As with many of the best golf shoes on the market, manufacturers are always looking to ensure their products deliver on comfort, style and support. Particularly for older golfers, comfort and support are two key points to look out for when you purchase a new pair of golf shoes. But there are a ton of other features and points to consider on top of that. From performance to value there are plenty of golf shoes out there that senior players can take advantage of to help them shoot lower scores.
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Having been walking for 50 years or more, senior feet may not be as supple as in their youth so comfort, fit and the ability to incorporate orthotics with removable insoles have a higher priority. For some, a roomier fit also helps, but for if you are looking for some slippers for the fairway then soft uppers and responsive insoles are the order of the day. Performance, of course, also matters, but perhaps not as much as before, as golf becomes more social.
So what are the best options for senior golfers? Well, in this guide we'll be walking you through (pardon the pun) some of the best shoes on the market that we feel are most suitable for senior players. Also, if you're a senior golfer looking to upgrade your kit in other areas, be sure to check out our guides on the best golf drivers for seniors, best golf irons for seniors and best golf balls for seniors.
The Quick List
The new Swing Support System elevates your ability to swing confidently and efficiently on course, while the lightweight build of the shoe makes for a comfortable walk on course.
A worthy improvement on an iconic shoe franchise, FootJoy has innovated nicely across this sporty, comfortable and premium shoe to make it even better than its predecessor.
Another classy, well designed and premium golf shoe offering. While it's probably not a shoe for those looking for maximum support through the swing, its nonetheless a incredibly comfortable, premium and classy design.
One of the best examples of a hybrid golf shoe currently on the market, the True Linkswear Lux Hybrid straddles the line of on/off course wearability.
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.
The combination of modern-classic looks, along with high performance materials, make The Ringer 2 perfect for golf all-year round.
Load the next 3 models
An excellent spikeless option that provides comfort, grip and modern looks. The PAYNTR X 005 F is a great all-round performer that does the basics incredibly well!
This lives up to its claim of being the ultimate crossover shoe. It takes a lot of the best bits of the MG4+ golf shoe and then really turns up the fashion dial.
One of the best-looking spikeless golf shoes of the year, the Elevate brings everything that was great about last year's Articulate on a new spikeless outsole.
Best Golf Shoes For Seniors
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Top pick
First up in this guide on the best shoe for seniors, is the Under Armour Drive Pro SL. Featuring a trainer-like aesthetic, many senior players may be put off by the look of the shoe but we think when looking at the golf shoe market, it is actually pretty restrained. As such we think many senior players will like the look of the shoe.
Moving on, from testing these golf shoes we are confident that any golfer will enjoy the performance on offer. The shoe features 2 years of research and development, ultimately leading to what the brand is calling a Swing Support System - otherwise known as S3. This new system gives excellent performance because it covers every design element thoroughly, such as the midsole, traction and the new lacing system.
In testing our feet, thanks to this technology, remained firmly planted on the ground whilst also offering support. Senior players will also enjoy the excellent comfort on offer, thanks to a new midsole which utilizes softer, energy returning foam. The shoe is also very lightweight, waterproof, and it comes in at a very attractive price point.
- Read our full Under Armour Drive Pro SL Golf Shoe Review
Best for walking
A golf shoe that we know that has always been popular with older golfers is FootJoy's Pro/SL. Eight years since the shoe was introduced, we recently tested the latest design, the SLX Carbon, which looks to combine a fresh, modern look with some new technology.
It most definitely delivers and again we think this will be popular with senior golfers. The main standout is the comfort as FootJoy have utilized the superb Ortholite Impressions FitBed which molds to the foot overtime and provides a worn-in feel that is extremely comfortable. As such we think the SLX is one of the most comfortable golf shoes money can buy and will perform excellently for long periods of walking.
Grip and stability is reliable too thanks to some new technology. We now see a moulded 3D X-Wing on the outsole, with the carbon fiber construction redistributing energy to the perimeter of the golf shoe to engage grip where golfers need it most. Overall it worked flawlessly, giving ample grip, stability, and traction.
