I’ve reviewed dozens of pairs of golf shoes over the years at Breaking Eighty – many great, and some not so much.
Unfortunately, there very literally is no such thing as “one size fits all” when it comes to picking a golf shoe.
We’re all looking for something a little bit different when it comes to stability, looks, traction, and price.
But hopefully by the end of this post, you’ll have a solid idea of what the best shoe is for you.
I’ve personally worn and tested every single one of these shoes over at least 2 18 18-hole rounds (and most many more than that).
I tried to cover a wide array of fits, styles, and price points to help you truly find the best golf shoes for your needs.
But remember, I’m just one dude. There are hundreds of different styles out there from dozens of brands. If something you love isn’t on this list, it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s not worth it. I just only include products here I’ve personally reviewed and can vouch for.
I also want to be clear, I don’t care if you buy any of these or not. My whole goal with Breaking Eighty is to help you find the right products for your needs. And my hope is that this post will at least get you going in the right direction.
Ready? Let’s do this thing.
Table of Contents
My Current Favorite Shoe: G/FORE G/18
With over 50 pairs of golf shoes in my closet, this is the pair I’m currently wearing the most – but obviously the fashion-forward styling won’t be for everyone.
That said, the G/18 is very comfortable, and surprisingly stable for a spikeless shoe.
If the looks are a little too much for you, then you might consider the G/FORE MG4+ which is similar in comfort but a little more subdued.
- Price: $250 ($225 after discount)
- Target Price: $225 – Being a new shoe, have yet to see many discounts on the G/18
- Discount: Use Code “G4BREAKING8010” to save 10%
- Where Can You Buy: Buy from G/FORE Here
- Review: G/FORE G/18 Review: I Was Kinda Surprised by These…
- Solid Alternative: G/FORE MG4+
The G/FORE G/18 is the latest spikeless shoe from G/FORE and is one of our favorite golf shoes to date. They're comfortable, fashion-forward, and perform very well. Highly recommended.
Most Comfortable: Ecco Biom C4
Despite originally coming out 3 years ago, Ecco continues to sell the Biom C4 – and for good reason. These are the most comfortable golf shoes I’ve ever worn.
Ever.
They’re even more cushioned than the excellent Biom H4.
The GORE-TEX Yak leather upper is very soft and totally waterproof.
The styling won’t be for everyone, but if you want a very comfortable, high-quality spikeless shoe – this is one of the best options on the market. Over the last 4 years I’ve played more rounds in these than any other one shoe.
- Price: $249
- Target Price: You can often find for under $190
- Where Can You Buy: Buy Ecco Biom C4 here
- Review: Ecco Biom C4 Review: The Best Pair of Golf Shoes I’ve Ever Owned
- Solid Alternative: The Ecco Biom H4
Quite simply, this is the best pair of golf shoes I've ever tested or owned. They look great, are incredibly comfortable, and is one of my most recommended products of the year.
Trendiest Golf Shoe: G/FORE Gallivan2r
Right now in 2024, there’s no shoe that’s been making more waves than the new G/FORE Gallivan2r.
It’s a cross between our pick for “best-looking golf shoe” the Gallivanter, and the wonderful spikeless model the MG4+.
Not only is it wildly comfortable, but it’s easily one of the most eye-catching shoes released in recent memory.
And the best part? At “only” $175 it’s the least expensive release from G/FORE we’ve tested.
If you’re looking for something with both style and substance, there aren’t many shoes that will start more conversations right now than the Gallivan2rs.
- Price: $175
- Target Price: $157.50 – Our discount drops it down to this price. And I have yet to see them less than this.
- Our Review: G/FORE Gallivan2r Review: A Match Made in Golf Heaven
- Discount: Use G/FORE coupon code: “G4Breaking8010” to save 10% off your first order!
- Where Can You Buy: Buy the Gallivan2r from G/FORE here.
- Solid Alternative: G/FORE G18 – Equally trendy, but different styling.
The Gallivan2r is a combination of two of my favorite golf shoes: the Gallivanter and MG4+. And the fact they do it at a price less than either of those makes it one of my new favorite shoes on the market.
Most Versatile Golf Shoe: TRUE Linkswear Lux Hybrid
This title previously went to the also excellent, TRUE Lux Sport – but alas, there’s a new guy in town.
