Best Golf Shoes 2024: Buyer’s Guide and things you need to know

Your guide to the best golf shoes of 2024 and all the things you need to know ahead of splashing the cash on your newest pair of footwear. 

Johnny Percival's picture
Tue, 26 Mar 2024
GolfMagic Best Golf Shoes

If you're seeking the best golf shoes of 2024 to replace your worn-out pair, you're in the right place.

In 2024, leading golf shoe brands are prioritising comfort and stability like never before, ensuring your feet receive the care they deserve on the course.

Navigating the vast array of options in today's market can feel overwhelming. With numerous choices available, finding the perfect pair to enhance your game can be challenging.

But fear not, as GolfMagic is here to help. 

With the help of our Equipment Editor, Alex Lodge, we have put together the ultimate buyers’ guide featuring the very best men’s golf shoes. We have compiled a number of different products and listed their benefits, prices, and suitability.

Be it spiked or spikeless, black or white, BOA or laces, we've searched high and low to find the best shoes on offer this year. 

We’ve tested dozens of golf shoes from the likes of FootJoy, Nike, PUMA, adidas, and ECCO to find the best shoes for you.

Best Golf Shoes 2024

Not every golf shoe this year can deliver the optimum combination of performance and comfort. You need to be able to pick out the best from the worst and invest in that option.

Let’s take a closer look at what we consider to be the very best golf shoes on the market in 2024, starting with our favourite of the bunch: 

PUMA GS Fast

Price: £79.00

Key Features:

  • Seam-sealed waterproof upper: welded-on TPU layers completely seam-seal the upper, providing ultimate protection from the elements
  • Softfoam Sockliner: Dual-density insole provides two unique layers of cushioning for excellent comfort, fit and long-lasting durability
  • Fusion Foam: Mix of super soft EVA foam and ultra-responsive rubber combine to provide energy return and cushioning to keep you comfortable throughout your round
  • Carbon Rubber: high abrasion-resistant rubber that provides excellent grip and long-lasting durability

Pros: 

  • Completely waterproof
  • Instant out-of-the-box comfort
  • Modern, stylish design

Cons:

  • Trainer-like design may not appeal to the traditional golfer

 

 

In a striking testament to the evolution of golf footwear over the past four decades, the PUMA GS-Fast stands as a prime example of the remarkable advancements achieved. PUMA, a trailblazer in modernising on-course style, introduces the GS-Fast golf shoes that encapsulate the brand's revolutionary and dynamic vision.

Inspired by the successful RS running shoe series, PUMA has ingeniously integrated performance-enhancing features into the GS-Fast, transforming it into a course-ready footwear masterpiece. Originally unveiled in the 80s, the RS sneaker range's innovative impact finds resurgence in the form of a contemporary golf shoe, seamlessly blending adaptability, style, and performance.

The PUMA GS-Fast boasts an avant-garde appearance with wave-like designs and a fusion of blue and white shades, lending it a modern, trainer-like aesthetic. The branding adopts a minimalist approach, with a subtle leaping PUMA logo on the upper. The shoe's sleek and fluid design pairs with its slightly chunky silhouette, aligning with the current fashion trend.

The GS-Fast excels in versatility, catering to both on-course and off-course scenarios. Designed for comfort, the shoe provides excellent out-of-the-box comfort, supported by a heel section that embraces the ankle snugly. The cushioned insole imparts a springy sensation, offering a responsive energy return with each step. The chunky sole delivers remarkable cushioning, stability, and a secure swing experience.

While the full seam-sealed upper guarantees waterproof protection, its breathability is somewhat limited. The utilisation of TPU renders the shoes durable and easy to clean, allowing them to withstand diverse conditions. The carbon rubber nubs on the sole ensure reliable traction on dry surfaces.

In conclusion, the PUMA GS-Fast golf shoes emerge as a stylish and high-performing option, seamlessly bridging on-course demands with off-course allure. With their exceptional stability, comfort, and £99 price point, they offer outstanding value and earn a well-deserved spot in the ranks of the best golf shoes.

READ OUR FULL PUMA GS-FAST REVIEW

Nike Air Pegasus 89 G

Price: 109.99

Key Features: 

  • Synthetic Leather & Mesh Upper: soft and supple design also provides protection from the elements
  • Foam midsole & Zoom Air Unit: designed to provide long-lasting comfort on and off the course
  • Integrated Traction Pattern: to deliver grip and stability on any terrain

Pros:

  • Trainer like comfort
  • Golf shoes don't come more stylish
  • One-year waterproof warranty

Cons:

  • White one white design gets dirty very easily
  • Stability could be better

 

 

Nike's Air Pegasus 89 G golf shoes combine retro charm with modern comfort to meet the growing demand for trainer-like golf footwear.

