Best Women's Golf Shoes 2024

We take a look at the best women's golf shoes currently available on the market

Women's Shoes
(Image credit: Future)

Remember that your feet are the basis of your swing so the quality of your shoes can make a significant difference. An engineer would not build a car with the wrong set of wheels!

Comfort is essential and thankfully the latest technological developments in the sole, midsole, upper and heel area means that comfort is instantly achieved. There is seldom need to break shoes in – they can be worn straight out of the box for 18 holes. 

When it comes to styling, brands offer a variety of designs and colors to suit every outfit and personality. You might want to check out our guide on the best pink golf shoes. Another factor is protection from the elements, and some of the best waterproof golf shoes on the market not only protect your feet from getting wet, but also offer breathability to help in the summer months. 

WATCH: Alison Root tests over 15 pairs of the best golf shoes to crown her 2024 winner!

A common question is, “Should I wear spiked or spikeless shoes?” The best spikeless shoes are mostly suited to firm and dry conditions, whereas the best spiked shoes are likely to provide more lateral stability overall than spikeless in soft and wet conditions, or when playing on a particularly hilly golf course. 

However, continual advancements in traction design and durability means that spikeless shoes have the ability to perform well throughout the year. It's the comfort and convenience that women appreciate most, as they can be worn straight from home, to the course, to carpeted areas in the clubhouse and beyond.

Bearing all of this in mind, our team of contributors has put a number of shoes to the test over 18 holes and we think the selections below are the top models on the market. Additionally, if you’re looking to kit yourself out with other women's golf equipment, check our guides on the best women's golf clothes and the most comfortable golf shoes for women

alison root
Alison Root

Alison Root has over 25 years experience working in media, predominantly dedicated to women's golf. She is a respected voice across all areas of the game and has tested many women's golf shoes.

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Best Women's Golf Shoes

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Adidas Tour360 24 Women's Golf Shoe

Adidas Tour360 24 Women's Golf Shoe Review

adidas Tour360 24 Women's Golf Shoe 

(Image credit: Golf Monthly)
A sleek spiked shoe that offers serious comfort and performance

Specifications

Sizes : 3.5 - 8.5
Waterproof : Waterproof leather upper
Colors : 2 (cloud white/silver metallic, white/core black/green)

Reasons to buy

+
Excellent performance benefits
+
Premium quality and comfort

Reasons to avoid

-
Not an option if you want a pair of spikeless shoes

With the adidas Tour 360 franchise is approaching its 20th anniversary, the latest Tour 360 24 iteration is a reminder of why this adidas golf shoe range has been so successful...

The Tour 360 24 is available in two colorways for women—cloud white/silver metallic or white/core black/green spark. We tested the latter and while we found it's aesthetic distinct from shoes like  Duca del Cosma’s Alesi, or Puma’s Fusion Crush Sport, we are fans of the modern, cutting-edge design.  Another unique feature is what adidas calls a Torsion Bridge, and in this case it’s the green spark color that sits across the mid-foot and forefoot. In testing, we found this improved stability.\

In terms of comfort, the shoe is nicely cushioned with a combination of adidas’ technologies Lightstrike, that’s used in the forefoot and Jet Boost in the heel—making these one of the most comfortable golf shoes for women.

We tested the shoes over 18 holes and they felt completely secure and locked in especially on the more slippery surfaces. Overall the Tour360 24 is an excellent, high-quality golf shoe we'd recommend to any female golfers. 

Duca del Cosma Sabina Golf Shoe

Duca del Cosma Sabina golf shoe

(Image credit: Alison Root)
A simple and yet still luxurious golf shoe

Specifications

Sizes : 3-9
Waterproof : Yes
Colors: 1

Reasons to buy

+
Generous comfort and stability
+
Lightweight
+
Sophisticated styling

Reasons to avoid

-
Only one color option

Duca del Cosma's Sabina is one of two new women's models that form part of their tour-level pro spike collection

Let's start with comfort and ergonomics. In testing, we found the shoe was true to size and felt very secure with a compact fit but still enough space for the toes to breath. From the outside the shoe looks solid and study, so we were pleasantly surprised at how lightweight it felt walking 18 holes.