The TRUE Lux Hybrid is one of my favorite pair of TRUE Linkswear shoes currently on the market. They’re extremely comfortable and you can wear them off the course and actually look good doing it.
Best of all, they perform on the course. They’re stable and waterproof which is something often missing from other spikeless or hybrid models.
They’re a little pricey, but if you’re looking for one hybrid shoe that you can put on in the Spring and not take off until Fall? This is the one for you.
- Price: $205
- Target Price: Under $150. During sales, you can often see these dip under $150. With our code, the cheapest I’ve seen is $122. But you’ll only see that price a couple times a year.
- Discount: Use TRUE Linkswear coupon code “BREAKING15” to save 15%
- Our review: TRUE Linkswear Lux Hybrid Review: An Instant Classic
- Where can you buy: Buy from TRUE Linkswear
- Solid Alternative: TRUE FS-02 Mixed Media – If you need a hybrid shoe that allows you to dress up more, this is definitely the one to choose.
These shoes are it. Of all the TRUE Linkswear shoes I've reviewed these are my favorite. Perfect balance of looks and performance. Highly recommended. Use code "BE15" to save 15%.
Best Tour Shoe: Adidas Tour 360
For years now I’ve been hearing from readers that Adidas has the best golf shoes on the market. After I was finally able to get a few rounds in the Adidas Tour 360, I can see why it has so many fans.
The build quality on these shoes is insane. Whether it’s the super responsive boost soles or the high-quality waterproof leather, the Adidas Tour 360 is the very best Tour-level golf shoe I’ve tested.
If you’re looking for a shoe that’s reliable, comfortable, stable, and affordable for the quality you’re getting? This is absolutely a pair to consider.
- Price: $200
- Target Price: Varies based on colorways. Some colors I’ve seen as low as $120 pretty regularly. You can also find the 2022 model for around $100 still.
- Where Can You Buy: Buy the Adidas Tour 360 here.
- Review: Adidas Tour 360 Review
- Solid Alternative: Payntr X 004 RS
Time and time again I've had readers tell me the Tour 360 is their favorite shoe. After wearing them? I can see why. Insane build quality and stability.
Best Golf Shoe Under $100: Adidas Tour Response 3
These days finding any golf shoe under $100 can be a challenge, let alone a spiked shoe.
At a retail price of $70, this represents one of the best values in golf. It’s a solid shoe, at a wonderful price.
If you want a more robust spiked shoe, you might try and find a pair of Tour360 2022 models, which you can snag for around $100. But if you just want an all-around decent performer at a budget price, this gets my pick.
- Price: $70
- Where Can You Buy: Buy from Golf Galaxy Here
- Solid Alternative: Nike Roshe G – One of the most comfortable golf shoes out there, and a great choice if you’d prefer a spikeless shoe.
If you're looking for a reliable, spiked golf shoe under $100 - this is definitely a pair to check out. At $70 retail, it's one of the best golf shoe deals out there.
Best “All-Day” Trainers: G/FORE MG4x2
When I first got these shoes, I wasn’t sure about them. The styling seemed like it might be a little “too much” and the “massage nubs” on the insoles seemed like they might be kind of odd.
Yet, of all the shoes on this list, these are top 3 in terms of time on my feet this past year.
While they perform really well on the course, it’s the ability to wear them so easily off the course that make them so versatile. Travel days, on walks, to the gym – they do it all while being surprisingly comfortable in the process.
And the best part? G/FORE recently dropped the price on them.
- Price: $195
- Target Price: $175. This is a great discounted price. May occasionally see some colorways for less during sales.
- Our Review: G/FORE MG4X2 Review: The Ultimate Go-Anywhere Shoe
- Where Can You Buy: Buy from G/FORE Here.
- Solid Alternative: TRUE Linkswear FS-02 Mixed Media. These are great if you want an “All-Day” shoe that’s better for dressing up, rather than dressing down.
- Related: Our picks for the Best “All Day” Golf Shoes.
The G/FORE MG4x2 is an incredibly comfortable shoe that looks just as good off the course as it does on it.
