Best Waterproof Golf Shoes: Quick Menu
1. The list in brief
2. Best overall spiked
3. Most lightweight
4. Best for stability
5. Best for comfort
6. Best BOA model
7. Best overall spikeless
8. Best value
9. Used by Matt Fitzpatrick
10. Used by Jordan Spieth
11. Best looking
12. How we test
13. What to consider
14. FAQs
The unpredictability of the weather can sometimes be a pain for any avid golfer. Particularly if you're playing outside of the summer months, golf courses tend to be a little more wet and soft under foot and there is also a greater chance that you'll get caught in a shower or two during your round. Perhaps one of the worst experiences on a golf course is playing with wet, soggy feet. We've been there before and it is certainly not an enjoyable time. That's why it is very important, particularly if you're planning on playing year-round golf, to snag yourself a waterproof pair of golf shoes. Some of the best golf shoes can help keep your feet warm and dry and that can translate to better performance and ultimately, a more enjoyable round.
So what makes a good waterproof golf shoe? Well, traditionally some of the best all-weather shoes on the market tend to come with a cleated or spiked sole design to help give you better grip during the winter months. But in recent times some of the best spikeless golf shoes can also offer serious stability and traction too. Obviously you also have to think about style too, and there are some stunning options out there that will catch the attention of a range of golfers.
But most importantly, aside from being waterproof, you've got to think about how comfortable these shoes are to play in. The average golfer spends up to five hours per round wearing their shoes, so you're going to want to buy a pair that fit nicely and deliver comfort in spades. Acknowledging this, we have set out below what we think are the best waterproof models available on the market right now. While shoes are a very important factor to consider if you're planning on playing through the rain, you should also really think about getting some weather-proof apparel too. For that reason, make sure to check out our guides to the best golf waterproofs, best golf rain gear and best waterproof golf bags.
The Quick List
This is a premium, thoughtful, comfortable and good looking golf shoe that raises the bar for the Tour360 franchise once again.
Technologies have made the ZG23 a comfortable, stable, and lightweight shoe that will keep golfers of all swing speeds fully supported during the swing.
The HyperFlex Carbon excels thanks to the superb stability it offers as well as the class-leading midsole that provides instant and long-lasting comfort.
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.
A modern yet sophisticated cleated shoe that will be comfortable and perform in all weathers. The fit and feel are exceptional, as is the traction.
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.
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UA have taken inspiration from the brand's most successful running shoes, while delivering the performance expected from a tour quality golf shoe.
The Pro 5 is a technology packed spiked golf shoe that delivers on Skechers renowned comfort thanks to some excellent proprietary technology.
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.
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 Waterproof Golf Shoes
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Best overall spiked
For us the top spiked waterproof gold shoe for this year is the latest model in the Adidas Tour 360 line. This new model has had a complete redesign with it's 20th anniversary approaching, with new tech being introduced to the iconic looks.
For the 2022 models there was a bit of a spike issue but this has been addressed by using removable spikes for this new version. This model feels a lot softer that the previous models and we could feel this immediately in testing, this is in thanks to the new T-shape microfiber heel, and the lightstrike and jet boost midsole. The insole of the shoe has also been respahed and in testing we instantly could feel more suppoer in the arch and heel, this added even more to the levels of comfort on offer.
As with mprevious models these are also 100% waterproof and the overall grip in the wet is very good and up there with the best on the market. All in all the overall development of the shoes has been very good and thorough to make these some of the best and most comfortable shoes you can get.
- Read our full adidas Tour360 24 Golf Shoe Review
Most lightweight
The adidas ZG21 was an impressive shoe and somehow Adidas have manged to improve upon it with the ZG23 golf shoe, and it is by far one of the best spiked golf shoes you can get. One fo the big stand out features with this shoe is the Lightstrike and Lightstrike Pro technology which runs through the revamped midsole. This tech replaces the Boost tech that we saw with most of the best adidas golf shoes, and we definitely saw a big improvement in comfort underfoot.