- Read our full FootJoy Pro/SLX Carbon Golf Shoe Review
Most comfortable
If you are a senior golfer looking for arguably the most comfortable golf shoe anywhere on the market, then the new LT1 is a model to consider. Thanks to a combination of a new midsole foam called Ecco Ltyr, with the usual Fluidform technology in Ecco shoes, the LT1 delivered superb cushioning whilst walking was enjoyable and gave a bouncy, springy feel too. We also enjoyed the seriously lightweight design too, which further aided the comfort.
Admittedly the spikeless outsole is solid and if you play in a lot of rain, or wet weather, we would recommend looking at some of the best spiked shoes out there. But the LT1 does perform well in dry and even damp conditions. The look of the shoe may also divide opinion in the senior community, but Ecco does a pretty good job at showing aesthetic restraint so we think it will still be popular.
All in all we think the LT1 definitely delivers on the brand's claims of setting the bar for lightness and comfort in a shoe. If comfort is king for you, then the LT1 is a model to try.
- Read our full Ecco LT1 Golf Shoe Review
Best for off course
New to the golf industry, True Linkswear are shaking things up when it comes to what we consider a versatile spikeless golf shoe. The Lux Hybrid is their flagship model and certainly delivers as a premium trainer that looks stunning. We tested this model in the grey design, and we felt it was akin to many of the best golf sneakers on the market. Some senior players may not enjoy the athletic profile but it does offer a premium look which is complimented by the high-quality materials used in the shoe.
One thing to note here is that this was one of the most lightweight shoes we've tested in a long time - thanks to its excellent materials. Interestingly while it may not look it, this shoe kept our feet bone dry during several wet rounds of golf. It's mesh upper is fully waterproof, meaning it'll perform all-year-round. If you're a senior golfer looking to make a statement on the course then look no further than this high-quality option. That being said, we would recommend not wearing these shoes in properly wet or muddy conditions as the overall grip isn't there. If you're in the market for grip, then look to one of the options on our best winter golf shoes guide.
That aside, from the moment we donned these shoes, we felt we could wear them all day long with pretty much any outfit, thanks to their sleek style and excellent comfort. The Wanderlux midsole is right up there with the midsole technology on some of the best spikeless golf shoes of the year. It's soft to the touch but still firm enough underfoot to offer a decent amount of support during the golf swing, which will be beneficial to many senior players. It must also be said that the low-profile nature of these shoes mean they lack a little support around the ankle compared to their predecessors, but, underfoot you'll find these shoes are spongey and feel deliver ample support.
- Read our full True Linkswear Lux Hybrid Golf Shoe Review
Easiest to put on
Next up we have the Skechers Elite 5 Slip In shoe which feels like it was designed with senior golfers in mind. The highlight of this shoe is they are very functional and easy to put on design that is perfect for any golfer who likes to quickly slip their shoes on and get playing. Additionally the Twist-Fit dial system makes them easy to fasten. This is ideal for those golfers who have a bad back, as tightening the shoe is seamless and the system doesn't loosen either so once they are on, there is no need to bend over and retie.
Of course Skechers also delivers on the comfort front too. They feature a removable Arch Fit insole that helps to deliver podiatrist-certified support to the balls of your feet. There is also something called a 'Heel Pillow' that delivered a comfortable, locked-in feeling during our testing and we also think these should be on your radar if you are trying to find the best golf shoes for wide feet. The shoes are waterproof and come with a warranty too, whilst we had no problems with the traction either, particularly in wet conditions.
The Go Golf Elite 5 Slip 'In Shoe is perhaps one of the coolest additions to the brand's excellent range of golf sneakers. While they don't scream premium, they offer a very cool sporty aesthetic and and in our opinion a versatile look.
- Read our full Skechers Go Golf Elite 5 Slip 'In Shoe Review
Best spiked
Many of the top spiked shoes deliver superior traction but lack the comfort that some of best spikeless models offer. This isn't the case for the Ringer 2 golf shoes which are also worn by Jon Rahm and Sam Burns. Initially, we were worried that the shoes looked quite chunky. Nonetheless, during our in-person testing, we found the fit is much shallower and not as wide around the heel as it appears.
But how did it feel? Although we did find the shoe to be a little tight across the mid-section, the SweetSpot cushioning system was amazing. It provided excellent underfoot comfort and could easily rival all of the best golf shoes for walking.