Best Traditional Golf Shoe: FootJoy DryJoys Premier Series Packard
This is the perfect shoe for those seeking performance, traction, and a more traditional look without feeling dated.
FootJoy has updated its aesthetic to strike a really nice balance between classic and sporty.
But the star of the show here is the stability. The tapered ankle locks you in and provides awesome lateral support. With so many golfers choosing to go with spikeless shoes, when you put these on you’re reminded why so many pros still play with Tour shoes.
No issues whatsoever with waterproofing. You’ll keep your feet dry for the lifespan of this shoe.
It really is tough to go wrong with FootJoy (with the exception of the Fury, honestly, we didn’t love em).
Like the Ecco’s these are a bit pricey for some people at $200. But you most certainly are going to have a durable, high-performing golf shoe that’s going to likely last as long or longer than anything else you might buy.
- Price: $200
- Where Can You Buy: Buy the FootJoy Premier Packard here.
- Want More FootJoy Options? Here are our 4 favorite FootJoy golf shoes on the market in 2024.
- Solid Alternative: G/FORE Gallivanter G/LOCK – If you’re ok with a little bit of modern flair, the G/LOCK shoes are wonderful. Want to keep it traditional? Try the Ecco Classic Hybrids.
There are very few golf shoes that are as clean and classic looking at the FootJoy DryJoy Premiers. Throw in the fact they're still super comfortable and stable? And they get the pick for our favorite FootJoy golf shoes.
Best Looking Golf Shoe: G/Fore Galivanter
Obviously, we all have different needs and preferences for golf shoes. But if you held my feet to the fire and told me to choose the best-looking golf shoe on the market?
I’d go with the G/Fore Gallivanter.
It’s the one shoe that every time I see someone wearing them I say “Man, those look good.”
This shoe also has the special ability to make anyone look like a good golfer. If you’re wearing these? I just assume you’re scratch or better.
It’s a cool blend between a traditional tour shoe, and a modern spikeless shoe – all while refusing to sacrifice on comfort or performance.
If you consider yourself a “stylish” golfer, then there’s a good chance you already have these in your locker.
And if you prefer traditional spikes, the new G/FORE Gallivanter G/LOCK has you covered.
- Price: $225
- Target Price: $202.50. May occasionally see it dip below $200.
- Our Review: G/Fore Gallivanter Review: The Best Looking Shoes in Golf?
- Discount: Use G/FORE coupon code: “G4Breaking8010” to save 10% off your first order!
- Where Can You Buy: Buy the Gallivanter from G/Fore Here.
- Solid Alternative: G/FORE Gallivan2r – A combo of the original Gallivanter and the wonderful MG4+, what’s not to love?
Best Vacation Shoe: TRUE Linkswear Knit II
If you’re going on vacation and are playing a round or two of cart golf, but don’t want to haul an extra pair of golf shoes? These are for you.
They’re incredibly lightweight and are fantastic for wearing around town, at a resort, to the beach – wherever.
But they actually perform pretty well on the course too! You could certainly walk 18, but you’ll be more comfortable if it’s vacation cart golf.
Personally, I prefer these to the newer Knit III models, and they’re also cheaper – so you get the best of both worlds.
I have over 50 pairs of golf shoes, and have had my pair of TRUE All Day Knit II shoes for over 4 years. They still get worn on a very regular basis, which goes to shoe just how good they are.
- Price: $145
- Target Price: Under $100.
- Discount: Use TRUE Linkswear coupon code “BE15” to save 15%
- Our Review: Why the TRUE Linkswear All Day Knit ii is So Versatile.
- Where Can You Buy: Buy the TRUE Linkswear Knit II here
- Solid Alternative: True Linkswear Lux Hybrid – Another all-day shoe with a bit more support, and is waterproof.
The TRUE Linkswear Knit II is one of our favorite shoes. It looks fantastic, is super comfortable, and is one of the best summer golf shoes on the market. Use code "BE15" to save 15%!
Lightest Golf Shoe: Adidas ZG23
There’s a reason Adidas has put so much weight behind their ZG23 golf shoes over the past year: they’re great shoes.
If you don’t factor in “all day” style shoes, the ZG23 are among the lightest golf shoes on the market.
This makes them a joy to walk in, and it’s remarkable how stable and planted you feel given the fact they weigh so little.
