What Shoes to Wear for Golf

Golf shoes are designed to offer support to the golfer, comfort during the long walk around a course, and stability during the swing. While a pair of golf cleats is not always the best option for a golfer, it is often a great place to start.

Overview

Golf shoes are designed to offer support to the golfer, comfort during the long walk around a course, and stability during the swing. While a pair of golf cleats is not always the best option for a golfer, it is often a great place to start.

Metal Spikes vs. Nonmetal Spikes

Golf cleats are adorned with "spikes" on the sole to provide grip. Metal spikes used to be standard. However, as technology advanced, nonmetal spikes were developed. Now, unless stated in course bylaws that metal spikes are permitted, it is considered a breach of etiquette to wear metal spikes on the course because they can leave marks on the greens that might disrupt putts. Nonmetal spikes do not cause the same level of damage. They are molded out of plastic or rubber and feature multiple "teeth" for grip. Nonmetal spikes are easily replaceable, with the spikes simply screwing in and out.

Other Considerations

Choosing shoes that are weather resistant will go a long way toward making your round more comfortable when a storm pops up or when there is dew on the grass in the morning.

Try on several pairs of shoes before making a purchase. Buying an uncomfortable pair of shoes can lead to blisters forming.

When Golf Shoes are Not Ideal

Golf shoes are not the best option for every player. Those suffering from arthritis or other joint- or muscle-related illnesses may find that a pair of tennis shoes is better suited to their needs. Tennis shoes have more give in their soles, reducing the wear and tear on joints while walking several miles during the course of a round.