Following in the footsteps of classic designs like the Air Jordan 1 and Nike Air Max 1 86, these shoes offer an ideal balance of on-course performance and off-course styling that few other brands can match.

Tested at the London Club, the shoes boast a timeless design, with the iconic Nike tick taking centre stage and quality synthetic leather panels providing structure and texture. Despite being marked easily, they offer comfort with a Zoom Air unit in the heel and generous width, preventing any unwanted rubbing.

Their soles provide excellent grip even in wet conditions, though stability may be an issue for bigger golfers or those with intense swings. Nevertheless, for most golfers, they offer impressive comfort and performance.

These shoes are ideal for summer rounds, transitioning seamlessly from the course to other activities while offering fantastic value at just over £100. If you seek versatile golf footwear with timeless appeal, excellent comfort, and traction, the Air Pegasus 89 G is a top contender.

READ OUR FULL NIKE AIR PEGASUS 89 G GOLF SHOES REVIEW

FootJoy Pro/SLX Carbon

Price: £189.99

Key Features: 

  • PWR TRAX System: a moulded 3D X-Wing that is engaged by swing forces to redistribute energy to the perimeter of the golf shoe
  • Race Trak Outsole with radial disc traction: harnesses and extends into the ground to increase the overall traction footprint
  • StratoFoamTM midsole: specifically tuned to absorb and return energy with every step

Pros:

  • Outstanding level of traction
  • locked-in comfort benefits your stride and swing
  • Fresh modern design provides plenty of shelf appeal

Cons:

  • May be a touch on the pricey side for the casual golfer

 

 

The FootJoy Pro/SLX Golf Shoes, an update to the renowned Pro SL line, offer both performance and comfort. Featuring a modern design with a primarily white leather upper accented by flashes of colour, these shoes maintain a classic yet contemporary aesthetic. The heel stabiliser's new placement enhances the futuristic feel of the design.

The shoes boast a wide yet streamlined shape, providing stability without bulkiness. A notable innovation is the carbon fiber-moulded X Wing visible in the sole, which enhances stability through weight redistribution. The Race Trak outsole offers exceptional traction, even on wet surfaces.

Comfort is a highlight, thanks to the 3D moulded collar and StratoFoam midsole, which provide stability and cushioning akin to high-quality running shoes. Overall, the Pro/SLX Carbons impress with their comfort, stability, and performance.

For those seeking top-tier golf shoes, the Pro/SLX Carbons are a compelling choice in 2024. Despite their higher price point, they offer excellent value with long-lasting comfort, energy return, and a stylish design.

READ OUR FULL FOOTJOY PRO/SLX CARBON REVIEW

Nike Air Zoom Victory Tour 3

Price: £209

  • Full-grain leather upper: features a waterproof membrane to keep your feet dry and warm
  • Zoom Air unit: stitched directly into the upper, the unit delivers energy back to the foot with every stride
  • Tour Flex Pro SoftSpikes: deliver outstanding traction and stability throughout the swing
  • Internal strap: stretches over then secures your foot, contouring to its shape

Pros:

  • One of the best looking spiked shoes on the market
  • Supple leather and Air unit provide exceptional comfort
  • Excellent traction and stability

Cons:

  • A touch on the pricey side

 

 

The Nike Air Zoom Victory Tour 3 Golf Shoes, favoured by Rory McIlroy, boast impressive tour pedigree and cutting-edge technology. Constructed with supple full-grain leather, Zoom Air units, and Tour Flex Pro SoftSpikes, they promise top-tier performance.

In terms of design, the Victory Tour 3s offer a classic silhouette with modern accents, providing a versatile aesthetic that complements any outfit. Available in various colour schemes, they incorporate subtle branding and a 3D moulded collar for a contemporary touch.

Comfort-wise, while the shoes initially feel snug, the supple leather ensures long-term comfort. With a secure fit and solid construction, they offer stability and arch support, crucial for maintaining balance and preventing foot fatigue during play.

The traction provided by SoftSpikes is exceptional, even in wet conditions, ensuring stability and confidence throughout the swing. Moreover, the shoes are fully waterproof, further enhancing their performance in adverse weather.

With their combination of style, comfort, and performance, the Nike Air Zoom Victory Tour 3s stand out as one of the best spiked golf shoes in 2024. Priced at £209, they offer excellent value for those seeking premium quality and versatility on the course.

