Most Comfortable Golf Shoes: Quick Menu
It sounds like an obvious thing to say that golf shoes have to be comfortable. You want your shoes to offer a nicely cushioned wear and, thankfully, there’s a huge focus on comfort in the golf market as you do an awful lot of walking during a typical 18 hole round. Sometimes you might even stretch to 36 and the best golf shoes out there will feel as if you could wear them literally all day. Some will also be as comfortable off the course as they are on it, and all of the best spikeless shoes in this list offer comfort and versatility.
Brands spend a lot of money and research time to make the most comfortable golf shoes possible. Shoes that provide a soft, yet stable, feel on all different terrains, and make sure they are a joy to wear as well. Some of the shoes in this list offer comfort by creating a ‘locked-in’ feeling around the ankle and heel, while some will use soft, full-grain leathers and padded midsoles to create comfort – the choice is yours as to how you’d like to experience the comfort.
To help you choose your optimum pair of golf shoes, we’ve picked out the most comfortable offerings on the market, given you some insight into how we test golf equipment and gear, and taken a look at some factors you should consider when buying golf shoes. At least one member of the Golf Monthly team has personally tested these golf shoes, on and off course, to give you a first hand report of how comfortable they are. Be sure to read our full reviews of each shoe for even more information.
VIDEO: Watch Dan Parker’s verdict on the 11 of the best golf shoes from 2023
On a final note, there are lots of other variables to think about too, and we have created guides to suit the needs of every player. Check out the best golf shoes for wide feet, the best waterproof golf shoes and best golf shoes for walking.
The Quick List
Puma Alphacat Nitro Golf Shoes
Not only does the Nitro look crisp and modern, but the comfort and grip is some of the best on the market. Available in multiple colorways too.
Read more below
FootJoy Fuel Sport 2023 Golf Shoe
The FootJoy Fuel Sport has a lightweight and stable feel that should give you a huge confidence boost on the golf course. The colors stand out nicely too.
Read more below
A standout spikeless golf shoe. We love Ecco’s move to an even more athletic look whilst sticking to its roots of comfort and breathability.
Read more below
Adidas Codechaos 22 Golf Shoes
This is a well-priced, great performing and ultimately eye-catching spikeless golf shoe. The tried-and-tested Boost midsole provides an effortless walk.
Read more below
Under Armour Charged Phantom SL Golf Shoe
UA have taken inspiration from the brand’s most successful running shoes, while delivering the performance expected from a tour quality golf shoe.
Read more below
Skechers Go Golf Elite 5 Slip ‘In Shoe
What this shoe lacks in terms of aesthetics, it makes up for in comfort and practicality. If you struggle with sore feet and/or back, put this on your must-try list.
Read more below
The MG4+ is a very comfortable shoe that looks the part and one that will definitely be worn on rotation throughout the summer months and beyond.
Read more below
True Linkswear FS-01 Golf Shoe
One of the most subtle off course designs on the market right now, the FS-01 is so easily wearable everywhere. Complimented by soft, recycled leather and a cushioned insole.
Read more below
Cole Haan ZeroGrand Overtake Golf Shoe
The lightweight design and super soft midsole of the Overtake make for a superbly comfortable golf shoe that really stands out amongst its rivals.
Read more below
Nike Air Zoom Infinity Tour NEXT% Shoes
An outstanding shoe, the NEXT% from Nike looks great, felt very comfortable throughout testing, and they deliver in just about every way you would want.
Read more below
FootJoy HyperFlex Carbon Golf Shoe
One of the most well-rounded spiked golf shoes of recent memory, the FootJoy HyperFlex Carbon excels thanks to the superb stability.
Read more below
New technologies have made the ZG23 a comfortable, stable, and lightweight shoe that will keep golfers of all swing speeds fully supported during the swing.
Read more below
Nike Air Zoom Victory Tour 3 Golf Shoes
The 3 is one of the best golf shoes on the market. In every department the performance is excellent – comfort, grip, protection, looks and Rory uses them.
Read more below
Payntr X 006 RS Golf Shoes
Not only is it fully waterproof, but it’s breathable and extremely comfortable, with the locked-in feeling allowing you to commit to every single shot on the golf course.
Read more below
Cuater The Ringer Golf Shoes
The combination of the athletic style, comfort, feel and waterproofing makes The Ringer one of our favorite golf shoes currently on the market.
Read more below
Most Comfortable Golf Shoes
Why you can trust Golf Monthly
Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.
