Need to upgrade your golf footwear? Here, we take a look at the best golf shoes currently available on the market
Deciding which are the best golf shoes for your game can be a trickier task than you first think. Ultimately, it is essential to find shoes that not only keep us comfortable on the course, but also provide the stability and support needed to swing with confidence and freedom.
With so many brands and models on the market, choosing the right pair of golf shoes can be a challenge. Do you opt for spiked or spikeless, or perhaps a sneaker-style design that works just as well off the course as it does on it? Alongside grip, comfort is a key consideration, but prioritising comfort alone can sometimes mean compromising on waterproof protection. That’s why it’s important to weigh up all of these factors carefully before investing your hard-earned cash.
WATCH: Shoe expert Dan Parker runs through the leading pairs in 2026
In this guide, we’ve rounded up the best golf shoes currently on the market, with leading models from brands such as adidas, Puma, FootJoy and Nike all tested by the Golf Monthly team. By splitting our picks into spiked and spikeless categories, there should be a suitable option for every type of golfer.
The Quick List
Without a doubt, this is one of the absolute best spikeless shoes and honestly, just one of the best golf shoes I have ever stepped into. It literally ticks every single box I want from a golf shoe.
Narrowly missing out on our overall top pick, this model easily takes the crown as our 'Best Spiked' option thanks to its tour-level stability, comfort and all the best features from the spikeless version mentioned above.
These shoe fitted like a glove during testing, boasting great breathability and premium materials that provide a premium walking experience with ample comfort.
The S2G secures our crown as the 'Best Value' option on the market, perfectly marrying high-level golf performance with a highly accessible price tag. they also look great and can easily be worn off the course.
As with a lot of the best Footjoy golf shoes, the Quantum embraces a substance-first design philosophy, resulting in arguably the single most comfortable golf shoe on the market this year.
An aesthetic that looks as good on the high street as it does on the golf course, the 997 SL shoes are very comfortable, provide a surprising amount of grip and are proof the new age of golf fashion is working.
G/FORE's best casual shoe to date, the G.112 is much more refined than previous models thanks to the subtle styling, massaging insole and grippy outsole that performs almost as well as a spiked shoe.
Speaking of great-looking shoes… just look at them. The Premiere Series may not be the most comfortable option on this list, but their timeless aesthetic is hard to beat, backed up by excellent on-course performance.
The shoe of choice for Rory McIlroy, Nike’s Tour Victory 4 delivers premium performance across grip, protection, waterproofing and comfort. They’re also impressively durable and available in a wide range of colorways to suit different tastes.
A well-rounded spiked shoe that builds on everything Payntr has done well in the past, wrapped in a far sleeker, more modern design. Ideal for golfers with faster swing speeds who will benefit from the outstanding traction on offer.
While the new upper performs brilliantly and the outsole design is a triumph in spikeless design, the new aesthetic may divide opinion with the latest Pro/SL golf shoe.
Golfers with flat feet will appreciate the excellent support offered by Skechers’ Go Golf Blade Tour shoes. The Arch Fit and Slip-In technology are as impressive as ever, while the updated styling and execution give this model broader appeal than ever before.
Best Golf Shoes
Top pick
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The spikeless version of the latest Under Armour Clone line truly does it all. The proprietary upper behaves like a second skin, contouring to your foot to eliminate hot spots while keeping you securely locked in. The comfort of the fit alone justifies trying a pair on. UA also gave the styling a serious overhaul and serious advancements have been made compared to the older Drive Pro - the refined textures and understated details make it look noticeably sharper and more modern.
Performance remains seriously strong, with Under Armour has retained the successful outsole from the 2024 model, blending rubber nubs with strategically placed TPU for excellent lateral support and ground penetration. While the shoe's construction does limit breathability in very high temperatures, its impressive stability and comfort make it a versatile choice. Despite the trade-off in airflow, the Clone SL is a high-performing option that deservedly takes our top pick label for 2026.
- Read our full Under Armour Drive Pro Clone SL Shoe Review
Best spiked
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It's a one-two for Under Armour, with the Drive Pro Clone impressing us so much that it takes the first two spots in this guide.