Coming up above the sole it has a stability fin that will help keep your feet locked in when you are sjifting your weight through your swing. When testing these shoes we did not find that our feet fatigued when walking the course, and they were super comfy and supoortive, as well as this they are super lightweight too. We find the look to be rather similar to the budget friendly adidas Tech Response 2.0 shoes which some golfers may not find appealing, although they are still a good looking shoe.
When it comes to the outsole the ZG23's feature a good looking colored sole which is embedded with six of the tradtitional spikes, and a lot of lugs to help with that secondary traction. Adidas used heat mapping tech from a variety of golfers of varying abilities, so they could see where most of the pressure went through the shoe in the swing, and make sure they delivered grip in all the right places. This gives you plenty of confidence when swinging out on the course.
- Read our full Adidas ZG23 Golf Shoe Review
Best for stability
When it comes to traditional looking golf shoes, FootJoy are seen as some of the best available, but with this shoe it is a move in a more athletic modern direction. We love the pink and blue colorway which contrasts well against the white design giving this shoe a very premium look. This model come with a carbon fiber construction giving this shoe a really lightweight feel. We tested this shoe out on the course and they are some of the best golf shoes for walking, as they are so light and comfortable that it felt like we weren't wearing shoes at all.
When it comes to picking an outstanding feature of this shoe, we couldn't overlook the Ortholite Impression Footbed. This tech has taken the HyperFlex Carbon shoe to whole new level of comfort, when we put our foot in this shoe we really felt of the technology working to create that outstanding comfort. With only a few rounds of golf the footbed had now molded to our feet which really increases the overall comfort of this shoe. Although these are a white shoe, the waterproof upper of the shoe is easy to wipe clean so using these in the winter is not off the cards.
- Read our full FootJoy HyperFlex Carbon Golf Shoe Review
Best for comfort
Coming into replace the Victory Tour 2 shoes the now new model 3 has increased the performance of an already great shoe. Firstly the overall looks of this shoe is great, the full-grain leather upper has a love soft feel while still giving them a sophisticated look. The color options whether for the standard models or the special editions Nike release are outstanding, with plenty to choose from.
When it comes to comfort these shoes are up there with the best you can get hold of with extra padding found in the ankle and an internal strapping found on the inside of the shoe to help contour your feet. Nike have also put in the Zoom Air unit which is stitched into the upper, giving these shoes a great feel along with the foam near the heel which gave you cushioning when walking.
The grip and stability of these shoes were decent and they are also 100% waterproof making them a viable option for winter. These shoes do come with a hefty price but with them coming out with a five star review and performing so amazingly in testing then it is worth the cost.
- Read our full Nike Air Zoom Victory Tour 3 Golf Shoe Review
Best BOA model
The Ecco Biom G5 is a very visually appealing shoe giving a more athletic look like most of the best Ecco golf shoes you can get. The G5 takes some inspiration from the G3 for the sole design and then blends that with the more athletic look of the H4. After testing we were very impressed coming off the course, with the BOA system giving great comfort and locking the foot in, paired with how lightweight these shoes are very comfortable.
The G5 has sic wide-spread cleats that fitted more towards the outside of the sole, this means you can have more stability in your golf swing, giving you a wide base to really power through shots. These shoes really thrived in wetter conditions giving us lots of traction and confidence when looking to swing a bit faster. These shoes also have a Gore-Tex outer which is fully waterproof for those winter days. This makes the outer really easy to wipe clean after muddy round, although the upper is robust it is still soft and supple to increase comfort.
- Read our full Ecco Biom G5 Shoe Review
Best overall spikeless
The FootJoy Pro/SL is an icon in the golf shoe world and is always topping the best waterproof golf shoes list. So when it came to testing the SLX Carbon Model for 2024 we were very excited. With this newer model they have introduced some nice flashes of color along with some new tech, giving the shoes a more modern and premium look.
