If you were to ask a golfer their favorite manufacturer of golf shoe, it is likely they would say FootJoy, with the company involved in producing some of the most iconic models in golf for over 150 years.
Purveyors of some of the best golf shoes currently available on the market, FootJoy also make some of the best spiked golf shoes and best spikeless golf shoes that money can buy. Don't just take our word for it, take a look at the number of professionals donning the footwear on the PGA, DP World and LPGA Tours.
Currently, there are a variety of styles available in the FootJoy range and, below, we have tested out the very best the company has to offer. Whether it's comfort you are after, or perhaps a certain style, there are plenty of options available.
WATCH: Dan Parker tests over 25 pairs of the best golf shoes to crown his 2024 winner!
If FootJoy is not for you, we have also created guides on other brands available on the market. For example, we have scoured the current golf shoe market to create buying advice on the best Puma golf shoes, best Under Armour golf shoes and also the best Nike golf shoes.
The Quick List
One of the most well-rounded spiked golf shoes of recent memory, the FootJoy HyperFlex Carbon has an athletic look and superb locked-in feel that equates to great stability.
Arguably one of the best looking golf shoes on the market, the Wilcox is a fully waterproof model that provides ample grip from a Versatrax sole.
A golf shoe designed for all-year wear, the locked-in feel and comfort are particular stand outs, but be warned that it does come up slightly narrow when on.
Providing a mix of traditional and modern looks, the Premiere Series Tarlow is worn by some of the best golfers on the planet, with the high level of performance a real plus.
Featuring exceptional all-round comfort, the premium, modern styling is backed-up by exceptional swing support that allows you to commit to every shot.
Arguably the most comfortable golf shoe on the market, the Quantum from FootJoy has a versatile outsole with the look meaning it can be worn both on and off the golf course.
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A superb and innovative new spikeless traction system means there is plenty of grip in this model. Also, thanks to the premium, athletic looks, FootJoy have really built-on this iconic range.
This shoe is stylish, lightweight, fully waterproof and very reasonably priced given the technology on offer. What's more, they are really sturdy when walking and taking shots on the course.
A shoe that mixes traditional style with modern technology, the Field's are one of the best looking shoes money can buy and are often seen on the professional circuits.
A proven favorite, the Pro/SLX provides plenty of performance from the comfort and grip. Packed with lots of technology, this premium model remains one of the most recognized in the FootJoy range.
These lightweight golf shoes are perfect both on and off the course. Offering phenomenal traction and a running shoe appearance, they will not disappoint when it comes to versatility.
The new Pro/SLX shoe is the next generation of the popular Pro/SL franchise and it's packed with unique technology that ensures exceptional comfort, and also delivers on performance.
Best FootJoy Golf Shoes
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Spiked
The HyperFlex range comes in three men's models - HyperFlex, HyperFlex BOA, and HyperFlex Carbon, with the Carbon version containing a carbon fiber construction which makes it incredibly lightweight.
There's a lot to like about this model and, from a performance perspective, the absolute highlight, we thought, was the Ortholite Impression Footbed. This technology has elevated the HyperFlex Carbon from a good golf shoe to a great golf shoe because, as soon as we slipped our foot inside, we could feel the technology at work.
Aesthetically, the HyperFlex Carbon has stuck to the similar blueprint of its predecessor but, this time around, FootJoy has included some new splashes of color that elevate the overall shelf appeal. It's part of a clear effort by FootJoy to go a bit bolder and brighter with some of its color options.
- Read our full FootJoy HyperFlex Carbon Golf Shoe Review
FootJoy Premiere Series Wilcox Golf Shoe
A shoe that will certainly catch the eyes of your playing partners, the FootJoy Wilcox is the latest addition to the brands excellent range of Premier golf shoes and cuts the balance right between being a traditionally styled golf shoe and one that just oozes class. It is certainly one of the best spiked golf shoes on the market, thanks mostly to its visuals, which if you couldn't tell already, we loved.
Moving away from the looks and onto the grip on offer. FootJoy have created a Versatrax Outsole that boasts nine stable cleats which raise you above mud and wet grass and helps to deliver plenty of traction. In testing, the outsole gave us plenty of confidence to commit 100% to our shots.
Admittedly, these aren't the most comfortable golf shoes in the FootJoy range, as they offer a firmer feel, but they still have that 'locked-in' feeling when out on the golf course. Featuring a one-year waterproof warranty, you could argue that these are amongst some of the best waterproof golf shoes available.
