why your scores aren't improving.
⛳ The Wide Feet Reality Check
- 👟 70% of golfers wear wrong-sized shoes (FootJoy research)
- 📊 90% of people have feet that are different sizes
- ⚡ Proper fit can boost swing force by up to 21%
- 🎯 Smart weekend golfers measure both length AND width
I'm not totally sure why the golf industry took so long to figure this out, but thankfully brands like FootJoy, Ecco, and Skechers now offer dedicated wide and extra-wide options. Playing once a week with the same foursome, Dave actually asked me what I'd changed about my setup when I finally switched to proper wide shoes—turns out eliminating foot pain makes your swing look a whole lot smoother.
How to Actually Know If You Need Wide Golf Shoes
Before we jump into specific shoe recommendations, let's make sure you actually need wide-fitting shoes. Because here's something smart weekend golfers understand: buying wide shoes when you don't need them is just as bad as cramming wide feet into regular shoes.
The Simple At-Home Test
FootJoy has a dead-simple "Rule of Thumb" test you can do right now:
Put on your current golf shoes and lace them normally. Now look down at the top eyelets—the ones closest to your ankle. If the shoe fits correctly, those eyelets should be roughly a thumb's width apart.
Eyelets too close together? Your shoes are too wide. Your foot isn't filling the volume properly, which means your foot is sliding around inside causing blisters and instability.
Eyelets too far apart? Bingo—you need wider shoes. Your foot is being compressed, and that's why your toes are cramping up by the back nine.
Eyelets about right? You might be in the correct width, but keep reading because width is only part of the fit equation.
The Wet Footprint Test (Arch Shape Matters Too)
Here's something that surprised me: arch shape affects whether you need wide shoes. People with low or flat arches often need wider shoes even if their actual foot width measures "medium" on a Brannock device.
Try this: Wet the bottom of your bare foot, then step on a paper bag or piece of cardboard. The footprint tells you your arch type:
- Low/Flat Arch: Nearly the entire bottom of your foot shows in the print. You probably need wider shoes with good midsole support.
- Normal Arch: You see your heel and forefoot connected by a narrower band. Standard or wide widths usually work.
- High Arch: Just your heel and ball of foot show with a very narrow connecting band. You might need wider shoes for volume, plus a U-throat opening for easier fit.
The Breaking-In Myth
Here's a truth that every weekend golfer needs to hear: golf shoes should feel comfortable from the very first wear. Period.
If someone tells you that you need to "break them in," that's code for "these shoes don't fit properly, and you're going to suffer through painful rounds hoping they eventually feel better."
They won't.
Properly fitted golf shoes feel great immediately. If they don't, you're either wearing the wrong size or the wrong width—or both.
The Professional Measurement (Worth It)
I get it—you're a weekend golfer, not someone getting fitted for tour-level equipment. But here's the thing: getting your feet professionally measured takes about five minutes and costs nothing at most golf shops.
A proper fitting measures three crucial things:
- Heel-to-toe length (your "size")
- Arch length (heel to ball of foot)
- Width (the measurement most golfers skip)
And here's something that might blow your mind: 90% of people have feet that are different sizes. When that's the case, you fit to the larger foot. FootJoy even offers custom MyJoys sizing with different sizes for each foot, though most weekend golfers won't need that level of customization.
From what I've noticed, playing once a week with my regular Saturday group, the guys who finally got properly measured all said the same thing: "I wish I'd done this years ago."
🔍 Quick Wide Feet Checklist
- 📏 Eyelets more than thumb-width apart = need wide shoes
- 👣 Wet footprint shows flat/low arch = likely need wide
- ⏱️ Shoes hurt from first wear = wrong width (not "breaking in")
- 🎯 Get measured professionally (free at most golf shops)
It might just be my feet, but after trying this approach instead of just guessing my size online, the difference was like night and day. Between work and kids, I only get out once a week, so making those Saturday rounds comfortable became a priority.