The biggest standout we had from testing was the overall comfort of this shoe, it has the FootJoy Ortholite Impressions FitBed which you got with the HyperFlex Carbon. It makes this shoe one of the most comfortable golf shoes you can get your hands on, with it only taking a few rounds for the foot bed to mold to your foot for increased comfort.
When it comes to grip and stability they have introduced a moulded 3D X-Wing on the outersole, with a carbon fiber construct which redistributes energy to the outside of the shoe. We tested this shoe in a variety of conditions and found they performed really well and gave us great grip even in the wetter conditions, which is great for a spikeless shoe. This shoe is 100% waterproof and you also get a 1 year warranty for the waterproofing too.
- Read our full FootJoy Pro/SLX Carbon Golf Shoe Review
Best value
When it comes to the best spikeless golf shoes, we love to see versatility of the shoe where you can wear it for multiple occasions. That is something that you get with the Phantom SL golf shoe, which we think Under Armour got very right.
We found this shoe delivered in both performance on the course and with comfort on and off the course too. These shoes are made from Under Armours Never Wet Treatment which helps to keep your feet dry while also keeping them cool too, This breathability though does mean that the shoe is only water-resistant and more of a summer shoe than all year round.
In firmer conditions these shoes gave us great grip, however, the sole on this shoe would not really hold up in a winter environment, although damp conditions, like a dewy morning were fine. This shoe oozes comfort with the Storm Flat Knit Collar coming around the ankle giving you that locked in feeling, giving you some great stability.
- Read our full Under Armour Charged Phantom SL Golf Shoe
Used by Matt Fitzpatrick
The Pro Golf 5 Hyper Shoes from Skechers really push comfort to a whole new level with the Arch Fit tech giving podiatrist certified support and a lovely cushioned mid sole. This makes this shoe one of the most comfortable golf shoes featuring on this list, especially after putting them to the test out on the course. You could feel the arch fit tech stopping any aches and pains when we navigated 18 holes and these shoes really are one of the best golf shoes for plantir fasciitis.
This shoe also has great breathability with a mesh upper that keeps your feet cool and fresh throughout the round. With this it allows you to use this shoe all year round, in the summer when you need that breathability and in the winter, thannks to its waterproofing. This shoe has the Skechers Hyper Burst and Resamax cushioning working together to give you more rebound in your step. You could feel the bounce in these shoes helping us stay less tired when playing thanks to that rebound.
- Read our full Skechers Pro 5 Hyper Golf Shoe Review
Used by Jordan Spieth
Under Armour have released the SL version alongside the Drive Pro spiked model, which has the same two years of research and development. The research led to something called the Swing Support System also known as S3. This system allows increased performance as it covers the midsole, traction and even the new lacing system.
When we got to test a pair they really delivered, the tech in the shoe helps to keep your foot planted while giving you plenty of support, but still allowing your foot to move where it needs too. With a new midsole which has softer and energy returning foam, the overall comfort has now improved as well.
This shoe is 100% waterproof and for a spikeless shoe we felt the overall traction and grip was great even in the wetter conditions. A big change from the previous model outer soles is that not all the nubs on the base are the same size. This seems to have helped the traction and we felt comfortable and stable in all conditions and lies.
Finally whilst we may question its versatility for off the course use, it comes in at a very attractive price point. The small nitpick we had was we wish the writing on the side of the shoe wasn't there because we think it detracts from the design.
- Read our full Under Armour Drive Pro SL Golf Shoe Review
Best looking
Expanding on an excellent shoe already the Puma Ignite Articulate which released back in 2022, the Ignite Elevate really has elevated this shoe. The looks are similar to the previous model but comes with a thicker sole, it also has a textured upper whcih contrasts against the black cage you find across the shoe. This cage helps to keep your feet feeling locked in when playing shots. The little pops of color add to the overall quality of the shoe and the addition of the little sock around the ankle really helps with comfort and we think shelf appeal.