Spikeless
(Image credit: Future)
Well known for producing some of the best golf shoes in the game, Puma are a leader when it comes to blending style and comfort in their golf shoes, and these are a fantastic option that certainly do that. As one of the best spikeless golf shoes on the market, this new model for 2023 is an upgrade on its predecessor the Proadapt Alphacat Shoe, but continues the sporty visuals seen on this fantastic golf sneaker. Out of the box and onto my feet, I instantly noticed the new ‘Advanced Nitrogen-Injected Foam’, which cushioned my feet perfectly.
What’s more, they were extremely lightweight and, because of the foam, there was no foot fatigue as I walked along different undulations out on the golf course. But the highlight of these shoes really is the grip. Having tested them on wet and dry conditions, we’ve had no problems with slipping or balance here, which is a big deal considering they are a spikeless shoe. The Alpha Traction sole design on this shoe is cleverly constructed with rubber grips that work together to provide grip in areas that suit you the most. The only slight issue is that the midsole does pick up dirt quite easily, which can obviously be wiped away after your round has finished, but that is a minor takeaway in what is an excellent golf shoe.
FootJoy Fuel Sport 2023 Golf Shoe
(Image credit: Future)
The highlight of the FootJoy Fuel Sport is the grip, with a Performance Infinity Outsole and Stability Bridge working wonders over an array of lies and conditions. In our testing, we used these on a day where there was heavy rainfall just prior to going out on the course and, despite being very wet underfoot, we didn’t experience any slips at any point during my round.
Featuring an athletic profile, the fit has Flex Last which includes a full rounded toe character and slightly narrower heel. These additions only add to the already incredible stability you get when striking full shots from off the tee and from the fairway.
Along with the grip, the comfort is superb as the lightweight cushioning from the Stratolite Foam moulded to the shape of our feet in just a few rounds, and also gave ample support when strolling the fairways.
Ecco Biom C4 Shoe
(Image credit: Future)
One of the most technology-packed spikeless golf shoes we’ve tested this year, the Ecco Biom C4 seriously impressed us with its overall comfort, grip, style and breathability. It’s built nicely on the foundations of the excellent Biom H4, which carried over into 2022, but the new sneaker-style has won our hearts from a looks perspective, and the performance is there to match.
The Biom C4 uses Ecco’s Exhaust Grid technology that scoops fresh air towards the sole of the foot to keep it cool. This, combined with Gore-Tex surround and breathable Ortholite insole, makes this the most breathable shoe we tested in 2022 by some stretch. Another excellent touch from Ecco is that the insole is removable to allow for more width in the shoe. This will make the Biom C4 suitable for those with wider feet and there is still the same amount of comfort and cushioning with the first insole removed. It’s certainly a step in the more athletic direction for an Ecco shoe, and we think this aesthetic move will attract golfers of all ages into choosingEcco shoes – we think these are some of the best looking golf shoes on the market.
Adidas Codechaos 22 Golf Shoes
(Image credit: Tom Miles)
One of the best adidas’ golf shoes on the market, the Codechaos still looks like a beautiful golf shoe with the first thing standing out, to us, the all-new wraparound outsole. Certainly, we liked how elements of the outsole have bled onto the side of the shoe and it creates a striking look that has a significant performance benefit.
In testing, we felt that the extra grip could certainly be felt on the sides of our feet, as well as on the soles. However, this didn’t have an effect on the comfort levels which, thanks to Boost technology, meant it felt like the golf shoes weren’t even on our feet when walking the course.
Interestingly, the Boost midsole gave instant comfort and the Codechaos 22 shoes took no time at all to break in, with the arches of the feet feeling slightly raised in the midsole. This meant there was very little, if any, foot fatigue after 18 holes of walking.
Under Armour Charged Phantom SL Golf Shoe
(Image credit: Future)
Under Armour often refer to themselves as the ‘golf brand for athletes’, with the new Charged Phantom SL golf shoe one of the best crossover style golf shoes on the market. By that, we mean this is a shoe that can be worn from home, to the gym, for 18 holes, or even if you are having a drink in the bar. What’s more, one of the ways the sleek athletic style provides comfort is via a ‘never wet’ knit upper; this allows your feet to breathe and remain at an optimum temperature.
Out the box, they had a snug fit, with the Storm Flat Knit Collar around the ankle providing a locked-in feel while also being extremely comfortable. There was yet more locked-in comfort from a TPU infused yarn, which is wrapped around the toe of the shoe, and provided us with a secure feeling, much like a sturdy leather-based shoe, when turning through impact.