Looks? The Ringer 2 is only available in 3 colorways: black, white and white/sleet. We opted for the white colorway (which comes with blue accents) as we felt it offered more versatility for styling. White not be the best choice for wetter conditions, the Ringer 2 golf shoe in black would make for one of the best winter golf shoes. On the whole, it's a refreshingly simple, clean and classy look with just a small TravisMathew logo on display. If you are playing in the rain, the waterproof upper will help keep your feet dry. Plus, the The Ringer 2 has air-mesh lining for breathability during those hotter days.
The Ringer 2 are on the pricier side of the market but these shoes will definitely give you bang for your buck as you'll be able to use them all-year round.
- Read our full TravisMathew The Ringer 2 Golf Shoe Review
Best heel support
Next up we have the PAYNTR X 005 F shoe, which is our top pick for those golfers who want as much heel support as possible. Performance-wise, out on the course, they were near faultless when it came to comfort, with the foam midsole creating an almost memory-foam mattress feel when walking. The technology called 'PMX Fit' towards the back of the shoe, really hugged the heel nicely when we first put them on, a sensation that we think many senior golfers will like.
The Clarino Trivela microfibre upper delivers an extremely lightweight and flexible feel and we would say that these are in the conversation for the most comfortable golf shoes we've tested, such is the quality out of the box and first time on the feet. They also delivered good grip for a spikeless shoe as well but it must be acknowledged that these shoes are only water-resistant, not totally waterproof.
- Read our full Payntr X 005 F Spikeless Golf Shoes Review
Most unique aesthetic
While G/FORE is a relative newcomer to the golf shoe market, the company have taken the industry by storm, thanks to the flair and bold designs that they have implemented into many of the best G/FORE golf shoes. The MG4x2 is certainly one of the highlights of that range, combining premium materials with some excellent design to build what might be one of the best casual golf shoes we've trialled in a long time. They deliver attitude and style thanks to their sleek profile and cool icy blue soles but there's more as the MG4x2 also pack in a lot of comfort.
Starting from the bottom the sole of the shoe proves that a ton of innovation has gone into the production of these shoes. The Sawtooth sole design offers one of the most compelling spikeless outsoles on the market, even in wet and soft underfoot conditions. The spongey midsole absorbs a lot of the shock associated with walking around the golf course meaning this is a great option for any senior golfer struggling with knee issues. It also ranks as one of the best golf shoes for plantar fascitiis.
There is plenty of versatility on offer here too and you can wear these both on and off the golf course. But what so unique about the MG4x2 shoe, is the insole. Firstly, it’s removable and washable, which is a massive bonus that will only help prolong the lifespan of these shoes. Secondly, the insole is uniquely designed to massage your foot as you walk – you truly have to experience the sensation of walking in a G/FORE shoe to understand the comfort on offer. Perhaps the highlight of the shoe, that did take a little while to get used to, but we were very grateful for the sensation it gave our feet after a long day on the golf course.
- Read our full G/FORE MG4x2 Shoe Review
Best from 2023
An upgrade on the impressive Puma Ignite Articulate, a shoe that was included in our Editors Choice Awards, the Elevate expands on what we loved in this fantastic spikeless golf shoe to deliver premium styling and an excellent feel as you walk around the course. The visuals here are simple, yet classy. They are understated and thanks to the premium materials on show, deliver a fantastic look that will appeal to many senior players looking for an athletic-looking golf shoe.
Certainly both models rank amongst the best Puma golf shoes money can buy, but it's the Elevate delivers a stunning locked-in feel as you traverse around the course. This is thanks to the upper and the black 'cage' or exoshell in this shoe that provides 360º of support around your foot during your swing and as you walk around the golf course. Equally the exoshell supports your heel too, delivering plenty of support to your achilles too, something that many senior players will certainly appreciate on the golf course. It really does strike the right balance between locking your foot in place but does not feel too intrusive.
Performance-wise, there's nothing to worry about here, as the Ignite Foam in the midsole is one of the best of its kind, and gives both a soft and supportive feeling with plenty of energy return through the swing too. The material used on the inside of the upper - the place where your toes might occasionally push up towards - is also made with a very soft material that makes your foot feel snugly in place.