The best spikeless golf shoes tend to deliver versatility, but spiked models like Sabina and adidas’ Tour360 24 are designed especially to offer ultimate stability. Sabina has a standout, bright red Airplay 6 outsole and this features strategically positioned spikes and different shaped nubs.

You'll likely to be familiar with the Italian brand’s extensive range of fashion-led shoes in different designs and colors, like Alesi or Olivera. The Sabina is a low-profile brogue-style shoe in plain white - making it easy to style with the best golf pants and best golf shirts. Plus, it's crafted in waterproof leather and has immaculate stitching for that premium, luxurious aesthetic. 

Puma Avant Ladies Golf Shoe

Puma Avant Ladies Golf Shoe Review

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Traditional meets sporty styling with the Avant shoe

Specifications

Sizes: 4-8
Waterproof : 1 Year Waterproof Guarantee
Colors: 2

Reasons to buy

+
Combination of sporty and traditional styling
+
Nicely cushioned

Reasons to avoid

-
Leather initially lacks softness

Combining modern and traditional aesthetics, the Avant is part of Puma’s 2024 women's shoe collection. 

The Avant is available in two color options white/deep navy or white/deep navy/sand dune. We tested the former and liked the simple, understated design with a small metal Puma badge on the side.

Unlike other shoe's leather upper such as Ecco’s Biom C4, the leather doesn't feel particularly soft to touch. Despite that, the shoe delivered comfort over 18 holes and we experienced zero rubbing too. The shoe is very well cushioned and feels snug and secure on every shot. We tested a UK size 6 and would suggest downsizing half a size for this model.

While other shoes like the G-Fore MG4x2, FootJoy Pro/SL and Duca del Cosma Alesi have a higher midsole to promote their sporty look, the Avant is low-profile with strategically placed ridges and lugs on the sole for traction. The shoes also come with a one year waterproof guarantee, although the white colorway won't be ideal for winter conditions. 

G/FORE Women’s G.112 Kiltie Golf Shoe

G/FORE Women’s G.112 Kiltie Golf Shoe on the green

(Image credit: Future)
A uniquely styled, high performance golf shoe from G/FORE

Specifications

Sizes: 3-9
Waterproof : Yes
Colors: 4

Reasons to buy

+
Unique and fun styling
+
Provides security and stability
+
Ultra comfortable cushioning

Reasons to avoid

-
Design/colorway won’t suit everyone

G/FORE has a reputation for creating modern shoes, apparel and accessories with a vibrant, youthful energy to them. The G.112 perfectly exemplifies this...

As far as the look of this shoe is concerned, obviously such an array of colors aren't for everyone, especially if you prefer the classic, traditional golf shoe aesthetic. The colors are eye-catchers, they make you smile, but if they're not your cup of tea, this model is also available in tamer colorways. 

Once we put the shoes on, we found them very comfortable and comparable to the Ducal del Cosma’s Alesi and Ecco’s LT1. They are a fairly narrow fit, so if you've got wide feet it might be worth sizing up. We previously tested another pair of G/FORE—the Perf Dsrpt - and we're big fans of the brand's soft foam footbed with a ripple design that massages your foot.

Under Armour Charged Breathe 2 Spiked Golf Shoe

Under Armour Charged Breathe 2 Spiked Golf Shoe

Under Armour Charged Breathe 2 Spiked Golf Shoe 

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An attractive, lightweight shoe that provides excellent support and grip

Specifications

Sizes: 4-8
Waterproof : Waterproof upper
Colors: 2 (Celeste / White, Halo Gray / Midnight Navy)

Reasons to buy

+
Super lightweight at just 10.2 oz
+
Very comfortable and offer great grip
+
Great value for money

Reasons to avoid

-
Felt slightly narrow so not ideal for those with wider feet

Over the last ten years, Under Armor have earned a lot of respect within the golf world by delivering some serious, high performance products.

