Comfort is essential for golf shoes, especially considering that golfers will average 11,948 steps during a typical 18-hole round. Fortunately, the golf shoe market is burgeoning with a diversity of spiked, spikeless and casual sneaker golf shoe options.
With an abundance of golf shoes to choose from, it's now harder than ever to narrow it down to a single pair that's right for your feet. To help choose the right pair of golf shoes, we've tried, tested and picked out the most comfortable offerings on the market and for more advice in this market, be sure to check out our guide on the best golf shoes as well.
WATCH: Dan Parker tests over 25 pairs of the best golf shoes to crown his 2024 winner!
Comfort means different things to different golfers. 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. Ultimately, it's down to your own preference.
Of course, comfort is just one factor in purchasing golf shoes, 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 spikeless golf shoes.
Dan is Golf Monthly's resident shoe expert. Having tested a lot of different models, from loads of brands, he is in a good position to let you know about the pros and cons of specific golf shoes. Then when it comes to spikeless specific models, he knows what regular golfers look for in a shoe - comfort, waterproofing, stability, looks, value and so on and so forth.
The Quick List
Another classy, well designed and premium golf shoe offering from Ecco. While it's probably not a shoe for those looking for maximum support through the swing, its nonetheless an incredibly comfortable, premium and classy design.
The aesthetic of this shoe makes it a real standout. It's sneaker-style look will turn heads on the course and the comfort and stability on offer is excellent, but the tongue-design may feel slightly tight to some.
One of the best looking golf shoes we've ever laid our eyes on and an immediate classic in its category. The Gallivan2r is everything that is great about the G/FORE brand blended into one classy, sporty and deceptively comfortable spikeless shoe.
When it comes to modern casual golf shoes, the Air Pegasus ‘89 G is one of our favorites. Stunning looks and incredible on/off course versatility is all packaged up in a comfortable and grippy golf shoe that will please sneaker enthusiasts and golfers alike.
A Tour-validated golf shoe, the Field mixes traditional style with modern technology beautifully. Arguably the best-looking shoes anywhere, they also deliver on comfort, feel and waterproof protection.
Another highly comfortable and practical offering from Skechers that boasts all year round wearability thanks to the outsole. While it's not Skechers' best looking golf shoe, it's certainly a shoe that offers exemplary arch support and heel cushioning.
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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. One of the most comfortable golf shoes you will ever wear.
This is a premium, thoughtful, comfortable and good looking golf shoe that raises the bar for the adidas Tour360 franchise once again.
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.
The NEXT% 2 from Nike has been updated to deliver game-changing comfort and performance. It also looks great and offers excellent stability and traction.
Most Comfortable Golf Shoes
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Top pick
Ecco has a reputation for designing some of the comfiest shoes on the market. The LT1 is our top pick and it definitely delivers on Ecco's claim to 'setting a new standard for lightness and comfort'.
Let's start with technology. The LT1 features Ecco Lytr—a new midsole foam designed to provide unparalleled cushioning and rebound—alongside its Fluidform technology. In testing, this cushioning felt superb and walking was a joyful experience. The energy return helped minimize foot fatigue and gave our tester a real bounce in their strides along the fairways. Plus, we found the shoe's to be impressively lightweight too.
The outsole is solid, but nothing to shout about. We felt you could confidently play these shoes in dry and damp conditions, but we wouldn't recommend these for seriously wet conditions—it's a spikeless golf shoe after all. That said, the LT1 has a fully waterproof upper so you don't have to worry about damp feet even if you do get caught in light rain.
We tested a BOA design which, depending on your feet, can divide opinion. We believe the LT1 is one of the best executions of the BOA lacing system we've tested. You can accurately adjust how tight or lose your shoe is with a simple twist. However, softness, comfort and ergonomics do compromise support through the golf swing. Our tester did find their foot rolling around during the swing rather than being supported.
If comfort is king for you, then the LT1 is definitely a model to try. But if you're a fast swinger seeking maximum support and firmness, we'd suggest something like FootJoy Pro/SLX Carbon or Under Armour Drive Pro SL.
- Read our full Ecco LT1 Golf Shoe Review
Best on/off course comfort
Under Armour has revamped their golf shoe range for 2024, with notable updates to the Phantom, which the brand touts as "your new go-to golf shoe."