They have both all-season and summer options, so depending on how much waterproofness you’re looking for, there’s a model that should work.
Overall, this is a shoe I’ve been very impressed with, and they’re worth considering!
- Price: $180
- Target Price: $150. Some colorways I’ve seen under $100
- Our review: Adidas ZG23 Review: A Fantastic Lightweight Golf Shoe
- Where can you buy: Buy them from Golf Galaxy here.
The Adidas ZG23 is their flagship shoe for a reason. Super lightweight, great traction, and waterproof. Highly recommended.
Best Boa Golf Shoe: The Ecco Biom G5
It’s no secret I think Ecco makes some of, if not the best golf shoes on the market. That said, they’re expensive, so they won’t be for everyone.
Recently I tested out the Ecco Biom G5. It’s the first spiked model of Eccos I’ve worn, and honestly? They’re just as good as I thought they’d be.
After breaking them in over a couple of rounds, they’re nearly as comfortable the Biom C4, but with the traction and stability that comes with a Tour shoe.
Throw in the waterproof Goretex material, and you have a world-class shoe ready for any conditions you want to throw at it.
- Price: $240-$270 depending on if you want the BOA lace system.
- Target Price: $200ish for Boa models.
- Where Can You Buy: Buy the Biom G5 Here.
- Review: Ecco Biom G5 Review: Is it Worth Buying a Spiked Ecco Shoe?
- Additional Review: Women’s Ecco Biom G5 review.
This feels like a best-of-both-worlds shoe, as you get the comfort of the Ecco C4, with the stability of a traditional golf shoe. It's not cheap, but this is shoe lives up to it's premium price tag.
Best Barefoot Golf Shoe: TRUE Linkswear OG Cush
This is one of the newest shoes from TRUE Linkswear – and one of their best to date. They took everything that was great about their barefoot OG Feel shoes, and made it better.
They added just enough more cushion to make them comfortable for an average golfer, while still having the no drop construction that “barefoot” purists look for in a shoe.
- Price: $175
- Target Price: $148.50 – Despite being brand new, you can use our code to save 15% off on these.
- Our Review: TRUE Linkswear OG Cush Review: A New Era of Barefoot Golf
- Discount: Use code “BE15” to save 15%.
- Where Can You Buy: Buy the TRUE Linkswear OG Cush Here.
- Solid Alternative: TRUE Linkswear OG Feel
Looking for a barefoot, zero drop golf shoe, that's actually comfortable? The OG Cush is definitely one to consider. Use code "BE15" to save 15% on anything at TRUE.
Best Value Spikeless Shoe: Payntr X 003
The Payntr X 003 may be my biggest surprise of the past year. I didn’t expect a ton out of these shoes, but honestly? I was blown away.
Not only are they packed with technology and development chops, but they look good, feel great, and best of all?
They come in at only $140.
Sure that’s still a lot of money to spend on shoes. But compared to many competitors that are $50 or even close to $100 more than them?
It represents a heck of a value for a golf shoe, especially one that’s getting as much buzz as these are.
Plus, you an get 10% off with our Payntr code.
- Price: $140
- Target Price: $126
- Our Review: Do Payntr Golf Shoes Live Up to the Hype?
- Where Can You Buy: Buy from the Payntr Golf website here.
- Solid Alternative: Payntr X 005 shoes
Some of the most comfortable shoes we've ever worn, and they look good to boot. This is one startup footwear brand that's doing things right. Use code "BREAKINGEIGHTY" to save 10%
Most Stable Golf Shoe: Sqairz Speed
The marketing may be a little over the top, but if you can move past some fairly outlandish distance claims, the Sqairz Speed golf shoe really does offer a lot.
It’s a solid Tour-level shoe, that’s among the most stable golf shoes we’ve ever tried. So if stability is the number one thing you look for in a shoe? Look no further than a pair of Sqairz.
- Price: $199
- Our Review: Sqairz Speed Golf Shoes: Golf’s Most Stable Shoe?
- Where Can You Buy: Buy the Sqairz Speed Here
The Sqairz Speed golf shoes are among the most stable golf shoes we've ever tried. If traction and stability is your most important factor in a shoe, look no further.