The Charged Breath 2 is a spiked golf shoe that has been designed especially for female golfers. It's packed with features  such as a Ortholite™  technology for breathability, UA Rotational Resistance RST 2.0 spikes and a microfiber leather upper which is waterproof  thanks to the their Never-Wet treatment to keep your feet cool and dry.

Straight out of the box we noticed that this is just a great looking shoe. The purple on the inside along with the logo and section of the sole really make the shoes pop. They did have a a slightly more narrow and snug feel to them so they may not be for you if you have wide feet. The Charged Breath 2's did have good arch support but in all honesty we did find the support better on the Ecco W LT1’s.

The spikes offered great grip when hitting drives and fairway woods. Each shoe has 9 spikes on the sole, we particularly appreciated the placement of the spike on the toes which was a handy feature for more grip. 

Duca Del Cosma Olivera Golf Shoe

Model wears Duca Del Cosma Olivera Golf Shoes on green

(Image credit: Future)
Sneaker style in a very comfortable package

Specifications

Sizes: 3-9
Waterproof : Yes
Colors: 3

Reasons to buy

+
Provides impressive comfort and performance
+
Modern sneaker style
+
Waterproof

Reasons to avoid

-
Sneaker style won't suit everyone

The Olivera golf shoe is the latest standout model from Duca del Cosma's 2024 range and it's certainly a model to consider as one of the best spikeless golf shoes for women.

We tested the Olivera’s cognac/blue/gray colorway and found the array of colors made for a fashionable, modern-looking golf shoe. If you're not a fan, it’s also available in two other colorways: orchid/pink and lime/gray. Moving onto the shoe's technology, the first thing we noticed was the heel-strike at the back which juts out. It's designed to offer golfers more stability when swinging and walking. Initially, we weren't fans of the heel design - it looked chunky and didn't fit with the stylish aesthetic, like Duca del Cosma’s Alesi model. Looks aside, we were grateful for the performance benefits this feature delivered.

The shoes fitted true to size and were very comfortable, almost on par with Ecco's Biom C4. This is largely due to the combination of the heel-strike, high shock absorption midsole and Duca del Cosma's own Airplay 15 sole technology.

This is a top of the range shoe that comes with a hefty price tag but you're definitely getting bang for your buck. 

FootJoy Women's Pro/SLX Golf Shoe

FootJoy Women's Pro/SLX

FootJoy Women's Pro/SLX Golf Shoe

(Image credit: Alison Root)
First-class comfort and performance

Specifications

Sizes: 3-9 including half sizes
Waterproof: Yes
Colors: 3 (White/Silver/Multi, Black/White/Gray, White/Gray

Reasons to buy

+
Outstanding comfort
+
Impressive traction
+
Modern styling

Reasons to avoid

-
Not versatile to wear away from the golf course 

New for 2024, FootJoy’s women’s Pro/SLX is the next generation of the renowned Pro/SL series, designed with performance technologies to provide golfers with revolutionary traction, comfort and control, which our tester found in bucketloads.

It features a molded Ortholite Fitbed and StratoFoam, which combine for ultimate comfort, as well as an exposed heel stabiliser that controls movement.

We like the style of this shoe, it’s modern-looking and there’s a choice of three colorways, but it especially scores high in performance benefits. With a new traction design on the outsole, this maximised stability and allows women to feel in control from the ground up on every shot. A hot favourite as one of the best FootJoy women's golf shoes.