From first glance, we felt the aesthetics of the shoe just looked comfortable. The upper is soft to the touch and looking from above it gives the impression that it is actually wider—reminding us of the moon boot style.
Like the best Under Armour golf shoes, the Phantom features comfort technology such as SpeedForm 2.0 sockliner for underfoot support and HOVR cushioning for stability. In testing, the shoes gave solid support and strong locked-in feeling which was a helpful for committing to various shots off the tee from the rough and the fairway. Similar to the Under Armour Charged Curry, we found the knit collar made the shoe slightly difficult to get on.
The Phantom also has a waterproof membrane and a one-year warranty. Despite this, we'd recommend these shoes for the summer months because of the spikeless design. All in all, the Phantoms provide excellent comfort that delivers both on and off the course.
- Read our full Under Armour Phantom Golf Shoe Review
Best insole comfort
If you're looking for comfort and are a fan of the classic golf shoe design, then these might be for you. The Gallivan2r blends the classic design of the G/FORE Gallivanter with the sportiness of the G/FORE MG4+ amazingly well.
Indeed, the comfort is just as impressive as the aesthetic. The Gallivan2r features the classic G/FORE dimpled insole which massages your feet as you walk, as well as a 3D moulded heel cup to secure your foot in place. In testing, we particularly enjoyed the the padding around the heel which removed any uncomfortable rubbing.
The outsole features a rubber cleat system, 13 on each shoe, which performed solidly in different conditions during testing. This is a spikeless golf shoe and there are grippier models out there but arguably none of them look this good.
- Read our full G/FORE Gallivan2r Golf Shoe Review
Best sneaker
Many classic sneaker designs such as Air Jordan are being made into golf shoes and we're all for it. The Air Pegasus '89 golf shoe is one of our favorites...
In testing, the underfoot comfort was incredibly soft and we enjoyed the discreet Zoom Air unit in the heel which contributed to that rebound feeling when walking. This unit results in a heel area that feels slightly higher than other golf shoes which takes getting used to.
The Pegasus' wet rubber traction delivers superb multi directional grip on all types of terrain and the outsole will keep its grip if the ground underfoot is damp. While, the synthetic leather overlays offer full waterproof protection, there are suede sections on the shoe and we'd recommend spraying some protector on these areas.
The aesthetic is ideal for summer as the colorway can easily be styled with some of the best designer golf clothing and it's incredibly versatile off the course too.
- Read our full Nike Air Pegasus '89 Golf Shoe Review
Best brogue style
Golf traditionalists looking for comfort combined with a classic aesthetic will love this shoe. The shoes may look visually traditional but remain light. Admittedly the design wont be for everyone, but we appreciated the styling, along with the other unique designs in the Premiere Series range, like the Wilcox and Tarlow.
Right out of the box, the shoes provided outstanding comfort. In testing, we didn't notice any uncomfortable rubbing nor did we have to break them in. Crucially, these fit true to size and there's also medium and wide fits as well, which is handy for those golfers with wider feet.
The grip was more than sufficient, demonstrated by the lack of slippage during testing when we made several tricky stances in wet and dry conditions. Being a spikeless design, the Premiere Series Field won't stack up against the spiked models in this regard, which explains why FootJoy have released a spiked version of this shoe anyway.
- Read our full FootJoy Premiere Series Field Golf Shoe Review
Best for heel support
Skechers are best known for pioneering shoes that deliver top-tier comfort and ergonomics. The Go Golf Blade shoe is their new, stylish offering that's worn by Matt Fitzpatrick on Tour.
Surprisingly, the Blade doesn't feature the Arch Fit technology which Skechers is known for, but this is no issue because the arch support is still great. In testing, what really stood out to us was the Slip-in design. The heel area is robust and rigid to put weight on it while you slip your foot in. This is complimented by a Heel Pillow which offers the most comprehensive padding and cushioning in the heel area of any shoe we have tested.
The shoe is 100% waterproof and the hybrid style outsole, which seems to have both spikeless and spiked elements, really gave good traction and confidence to swing aggressively in them. We did find the toe area a little cramped, so we'd suggest going half a size above for more comfort. When it comes to comfort, Skechers really has nailed it. Any flat footed golfers will appreciate the arch support too.