The spiked iteration earns its reputation as the standout spiked shoe of 2026, powered by an innovative auxetic upper that contours naturally to any foot shape. Just like its spikeless sibling, it delivers the flexibility of a running shoe, backed by the rigid stability demanded by the golf swing. Upgraded with an elegant, leather-like finish that continues the step up from previous iterations, it provides a custom-feeling fit right out of the box with zero break-in required.
On the performance front, the shoe continues to utilize the exceptional S3 support system, delivering industry-leading traction and grip throughout the swing. While the underfoot cushioning leans more toward a firm balance than cloud-like softness like with the likes of the Under Armour Phantom Fore shoes and FootJoy Quantum, the overall walking experience remains highly supportive. The only minor drawback is a slight lack of breathability, but other than that, this show is pretty flawless and is a top-tier choice for the golfers of all ages and abilities.
- Read our full Under Armour Drive Pro Clone Shoe Review
Best for wide feet
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The Biom C5 improves on the high benchmark set by the C4, pairing sheer comfort with the stability we need when we swing on the course. Its standout upgrade is a noticeably tighter heel lockdown compared to its predecessor. By eliminating rearfoot slippage, it gives you the confidence to swing aggressively while keeping your feet fully supported for all 18 holes.
Visually, the shoe maintains its premium athletic appeal, updated with 'exhaust grid scoops' that work alongside Gore-Tex Surround technology to ensure total waterproofing without sacrificing breathability. While the traction is reliable in most conditions, it may not quite match the 'class-leading; grip of some specialized competitors. Thankfully, the high-quality leather construction and luxurious fit make the C5 an outstanding long-term investment for those have comfort and durability atop of their features list when they are looking for new golf shoes.
- Read our full Ecco Biom C5 Golf Shoe Review
Best value
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Capitalizing on golf’s modern shift away from stuffy dress codes in recent years, the S2G SL bridges the gap between on-course performance and the new casual, sneaker-style fashion drive we've seen in the shoe market which has proven immensely popular. Built around a running-shoe profile, it delivers the athletic support you need during a round and the relaxed look you want off the course. Thanks to its clean aesthetic and busy lineup of colorways, it looks just as natural grabbing a post-round drink as it does teeing off on the 1st hole.
When it comes to comfort, again it ticks every box as it's a much wider fit than most other adidas golf shoes, so it does indeed fit true to size and is one of the best golf shoes for wide feet. Also, adidas have used their Lightstrike technology through the midsole, something which we see in some of the spiked models in this list too. The final point we must make is the cost easily falls into the best budget golf shoes category.
- Read our full adidas S2G SL Golf Shoe Review
Most comfortable
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I’ll cut to the chase with the FootJoy Quantum. As with the HyperFlex they’re not the best-looking shoes in this guide, but when it comes to comfort they’re in a league of their own. The headline feature is FootJoy’s Cloud-Like Comfort, delivered via the Ortholite Impression FitBed, which offers instant step-in comfort and gradually moulds to the shape of your foot to create a more customised fit over time.
Beyond the FitBed, FootJoy has loaded the Quantum with cushioning underfoot, along with SofFoam technology in and around the heel. During testing this translated into an exceptionally cushioned ride, with the comfort noticeable both while walking the course and throughout the swing.
That focus on comfort does mean you don’t quite get the same levels of stability and traction as some of the top spiked shoes in this guide, but that’s to be expected from a model that sits between a traditional performance golf shoe and a sneaker-style design. If you walk most of your rounds and primarily play in summer conditions, the Quantum should be an excellent fit.
- Read our full FootJoy Quantum Golf Shoe Review
Most versatile
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Blending authentic streetwear vibes with capable on-course performance, New Balance has successfully brought its iconic 997H sneaker to the golf course and turned it into a highly serviceable golf shoe. It delivers users a lightweight, easy walk supported by generous heel and ankle padding that eliminates rubbing from step one. Underfoot, the tandem of an Abzorb midsole and CUSH+ insole provides plush comfort for the bulk of the round, though walking purists may notice a slight drop-off in support under the ball of the foot deep into 18 holes.