Ecco Women's LT1 Golf Shoe

Ecco Women's LT1 Golf Shoe

Ecco Women's LT1 Golf Shoe

(Image credit: Golf Monthly)
A lightweight, extremely comfortable golf shoe

Specifications

Sizes: 4-9
Colors: 2 (White, White/Bubblegum)
Waterproof : Waterproof uppers

Reasons to buy

+
Super lightweight
+
Gorgeous colors available
+
Amazing support with options to personalize if you have any feet issues

Reasons to avoid

-
Pattern design and lighter colour choices could be prone to staining

Ecco joined the golf world in 1994 and it's been a success story ever since. The Women's LT1 is another fantastic addition to Ecco's line ahead of the the 2024 season

It's a ladies’ leather waterproof shoe that includes a range of technologies to maximize comfort and performance. Ecco Lytr is an advanced bounce and rebound foam that's embedded into the sole via its Fluidform technology. The result is a versatile shoe that works in all contexts both on and off the course.

In testing, we found the LT1s to fit very well and provided good comfort and support, thanks to the Ecco's Ortholite insole. Plus, if you do run into issues with fit and feel, the Ortholite is removable so you can always swap it out. The leather waterproof uppers were also excellent and our tester's feet stayed dry even in wetter ground.

Duca Del Cosma Alesi Golf Shoe

Duca Del Cosma Alesi Golf Shoe on the green

Duca del Cosma Alesi Golf Shoe

(Image credit: Future)
Modern styling bound to stand out from the crowd

Specifications

Sizes: 3-9
Waterproof: Yes
Colors: 2

Reasons to buy

+
Luxurious look and feel
+
Modern styling
+
Provides comfort and stability

Reasons to avoid

-
Narrow fitting

The Alesi is a sleek, trendy addition to Duca del Cosma’s spring/summer collection. We tested the white/navy colorway and were fans of the chic navy and light blue jacquard which is a real eye-catcher. Similar to the Ecco Biom C4 shoe, the Alesi is made with Italian Napa leather and is incredibly soft to touch.

We also particularly enjoyed the raised profile which felt compact, comfortable and secure - while still being breathable. Though, we did notice that the shoes are a narrow fit, so we'd advise those with wider feet to try before buying. Alternatively, you can look at our best golf shoes for wide feet guide.

In terms of performance, we found the spikeless Airplay sole provided decent grip and traction. The day we tested the Alesi's happened to be damp underfoot, but nonetheless the shoes delivered impressive stability. They're also waterproof which we love.

G/FORE Ladies MG4x2 Golf Shoe

G/FORE Ladies MG4x2 Golf Shoe Review

(Image credit: Golf Monthly)
A golf shoe that can be worn on and off the golf course

Specifications

Sizes: 3-9
Waterproof: Waterproof upper
Colors : 1

Reasons to buy

+
Light and flexible on the foot
+
Built in massager
+
Stood up to the puddles

Reasons to avoid

-
Need to buy a size up

For a brand that's known for it's unorthodox styles and designs, like the G/FORE’s G.112 model, G/FORE's Ladies MG4x2 is a relatively 'normal' golf shoe...

Right out of the box we found the shoes remarkably comfortable. We had zero blisters or issues wearing them in, even though it has been recommended that you should go half a size up. The G/FORE’s have a full rubber outsole with sawtooth traction pattern sole and it provided the promised flexibility and grip. These spikeless golf shoes provided good stability and were light on the foot.

We tested these just after it had stopped raining and the shoes remained unaffected and unstained. This is thanks to the water and stain resistant upper which is fused with an internal waterproof lining.

All in all, these are a great pair of women's spikeless golf shoes. 

FootJoy Flex 2024 Women's Shoe

FootJoy Flex 2024 Women's Shoe

(Image credit: Golf Monthly)
A shoe that offers outstanding value given the price

Specifications

Sizes: 5-11
Waterproof : 1 Year Waterproof Warranty
Colors: 3 (Black/Gray/White, White/Beige and White/Black/Pink)

Reasons to buy

+
So supportive for a sportier trainer style shoe
+
Great traction and a running shoe feel
+
Clean up brilliantly

Reasons to avoid

-
Lighter colors mark up easily

We're fans of FootJoy's Flex range at Golf Monthly and these newer models didn't disappoint... 