The Elevate has the great ignite foam from Puma that you find in most of the best Puma golf shoes. It gives you great support while feeling supple and springy, this helps to stop your feet feeling to tired while out on the course. The Exoshell that sits at the back of the shoe helps to add 360 degrees of support for your feet. We found our feet really felt locked in when testing this shoe. We feel the overall grip of this shoe is not ideal for wetter conditions, in dryer or damp conditions they did perform very well. The overall profile of this shoe is sleek and we think they would look at home on and off the course, giving them great versatility, making them appeal to a wide range of golfers.
- Read our full Puma Ignite Elevate Golf Shoe Review
How we test 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. This is especially important when trying to find the best waterproof golf shoes because that way we can test how well these shoes operate in the wet, as well as assessing their grip, stability and durability across different terrains.
We do this by just playing the game because we undoubtedly put ourselves in odd positions and stances during each round, mimicking the standard conditions any normal golfer would play in. That being said, before testing we will usually 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, because we tell it how it is for all golf product reviews, not just golf shoes.
How to choose golf shoes
What factors should you consider when trying to find the best waterproof golf shoe for you? Let's take a look.
1. Waterproofing
Obviously, in this section of the golf shoe market, waterproofing is the most important factor. Most golf shoes these days offer waterproof protection but some, like the models above, are better than others. As such be sure to take an in-depth look at golf shoe specifications to see if the brand says a shoe is 100 percent waterproof, or just water-resistant. Also it is worth checking if a model has a waterproof guarantee or warranty as well, you'll find this on many of the options on our best winter golf shoes list.
2. Comfort
As you would expect, comfort is also an important factor here. Golf shoes regardless of conditions or weather must be comfortable, with the most comfortable golf shoes having specific foam technologies, or sole designs that are built to keep your feet feeling well supported and fresh all day long on the golf course.
3. Grip/Stability/Traction
Given how slippery and difficult conditions can be in the wet, your golf shoes have to be able to perform in terms of stability and grip too. If your feet are slipping on the ground then chances are you won't hit a good shot, or you wont have the confidence to commit to a golf shot in the first place. As such be aware of what research brands have done into traction patterns, lugs and spikes on the golf shoes so you know which models will make sure your feet don't slip.
4. Looks
This is entirely subjective but you need to make sure you like the look of your golf shoes and there is a model above for all different types of fashion sense. You can go for classic finishes like the FootJoy Pro SL or the G/FORE Gallivanter respectively. Or if you want a model to stand out, we also like the Ecco Biom H4 or Under Armour HOVR Drive 2.
5. Budget
The last factor to consider is budget. With most of the models above there are designs at different price points so simply go for a design with a price you are happy to commit to.
While there are many excellent waterproof options on the market right now, why not also check out some of the best options for warmer conditions too, including our guide to the most breathable golf shoes, best golf shoes for walking and best casual golf shoes.
FAQs
Do golf shoes need to be waterproof?
It's not essential you have waterproof golf shoes, but it's very helpful if they are. Waterproof golf shoes will keep you dry if you're suddenly caught in a rain shower or if the ground is wet underfoot. Even if you primarily play in dry conditions, have a waterproof shoe will give you peace of mind that your feet will stay dry.
Are waterproof golf shoes heavier than normal golf shoes?
Generally, yes. Waterproof golf shoes tend to be made of more robust materials that protect your feet from the elements on the golf course. Compared to a pair of golf shoes that are designed for summer conditions, the best waterproof shoes will be a little more robust and are generally made from leather compared to the mesh materials on some of the best options for breathability.
Should you buy a spiked or spikeless pair of waterproof golf shoes?
Spiked golf shoes will generally tend to offer more grip on wetter terrain, so are generally a better option for winter golf. But that doesn't mean to say that spikeless golf shoes are not as grippy, with some of the best spikeless golf shoes offering great traction on any terrain. Ultimately, your buying decision will come down to what you're most comfortable with. Some players prefer to use spikeless golf shoes as they offer more versatility, but others may choose to use spiked shoes as they help to deliver, generally, more traction.
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