It's often thought you sacrifice performance by opting for one of the best golf sneaker style shoes, but the Ndurance rubber outsole here offers impressive traction in a variety of conditions, with strategically placed rubber nubs to keeping you stable during the swing. Boasting improved temperature control and a highly breathable upper, these shoes are an ideal option for warm-weather summer golf or quick trips to the driving range, though the suede detailing means it is best kept away from muddy conditions. The price is also a big green tick in our testing box - at a very reasonable price point of around $100, you get plenty of value for money, especially when you consider these shoes can be worn both on and off the golf course. We would, however, recommend ordering a half-size larger than your standard fit.
- Read our full New Balance 997 SL Golf Shoe Review
Best insole
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The 2026 edition of the G.112 delivers a beautifully refined look that balances a slick casual look and strong on-course performance despite the sneaker silhouette.
During testing we found these shoes to be incredibly lightweight but they will also keep you secure, locking you in tightly for the swing while offering enough give to eliminate any painful rubbing or blisters. As always with the best G/FORE golf shoes, the star of the show is their signature nubbed, massaging insole. The unique textured surface gives your feet a gentle, continuous massage as you walk, providing immense relief from fatigue over a long 18-hole round.
The low-profile spikeless outsole provides dependable traction on both dry and damp turf, meaning they are an excellent, highly versatile summer shoe option for golfers looking for one of the best spikeless golf shoes on the market.
- Read our full G/FORE G.112 2026 Golf Shoe Review
Best looking
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If you want peak elegance and luxury from your footwear, look no further than the iconic FootJoy Packard, a shoe that is as refined as golf shoes get. It takes a classic heritage profile and turns up the craftsmanship, highlighted by a textured bison-print nubuck saddle and meticulous toe accents. It radiates country-club prestige without feeling stuffy, making them a head-turner from the moment you lace them up.
Performance-wise, the Packard is as functional as it is stylish, offering a stable and secure platform for the swing. While it provides a slightly firmer feel than typical athletic models, it maintains excellent comfort levels throughout a full round of walking. The outsole is engineered for strong multi-directional traction, providing the necessary grip to handle wet conditions and uneven lies with ease. For those who prefer a traditional, brogue-style golf shoe, this model remains the gold standard.
- Read our full FootJoy Premiere Series Packard Golf Shoe Review
Best firm feel
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Given that Rory McIlroy wears them week in, week out on the PGA Tour, you’re most likely to already be familiar with these shoes. And after testing them ourselves it’s easy to see why.
Comfort is context-dependent: while running shoes prioritize maximum squish and plush comfort underfoot, golfers need a slightly firmer platform that balances walking ease with structural integrity. The Nike Victory Tour 4 executes this compromise brilliantly, partly thanks to the design process incorporating direct input from tour professionals, it features a Dynamic Fit system alongside a Cushlon midsole that absorbs shock without sacrificing ground feel.
The grip delivered by the spiked outsole proved exceptional during testing, resisting twist and slippage through the fastest swings with clubs at the top of the bag. For players shopping the upper echelon of high-performance spiked footwear, These shoes remain a definitive front-runner for the high-end spiked golf shoe category despite being released in 2024.
- Read our full Nike Air Zoom Victory Tour 4 Golf Shoe Review
Most underrated
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With so many models to choose from selecting an overall top pick was no easy task, but the Payntr 87 SC ultimately stood out. After extensive testing we found very little to fault in what is a truly outstanding all-round golf shoe.
Worn by the likes of Jason Day, Sam Burns and European Ryder Cup hero Justin Rose, it feels only right to start with the looks. We were big fans of the refined, understated aesthetic, complemented by subtle detailing such as the golf-inspired elements and clean overall silhouette. This isn’t a loud or attention-seeking shoe by any means, but its classy styling comfortably holds its own against some of the cleanest designs on the market, including the Adidas MC80, FootJoy Premiere Series Field or the G/FORE Gallivan2r G/Lock.