At first glance, you might mistake these for running shoes. That's probably because of the performance mesh exterior. Clearly, these are a sporty and modern trainer style golf shoe 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. How do they perform?

In testing, we found that EVA midsole delivered some excellent bounce in the stride, making these a potential contenders for our best golf shoes for walking guide. They're very easy to put on and comfort and support is provided by the lined heels that really help to clinch your feet and keep them in place. At under $100, FootJoy Flex 2024 fit into the category of best budget golf shoes. These shoes offer incredible value and we would even recommend them for so many other sporting activities other than just for golf.

Ecco Women’s Biom C4 Golf Shoe

Ecco Women’s Biom C4 Golf Shoe

(Image credit: Golf Monthly - Howard Boylan)
A fantastic looking and amazingly comfortable option

Specifications

Sizes: 3.5-8.5
Waterproof : Yes
Colors: 3

Reasons to buy

+
Exceptional comfort
+
Delivers impressive grip and stability
+
Smart and timeless design

Reasons to avoid

-
Outsole not the easiest to keep clean

The first iteration of Ecco’s Biom C4 was introduced back in 2022 and since then it's become increasingly popular in the brand's collection.

In testing, we immediately noticed the high-quality leather. It's extremely soft to touch, especially round the toe area which reminded us of the Duca del Cosma’s Alesi shoe. But what really blew us away was the comfort - the stretchy mesh sock and Ecco’s Fluidform Direct Comfort technology takes the BIOM C4 to the top of the list in terms of cushioning and comfort.

The Ecco shoes we've reviewed in the past, such as the LT1 model that joins Ecco's lineup for the 2024 season, have delivered performance. The same is true for the new Biom C4. On every shot, the three-section outsole did an excellent job providing significant grip and support - on par with shoes like FootJoy’s spikeless Pro/SLX and the spiked model from adidas, the Tour360 24.

The women's model comes in four colorways including beige, white, and new for 2024, limestone and blue bell. We tested the white colorway and felt it was a smart, modern look that could easily be styled.

Of course, it does come with a hefty price tag but with next-level comfort, it's difficult to beat this spikeless shoe

Skechers Women’s GO Golf Max 3 Golf Shoe

Skechers Women’s GO Golf Max 3 Golf Shoe

(Image credit: Golf Monthly)
Super soft and super supportive

Specifications

Sizes: 3-8
Waterproof: Yes
Colors: 5

Reasons to buy

+
Clever arch fit inner sole for support
+
Soft, comfortable fit
+
Fully waterproof

Reasons to avoid

-
You have a narrow foot shape
-
Even with the laces done up tightly these are generous

This third generation Skechers GO Golf Max women’s golf shoe is ultra comfortable and is one of the best women’s golf shoes of this year. 

It’s packed with patented technologies that give it a soft and lightweight feel. We loved this shoe in testing and when it comes to the most comfortable golf shoes for women this offering from Skechers has to be in the conversation.

With podiatrist-designer input, the sole of this shoe has been developed looking at 20 years thousands of unweighted foot scans. With such comprehensive knowledge, it's safe to say these shoes will effortlessly accommodate any foot shape. This is particularly beneficial for those with wide feet or who suffer from blisters, bunions, and other foot issues.

With an insole that moulds to your foot to increase weight dispersion and reduce shock, feet feel securely grounded. Plus, the inner sole is washable to keep shoes smelling fresh. The Skechers Go Golf Max 3 is made from waterproof material with a one-year warranty.

New Balance 574 Greens V2 Golf Shoe

New Balance 574 Greens V2 Golf Shoe

(Image credit: Golf Monthly - Howard Boylan)
A versatile shoe for just about anywhere

Specifications

Sizes: 6.5-13.5
Waterproof : Yes
Colors: 4

Reasons to buy

+
Versatile trainer-like design
+
Attractive styling
+
Lightweight comfort

Reasons to avoid

-
Not an option if you prefer a traditional-looking golf shoe

New Balance’s 574 Greens V2 golf shoe is inspired by the original Court Classics 574 model known for its comfort and durability. Resembling a running shoe, it has low-profile trainer-like styling, with a suede-like upper that stands out among women’s spikeless golf shoes.