READ OUR FULL NIKE AIR ZOOM VICTORY TOUR 3 REVIEW

adidas MC80 

Price: £94.99

Key Features: 

  • Full grain leather upper: supple construction provides comfort and durability
  • Boost midsole: provides outstanding comfort and energy return with every stride
  • Torsion stability bar: designed to provide a stable base for every swing

Pros: 

  • Ideal combination of modern and traditional styling
  • Supple leather moulded to our feet quickly
  • Boost midsole provided excellent comfort

Cons:

  • Thin laces came undone quite easily

 

 

Adidas' MC80, a recent addition to their shoe lineup, merges performance technology with traditional materials, resulting in a spikeless shoe offering exceptional comfort, stability, and versatility. Unlike the CodeChaos model, the MC80 boasts a more traditional silhouette, initially released through an adidas X Bogey Boys collaboration and now a staple in the brand's footwear range.

The MC80 combines modern and traditional design aesthetics, featuring a full-grain leather upper that conforms naturally to the foot, providing both comfort and a pleasing appearance. The shoes strike a balance between old-school styling and modern versatility, with an eye-catching black panel offering contrast and traditional detailing.

Despite their traditional appearance, the MC80s deliver modern comfort and performance, thanks to a boost midsole and torsion bar. The boost technology enhances comfort with a spring-like feel, accommodating wide feet without discomfort. In wet conditions, the TPU nubs on the sole provide traction and stability, despite the lack of spikes.

The only notable drawback is the thin and easily undone laces, suggesting a potential need for replacement with thicker ones. Overall, the MC80 impresses with its smart, comfortable, and affordable design, making it a favourite in the market. If you're seeking an upgrade for this season, the adidas MC80 is a solid choice for both style and performance.

READ OUR FULL ADIDAS MC80 REVIEW

ECCO LT1

Price: £179

Key Features:

  • ECCO LYTR technology: combines FLUIDFORM technology with all-new ECCO LYTR Foam for improved cushioning and rebound
  • E-DTS NET design on the outsole: ensures exceptional durability and provides golfers with unrivalled multi-directional traction
  • BOA lacing system: allows the shoes to be tightened and loosened with the simple twist of a wheel

Pros:

  • Lightweight design provided outstanding on-course comfort
  • BOA lacing system is an excellent addition
  • New midsole prevents foot fatigue

Cons:

  • Aesthetics are potentially an acquired taste

 

 

The ECCO LT1 Golf Shoes, the latest addition to ECCO's premium range, provide exceptional comfort and lightness. Featuring a new midsole foam called ECCO LYTR and Fluidform technology, they deliver superior comfort straight out of the box.

In terms of design, the LT1s offer a futuristic silhouette with a BOA lacing system and zebra-like perforations. The off-white colour scheme with neon yellow accents may divide opinions, but the textured stripes provide a premium feel.

Comfort-wise, these shoes excel, offering ample arch support and a snug ankle fit. The BOA lacing system allows for effortless adjustments. The ECCO LYTR midsole foam provides excellent energy return, reducing foot fatigue during play.

Traction is provided by rubber nubs on the sole, offering good lateral stability. While fully waterproof, they may lack some lateral stability during swings compared to spiked shoes.

Overall, the LT1s prioritise comfort, making them ideal for most golfers. Despite some minor concerns about lateral stability, their lightweight design and cloud-like comfort make them a top choice for golfers seeking ultimate comfort on the course.

READ OUR FULL ECCO LT1 REVIEW

adidas S2G

Price: £89

Key Features: 

  • Waterproof ripstop upper with synthetic overlays: delivers waterproof protection and breathability
  • Lightstrike midsole: designed to aid fast explosive lateral movement
  • Spikeless outsole: constructed from durable rubber to provide a balance of traction and flexibility

Pros:

  • Timeless styling
  • Ideal for on and off-course wear
  • Excellent value

Cons:

  • In terms of stability and traction, there are better models on offer in 2024

 

 

The adidas S2G Golf Shoes embody the trend of blending on-course performance with off-course style, reflecting the shift towards more casual footwear in golf. With a streetwear-inspired design, these shoes seamlessly transition from fairway to pavement.

Featuring a simple yet athletic upper design, the S2Gs come in various colourways, offering both modern and vintage aesthetics. While appearing more like tennis or running shoes, they still incorporate golf-specific elements like rubber nubs on the sole.

In terms of comfort and performance, the S2Gs offer a versatile experience. Despite initial stiffness, they soften with wear, providing a cushioned feel and suitable stability. However, compared to other spikeless options, they lean towards the stiffer end. While offering decent traction and flexibility, they may lack the locked-in feel often desired during the golf swing.

