Golf can be an incredibly frustrating sport even with the right equipment. Without that, it is borderline impossible to have success. While thousands of dollars can be spent improving clubs, the real key to an enjoyable outing may rest upon your feet. Golf shoes not only can improve your game but your endurance and physical well being as well.
Comfort
The physical toll taken upon the feet in golf is perhaps second only to soccer and long distance running. This is because the length of a golf course can be upward of 7,500 yards, uphill and downhill. Golf shoe creators, such as FootJoy, now place memory foam in the tongue and collar of the shoe to increase comfort. Other materials, such as leather and thermoplastic urethane, are also used in golf shoes for their comfortable feel while walking. However, materials can only assist to a certain extent. Select a golf shoe that mimics the natural shape of your foot for maximum comfort.
Durability
The frequency of your golfing may be greater or less than others, but if you golf at least twice a week, you'll be putting many miles on your shoes in no time. Golf shoes then must be more durable than your tennis shoes and penny loafers. Consider a calfskin exterior lining because it is one of the most durable materials available. Make sure the interior is made of high quality leather. Preventing wear and tear on the outside of the shoe is pointless if the interior falls apart.
Beating the Weather
When it rains in baseball, the grounds crew rolls out the tarp and the field stays dry. When it rains or snows in golf, the course could be wet for weeks or longer. Select a shoe with a waterproofing guarantee so that your feet aren't sopping wet after the front nine. The most water-resistant shoes are the least permeable shoes. The shoe should have ventilation and breathability but not along the sides. Ask your local pro shop about the membrane of the shoe. The general rule of thumb is the smaller, the better. If you can find shoes without a membrane, you've found yourself a waterproof guarantee.
Support
All of the above means absolutely nothing if your feet aren't being properly supported. Remember, as in the case of bath slippers, it is possible for a shoe to be comfortable without being supportive. Check the insole to be sure that your shoe is reinforcing the arch of your foot. The toe of the insole should be flexible to allow for easy forward movement. The heel should be rigid so that your foot is locked in place. Most quality golf shoes will offer a material in the heel that is different from the rest of the shoe. Look for this slip-resistant material to be sure that you're being supported.
Stability
So much of golf depends upon precision, balance and consistency. Don't expect any of those if your feet are moving around all over the place. Golf spikes offer great traction and allow for an explosive and stable swing. Please be considerate to your fellow golfers and do not buy shoes with metal spikes. These antiquated nightmares tear apart the course with each step and make putting a great difficulty. Spikes made out of composite materials provide just as much traction without the damaging residue.
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