Available in four color options—white/blue, light gray, navy/white, and sand/pink—the shoe also boasts a waterproof microfibre leather upper and a two-year waterproof warranty.

For comfort, the shoe includes a slightly dropped midsole and a CUSH+ insole, and while other women's spikeless golf shoes, like Ecco’s Biom C4adidas’ Tour360 24 and FootJoy’s Pro/SLX, have more obvious comfort benefits, our tester was impressed by the comfort of these shoes throughout the round.was pleasantly surprised by the comfort provided over 18 holes. The NDurance rubber outsole, designed to move naturally with your foot, features numerous nubs for excellent grip and a toe cap for added support and durability.

Duca Del Cosma Alexa Women's Golf Shoes

Duca Del Cosma Alexa Women's Golf Shoes Review

Duca del Cosma Alexa Golf Shoe

(Image credit: Golf Monthly)
A sophisticated, stylish golf shoe

Specifications

Sizes: : 3-9
Waterproof: Yes
Colors:: 3

Reasons to buy

+
Sophisticated and elegant design that embodies style
+
Incredible comfort courtesy of the Arneflex memory foam insole

Reasons to avoid

-
The high price tag will be a stretch too far for some

The Duca Del Cosma Alexa golf shoes epitomise luxury and performance. Elegantly designed, these shoes are a delicate dusty pink, and also available in a fashionable taupe/cheetah combination.Crafted from luxury leather that is easy to clean and infused with high-quality materials, our tester found the Alexa shoes a lavish experience. 

These shoes feature a sparkling toe cap that dazzles in the sunlight and an embossed Italian flag above the laces, reflecting its design origins. The Arneflex memory foam insole provides incredible comfort, and a spikeless Airplay outsole for a light, bouncy feel, as well as enhanced stability and grip. Made from a high percentage of recycled materials, the shoe emphasises environmental sustainability. The fully waterproof and breathable design ensures comfort and dryness in any weather. 

For golfers seeking a blend of style and top-tier performance, the Alexa stands out as one of the best women's spikeless shoes this season.

Puma Fusion Crush Sport Women’s Golf Shoe

Puma Fusion Crush Sport Women’s Golf Shoe Review

Puma Fusion Crush Sport Golf Shoe

(Image credit: Golf Monthly)
For those seeking more-trainer like performance

Specifications

Sizes: : 4-10
Waterproof : Yes
Colors: : 2

Reasons to buy

+
The look of a running shoe yet performance of a waterproof golf shoe
+
World class traction on the sole

Reasons to avoid

-
Felt a bit roomy in the toe part of the shoe so worth going down a half size

If you’re a golfer who plays frequently, sometimes even twice a day, or navigates hilly courses with many steps, the Puma Fusion Crush Sport golf shoe might be perfect for you. It also fits nicely into our best pink golf shoes guide.

Our tester found them to be the lightest and most comfortable golf shoes that she’d ever worn, reminiscent of a new pair of Nike running shoes but with the stability needed for weightlifting. Achieving a balance between stability and breathability, Puma has created a shoe that fits well, especially for those searching for wide golf shoes. For other women, it might be worth downsizing, as they are fairly roomy in the toe area.

The heel, arch, and laced area offer excellent support, while the traction on the sole is exceptional for spikeless shoes, with soft rubber enhancing grip. They are also waterproof and could double as trail running shoes or even tennis shoes due to their sturdy sole. Compared to running shoes priced over $200, these offer great value and versatility for both golfers and non-golfers.

