Best Golf Shoes for 2023
Paul Liberatore is the founder of Golfers Authority, which reviews the world's best golf products and gear.
When it comes to golf shoes, there are more brands, styles, and lines available. How are you supposed to know which shoe is best for you?
Let’s face it: nothing can ruin a round of golf quicker than a pair of shoes that are uncomfortable or hurt your feet. We’ve all been there.
Investing in golf shoes that fit and perform to your expectations is critical. Failure to do so can cause discomfort and keep you from playing your best golf.
With so many choices to choose from, though, finding the right pair of shoes for your game can seem daunting. But there’s good news. I’ve spent the last few months trying out the year’s hottest golf shoes and have now compiled a list of the best.
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What to Consider When Buying a Pair of Golf Shoes
Golf shoes aren’t the most expensive piece of golf equipment you will buy. Still, the best pairs aren’t cheap, and you need to ensure they fit not only your feet but also your budget.
Once you’ve determined how much money you can spend on golf shoes, the next step is to find a pair that's comfortable. After all, you’ll be on your feet for more than four hours during a round of golf, and there’s a good chance you’ll be walking north of five miles. So, the more comfortable the shoes, the better.
Some golf shoes are higher quality than others — it's just a fact. If you spend your hard-earned money on a new pair, you should be sure they’re durable and will stand the test of time. While trying any pair of shoes, it's a good idea before buying to also do some research.
Now that you’ve determined price, comfort, and durability, you should consider whether you want a pair of shoes with soft spikes or just a spikeless sole. The advantage of soft spikes is that they can be replaced when they wear out. Once the soles on spikeless shoes wear out, you must buy a new pair.
However, many golfers think spikeless shoes are more comfortable than those with soft spikes. There is no correct answer to this question. It all comes down to personal preference.
Last but certainly not least, performance is on the list of considerations for a pair of golf shoes. Once you’ve found a pair of shoes that meet all the criteria above, you must ensure they perform to your standards. For me, a big part of the performance equation concerns traction. As someone who swings the club reasonably hard, I need to know that my shoes will keep me from slipping, especially in wet conditions. Along with traction, I want them to breathe well and remain secure on my feet throughout the round.
Now that we’ve covered everything you should think about when buying a new pair of golf shoes, let’s dive in for a closer look at the best for 2023.
Best Overall Golf Shoes - FootJoy Hyperflex Carbon Golf Shoes
It will not shock anybody that FootJoy occupies the top spot on the list as the best overall golf shoe in 2023. For decades, they’ve led the way in golf design and manufacturing.
The FootJoy Hyperflex Carbon is just a continuation of that trend.
This is one of the lightest, most comfortable golf shoes I’ve ever worn. The re-engineered mesh upper limits the weight on the top of the shoe while allowing outstanding breathability. Coupled with StratoFoam cushioning in the sole, you’ve got a super comfortable and structurally sound shoe.
I was also impressed with the toe design in the Hyperflex Carbon. It’s rounded, which keeps the front of your foot secure and gives it enough room to avoid scrunching and cramping. The narrow heel adds even more stabilization, which is critical.
FootJoy has designed another shoe, the Hyperflex Carbon shoe, which has already received critical acclaim. Not that anyone is surprised.
Editor’s Choice - TRUE Linkswear All Day Knit 3 Golf Shoes
TRUE Linkswear All Day Knit 3 Golf Shoes
TRUE Linkswear
For as long as I can remember, I’ve been a big fan of TRUE Linkswear golf shoes. That’s one of the reasons their most popular shoe ever was an easy choice for an Editor’s Pick.
The TRUE Linkswear All Day Knit 3 golf shoe is a step up from the Knit 2. It offers more flexibility and durability and has WANDERLUX super foam in the midsole, making it dizzyingly comfortable.
The All Day Knit 3 provides plenty of traction for a lightweight shoe. That’s thanks to its V2 rubber outsole inspired by the outsoles of the best mountaineering boots in the world. Trust me, you’re not going to slip in these shoes.
What I love most about the All Day Knit 3s is that I can wear them anywhere. They’re genuinely lifestyle shoes that can be worn on the course, to the grocery store, or even to meetings at work.
I’m wearing my pair right now as I write this article!
Best Tour Level Shoes - Adidas TOUR360 22 Golf Shoes
For the serious golfer who wants the very best in tech, design, and performance, it doesn’t get much better than the Adidas TOUR360 22 golf shoes.
The BOOST midsole adds comfort and maximizes ground force energy during the swing, helping golfers generate maximum clubhead speed.
The INSITE sock liner adds an extra layer of comfort while improving balance.
Lastly, the SPIKEMORE outsole is well-built and ensures your feet won’t slip at impact.