Overall, the S2Gs stand out as a solid option in the spikeless category, competing well with other models in 2024. If you prioritise both style and performance without compromising on comfort, these shoes are worth considering.

Priced at £89.99, they offer good value for golfers seeking a blend of style and functionality on the course.

READ OUR ADIDAS S2G REVIEW

5 THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT GOLF SHOES: 

Types of golf shoes

There are a variety of golf shoes on offer to golfers nowadays, but the main options are spiked and spikeless models. Spiked models are traditional and really, they are the go-to style for your next pair of golf shoes. Spikes offer grip and stability in all types of weather conditions.

Spikeless golf shoes are becoming very popular and this is because they are designed with comfort and looks in mind. They largely appeal to young golfers who are looking for a modern and athletic look on the golf course. Spikeless golf shoes offer more relief for your feet than spiked models and new technology has enabled spikeless models to become durable.

You can also purchase a golf boot, however, this is extremely rare. This type of shoe is very waterproof and it is primarily designed to protect your feet in the winter. Although they are heavier than regular golf shoes, they offer good protection in cold and wet weather.

Materials

As you have probably gathered from our golf shoe reviews above, a multitude of materials go into the construction of golf footwear and this is why you see some big prices on your screen.

Leather is a very popular choice in the game and this is because leather makes golf shoes durable, waterproof and tight-fitting. Leather is more breathable than most materials and leather shoes are a good option for both summer and winter golf. Some golf shoes start at high prices because of their leather construction, but you are investing in a well-constructed and reliable product.

Gore-Tex is a high-quality material that is very thick and water-resistant. When you tee it up in the winter months, you should consider a pair of golf shoes constructed with Gore-Tex because this will mean the product is breathable, waterproof and it will feel significantly warmer than a leather shoe.

Synthetic materials are also used to construct golf shoes. This is a cheaper material than leather which spreads over the top of the shoe to protect the outer surface. It is thinner than leather and in general, shoes made with synthetic materials are cheaper because they are not as protective and breathable.

Type of golf shoe spikes

Traction is important on the bottom of your golf shoes and plastic spikes are the most popular type in the game. These are soft spikes that cause less damage to greens than metal spikes. They are usually wider which distributes the weight of the spikes across a larger area. Plastic spikes are regularly found on new golf shoes and they are more comfortable on your feet as you walk on dry summer ground or wet winter terrain.

Metal spikes are slowly leaving the game and this is because they aren’t as comfortable as plastic spikes. They cause more damage to greens and fairways and although some professional golfers use them, they could also cause pain when walking on hard ground. Some golf courses prohibit metal spikes because of the damage they can cause to golf courses.

Laces

You won’t be surprised to hear that traditional laces are the most common types of lacing systems found in golf shoes. They allow the player to tighten or loosen the grip of the shoes around their feet.

However, if you want to experience something different, we would highly recommend using shoes with a proprietary lacing system. They operate by using a mechanical lacing system that provides constant stability. They are very easy to use with just the twist of a circle and your laces become looser or tighter, depending on what you need. Although this type of lacing system is more expensive, they are very practical and comfortable too.

Looking after your golf shoes

You can buy the best golf shoe for your game, but if you neglect them and don’t maintain their qualities over time, their effect could be diminished and you may not get the best out of them.

If you have a pair of spiked golf shoes, make sure you keep an eye on the spikes. If they become too worn, you should replace them which can be done easily with a tool. If you leave your spikes to become small stumps, they can be very hard to replace, which is why spike maintenance is very important.

If you have just played in the rain and your shoes are soaked on the inside, make sure you dry them out when you return home. Maybe warm them up or fill them with paper in order to take the moisture out, but don’t leave this task until your next round because you don’t want wet feet as soon as you step on to the golf course.

If you are concerned about buying shoes that don’t become a good fit on the golf course, you can use a custom-fitting session to make sure you have the right pair for you. It may cost you a little more cash, but the fitters will make sure your feet are a perfect fit in every inch of the shoe.

How do we test golf shoes?

Testing golf shoes is very different to testing golf clubs. There is much less technology involved and fewer mechanics to consider.

However, GolfMagic Equipment Editor Alex Lodge rigorously tests the best golf shoes by wearing them over a number of weeks and months to assess their performance.

Over time, Alex assesses the shoe’s durability, comfort and stability on the golf course. He also judges the aesthetics and design of each model to decide which golfers are suited to a certain type of golf shoe.

Does the colour wear away after some time? Does the lacing in this shoe allow for maximum comfort? Is the underfoot spiking delivering stability?

Alex tests all golf shoes in a number of different weather conditions to get a well-rounded view of how they perform when challenged by dry and wet conditions.

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