- Read our full Puma Ignite Elevate Golf Shoe Review
How we test golf shoes
Our golf shoe testing methodology revolves around putting models to the test over a number of rounds and in different conditions. This is so we can gain a better idea of overall performance in terms of factors like grip comfort, grip, stability, waterproofing and how they actually look on the golf course. Each of the shoes listed above have been used by a member of the Golf Monthly team. This is the best way of testing a golf shoe as using it in the real world over a number of weeks allows us to see how they perform when variables change like weather, ground conditions, different stances and lies, and so on.
We think this also gives us information on the little details as well like which brands come up small or large, which models start to rub a bit too much after 36 holes, which designs can be used off the golf course and for the drive home? We are very comprehensive in our tests to the point where we will regularly attend product launches and meet with the manufacturer’s R&D experts to understand the new technology. That isn't to say manufacturers can buy a good review though, as all our reviews are made by golfers, for golfers.
How to choose the right golf shoes
Buying a new pair of golf shoes can often be a difficult decision. There are a ton of shoes on the market with each offering up a different feel, grip and level of comfort. That means there is a lot to pick from and manufacturers are constantly adding new technologies to their equipment, meaning buying a new pair of golf shoes can sometimes be a tricky buying decision. But don't fret. We've set out several key points that you should keep in mind when picking out your next pair of golf shoes.
1. Spiked or spikeless?
The shoes above are split into the best spiked golf shoes and the best spikeless golf shoes and there are a variety of pros and cons to wearing each each. 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. They are perfect for driving in the car to the golf course, playing a round, and then driving home again because they are usually light and comfortable, but most won't offer as much traction as a spiked shoe.
2. 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.
Many players choose to have one pair for winter and another, lighter pair for summer to keep them fresh and suit different requirements. Check out our guide to the best waterproof golf shoes for more advice on some of the best options that will help you fight off the rain.
3. Getting the right fit
When picking out golf shoes getting the right fit is important because otherwise blisters can build up. Particularly for senior golfers, having the right fit means you'll feel much more comfortable on the course. Getting the wrong fit can cause your feet to slide around inside the shoe, which limits your stability and can also cause blisters.
When trying a pair on for the first time, listen for the 'whoosh' sound when you slide your feet in - that's the sound of all the air leaving the shoe to confirm it is the correct size, but do a walking test to be sure. They shouldn't pinch anywhere, nor should your feet be moving around inside.
When it comes to the right fit it is also worth considering different laces. Normal laces are good for most but for some golfers, BOA laced shoes provide more convenient fastening and shouldn’t loosen during the course of a round, but are usually a tad more expensive.
4. 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.
5. Support
Especially for senior golfers, support and comfort is a huge thing to consider when you're picking out your next golf shoe. Be sure to keep in mind the midsole on offer in the golf shoes you're looking to buy as this is where the majority of your stability and comfort comes from. Some of the most comfortable golf shoes on the market boast thick spongey sole designs that provide a lot of spring to your step and responsiveness around the course. That is a great help to keep your knees and feet feel fresh throughout your round and stop you from experiencing unwanted pains like plantar fasciitis in your feet.
For more advice on shoes, check out our guides to the best adidas golf shoes, best Nike golf shoes and best women's golf shoes.
FAQs
What should senior golfers look out for in their golf shoes?
Senior golfers should look to buy a pair of golf shoes that deliver plenty of comfort, support to the ankle and achilles and a locked-in feeling while you're out on the golf course. Ultimately, the best golf shoes for senior players are shoes they feel comfortable walking in. You do a lot of yards on the golf course so it's best to try each shoe before you buy it to ensure you get the right option for your needs as a golfer.
What is the difference between spiked and spikeless golf shoes?
When it comes to the two, spiked golf shoes will provide you with more grip and are better suited for wet, winter conditions, whilst spikeless golf shoes tend to be lighter and ideal for summer conditions.
What makes a good golf shoe?
Firstly, they must be comfortable and the correct size for your feet. You don't want to be playing a round and, six holes in, find that you have blisters forming, as well as pains developing on your feet. What's more, it must be waterproof and, ideally, lightweight, as you will be wearing them for four hours in conditions that can change.
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