The 7 Best Golf Shoes for Wide Feet (Tested by Weekend Golfers)
Alright, let's get into the specific shoes that smart weekend golfers with wide feet actually wear. These aren't theoretical recommendations—these are proven performers that deliver all-day comfort without sacrificing stability, waterproofing, or style.
1. FootJoy HyperFlex (Best Overall for Wide Feet)
If you're serious about improving your own game, the FootJoy HyperFlex might be the best investment you make this year. These shoes combine tour-level performance with genuine comfort for wider feet.
Why Weekend Golfers Love Them: FootJoy has always dominated the wide-shoe game, and the HyperFlex shows why. Available in wide and extra-wide sizes, these shoes feature FootJoy's Competition Last—a fuller fit across the forefoot with a full instep. Translation: your toes finally have room to spread naturally during your swing.
The PowerPlate technology in the sole isn't just marketing hype. It genuinely helps transfer energy from your feet into the ground, which means more stable contact and better distance on your drives. For weekend golfers trying to add a few yards without spending hours at the range, that's huge.
The Trade-Off: These aren't the prettiest shoes on the rack. FootJoy focused on performance over fashion here. But when you're walking your Saturday morning round pain-free while everyone else is complaining about blisters, you won't care what they look like.
Best For: Serious weekend golfers who play year-round and want maximum stability and waterproofing. If you live by the manifesto principle "I Hit Long Drives Down The Fairway," the energy transfer from proper foot support helps you chase that goal.
Price Range: $180-210 (frequently on sale for $140-170)
2. Skechers Go Golf Prestige (Best Comfort for Wide Feet)
Here's something I never thought I'd say: Skechers makes some of the most comfortable golf shoes for wide feet on the market. The Go Golf Prestige with Arch Fit technology is a game-changer for golfers with flat feet or low arches.
Why Weekend Golfers Love Them: The Arch Fit system provides podiatrist-designed orthotic support built right into the shoe. No need to buy separate insoles or custom orthotics. The Slip-In technology means you don't even need to bend down to put them on—crucial when your back is tight from sitting at a desk all week.
One of our gear testers described the heel cushioning as "walking on clouds," and honestly, that's not far off. The memory foam collar hugs your ankle without restricting movement, and the wider toe box gives your feet room to spread naturally.
The Trade-Off: These are spikeless shoes, so if you play on wet, hilly courses regularly, you might want something with more aggressive traction. But for typical weekend golf on well-maintained courses, the grip is more than adequate.
Best For: Weekend golfers with flat feet or plantar fasciitis who prioritize all-day comfort. If walking 18 holes usually leaves your feet screaming, these are your answer.
Price Range: $100-140
It might just be me, but after dealing with foot pain for years, trying these felt like someone finally designed golf shoes for actual human feet instead of mannequins. Playing with the same foursome every Saturday, Jim said "Where'd those come from?" when he noticed I wasn't limping by hole 16 anymore.
3. Ecco Biom H5 (Best Lightweight Wide Option)
Ecco has built their reputation on making shoes for real people's feet, and the Biom H5 delivers on that promise. These are the lightest wide golf shoes you'll find without sacrificing support.
Why Weekend Golfers Love Them: The Biom H5 features Ecco's naturally wider last design, which means even the "regular" width fits more generously than most brands. If you need official wide sizing, they've got that too. The BOA lacing system lets you dial in the exact fit, preventing that too-loose or too-tight feeling.
What really sets these apart is the weight—or lack of it. The Terra Traction System outsole weighs almost nothing, which means less fatigue over 18 holes. Fellow weekend golfers who switched from heavier shoes report they have more energy for those crucial back-nine putts.
The breathable knit upper keeps your feet cool during summer rounds, and the removable insole means you can easily add custom orthotics if needed.
The Trade-Off: The lightweight design means less aggressive traction than spiked alternatives. These shine on dry, firm courses but might slip a bit on wet grass or steep slopes.