I also love that these shoes are constructed using only recycled and repurposed materials. Seeing such a global brand trying to be environmentally conscious is nice.
Best Spikeless Golf Shoes - ECCO BIOM C4 BOA Golf Shoes
I’m a big fan of spikeless golf shoes. Like many golfers, I find them more comfortable than shoes with soft spikes.
After trying several spikeless shoes over the past few months, the ECCO BIOM C4 Boa shoes are my favorite.
While these shoes are 100% waterproof and feature GORE-TEX SURROUND construction, they’re surprisingly breathable. I wore these shoes several times over the summer when it was over 100 degrees, and my feet stayed relaxed and comfortable throughout the round.
As we’ve come to expect from ECCO, these shoes are jam-packed with technology designed to enhance comfort and maximize performance.
FLUIDFORM DIRECT COMFORT technology provides plenty of cushioning while allowing plenty of flexibility.
And when talking about grip, ECCO MTN Grip technology keeps your feet solidly planted on the ground no matter how hard you swing or the terrain you’re playing off of.
Even though this shoe is a little on the expensive side, it more than meets expectations.
Most Technologically Advanced Golf Shoes - SQAIRZ Speed Golf Shoes
SQAIRZ Speed Golf Shoes
SQAIRZ
When I first saw a commercial on Golf Channel claiming that SQAIRZ golf shoes could add eight yards to your drive, let’s just say I was a little skeptical.
But the skepticism went by the wayside as soon as I tried the SQAIRZ Speed golf shoes out for myself.
The first thing that caught my eye with these shoes was the wider-than-average square toe. This design feature gives you maximum ground coverage and allows your toes enough room to move freely without sacrificing balance.
STA-PUT laces are pretty cool, too. You must constantly bend over to retie the laces with most golf shoes. Not so with the SQAIRZ Speeds. Their revolutionary lacing system locks the laces in place from when you put them on until you remove them.
The spiking arrangement is also unique. The R&D team at SQAIRZ spent hundreds of hours testing at which points in the foot golfers apply the most pressure against the ground during their swing. Those are the spots where they’ve placed the soft spikes on the Speed shoes. What’s even better is that when the spikes wear out, SQAIRZ will replace them for free. How cool is that?
SQAIRZ is leading the way in incorporating tech into golf shoe design, and the Speed shoes are a shining example. And yes, I believe that I did gain a little yardage off the tee just by wearing these shoes.
Best Looking Golf Shoes - G/Fore Skull Embossed Gallivanter Golf Shoes
I’m a firm believer in the notion that you’ve got to look your best to play your best. While it might not be an absolute truth, there’s no denying that feeling good about what you’re wearing only helps you play more confidently.
The G/Fore Skull Embossed Gallivanter golf shoes were an easy choice for this year’s best-looking golf shoes.
First of all, I’m a big fan of all-white golf shoes. I think they’re super sharp without being overtly flashy. And the fact that these shoes are embossed with skulls is just incredible. I don’t know what else to say.
But there’s more than just good looks with these shoes. They’re constructed with smooth, full-grain leather that’s 100% waterproof. Believe it or not, this material is even machine washable!
In terms of comfort, the triple-density foam cushion more than does its job.
These shoes are a great choice if you’re looking for style, comfort, and performance.
Best Spikeless Golf Shoes for Most People - Payntr X 003 Golf Shoes
Payntr
I hadn’t heard of the company Payntr until this year when one of the guys who plays in my regular group showed up wearing a pair of their shoes.
As someone who always has my eye out for new and different golf stuff, I asked him about the shoes, and he convinced me to try a pair. I’m glad I did.
These shoes employ three-dimensional traction, which limits linear and rotational movement. In turn, you can maximize the use of ground force for faster clubhead speed and more distance.
The Payntyr X 003 F are also super comfortable and lightweight. The PMX foam midsole gives you plenty of cushion, and the microfiber upper is super breathable and lightweight. You get the best of both worlds.
I’m surprised more players aren't playing Payntr. My guess is that won’t remain the case for long.
Best Golf Shoes Under $200 - ECCO BIOM H4 Golf Shoes
I’ve always thought of ECCO as a premium golf shoe brand. While that’s undoubtedly true in that they make top-notch shoes in terms of quality, it doesn’t necessarily mean such is reflected in price.
When I saw the price of their BIOM H4s, I couldn’t believe my eyes. You get a lot of bang for your buck with these shoes.
They’re made with ECCO'S premium leather, fully encased with GORE-TEX for 100% waterproofing.
From a tech standpoint, a lot is going on.
BIOM NATURAL MOTION technology keeps you more connected with the ground for increased stability and balance.
ORTHOLITE inlay soles have plenty of cushions and enhance overall breathability.
For traction, it’s hard to beat the ECCO MTN GRIP outsole. Having worn this shoe for a few rounds, I can report that I’ve yet to slip once.