- Read our full Skechers Go Golf Blade GF Slip-ins Golf Shoe Review
Best from 2022
The Ecco Biom C4 has been around for a while now, but when it comes to comfort it still holds its own against any of the latest releases.
Like the FootJoy Premiere Series Field, the C4's are comfortable right out of the box and don't require breaking in. This comes as a result of features like the Ecco performance leather and the Fluidform technology which simultaneously cushions the feet and provides great rebound and bounce when walking.
The leather and cushioning doesn't mean the C4's are stuffy. The Exhaust Grid technology scoops fresh air towards the sole of the foot to keep it cool and when combined with the Ortholite insole, the C4's are definitely one of the most breathable shoes we have tested.
The MTN grip outsole provided good stability and grip. They're 100% waterproof and there's a BOA option too. Overall, the C4's offer supreme comfort, good grip, all round breathability and a sporty look. What's not to like...
- Read our full Ecco Biom C4 Golf Shoe Review
Top spiked pick
The 2024 adidas' Tour360 line is our top spiked pick for the most comfortable golf shoes.
Adidas have completely revamped the Tour360 with new technology such as the 'T-shape' microfiber heel. Essentially, this is a textile that runs from the inside heel to the top of the collar. The result is a shoe that we felt is noticeably softer and more comfortable than its predecessor. There's also the new Torsion Bridge, with the 360Wrap which provided our tester support by surrounding their foot during the swing.
The moulded spikes from the previous iteration have been swapped for seven replaceable spikes. We welcomed this change as not only does it extend the lifespan, it also ensures the grip and stability is second to none, especially when combined with the new flex grooves on the outsole. We think the new Tour 360 is definitely one of the best spiked golf shoes in its class this year. It looks fantastic and is a very comfortable shoe.
- Read our full adidas Tour360 24 Golf Shoe Review
Most supportive
Since it started releasing golf shoes in 2016, Under Armour has positioned itself as the 'performance' brand in the market. The Drive Pro is the brand's flagship 2024 design and its packed with plenty of technology.
In testing the shoe, the Swing Support System kept our tester's foot planted and supported throughout the swing. The new midsole utilizes softer, energy returning foam on the medial side of the foot. This is paired with firmer, more supportive materials on the lateral side of the foot for additional support. We were also impressed by how lightweight the shoe felt (just 12oz per shoe).
Our only qualms were the writing on the side of the shoe and the materials don't feel as premium as other models on the market. That said, the the Drive Pro comes at a lower price compared to other gold shoes. It's a great spiked shoe that delivers grip, support and comfort.
- Read our full Under Armour Drive Pro Golf Shoe Review
Best cushioning
The Infinity Tour Next% 2 needs no introduction—it's worn by Brooks Koepka and features on our list for best golf shoes for walking and best spiked golf shoes respectively.
We took these straight out of the box into a 72-hole event and they immediately provided excellent comfort. The Air Zoom unit gives that cloud-like feeling underfoot while the cushioned insole, midsole foam and Flyweave material provided stability when hitting from uneven lies on the course.
We were pleased to learn that you get a two-year waterproof warranty to go along with the 100% waterproof construction. This iteration of the Infinity Tour Next% 2 has added additional spikes in the forefoot, raising the total of spikes to six, which is two more than the previous Infinity Tour Next%.
The Infinity Tour Next% 2 golf shoes are excellent value for money and give you everything you need for an all-year round golf shoe.
- Read our full Nike Air Zoom Infinity Tour Next% 2 Golf Shoe Review
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? 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. Ultimately, it depends what you prioritize in a golf shoe.
Waterproofing - If you live somewhere that gets a lot of precipitation then waterproof golf shoes are non-negotiable. The best designs will keep your feet bone dry but if you play in consistently dry conditions then water-resistant or partially waterproof golf shoes might be a better option.
Styling - Thankfully modern golf shoe design has seen many brands not just create traditional, classic-looking shoes, but also casual sneaker shoes that can be used off the golf course too.
Budget - Finally be aware of your budget because you can find a good, comfortable golf shoe at every price point. We've even complied a list of the best budget golf shoes here.
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.
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