The final point is the traction that these shoes offer, with the sole of the Charged Phantom SL featuring rubber nubs that are strategically placed to resist rotational movement. We were really impressed with this factor, especially on a damp driving range.
Skechers Go Golf Elite 5 Slip ‘In Shoe
(Image credit: Future)
What Skechers has earned a reputation for – and this applies right across the best Skechers golf shoes – is supreme levels of comfort. This rule applies to the Elite 5 Slip ‘In and this pair is definitely one of most comfortable golf shoes that we’ve worn. We’ve never put on a pair of golf shoes before without carefully avoiding applying too much pressure on the back, obviously for fear of causing lasting damage. With the Skechers Go Golf Elite 5 Slip ‘In shoes, and courtesy of an extra stiff back, this is not a problem – they slip on just like a pair of comfy slippers – and they feel just as good. So, no shoe horn required.
Meanwhile, the Twist-Fit dial system located on the side makes them easy to fasten. Again, we can see the appeal for those who suffer with a stiff back in the morning, as there’s no need to struggle with lacing up, plus you haven’t got to worry about the laces gradually loosening over time and needing to be retied at the most inconvenient of moments. You can’t talk about Skechers without mentioning the removable Arch Fit insole, which provides podiatrist-certified arch support. Combined with the Heel Pillow, you’re guaranteed a comfortable and ‘locked in’ feel, which is something we also experienced when testing the Pro 5 Hyper shoe worn by Matt Fitzpatrick.
G/FORE MG4+ Shoes
(Image credit: Kenny Smith)
Comfortable from start to finish, the G/FORE MG4+ golf shoe performed about as well as we could have hoped on a debut outing and beyond, making for another excellent addition to the fantastic G/FORE range. Although this is a spikeless golf shoe, there was never a situation where a lack of grip from the non-slip outsole was noticeable, even on a variety of slopey lies.
This is also thanks, in part, to the stability delivered by the heel cup at the back of the shoe, seen on some of the other G/Fore sneakers on this list, that really locks the foot in place without sacrificing any comfort. You’ll also notice the thick sole on this shoe delivers excellent comfort as you walk around the golf course or up the high street. Slipping these shoes on during our first round, we were taken aback by the slightly bizarre feeling of the nubbed footbed on this shoe. Admittedly this was a weird sensation at first and felt like our feet were being massaged as we played, but it didn’t take long to get accustomed to the feeling, which was something we really enjoyed! Elsewhere, the premium upper is fully waterproof, meaning it really is an all-rounder in terms of performance and well worthy of its lofty rating.
True Linkswear FS-01 Golf Shoe
(Image credit: Future)
The True Linkswear FS-01 golf shoe can be worn on and off the course, with the classic look oozing class and style. Ranked as one of the best casual golf shoes on the market, we think it won’t look out of place in any environment and can be worn with any golf outfit and casual outfit alike.
So, how did it perform out on the course? Well, considering it is a low-profile silhouette it does have good support around the heel and extra padding around the Achilles. However, because of this profile, you do lose a little support here.
One thing that did impress us though is the overall feel of the product, which is soft to the touch and has the same pebbled finish that you’d expect of a genuine leather product. What’s more, the upper is very easy to maintain and is really durable, even claiming to be scratchproof (so far, so good in our testing) allowing you to keep them in sparkling condition for much longer.
Cole Haan ZeroGrand Overtake Golf Shoe
(Image credit: Future)
Cole Haan has been steadily growing its golf shoe output over the past few years, with its ZeroGrand Overtake golf shoe providing a sporty and lightweight feel that has ultimate comfort from an almost memory foam mattress feel.
The first thing we noted was how lightweight these shoes are, which meant we didn’t suffer from foot fatigue when testing these over 18 holes. What adds to the overall comfort is the impressive GrandFoam midsole, which is soft and full of cushion. We thought that it really hugged the bottom of the foot when walking which was a lovely sensation.
Aesthetically, it does look more like a sneaker than a golf shoe, with the ZeroGrand Overtake sharing a lot of the same DNA as the running shoe of the same name made by Cole Haan. Certainly, it will make a great addition to those who are looking for a more casual look, especially in summer, as the shoe is only water resistant and not fully waterproof.