What to Look for When Buying Golf Shoes
The main criteria to apply when shopping for golf shoes is almost identical to that of any other shoe-buying experience.
Basically, it comes down to:
- Price
- Comfort
- Durability
- Style
- Performance
You want a shoe that you can afford, that’s going to allow you to comfortably walk potentially hundreds of rounds without breaking down and that’s going to give you the look you want.
On top of that, you need a shoe that’s going to provide great traction in varying conditions and, ideally. keep your feet dry.
If you can find a shoe that does each of these things well – and you can – you’re going to be able to forget about your feet. They’ll be set.
A couple other factors to consider:
#1) Spiked or Spikeless?
Spikeless or hybrid golf shoes are becoming more and more popular. And traction-wise, they’re getting better and better.
Generally, the big advantages of spikeless shoes are look and comfort. You can find some very stylish, casual golf shoes that don’t look too much different from what you might otherwise wear out to dinner.
And they’re pretty much just as comfortable as whatever other non-golf street shoes you have in your closet.
Spiked shoes, on the other hand, are still the best for ultimate traction, especially on wet or hilly courses.
You’ll want to be sure you understand what you’re getting waterproof-wise. Many spikeless or street golf shoes won’t be designed to provide the same waterproofing you’re more likely to find with spiked shoes.
For many golfers, the decision comes down to comfort and style vs. traction and stability. You can find spiked shoes that look good and are comfortable, but there are more options available for those factors with spikeless models.
And you can certainly find spikeless shoes that have very good traction and stability and are waterproof, but the ultimate in those categories is typically best found with spikes.
#2) A Word About Price
Everyone’s got their own budget. I get and respect that. But if at all possible, I’d encourage you to reach just a little bit with your spending on shoes.
Seriously, if you consider how many miles you’ll potentially walk with a single pair of golf shoes, it really is worth it to step up to the highest level that you can afford.
A quality shoe might last you three or more seasons. So the difference between say a $100 pair of shoes and a $150 pair of shoes becomes relatively negligible spread over a few years.
I’m not saying you should make an irresponsible decision and spend money you don’t have, but if you can step it up just a bit, especially if you’re following this guide, I can almost guarantee you’ll be happy that you did.
That said, the best shoe for you may be one that’s less expensive. For instance, some of the ones you’ll see here are excellent and under $100.
So consider your needs, and choose a shoe accordingly!
What Shoes Are Best for You?
There are dozens of different types of golf shoes out there, and every single person is looking for something slightly different.
Because of this, I spent two days putting together a quiz to help you figure out which shoes are best for you, based on your needs. It only takes about 30 seconds to take, and if you’re not sure which way to go, I think you’ll find it really helpful.
Check it out:
Trying to find the best golf shoes for your needs? Take our personalized 30 second quiz for my recommendation on the best shoes for YOU.
This page contains affiliate links. This means that if you click a link and buy one of the products on this page, we may receive a commission (at no extra cost to you!) This doesn’t affect our opinions or our reviews. Everything we do is to benefit you as the reader, so all of our reviews are as honest and unbiased as possible.
Recent Updates:
August 21st, 2024: Did a full update of this post. Added a new video review. Removed Nike Roshe G and TRUE OG Feel. Added Adidas Tech Response 3, TRUE OG Cush, and G/FORE G/18. Added “Target Price” for all shoes. Updated “Solid Alternatives” for each shoe, and also updated pricing and links.
2 Comments
I have always worn ECCO golf shoes because of the fit – narrow feet a little over size 12. The ECCO shoes in EU size 46 was perfect. However I recently purchased a pair of SQAIRZ golf shoes (sz 12) and have now found my number #1 golf shoe. Hopefully they have the same longevity as the ECCO’s.
Not sure if this is a question or a comment regarding Spiked vs Spikeless but any insight would be appreciated! I’ve read a handful of articles while shopping for my next pair. And I’ve been turned onto a few a new brands I’d not considered. Thank you! However, from what I’ve read, none have addressed this: I’ve owned my current pair of FootJoys for a number of years and they have held up well. I’ve replaced the spikes on them a few times. If I were to change to a Spikeless pair, I’m afraid I’m committing to replacing my next pair much sooner. Makes me nervous to make the switch. Thanks. -JM