Under Armour Forge 96 Golf Shoes Review

Golf fashion has been changing at a rapid pace in recent years - hoodies and other casual style golf gear has been exploding in popularity as the game slowly but surely relaxes previously stricter dress codes. Collar-less polo shirts and hoodies have become increasingly popular whilst brands (I'm looking at you, Malbon) have really pushed the envelope in recent years to help modernize the game.

One big area for a change in style is in the golf shoe game. Metal spikes are certainly a thing of the past but so is the idea of all golf shoes following the 'traditional' styling. Sneaker-style golf shoes have taken off in popularity recently, largely thanks to the fashion on offer but also the versatility to wear them both on and off the course. This is exactly the market Under Armour look to tap into with the Forge 96 shoes.

The looks of these shoes really grew on me during testing. When I opened the box upon receiving, my first impression were that they looked a little basic. In hindsight, this was harsh - these are a cool, 90s-themed retro shoe and I love them for that. Available in three colorways, I personally loved the white and blue option I received as they paired nicely with a number of my go-to outfits (I wear navy a lot...).

I wouldn't say these shoes are as versatile off the golf course as some other options out there, like the Ecco Street 720s for example, but the all white colorway could be easily worn to the pub or a restaurant after your round of golf. My golf club employs a 'no golf shoes in the bar' rule, but nobody commented on my footwear when I wore these into the bar after each of my rounds.

I tested these shoes across around a dozen rounds at Royal County Down and was left suitably impressed. Considering these shoes arrive in around half way up the price scale for golf shoes, you're getting plenty of bang for your buck. Upon my first takeaways was the comfort on offer - there are definitely more comfortable golf shoes out there, but not many at this price point. I also find that once I break into certain golf shoes, especially spikeless, sneaker-style options that they can feel a bit firm after just a few wears. This was not the case with the Forge 96 shoes as I experienced the same levels of comfort in my tenth round as I did in my first.

Under Armour have used mesh, synthetic & suede upper materials for durability & comfort and these shoes certainly proved durable during my testing. These shoes feel super lightweight and are an excellent option for those who tend to walk their 18 holes rather than ride a cart. There was also adequate breathability, proving these are an option as one of the best golf shoes for walking. The upgraded midsole foam and sockliner also helped make my 18 hole hike a comfortable one. The only slight critique I could make in terms of the build is the difficulty over cleaning the mesh upper, down below the laces. Dirt developed relatively quickly in the area where the shoe bends during the golf swing and I have been unable to fully clean it out, albeit it is barely noticeable. As a result, I'd refrain from wearing these as a winter golf shoe or if you're playing a round on a particularly wet or muddy golf course.

In terms of performance through the golf swing, many players are put off by spikeless shoes as they believe they're sacrificing traction. This couldn't be further from the truth as some of the grippiest golf shoes I've worn in recent years have been spikeless. The Forge 96 shoes don't provide quite as much grip as other models I've worn like the Duca Del Cosma Davanti shoes, but they're also a lot cheaper in terms of price.

The long story short is that in my multiple testing rounds, I didn't lose my balance or slip in these shoes once, and that includes playing in wet conditions. This is largely thanks to the durable, high-traction rubber outsole that features a strategic pattern for multi-directional support throughout the golf swing. Having the peace of mind knowing I could keep my grip and balance whilst wearing these added a lot to the total experience.

During my wet weather testing I did notice the outsole tended to squeak as I walked, particularly when on the greens. This doesn't bother me personally, but my playing partner did comment on it, so you may have stay extra still as they stand over that knee-knocker 6ft par putt so you don't distract them.

The Forge 96 shoes are yet another really solid addition sneaker golf shoe market and are right up there with the best Under Armour golf shoes in terms of looks, performance and value for money. Although more expensive options may provide slightly more traction and/or performance, not many will beat the value for money on offer here.