Golf shoes are not likely to give you the same kind of thrill you can get from exquisite suede moccasins or handcrafted cowboy boots. But, if you choose your golf shoes based on how, when and where you play the game, they can certainly give your game a kick. Comfort and fit play a part, but so does the style of golf shoe you choose.
Traditional Shoe
The traditional leather golf shoe has stood the test of time and remains an effective choice for the game, according to both Golf Equipment Source and Golf A Lot. The traditional shoe still offers the best protection and traction by covering your entire foot and providing a stable sole. The saddle shoe design also serves a purpose beyond jazzing up the shoe a bit. The extra leather strip reinforces the entire shoe, making it stronger. Leather remains one of the top materials for golf shoes because it is breathable, durable, snug-fitting and waterproof.
Other Styles
If the weather is too hot or too cold for the traditional golf shoe, you can opt for the golf sandal or the golf boot. Golf sandals, with an open toe, sides and thick straps, are ideal for hot days but not that great for lots of walking. The golf boot, with a saddle shoe base and higher top, works for colder or messy weather but doesn't give you the same freedom of ankle movement as the traditional shoe. Golf boots are usually fully waterproof, making them the most expensive option, while sandals weigh in as the cheapest.
Other Materials
If you don't have the cash to opt for leather golf shoes, which are generally the most expensive, you have a few other material choices that still work for the game. Less costly options include synthetic materials, such as polyester and Goretex, which are as waterproof as leather but not as durable. Polyester is a lighter weight than leather, while Goretex is heavier and hotter.
Spike Section
Golf shoe spikes are probably the one aspect of the golf shoe that changed most dramatically. Metal spikes no longer grace the bottom of every golf shoe, although the pros still wear them, Golf A Lot explains. Some courses ban metal spikes due to the damage they cause on the greens. Plastic spikes are the new norm. They are equally effective for traction but do less damage to the greens and fairways. The way spikes are attached often varies from shoe to shoe, so make sure to do your research before buying any replacement spikes.
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