Best For: Weekend golfers who walk their rounds and value lightweight comfort over maximum traction. Perfect for summer golf when breathability matters.
Price Range: $200-250
4. FootJoy Traditions (Best Classic Style in Wide)
Not every weekend golfer wants athletic-looking shoes. Some of us prefer the classic golf aesthetic, and the FootJoy Traditions deliver that in genuine wide and extra-wide sizes.
Why Weekend Golfers Love Them: These look like proper golf shoes—full-grain leather uppers, traditional styling, timeless design. But unlike vintage golf shoes that squeezed your feet, the Traditions offer FootJoy's Newport Last with a full oblique toe character and full forefoot fit.
The full-grain leather is genuinely waterproof (not just water-resistant), and it actually breaks in beautifully over time while maintaining its shape. The Pulsar LP cleats provide excellent traction without the harsh feel of old-school metal spikes.
The Trade-Off: These are heavier than modern athletic-style golf shoes. If you ride a cart, no problem. If you walk regularly, you might want something lighter.
Best For: Traditional golfers who value classic style and all-weather performance. If you believe golf shoes should look like golf shoes, these are your pick.
Price Range: $150-180 (often on sale for $100-130)
From what I've noticed during our regular Saturday rounds, the guys who wear Traditions tend to be the same ones who also carry their divot tool and fix ball marks religiously. There's something about classic shoes that matches a classic approach to the game.
5. Adidas S2G SL (Best Value for Wide Feet)
When smart weekend golfers need quality wide golf shoes on a budget, the Adidas S2G SL consistently delivers. These punch way above their price point.
Why Weekend Golfers Love Them: Adidas offers the S2G SL in dedicated wide sizing, and at under $100, these represent exceptional value. The running-shoe-inspired design means they're comfortable enough to wear off the course too—perfect for weekend golfers who like versatile equipment.
The Lightstrike cushioning technology (borrowed from Adidas running shoes) provides genuine comfort without the mushy, unstable feeling of cheaper golf shoes. The synthetic upper with leather accents looks premium while being easy to clean and maintain.
The Trade-Off: These fit true to size in Adidas wide, which tends to run slightly narrower than FootJoy or Ecco wide. If you're between sizes, go half a size up.
Best For: Budget-conscious weekend golfers who want quality wide shoes without premium pricing. Perfect for newer golfers building their first proper set of equipment.
Price Range: $80-100
6. New Balance Fresh Foam X Defender SL V3 (Best for Stability)
New Balance has been making shoes for wide feet longer than most brands, and that expertise shows in the Fresh Foam X Defender SL V3. These offer maximum stability for golfers with wide feet and low arches.
Why Weekend Golfers Love Them: Available in wide and extra-wide sizes, these shoes feature New Balance's medial post technology that prevents overpronation—crucial for golfers with flat feet. The Fresh Foam X midsole provides soft cushioning without sacrificing the stable platform you need for a consistent swing.
The NDurance rubber outsole is incredibly durable. Weekend golfers report these lasting multiple seasons even with weekly play, which means excellent long-term value.
The Trade-Off: The stability features add some weight compared to lighter alternatives. These aren't heavy, but they're not featherlight either.
Best For: Weekend golfers with flat feet or overpronation who need maximum stability. If your feet roll inward excessively, these help correct that.
Price Range: $120-140
Could be luck, but after switching to these from regular-width shoes, my consistency improved noticeably. Saturday morning golf with the crew, Mike actually commented that my ball-striking looked more solid. Turns out, stable feet lead to a stable swing.
7. TRUE Linkswear OG Cush (Best Wide Toe Box)
TRUE Linkswear builds all their shoes around a naturally wide toe box, making them ideal for golfers with genuinely wide feet or those who prefer a more natural foot position.