Spiked
(Image credit: Golf Monthly)
Nike are well known as one of the best golf apparel designers on the market and this latest offering from the brand, used by Brooks Koepka no less, is an excellent and very comfortable option that will rival the best spiked golf shoes on the market. The Infinity Tour Next% is a very sporty golf shoe offering up a modern aesthetic that has a very premium design. The shoe is by far one of the best golf sneakers on the market and oozes class thanks to the brilliant colorways on offer here.
Taking them out on the course, the support was right up there with some of the most comfortable shoes in the game. The soft cushioning around the heel really felt nice and even when taking out of the box for the first time the comfort around the foot was excellent. These shoes are very lightweight but this wasn’t at the expense of stability because the two spikes on the forefoot and two on the heel deliver exceptional grip, especially when combined with the traction pattern on the outsole. The shoes are also waterproof and deliver excellent ventilation to your feet making them an excellent option to wear on the course in both summer and winter conditions.
FootJoy HyperFlex Carbon Golf Shoe
(Image credit: Future)
Not only is the HyperFlex Carbon one of the best FootJoy golf shoes released from the brand but it is also towards the top end across the entire golf shoe market too. Performance wise, the stand-out feature is the Ortholite Impression Footbed. This technology has elevated the HyperFlex Carbon from a good golf shoe to a great golf shoe and, in testing, we noticed it instantly, as this is one of the most comfortable golf shoes we have tested this year. It almost has a memory foam feel to it and, over a number of rounds, it will mold to the shape of your foot, giving you a feeling akin to putting on an old pair of slippers.
Aesthetically, the HyperFlex Carbon has stuck to the similar blueprint of its predecessor, but this time around, FootJoy has included some new splashes of color that elevate the overall shelf appeal. It’s part of a clear effort by FootJoy to go a bit bolder and brighter with some of its color options.
Adidas ZG23 Golf Shoe
(Image credit: Future)
The biggest improvement over the ZG21 – and a standout feature in the whole shoe market this year – is adidas’ new Lightstrike and Lightstrike Pro technology used throughout a newly revamped midsole. It has used this technology in its running and basketball division, with the ZG23 being the first time it has been used in a golf shoe.
In testing, we were impressed with the overall comfort, especially the softness in the midsole and the cushioning and comfort under the foot. This, paired with the softness of the upper, both on the outside and inside of the shoe, makes it one of the most comfortable shoes on the market.
Along with the different colors, there is further comfort and stability from the Stability Fin, which gives the ZG23 the ability to keep your feet incredibly stable as your weight shifts through the golf swing. Lastly, because of the ultra-lightweight nature of the shoe, it really reduced foot fatigue after walking 18 holes.
Nike Air Zoom Victory Tour 3 Golf Shoes
(Image credit: Golf Monthly)
Replacing the Victory Tour 2 shoes below, (which I absolutely loved), the newer 3 model takes total performance even further, getting 5 stars in our review. Why? Well looks wise Nike improved the aesthetics in several subtle ways – the new Full-grain leather upper has a supple feel and sophisticated look. The swoosh and midsole sections look slightly different and better in my opinion, and overall I think the shoe looks more refined. I also absolutely loved the color I got sent and there are also several other colors to choose from, as well as special edition designs too for events like The Masters.
Comfort wise these are right up there with the best on the market thanks to the extra padding around the ankle, and the internal strap on the inside of the shoe which actually contours to your feet. Nike also stitched a Zoom Air unit directly to the upper which delivered exceptional feel, and the foam towards the heel felt very cushiony, almost bouncy when walking on the course.
Grip and stability was also good, and the shoes are 100% waterproof as well. In short, I love this shoe and it covers all the bases to a very high standard. It may come with a pretty punchy price tag, but I really do think it is worth it. (you can also find these shoes with money off sometimes as well so we do recommend keeping a look out for sales on them).
Payntr X-006 Golf Shoes
(Image credit: Future)
An excellent golf shoe that delivers bags of comfort and style, the Payntr X 006 golf shoe delivers bags of quality and performance in a simply stunning package. Visually, these are a sporty looking golf shoe that boast a clean and crisp design that will pair up nicely the best golf pants in the game. When it comes to comfort, we really enjoyed what the X 006 delivered. They were one of the most breathable golf shoes we’ve tested recently, delivering plenty of ventilation, while keeping your feet nicely locked into the shoe.
The Clarino Tongue offered plenty of stretch support that also cushioned our feet as we walked and committed to our shots. We think these shoes are one of the best golf shoes for wide feet on the market, with the Ventilated Dual Density PMX Foam, Patel Footbed and Open Cell Foam all combining brilliantly. The shoe moulded itself brilliantly to the shape of our feet and also delivered plenty of waterproof protection.