- Read our full FootJoy Premiere Series Wilcox Golf Shoe Review
FootJoy HyperFlex 2023 Golf Shoe
The FootJoy HyperFlex 2023 Golf Shoe is being called the shoe for the ‘modern golfer athlete’, as a sporty look and comfortable feel put this high amongst the best spiked golf shoes.
To begin with, we found that the integrated thermoplastic side wrap and saddle constricted our foot in a snug, comfortable way to provide a really secure and stable feeling throughout the swing. This was also helped by the sock-like design around the tongue and heel, which not only kept us locked-in, but also meant the shoe was easy to get on. It's worth noting that the narrow fit won't suit all.
Away from the comfort, the grip is plentiful, thanks to well-positioned spikes on the sole and, what we really liked is how easy the material was to wipe clean afterwards. This means the shoes stay in top shape for a longer period of time, something that many will absolutely adore.
- Read our full FootJoy HyperFlex 2023 Golf Shoe Review
FootJoy Premiere Series Tarlow Golf Shoe
Featuring in three colors, the Tarlow series is also fully customisable, with the design being FootJoy's modern interpretation of the timeless cap toe. Constructed with a natural grain leather in the vamp (the middle part of the upper above the foot) and the quarter (the back part of the upper), the aesthetic will garner a mixed response, with some loving it and some hating it. However, this is something which you could probably says about many of the best golf shoes on the market.
For grip, the Tarlow has nine Pulsar low profile cleats, which also provide an immense amount of stability throughout the swing. Another area to note is that the waterproof leather construction performed very well when we got caught in a couple of downpours. Importantly, when testing, our feet felt nicely cocooned against the elements.
As mentioned, there are other models of the Tarlow series and it's not just the looks that are impressive, as the soft, supple sheepskin linings provided immense comfort out on the golf course. What's more, it didn't cause any uncomfortable rubbing or blisters either in testing, which is something that can often occur when we have taken shoes right out of the box and onto the golf course.
- Read our full FootJoy Premiere Series Tarlow Golf Shoe Review
FootJoy Tour Alpha 2024 Golf Shoe
Introduced by FootJoy to be their premier performance shoe for golfers seeking the ultimate in grip and stability, the Alpha combines premium, modern styling with exceptional swing support and incredible comfort.
There's a reason why this shoe received five stars out of five in our review and, beginning with the technology aspect, the Alpha has padding around the ankle and underfoot with it remaining very lightweight. Like other FootJoy shoes, the fit does come up half a size short but, when you find the correct fit, the locked-in feel and fit provides peace of mind.
As mentioned, the look is clean and, from a performance perspective, it provided excellent ground force and the ability to go after every shot. It has a cleverly designed outsole which, like others on this list, has nine cleats scattered around the edge and lots of quite sharp smaller nubs in between getting down into the ground with ease.
- Read our full FootJoy Tour Alpha Golf Shoe Review
Spikeless
FootJoy's tag line for the Quantum Shoes are 'cloud like comfort' and, although you may think it's a marketing ploy, we can safely say it's not, with the Quantum one of the most comfortable golf shoes money can buy right now.
How has FootJoy made this shoe so comfortable? Well, it has SofFoam technology in and around the heel that provides an unbelievably cushioned ride and, in testing, we could really feel it whilst walking and in the golf swing. What's more, the Ortholite Impression FitBed, which provides the real step-in comfort, gave a floaty sensation underfoot, with it feeling like the shoe was absorbing all of the energy from beneath, protecting the foot from shock on any type of surface.
Admittedly, there are more stable spikeless golf shoes, but the Quantum still performs well and, in terms of looks, it straddles the line between the traditional, athletic golf shoe and a sneaker style. Certainly, with its clean, classic and smart looks, as well as its outsole, it makes it a versatile option that, arguably, could be worn both on and off the golf course.
- Read our full FootJoy Quantum Golf Shoe Review
FootJoy Pro/SLX Carbon Golf Shoe
It's now been eight years since FootJoy introduced the first Pro/SL golf shoe to the market and, throughout that time, the iconic look has stayed and aged very well. In the Pro/SLX Carbon, that remains a similar story, as some new flashes of tech and color provide a fresh, modern and premium look which we love.
Beginning with the technology and, we are happy to report, that a lot of the reliable aspects have stayed but, one aspect which FootJoy have worked on is the spikeless outsoles. We now see a moulded 3D X-Wing, with the carbon fiber construction redistributing energy to the perimeter of the golf shoe to engage grip where golfers need it most. It's very different to most of the best spikeless golf shoes, but we felt it worked superbly in testing.