Why Weekend Golfers Love Them: The OG Cush features TRUE's zero-drop design with a wider toe box than any other golf shoe on the market. Your toes can spread completely naturally, the way feet were designed to work. The added cushioning (compared to TRUE's minimalist models) makes these comfortable for all-day wear.
The versatile styling means you can wear these to the course, the grocery store, or casual weekend activities. Fellow weekend golfers appreciate equipment that works hard across multiple situations.
The Trade-Off: The zero-drop, minimalist-inspired design takes some adjustment if you're coming from traditional golf shoes. Give yourself a few rounds to adapt.
Best For: Weekend golfers who want maximum toe room and natural foot positioning. Perfect if you've tried other "wide" shoes and still feel cramped.
Price Range: $179-189
🏆 Quick Comparison: Best for Different Needs
- 💪 Maximum Performance: FootJoy HyperFlex
- ☁️ Ultimate Comfort: Skechers Go Golf Prestige
- ⚖️ Lightweight Walking: Ecco Biom H5
- 👔 Classic Style: FootJoy Traditions
- 💰 Best Value: Adidas S2G SL
- 🎯 Maximum Stability: New Balance Fresh Foam Defender
- 🦶 Widest Toe Box: TRUE Linkswear OG Cush
What to Look for When Buying Wide Golf Shoes
Now that you've seen specific recommendations, let's talk about the broader criteria smart weekend golfers use when shopping for wide golf shoes. Because eventually, you'll need to replace your current pair, and knowing what to look for empowers you to make the right choice without relying on a salesperson's recommendation.
Width Designations Actually Matter
Here's something that confuses a lot of weekend golfers: wide sizing isn't standardized across brands. FootJoy's "Wide" might fit differently than Adidas's "Wide" or Ecco's "Wide."
Standard width codes you'll see:
- N or B = Narrow
- M or D = Medium (standard)
- W or 2E = Wide
- XW or 4E = Extra Wide
But here's the catch: some brands (like Ecco) design their shoes with a naturally wider last, meaning their "medium" fits like other brands' "wide." Other brands (like Adidas) tend to run narrower, so you might need to size up even in their wide models.
The solution? Always try shoes on, preferably late in the day when your feet are slightly swollen. And if you're buying online, make sure the retailer has a solid return policy.
Spiked vs. Spikeless for Wide Feet
Both spiked and spikeless golf shoes come in wide sizes, and both have their place in a weekend golfer's rotation.
Spiked Shoes provide maximum traction, especially important if you play on hilly courses or in wet conditions. The stability during your swing is noticeably better with spikes, which can help you maintain consistent ball-striking when you're working on improving your game.
Spikeless Shoes offer better versatility (you can wear them off the course) and often feel more comfortable for all-day wear. Modern spikeless designs provide surprisingly good traction on most courses, and they're quieter when you're walking.
For weekend golfers playing once a week on well-maintained courses, spikeless shoes usually work great. If you play more competitively or on challenging terrain, invest in spiked shoes.
Waterproofing (Non-Negotiable)
Living anywhere that gets morning dew or occasional rain, waterproofing is non-negotiable. Wet feet lead to blisters, which lead to painful rounds, which lead to playing less golf. None of us want that.
Look for shoes with:
- Gore-Tex or similar membranes (genuinely waterproof)
- Treated leather uppers (water-resistant and waterproof)
- Sealed seams (prevents water intrusion)
Most quality golf shoes now come with one or two-year waterproof guarantees. If a shoe doesn't explicitly state it's waterproof, assume it's only water-resistant—which means it'll keep you dry in light moisture but fail in sustained wet conditions.
BOA vs. Traditional Laces
This often comes down to personal preference, but for wide-footed golfers, BOA systems offer some unique advantages.
BOA Closure Systems let you dial in the exact fit around your entire foot. No more tying laces tighter on one area while leaving another too loose. The even pressure distribution around your foot can be more comfortable for wider feet. Plus, they're easier to adjust mid-round if your feet swell.