Skechers Go Golf Elite 5 Slip In Ladies Golf Shoes

Skechers Go Golf Elite 5 Slip In Ladies Golf Shoes Review

(Image credit: Golf Monthly)
Ideal for those who need help tying shoes

Specifications

Sizes: 3-8
Waterproof: Yes
Colors: 3

Reasons to buy

+
Wide fit
+
High arches
+
Slip on

Reasons to avoid

-
Outer looks a little plastic
-
Slightly heavy on the foot

As the name suggests, the Skechers Go Golf Elite 5 Slip are a hands-free pair of spikeless golf shoes that you can literally slip into using the heel pillow, and then easily achieve a precise fit by using the adjustable dial closure. 

Podiatrist-designed with 20 years of data and 120,000 unweighted foot scans, this model is one of the best golf shoes for women who have high arches, or in need of foot support and ease of wear. They come with a one-year waterproof guarantee warranty and will make a long walk on the golf course more comfortable 

Our tester found them to be very sturdy with an outer that was easy to wipe clean without staining, and the spikeless outsole planted her feet to the ground for noticeable stability. These shoes do come up slightly wide, so this is worth considering.

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 grip comfort, grip, stability, waterproofing and how they actually look on the golf course. The shoes listed above have been personally used by a member of the Golf Monthly team, while Editor Alison Root heads up all women's golf product testing on the site.

This is the best way of testing a golf shoe, as using it in the real world over a number of rounds allows us to see how they perform when variables change like weather, ground conditions, different stances, lies, and so on. We think this also gives us information on the little details as well. For example, our testing process allows us to see which brands come up small or large, which models start to rub a bit too much after 36 holes, and which designs can be used away from the golf course or for the drive home. We are very rigorous in our testing process 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 the best golf shoe

The women's golf shoe market features a ton of high-tech options that can sometimes make picking the right shoe quite an overwhelming decision. If you're new to golf or if you're a single-figure handicapper, there are some things that we all need to consider when picking out our next pair of golf shoes. For that reason, we've put together below a list of the key things to consider when purchasing your next golf shoe. 

1. Spiked or spikeless?

Perhaps one of the most important considerations you need to make when purchasing your next pair of golf shoes is whether they have spikes (or cleats) on thier soles. Spiked shoes offer greater grip and stability and can be used in all weathers. But they are perhaps better suited to wet weather and colder climates when the ground is a little softer underfoot. If you're looking to improve your connection with the ground as you rip through your shots then spiked shoes are the way forward. 

But if you plan on playing primarily through the summer months, spikeless golf shoes are perhaps a slightly better bet. While they don't have cleats on their soles, spikeless shoes will typically have rubber teeth or a very grippy sole that gives golfers ample grip on harder, dryer terrain. For that reason, spikeless shoes are also more lightweight and offer greater breathability than a spiked shoe. Many of the spikeless shoes featured above feature cushioned rubber soles that give you spongy underfoot support. Plus they offer more versatility away from the course, with golfers able to wear these shoes on carpets inside the clubhouse.

2. Waterproofing

An essential feature that any good golf shoe should have is waterproofing. You never know when the rain could strike and there's nothing worse than having soaking wet feet while you're on the course. If you live in a warmer, dryer environment, you might consider other factors on this list more significant, but if you live in a colder, wetter climate, then having waterproof shoes is invaluable. 

Some players choose to wear a waterproof pair in winter and a lighter pair of shoes for summer. But one other important thing to factor in when purchasing a golf shoe is how easy your shoes are to clean. Sometimes breathable fabrics can be a lot more difficult to wipe down than a synthetic material or leather. 

3. Support

The average golfer walks between three and six miles during a round of golf. That means you can be stood on your feet for as much as five hours and for that reason, you need to protect your feet and give them as much support as possible to reduce the risk of fatigue and the amount of stress going through your feet. 

For that reason, it is imperative that you purchase a golf shoe that is both comfortable and gives added support to your feet while you walk. You should bear in mind also that when you purchase a pair of supportive shoes, you are not just protecting your feet but are also protecting your knees, hips and lower back from stress-related injuries. 