The main standout, though, is the comfort, as FootJoy have utilised the superb Ortholite Impressions FitBed that we saw on the HyperFlex Carbon from last year. Overtime, the FitBed moulds to the foot and provides a worn-in feel that is extremely comfortable.
- Read our full FootJoy Pro/SLX Carbon Golf Shoe Review
FootJoy ProLite Golf Shoe
There's a lot to like about the ProLite Golf Shoes, with the value for money a definite stand out. We ranked these as one of the best budget golf shoes due to the fact that they are stylish, fully waterproof and provided excellent support.
To begin with, the shoe is lightweight and robust enough to deal with a variety of powerful swings. It also features a Duramax Race Trak outsole that is different to other FootJoy models but, importantly, the grip is still sufficient enough for a spikeless model.
Comfort-wise, the ProLite has a thicker insole for increased underfoot cushioning and a mesh liner that provides a ‘sock-like feel and fit’. It isn't the most comfortable shoe on the market but, for under a $100, it's certainly a great value option.
- Read our full FootJoy ProLite Golf Shoe Review
FootJoy Premiere Series Field Golf Shoe
Worn by the likes of Adam Scott and Max Homa, the Premiere Series Field has a classic aesthetic with a modern feel. Straight out the box, they are noticeably lightweight and, importantly, go with a range of different outfits, such is the versatility.
Where the Field excels is the comfort which, from the first wear, was superb. We found there to be no uncomfortable rubbing and our feet felt cocooned nicely, with FootJoy offering it in both medium and wide fit designs. One last aspect to mention is that the shoes are hard wearing, something that actually surprised us.
Ending with the grip and, despite being a spikeless model, the grip and stability was good. In testing, we were able to take a number of tricky stances in wet and dry conditions and not slip, which shows the quality of the outsole.
- Read our full FootJoy Premiere Series Field Golf Shoe Review
FootJoy Pro/SLX Golf Shoe
Aesthetically, the company have delivered once again on the Pro/SLX, with what is a really good looking golf shoe. Screaming premium, the first thing we noticed is the exposed heel stabiliser and sidewall TPU wrap heel, which is there to help lateral and upper movement.
In terms of performance, FootJoy have introduced a new traction design called the PWR TRAX System. Featuring a molded 3D X-Wing that uses swing forces to redistribute energy to the perimeter of the shoe, we found them to perform excellently in a range of weather and course conditions.
On that note, these shoes are 100% waterproof and the supreme comfort and grip should make them a model to consider when the conditions are tough. Certainly, we would recommend using a lighter model in summer, but for when the weather and terrain is a little testing underfoot, we would certainly opt for this model.
- Read our full FootJoy Pro/SLX Golf Shoe Review
Women's Golf Shoes
At first glance, you might mistake these for running shoes due to the performance mesh exterior. Clearly, these are a sporty and modern trainer style footwear and casual onlookers will also be surprised to learn that these are spikeless golf shoes.
You could easily get away with wearing these both on and off the course and, in testing, we found that the EVA midsole delivered some excellent bounce in the stride, making these a potential contenders for our best golf shoes for walking guide. What's more, they're so easy to get your foot into and the lined heels offer comfort and high end support.
At under $100, the FootJoy Flex also fit into the category of the best budget golf shoes and, for example, we would even recommend them for other sporting activities away from golf.
- Read our full FootJoy Flex 2024 Women's Golf Shoe review
FootJoy Women's Pro/SLX Golf Shoe
Out of the box, our first impressions of the Women's Pro/SLX were positive, as a well-made construction makes way for a design that provides comfort and stability in equal measure. One example is the exposed heel stabiliser, as well as a side wall TPU wrap that helps control both the lateral and upper movement.
Constructed of premium leather, the comfort is, arguably, the stand out of this golf shoe and, over multiple rounds, the molded Ortholite Fitbed shaped to our foot. Also, like other models on this list, the StratoFoam midsole provided a lot of support and a spring in the step when walking the terrain.
Finally, in terms of grip, despite being a spikeless model, we were impressed by how much the shoe stood up to the test on wet and slippery ground. FootJoy has implemented lots of traction technology and we had no problem feeling stable and in control of every shot.
- Read our full FootJoy Women’s Pro/SLX Golf Shoe Review
How we test golf shoes
Our golf shoe testing methodology revolves around putting models to the test over a number of rounds and in different conditions. This is so we can gain a better idea of overall performance in terms of factors like comfort, grip, stability, waterproofing and how they actually look on the golf course.