The grip on offer here was also excellent, with the Payntr X 006 boasting a seven cleat sole design that delivered plenty of traction, even on wet ground. That really allowed us to rip through each shot, with the Softspike Tour Flex Pro Spikes and TPU outsole delivering traction in three dimensions. Overall, these are a supremely comfortable and breathable shoe, and the minimalist styling is something that we really loved.
Cuater The Ringer Golf Shoes
(Image credit: Golf Monthly)
Worn by PGA Tour players, Jon Rahm and Sam Burns, the Cuater Ringer shoes are one of the best-looking and most comfortable golf sneakers money can buy. We loved the sporty and modern design of the Ringer, which isn’t plastered with brand logos or text and provides a trendy, yet smart, look if you’re thinking of combining them with shorts or trousers.
The Ringer is also brilliant for comfort and stability and features in our best golf shoes for plantar fasciitis guide, making these a great pair of shoes for any golfer who struggles with foot pain. The fit is secure from heel to toe and we found the cushioning inside the shoe also very soft.
The one drawback we noticed was that the shoe didn’t offer that much breathability. However, that means the shoe is waterproof and its outsole material will keep your feet dry on wetter days. As for its grip, the shoe features Softspikes Pivix cleats which give great traction on the turf, locking into the grass while you play your shots.
How we tested the most comfortable golf shoes
When it comes to testing golf shoes Golf Monthly has a strong testing procedure that revolves around putting them to the test over a number of rounds and in a variety of different conditions. We often play multiple rounds in one day in the same shoe too. That way we have a clear understanding of which shoes are more comfortable than others, whilst also making note of things like grip, stability, versatility, looks and overall performance.
Before the testing even begins we often attend product launches and have discussions with the manufacturer’s R&D experts to understand the new technology. That way we know what the technology is supposed to do, and can test for whether it does so. The final point to make here is manufacturers cannot buy a good review because we tell it how it is for all golf product reviews, not just golf shoes.
How to choose new golf shoes
There are a number of factors to consider when picking out your next pair of golf shoes so to help you narrow down your search and inform your buying decision, below we have put together some key points.
Comfort – Obviously the first place to start is comfort. We all have different sizes and shapes of foot which will therefore mean some models are more comfortable than others. As such going to try on different models is invaluable before making a purchase.
When you are trying shoes on, listen for a ‘whoosh’ sound which should indicate air leaving the shoe which usually suggests a good fit. Walk around in the shoes too so you can feel any pinching and whether your feet are moving around inside them. A correctly fitted shoe should so neither of these things.
Getting the right fit is important because otherwise blisters can build up. Or your feet may slide around inside, which limits your stability.
Spiked or spikeless? – Do you want a spiked or spikeless design because there are incredibly good golf shoes in each category. That being said each have their own pros and cons.
Spiked golf shoes offer better grip and stability but don’t sit as low to the ground as spikeless models. Spikeless golf shoes offer off-course versatility but might not offer as much traction. Have a think about which factor is most important to you here.
Waterproofing – If you live somewhere that gets a lot of rain then a waterproof shoe is a must. The best designs will keep your feet bone dry however if you play golf in glorious sunshine most of the time, then you may view other factors as more significant.
Styling – Thankfully modern golf shoe design has seen many brands not just create traditional, classic-looking shoes, but also modern styles that can be used off the golf course too. Therefore it is important to think about what your shoes look like and what style suits you. Whatever you like or dislike, there is something for everyone these days.
Budget – Finally be aware of your budget because you can find a good, comfortable golf shoe at every price point.
FAQs
Are golf shoes comfortable to walk in?
The simple answer here is yes. Golf manufacturers know that golfers spend all their time on their feet, hitting shots, and walking between shots so comfort is absolutely king on the golf course. As such brands like FootJoy, adidas, Ecco, Nike and pretty much any brand that makes golf shoes, puts emphasis on comfort through cushioning, technologies to ensure no rubbing or painful blisters, and breathability. Additionally most shoes these days are made from fabrics that feel soft on the feet to maintain comfort.
What Nike golf shoes are the most comfortable for walking?
At Golf Monthly we have tested pretty much all Nike golf shoes from the current range and the two most comfortable from our testing were the Nike Air Zoom Victory Tour 3 shoes worn by Rory McIlroy, or the Nike Air Zoom Infinity Tour NEXT% shoes worn by Brooks Koepka.