Plus if you already have an injury to any of these body parts, you should look to buy a shoe that has a spongey yet supple sole that cushions your step while you walk. You may also want to consider purchasing shoes that give you greater heel support too to reduce the stress traveling up your achillies while you walk. That can also prevent you from turning over on your ankles as you traverse the undulating fairways of your local golf club. 

One final thing to note is that golf shoes can sometimes sacrifice comfort and stability for performance-enhancing features to help you get more distance on your shots. That's why we recommend always trying out a shoe in your local club shop before you buy it. That way, you'll get a better idea of the feel and comfort the shoe provides. 

4. Getting the right fit

Along with support and comfort, you also need to get the right fit. If you purchase shoes that are too tight, you'll find you'll quickly develop blisters on your heel and on your big toe. But if you purchase a shoe that is too loose, you'll struggle to feel well connected to the shoe and therefore to the ground which will prevent you from playing good and powerful golf shots. 

For that reason, it is always important to try on a pair of shoes before you buy them and we have a couple of tips you need to bear in mind when doing that. When trying on a new pair of golf shoes, listen for the 'whoosh' sound when you slide your feet in. That is the sound of the air leaving the shoe, showing that it is the right size. On top of that, you need to do a walking test to ensure your feet aren't too restricted but are snug inside the shoe. 

Another tip is to try on the shoes with the type of socks that you intend to wear them with. If you're buying a pair of spiked shoes for winter wear, you may want to wear a slightly thicker sock to your fitting session than you would if you're buying a spikeless shoe for summer wear. The better the fit, the more control and power you are able to generate in your golf swing and that means you'll be more confident when addressing the golf ball. 

5. Styling

Obviously, style is perhaps one of the most important factors to consider when purchasing a pair of golf shoes. While brands have started to innovate with the technology involved in the golf shoes, they have also modernized some of the styles you see in golf shoes currently on the market. 

But that doesn't mean that they have neglected more traditional styles of golf shoe, with many brands producing classic styles that still look very trendy on the golf course. Whatever your style, there is something for everyone these days. Take a look at our best adidas golf shoes guide or our best FootJoy shoes guide for several other high-tech options that can help enhance your performance on the course.

FAQs

Why should you wear golf shoes?

Golf shoes are designed to help improve your performance on the shots. By providing you with greater stability, balance and grip against the floor, golf shoes give you greater control and confidence in the shots you're hitting, and in turn that allows you to develop greater confidence to add more power on your shots. There are also some golf clubs that will not allow golfers to play the course or enter the club house if they aren't wearing the correct footwear. 

Is it better to wear spiked or spikeless golf shoes?

Spiked and spikeless golf shoes perform better in different conditions. Spiked golf shoes can be used in all weather conditions and on all terrains, but are more appropriate for wetter and colder climates where the terrain is a little softer underfoot. Spiked golf shoes are better for hotter climates where the ground is a little firmer under foot. 

Do professional golfers use spikeless shoes?

Many golfers on the pro tours will use spikeless golf shoes. As many of them are playing in warm conditions throughout the year on well-kept golf courses. That means they won't always need spikes in the soles of their shoes, with the best spikeless golf shoes giving them ample grip and traction against the floor as they play their shots. 

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Alison Root

Alison Root has over 25 years experience working in media and events, predominantly dedicated to golf, in particular the women’s game. Until 2020, for over a decade Alison edited Women & Golf magazine and website, and is now the full-time Women's Editor for Golf Monthly. Alison is a respected and leading voice in the women's game, overseeing content that communicates to active golfers from grassroots through to the professional scene, and developing collaborative relationships to widen Golf Monthly's female audience across all platforms to elevate women's golf to a new level. She is a 16-handicap golfer (should be better) and despite having had the fantastic opportunity to play some of the best golf courses around the world, Kingsbarns in Scotland is her favourite.