As sharp as it looks, the shoe’s real highlight is its grip, which rivals any model on the market today. That traction comes down to two critical features; first, a full-length carbon fiber propulsion plate sits just above the outsole and channels ground forces for a noticeable, springy rebound both during the swing and while walking. Second, an array of seven SoftSpikes Tour Flex Pro cleats maximizes overall bite and stability. Up top, the tongue and heel cradle the foot in a reassuring, tour-caliber lockdown that never feels pinching or restrictive.
- Read our full Payntr Eighty Seven SC Golf Shoe Review
Best outsole
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The iconic FootJoy Pro/SL franchise receives its most radical overhaul since 2016, swapping out traditional luxury leather for a modernized synthetic material build. While the revamped aesthetic may prove polarizing for traditionalists, the technical performance remains top-tier. Featuring a new 'Z-Tec' upper, the shoe strikes a perfect balance between reliable, solid targeted stability and the natural flexibility needed to swing with confidence on the course.
Like the best FootJoy golf shoes, raw performance is still the calling card of the Pro/SL. Its spikeless outsole digs into wet grass so well that it could easily pass for a traditional spiked model. The trade-off is a firmer, more grounded platform, particularly under the ball of the foot. It’s an ideal choice for players seeking disciplined support and traction, but you have the option of alternatives of the likes of the FootJoy Quantum if step-in, pillowy comfort is higher up your list of priorities with your footwear.
- Read our full FootJoy Pro/SL 2026 Golf Shoe Review
Best arch support
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Skechers nailed the complete package with its newest model, blending out-of-the-box comfort with performance that is trusted by European Ryder Cup stalwart Matt Fitzpatrick. The real game-changer is the hands-free Slip-Ins system, which features a rigid rear counter that keeps the heel from collapsing, letting you slide right in without bending over. Despite that firm structure, an internal Heel Pillow hugs your rearfoot tight, wiping out friction and keeping you completely blister-free over 18 holes.
The main drawback lies in the aesthetics, as the shoe remains stylistically challenged compared to its sleeker, trendier market rivals. The otherwise clean silhouette is heavily cluttered by excessive, unnecessary branding. However, the performance during testing left me thinking I can live with the stylistic downsides. It stands out as one of the best Skechers golf shoes - and also one of the best value golf shoes - available this year.
- Read our full Skechers Go Golf Blade Tour Slip-In Golf Shoe Review
How we test golf shoes
How Golf Monthly tests products is based on putting models to a thorough test over a number of rounds and in different weather conditions. By doing it this way we gain a much better idea of the overall performance of the product in terms of factors like comfort, grip, stability, waterproofing and how they actually look on the golf course.
It’s important to stress that every shoe listed above has been personally tested by a member of the Golf Monthly team. The category itself is overseen by footwear expert Dan Parker and Conor Keenan, two shoe-crazy golfers who have been reviewing and testing golf shoes for many years and built up extensive experience across the market. The rest of the Golf Monthly team help with reviews for time to time, especially when we have shoes to test that target specific users like those with wide feet or foot pain.
Crucially, all of our testers play golf very regularly, allowing them to wear each shoe over extended periods rather than during short, controlled sessions. We believe this approach provides the most accurate assessment of a golf shoe, as real-world testing over several weeks reveals how models perform as conditions change, from weather and ground firmness to different stances, lies and walking demands.
We place particular emphasis on verifying brand claims. So if a manufacturer states a shoe is waterproof, we test that claim regardless of the weather, even pouring water over the shoe in dry conditions if necessary to see how it truly performs. Traction and stability are also assessed across a range of lies and ground conditions, as a golf shoe must perform just as well on sand, mud and rough as it does on the fairway or green.
Finally, at Golf Monthly, we are very comprehensive in our tests to the point where we will regularly attend product launches and meet with the manufacturer’s R&D experts to understand the new technology. That isn't to say manufacturers can buy a good review, as all our reviews are made by golfers, for golfers.