If great value and premium performance sound like a winning combination, it’s because they are with the ECCO BIOM H4 golf shoes.
Best Women’s Golf Shoes - ECCO BIOM G5 Golf Shoes
The ECCO BIOM G5 women’s shoes are chic and sporty, with plenty of features that ensure consistent performance.
BIOM "Natural Motion" technology allows your feet to move naturally while providing exceptional stability at the same time.
FLUIDFORM Direct Comfort technology molds naturally to your foot to provide lots of cushion and rebound.
In terms of traction, you’ll never have to worry about losing your footing thanks to ZARMA-TOUR spikes that keep your feet grounded and stable, even in the wettest, slickest conditions.
Throw in 100% waterproofing, and the BIOM G5 is a complete golf shoe.
Best Golf Shoes Under $100 - Puma PROADAPT Alphacat Golf Shoes
Golf shoes can be expensive, just like every other piece of golf equipment. And for casual golfers, there’s no need to break the bank on a pair you will only wear occasionally.
Consider the Puma PROADAPT Alphacat golf shoes if you fall into this category.
At only $99.99, these shoes are the highest quality, affordable golf shoes for 2023.
I love the traction these shoes provide. The multi-durometer system and TPU perimeter chassis on the outsole keep your feet glued to the ground from any type of lie.
On the shoe’s inside, a thick layer of foam gives you plenty of cushion for comfort that lasts the whole round.
Even though the PROADAPT Alphacat shoes aren’t the most high-tech on the market, they more than serve their purpose, especially for the price.
Best All Day Golf Shoes - TRUE Linkswear LUX Hybrid Golf Shoes
TRUE Linkswear LUX Hybrid Golf Shoes
TRUE Linkswear
The TRUE Linkswear LUX Hybrid golf shoe builds on the success of the LUX Knit shoe. However, some notable improvements in fit and function have been seen.
The LUX Hybrid has a new Achilles heel pad and TPU heel stabilizer, enhancing comfort and stability.
A leather saddle has also been added to improve aesthetics and protect your feet. Coupled with an all-new mudguard, your feet will stay dry and warm, even in the nastiest conditions.
Like every TRUE Linkswear shoe I’ve ever worn, I have no problem comfortably wearing the Lux Hybrids all day.
Most Iconic Golf Shoes - FootJoy Traditions Golf Shoes
FootJoy then made a premium line of golf shoes called “Icons.” As such, it is the reason that another one of their shoes gets my vote for the most iconic in 2023.
The FootJoy Traditions golf shoes are classic-looking shoes that are both comfortable and lightweight.
The uppers are made of soft, premium synthetic leather that makes you feel like you’re wearing a slipper.
A lightweight layer of foam and an EVA Fit-Bed in the midsole only add to the comfort equation.
If you’re like me, appreciate a clean, traditional look, and want premium comfort and performance, it’s hard to argue against the FootJoy Traditions golf shoe.
Best Casual Golf Shoes - Nike Air Max 90 G Golf Shoes
I’ve always been a fan of Nike golf shoes. They might not be on the same level as FootJoy or ECCO, but they make good golf shoes.
This year, I was impressed with the Nike Air Max 90 G.
This shoe’s style deviates from the traditional golf shoe look in that it’s full of bright colors and more closely resembles an athletic training shoe.
An extra-thick foam layer sits in the midsole and under the heel to provide maximum comfort.
There’s plenty of tread on the sole, so slipping shouldn’t be an issue.
The Air Max 90 G is available in black/grey, white/red, red/black, and white/royal colors.
Simple but unique in design and reliably functional, the Nike Air Max 90 G is a breath of fresh air.
Best Premium Golf Shoes - Duca del Cosma Churchill Men's Golf Shoes
Duca del Cosma Churchill Men's Golf Shoes
Duca del Cosma
There are top-of-the-line golf shoes, and then there are the best.
The Churchill shoes from Duca del Cosma fall into the latter category.
Hand-crafted from the finest Nappa leather, these shoes don’t just scream “look at me”; they’re incredibly comfortable.
The Airplay XI spikeless outsole gives you plenty of traction, while the ARNEFLEX memory foam insole affords unparalleled comfort.
Available in blue or brown, you’ll look the part and feel great when you slip the Duca del Cosma Churchills golf shoes on your feet.
Final Thoughts on the Best Golf Shoes for 2023
No matter what you’re looking for in the best golf shoes, you can find it in 2023. There are hundreds of different styles, brands, and lines. This list represents a tiny portion of what I consider the best golf shoes of the year.
But remember, when buying a new pair of golf shoes, consider some of the factors discussed above to make an informed decision. You’ll be strolling down the fairways in comfort and style when you do.