Traditional Laces give you more granular control over different zones of the shoe. You can lace the toe area looser while keeping the midfoot snug. They're also easier and cheaper to replace if they break.
Both work fine for wide feet. Try both styles and see which you prefer.
Arch Support and Foot Type
Remember that wet footprint test from earlier? Your arch type matters when choosing wide golf shoes.
Low/Flat Arches: Look for shoes with built-in arch support and good midsole stability. Brands like Skechers (with Arch Fit) and New Balance excel here. You might also benefit from custom orthotics.
Normal Arches: Most golf shoes work fine. Focus on overall comfort and width fit.
High Arches: Seek out shoes with removable insoles so you can add custom support. Look for wider toe boxes and U-throat openings for easier entry.
Durability Matters for Weekend Value
Here's some straight talk: as weekend golfers, we're not getting free shoes from sponsors every month. We need our shoes to last multiple seasons.
Look for:
- Full-grain leather uppers (ages better than synthetic)
- Replaceable cleats (extends shoe life significantly)
- Quality midsole materials (won't compress and lose support)
- Durable outsoles (NDurance, Continental, or similar tech)
A $200 pair of shoes that lasts three seasons beats a $80 pair you need to replace annually. Do the math on cost-per-round, and quality shoes almost always win.
I'm not totally sure why more weekend golfers don't think about shoes this way, but treating golf shoes as an investment rather than an expense changes your perspective entirely. Between work deadlines and family commitments, the last thing I want is shopping for replacement shoes when my current pair falls apart mid-season.
Common Wide-Foot Golf Shoe Mistakes to Avoid
Let's talk about the mistakes weekend golfers make when shopping for wide golf shoes—because learning from others' errors saves you money, time, and painful rounds.
Mistake #1: Just Sizing Up Instead of Going Wide
This is the biggest mistake I see. Your feet feel cramped in size 10 Medium, so you buy size 10.5 Medium thinking more room will solve the problem.
It won't.
When you size up instead of going wide, you get extra length your foot doesn't need. This causes your foot to slide forward and back inside the shoe, creating blisters on your heel and toes. You also lose the proper flex point—the part of the shoe that bends should align with the ball of your foot, and sizing up throws that off.
The solution: Try the wide or extra-wide version of your correct length size. It might feel strange at first if you've been cramming into narrow shoes for years, but your feet will thank you by hole 5.
Mistake #2: Buying Online Without Checking Return Policy
I'm all for convenience, and online shopping often offers better prices. But buying golf shoes online without trying them on first is risky—especially if you're exploring wide sizes for the first time.
Different brands fit differently. FootJoy wide isn't the same as Adidas wide isn't the same as Ecco wide. You might be a 10W in one brand and need a 10.5W or even an XW in another.
The smart play: Order from retailers with free returns and generous return windows. Some even offer "buy before you try" programs where you can order multiple sizes, keep what fits, and return the rest.
If possible, try shoes on at a local golf shop first, even if you plan to buy online. Most shop employees understand this and appreciate the honesty—some shops will even price-match major online retailers.
Mistake #3: Forgetting About Socks
This seems obvious, but you'd be surprised how many weekend golfers try on golf shoes wearing their thin dress socks or no socks at all.
Golf socks are thicker than regular socks. The cushioning helps prevent blisters and provides extra comfort during long rounds. But that extra thickness affects how shoes fit.
Always try on golf shoes while wearing the socks you'll actually play in. If you prefer thick winter socks for cold-weather golf, bring those too—you might need a half-size larger for winter rounds compared to summer.
Mistake #4: Ignoring Your Actual Playing Conditions
Weekend golfers often buy shoes based on what looks cool or what a tour pro wears, completely ignoring their actual playing conditions.
If you play a hilly, often-wet course, you need waterproof shoes with aggressive traction. If you play a flat, well-maintained course in dry weather, lightweight spikeless shoes work great.
Think about your typical round:
- Do you walk or ride?