Each of the shoes listed above has been personally used by a member of the Golf Monthly team and, we believe, that this is the best way of testing a golf shoe. By using it in the real world over a number of weeks, it allows us time to use it in multiple conditions.
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 though, as all our reviews are made by golfers, for golfers.
How to choose golf shoes
There are a number of factors to consider when picking out your next pair of golf shoes so to help you narrow down your search and inform your buying decision, below we have put together some key points.
1. Spiked or spikeless?
The models above are split into spiked (or cleated) and spikeless designs and there are pros and cons of each. Spiked golf shoes offer better grip and stability but don't sit as low to the ground as spikeless models. They are perhaps better suited to wet weather and colder climates where the terrain may be slightly slippery under foot.
Spikeless golf shoes offer off-course versatility. They are perfect for driving in the car to the golf course, playing a round, and then driving home again because they are usually light and comfortable, but most won't offer as much traction as a spiked shoe. Spikeless shoes are perhaps better for warmer climates where the ground is a lot harder. While they don't provide as much grip as a spiked shoe, on firmer ground you will get a lot of traction off the floor with spikeless golf shoes.
2. Waterproofing
If you live somewhere that gets a lot of rain then a waterproof shoe is a must. The best designs will keep your feet bone dry however if you play golf in glorious sunshine most of the time, then you may view other factors as more significant.
Many players choose to have one pair for winter and another, lighter pair for summer to keep them fresh and suit different requirements.
You may also want to think about how easy to clean your waterproof shoes are. Some shoes can be made of a waterproof fabric that can sometimes get dirty with mud and be hard to clean. But if you play a lot in the summer months, then a lighter more breathable pair of shoes might be for you.
3. Getting the right fit
When picking out golf shoes getting the right fit is important because otherwise blisters can build up, or your feet may slide around inside, which limits your stability.
When trying a pair on for the first time, listen for the 'whoosh' sound when you slide your feet in - that's the sound of all the air leaving the shoe to confirm it is the correct size, but do a walking test to be sure. They shouldn't pinch anywhere, nor should your feet be moving around inside.
When it comes to the right fit it is also worth considering different laces. Normal laces are good for most but for some golfers, BOA laced shoes provide more convenient fastening and shouldn’t loosen during the course of a round, but are usually a tad more expensive.
The better fit, the more control you'll have in your swing and that means you'll be more confident when it comes to putting more power on your golf shots.
4. Styling
Thankfully modern golf shoe design has seen many brands not just create traditional, classic-looking shoes, but also modern styles that can be used off the golf course too. Therefore it is important to think about what your shoes look like and what style suits you. Whatever you like or dislike, there is something for everyone these days.
5. Support
Over a round of 18 holes, an average golfer will walk approximately five miles and burn up to 2,000 calories. That is a lot of time spent on your feet, so as it goes without saying, you're going to always want to have something on your feet that is comfortable.
If you do get sore feet or knees during your round, it's best to get a shoe that has a spongey yet supple sole that can cushion your feet while you walk. That being said some shoes can often sacrifice performance for comfort, so it's best to always try your shoes on and have a little walk around your club shop before you buy.
You may also want to think about the support you get around the ankles as many golfers traversing the undulating terrains of their local club will know that it is often very easy to turn over on one of your ankles if you misplace your step. For that reason, if you can get a pair of shoes with good support around their opening, your ankles will be much better off for it.
If you enjoyed this guide on the best FootJoy golf shoes, be sure to check out the Golf Monthly website for more reviews and guides, such as the best Nike golf shoes, or best adidas golf shoes.
FAQs
Is FootJoy a good brand?
FootJoy are highly regarded as being one of the premium footwear brands in golf, with PGA Tour professionals, like Max Homa, Will Zalatoris, Justin Thomas, Patrick Cantlay and Adam Scott all choosing to use FootJoy.
Does Tiger Woods wear FootJoy golf shoes?
While Tiger Woods has previously played in Nike golf shoes, in recent years, the 15-time major winner was wearing a pair of FootJoy's Premiere Series Packard golf shoes. These have now been replaced by his own brand of Sun Day Red golf shoes.
Is it better to wear spiked or spikeless golf shoes?
That depends on your preferences as a golfer. Spiked golf shoes offer more grip on the ground and help players perform on softer surfaces, where the turf might be slippy. Spikeless golf shoes are better for summer conditions when the ground may be a little harder and are regularly seen being used by professional PGA Tour players in America.
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