How to choose the best golf shoe
If your shoes don't fit right, blisters and internal foot slippage will derail your round and wreck your scorecard. Beyond sizing, consider how you secure them: traditional laces offer classic reliability, but a BOA dial setup could be a game-changing upgrade. It locks your foot down with consistent, even tension that won’t slack off on the back nine, easily justifying the premium price.
Your home course conditions should dictate your shoe choice. If you play through morning dew and rain, a guaranteed waterproof shoe is non-negotiable. If you mostly stick to warm, sunny rounds, prioritize lightweight airflow to keep your feet from overheating. If you can swing it, keeping two pairs in your locker to rotate based on the forecast gives you the best of both worlds.
For example, pairing a robust pair of the best waterproof golf shoes for winter with a lightweight, ventilated option for summer. This will mean you're prepared for whatever conditions are thrown at you, but will also increase the lifespan of each pair.
Choosing between spiked and spikeless footwear comes down to traction versus versatility. Spikeless shoes excel on dry fairways and transition seamlessly to the street or clubhouse, though they give up some bite on wet grass. However, their quality has vastly improved in recent years in terms of the grip they offer, whilst also introducing more street-ready styles so you can wear your golf shoes as regular trainers off the course. Spiked models deliver uncompromized grip and stability in inclement weather, but their cleated soles and slightly taller profile keep them strictly for on-course wear.
Golf footwear has moved well beyond the rigid traditions of decades past. Today's market is packed with modern, versatile profiles that look sharp both on and off the course. The best golf sneakers now transition easily from the course to the pub post-round. While aesthetics ultimately come down to personal preference, golfers have never had more choice in terms of fashion, which should ensure you find a pair tailored to your style.
For more golf shoe buying advice, check out our guides on the best winter golf shoes, best casual golf shoes or best golf shoes for seniors.
FAQs
Why wear golf shoes?
Standard running shoes, trainers or sneakers simply aren't built for the golf course. Without the grip of a proper golf shoe, you won't be able to harness the power you gain during your swing through ground reaction. Add to that the issue of a shoe without waterproofing - your trainers will absorb morning dew like a sponge. Purpose-built golf footwear delivers the grip and weather protection required to handle the elements, making them one of the smartest investments you can make for your game.
What are the best shoes for playing golf?
Every model on this list delivers proven comfort, long-lasting build quality, and reliable on-course support. Dedicated golf shoes are tailored around swing mechanics on varied terrain, making a proper pair a worthwhile investment. The result is a reliable base to help you shoot better numbers.
How do I choose golf shoes?
Start by deciding whether you need spiked traction or easy spikeless convenience. Then, look at your local climate for golf: if wet morning turf or soggy fairways are regular occurrence during your rounds, a pair of one of the best waterproof golf shoes is non-negotiable.
Do Pro golfers use spikeless shoes?
A lot of tour pros wear spikeless shoes because they spend the season playing on dry, pristine fairways in warm weather. But the moment rain rolls in or conditions deteriorate, many immediately swap to spiked models to secure maximum grip and stability.
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Dan has been with Golf Monthly since 2021. He graduated with a Master's in International Journalism from the University of Sussex and looks after equipment reviews, specializing in golf shoes, golf bags, golf trolleys, and apparel. Dan is also a co-host of Kick Point: The Golf Gear Show; his handicap index is currently 8, and he plays at Fulford Heath Golf Club in Worcestershire.
Driver: TaylorMade R7 Quad Mini 11.5°, Fujikura Speeder MD 60 S
Fairway: Titleist GTS3 15° Mitsubishi Tensei 1K Pro Red, PXG Lightning 21° Fujikura Ventus Blue 70 S
Hybrid: PXG Lightning 25°, Fujikura HB Blue 80 S
Irons: Ping i230 (5-9), Fujikura Axiom 95 S
Wedges: Titleist Vokey SM11 46-10F, 50-10F, 54-08M, 60-04T
Putter: TaylorMade Spider Tour X
Ball: Titleist Pro V1
Grip: Golf Pride Multi Compound
- Conor Keenan Gear & Ecommerce Writer