Puma Fusion Classic Golf Shoe Review
Joel Tadman tests these stylish, trainer-style golf shoes on and off the course to assess the performance on offer
For the casual golfer seeking a classy, neutral pair of trainers for on and off the course, these are tough to beat. The all white design and subtle branding provide that off-course versatility, while the tacky rubber nubs on the spikeless outsole provide ample grip.
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Versatile styling
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Comfortable out of the box
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Ample grip on dry days and in morning dew
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Only two color options
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While the performance of a rigid-soled, cleated golf shoe is well documented, there are still plenty of golfers out there that choose style over substance and you’d be hard pressed to find a more stylish, casual golf shoe than the Puma Fusion Classic.
There aren’t many eye-catching features beside the subtle Puma Cat logo at the top of the heel, although you could argue this is a big part of the appeal - the versatile all white or all black design means they can be paired with almost any outfit. The aesthetics are such that you could comfortably wear these shoes as much away from the course as much as you do on the course, and this has certainly been the case for me over the last month or so during testing.
While I wouldn’t brave them on a wet winter golf course outing (more to preserve the pristine white full grain Atlantis leather uppers and midsole), I’ve been more than happy to sport them to the pub or a kids soft play. This has also been enabled by the spikeless outsole, which gives just as much grip on the pavement as it does the fairways, making them one of the best golf trainers around.
While there are more stable spikeless shoes on the market, there are softer ones too and the balance of flexibility with support from the sole unit provides just the right balance of walking comfort with performance. The leather of the upper is soft and supple and there’s a decent amount of padding around the ankle which really helps provide a positive first impression. No wearing in is required either - something the best golf shoes offer - as these were snug and comfy from the very first outing and over time the shape or fit hasn’t changed at all.
Grip wise, the tacky rubber nubs at various depths on the outsole provide ample grip in dry and even slightly dewy conditions to provide a firm footing from which to swing. In really damp conditions, you may experience a little excess movement, but it’s fair to say these shoes are more of a summer model than they are a year-round contender. That said, they are waterproof and the price tag of £85 means the value for money on offer here is through the roof considering how often you’ll find yourself lacing them up. For bang for your buck, these are right at the top of the best Puma golf shoes money can buy.
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Joel has worked in the golf industry for over 14 years covering both instruction and more recently equipment. He now oversees all equipment and video content at Golf Monthly, managing a team of talented and passionate writers and presenters in delivering the most thorough and accurate reviews, buying advice, comparisons and deals to help the reader or viewer find exactly what they are looking for.
One of his career highlights came when covering the 2012 Masters he got to play the sacred Augusta National course on the Monday after the tournament concluded, shooting a respectable 86 with just one par and four birdies. To date, his best ever round of golf is a 5-under 67 back in 2011. He currently plays his golf at Burghley Park Golf Club in Stamford, Lincs, with a handicap index of 2.8.
Joel's current What's In The Bag?
Driver: Titleist TSR3, 9°, Fujikura Ventus Black 6 S shaft.
Fairway wood: Titleist TSR3, 15°
Hybrid: Titleist TSi2, 18°
Irons: Titleist T150, 4-PW
Wedges: Titleist Vokey SM10, 50°, 54° and 58°
Putter: LAB Golf DF3
Ball: 2023 Titleist Pro V1x
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