- Is your course hilly or flat?
- What's the typical weather?
- Is the course wet in the mornings?
Match your shoe choice to your reality, not someone else's.
Mistake #5: Keeping Painful Shoes "To Break Them In"
I mentioned this earlier, but it deserves repeating: properly fitting golf shoes should feel good from day one. Period.
If your new wide golf shoes hurt after the first round, they don't fit correctly. Don't suffer through trying to "break them in." Return them and try a different model or size.
Your feet are trying to tell you something. Listen to them.
Fellow weekend golfers who live by the manifesto understand that golf is supposed to be enjoyable. Painful feet directly contradict "I Am Just One Round Away" optimism. When you're fighting foot pain, you can't focus on improving your own game or impressing your buddies with solid play.
❌ Mistakes That Cost You Comfort
- 🚫 Sizing up instead of going wide = wrong flex point
- 🚫 Buying online without return policy = expensive gamble
- 🚫 Trying on with wrong socks = inaccurate fit
- 🚫 Ignoring playing conditions = wrong shoe choice
- 🚫 Suffering through break-in period = shoes don't fit
How to Make Your Wide Golf Shoes Last Longer
Once you've finally found the perfect wide golf shoes, you want them to last as long as possible. Smart weekend golfers understand that proper shoe care extends the life of their investment significantly.
After Every Round Care
Brush off dirt and grass immediately after your round. Don't let mud dry and cake onto the leather or synthetic materials. A simple shoe brush (or even an old toothbrush) takes 30 seconds and prevents staining and material breakdown.
Let them air dry naturally if they got wet. Never put golf shoes near direct heat sources like radiators or use a hair dryer. Heat can crack leather, delaminate glue, and warp the midsole. Just unlace them fully, open them up, and let them dry at room temperature.
Remove and air out insoles if your shoes have removable footbeds. This lets moisture escape and prevents bacterial growth that causes odors.
Weekly Maintenance
Wipe down with damp cloth to remove dust and light surface dirt. For leather shoes, use a leather cleaner occasionally to keep the material supple.
Check and clean cleats (for spiked shoes). Dirt and debris caught around cleats can prevent them from gripping properly. Use a small brush or tee to clear out packed grass and mud.
Rotate between pairs if possible. Shoes last longer when you alternate between two pairs, giving each time to fully dry and decompress between rounds. I know this feels extravagant for weekend golfers, but it genuinely extends the life of both pairs.
Seasonal Care
Deep clean before storage if you're taking a winter break. Clean thoroughly, apply leather conditioner if needed, and store in a cool, dry place with shoe trees inside to maintain shape.
Replace cleats proactively (for spiked shoes). Don't wait until they're completely worn down. Fresh cleats provide better traction and reduce wear on the sole's cleat receptacles. Most cleats should be replaced every season or two, depending on how often you play.
Check waterproofing annually. If your shoes aren't beading water like they used to, reapply waterproofing spray. Even "waterproof" shoes benefit from occasional treatment to maintain their protective barrier.
It might just be my pair, but after following these simple maintenance steps, my FootJoy wide shoes are still going strong after three full seasons. Playing with the same Saturday crew, they always comment on how my shoes still look relatively new while theirs are falling apart.
Key Takeaways: Finding Your Perfect Wide Golf Shoes
Let's bring this together with the essential points every weekend golfer with wide feet needs to remember.
Proper fit isn't negotiable: Research shows 70% of golfers wear the wrong size, and wearing properly fitted shoes can improve your swing performance by up to 21%. For weekend golfers trying to improve their own game and impress their buddies, that's a massive advantage from simply wearing the right shoes.
Width matters as much as length: Don't make the classic mistake of sizing up when you should be going wide. Get professionally measured for both length and width, and remember that 90% of people have feet that are different sizes.
Comfort from day one: Properly fitting golf shoes feel good immediately. There's no "breaking in" period needed. If your new shoes hurt after the first round, they don't fit correctly. Return them.
Match shoes to your reality: Consider your actual playing conditions—walking vs. riding, hilly vs. flat, wet vs. dry—and choose shoes designed for those conditions. A touring pro's shoe needs don't match yours.
Quality pays off long-term: A $200 pair of well-made wide golf shoes that last three seasons beats cheap shoes you replace annually. Calculate cost-per-round, not just upfront cost.
The best wide golf shoes for weekend golfers combine proper width fit with good traction, genuine waterproofing, and quality construction. Whether you choose FootJoy's tour-level performance, Skechers' exceptional comfort, or Ecco's lightweight design, the right pair helps you focus on your game instead of your aching feet.
Because when you're just one round away from your best golf, the last thing holding you back should be uncomfortable shoes.
Now get out there and finally walk those 18 holes pain-free. Your feet—and your scorecard—will thank you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I know if I need wide or extra-wide golf shoes?
Try the "Rule of Thumb" test: lace your current shoes normally and look at the top eyelets. If they're more than a thumb's width apart, you need wider shoes. If they're touching or very close, your current shoes might already be too wide. Professional measurement at a golf shop confirms this with exact width sizing.
Q: Can I just buy a larger size instead of wide width?
No—sizing up creates more problems than it solves. When you buy a larger length instead of wider width, your foot slides forward and backward in the shoe, causing blisters and instability. Plus, the shoe's flex point won't align properly with the ball of your foot, which can affect your swing mechanics and comfort.
Q: Do all golf shoe brands make wide sizes?
Most major brands offer wide sizes, but availability varies. FootJoy has the most comprehensive wide-sizing options (narrow through extra-wide). Other reliable brands for wide feet include Skechers, New Balance, Ecco, and TRUE Linkswear. Some fashion-focused brands skip wide sizes entirely, so always check before falling in love with a particular style.
Q: Are wide golf shoes more expensive than regular width?
Usually not—most brands charge the same price for wide and regular widths. The exception is custom or specialty sizing, which can add cost. Shopping sales and previous-season models helps weekend golfers find quality wide shoes at budget-friendly prices.
Q: How often should I replace my golf shoes?
Quality golf shoes typically last 2-3 seasons with proper care, assuming you play once or twice weekly. Replace them when you notice: worn-down cleats that can't be replaced, cracked or damaged uppers, compressed midsoles that have lost cushioning, or lost waterproofing that can't be restored with spray treatment.
Q: Can I use orthotics with wide golf shoes?
Yes! Many wide golf shoes have removable insoles, making them compatible with custom orthotics. Look for shoes with this feature if you need extra arch support. Brands like Skechers even build orthotic-style support directly into the shoe with their Arch Fit technology.
Q: Do BOA lacing systems work better for wide feet?
BOA systems can work exceptionally well for wide feet because they distribute pressure evenly around your foot rather than creating pressure points from traditional lacing. However, some golfers prefer traditional laces for zone-specific tightness control. Try both styles to see which you prefer—both work fine for wide feet.
Q: Are spikeless shoes okay for wide-footed golfers?
Absolutely. Modern spikeless golf shoes provide excellent traction for most weekend golf situations, and many golfers find them more comfortable for all-day wear. Spiked shoes offer slightly better traction on wet or hilly courses, but for typical weekend golf on well-maintained courses, spikeless shoes work great.
Related Resources for Weekend Golfers
Continue improving your equipment setup and golf game with these helpful guides:
Most Comfortable Golf Shoes - Find golf shoes that feel great from the first step through the 18th hole.
Best Golf Shoes for Walking - Discover lightweight options perfect for golfers who prefer to walk their rounds.
Do Golf Shoes Really Make a Difference? - Learn how proper footwear impacts your swing and overall game.
Golf Shoe Care and Maintenance - Extend the life of your investment with proper care techniques.
I Improve My Own Game - Explore the manifesto principle that drives self-directed improvement.
