Best BOA Golf Shoes

Best BOA Golf Shoes

Practicality and comfort are two things you can't go without on the golf course. No one likes to play a slow round of golf and neither do they like to be uncomfortable. Comfort is key, especially when it comes to your footwear, as your average golfer will walk 6.6 miles during a round of golf. That means you're going to want to have something supportive and comfortable on your feet, that will keep your mind focused on the game at hand. That's where BOA golf shoe comes in. 

If you've not heard of BOA golf shoes before, they are a specific kind of shoe that feature a unique lacing system designed to spread even pressure throughout your entire foot. Aptly named to pay homage to the boa constrictor snake, the system features a wind up dial that can be twisted to loosen or tighten a wire lace up system across the shoe. The system was conceived in 2001, by American company BOA, who initially implemented the system into the boots of snowboarders to help them comfortably pop their boots on and off. And since then, the brand have expanded, to help brands like FootJoy, Adidas, and Ecco produce some of the best golf shoes on the market. 

So why should you consider buying a pair of BOA golf shoes? Well, if you're a golfer looking for more comfort in your footwear, then BOA shoes are an excellent option to consider. While traditional lace-up shoes are still a fantastic choice for any player, the fit BOA shoes offer deliver a better spread of pressure across your whole foot, which can make them more comfortable to walk in. That also means they're easier to slip on and off, with just a couple of clicks of the BOA dial releasing the grip of the shoe on your foot, meaning you'll be ready to slip these shoes on in a matter of seconds and immediately be ready to play. 

Below we've set out a list of some of the best BOA shoes currently available on the market. But while you're here, why not also check out some of our other shoe guides, on the best spikeless golf shoes, best spiked golf shoes and the best waterproof golf shoes. 

Best BOA Golf Shoes

Perhaps one of the most innovative golf shoes on this list, the Tour Alpha BOA has many of the same features as the standard laced version of the Tour Alpha but comes with a new Wrapid 2.0 fit that features two BOA dials on the heel and side of the shoe. They are designed to help golfers lock their feet in more comfortable while reducing the pressure on the top of the foot. 

FootJoy claims that this is supposed to help the golfer feel more connected to the ground while also giving them greater power and support in their shot. When we tested this shoe, it was a seriously comfortable alternative compared to wearing a laced pair of golf trainers and felt like it gave us a great connection with the ground which made us feel more comfortable swinging through our shots with a lot of power. Admittedly this is an expensive golf shoe, but it is one of the flagship models in the exceptional FootJoy range and if you are looking for something that is going to offer an excellent fit and even better comfort then this is perhaps one of the best shoes for you.

• Read our full FootJoy Tour Alpha Double Boa Shoe Review

What Skechers has earned a reputation for – and this applies right across the best Skechers golf shoes – is supreme levels of comfort. This rule applies to the Elite 5 Slip 'In and this pair is definitely one of most comfortable golf shoes that we've worn. We’ve never put on a pair of golf shoes before without carefully avoiding applying too much pressure on the back, obviously for fear of causing lasting damage. With the Skechers Go Golf Elite 5 Slip 'In shoes, and courtesy of an extra stiff back, this is not a problem – they slip on just like a pair of comfy slippers – and they feel just as good. So, no shoe horn required. 

Meanwhile, the Twist-Fit dial system located on the side makes them easy to fasten. Again, we can see the appeal for those who suffer with a stiff back in the morning, as there’s no need to struggle with lacing up, plus you haven't got to worry about the laces gradually loosening over time and needing to be retied at the most inconvenient of moments. You can’t talk about Skechers without mentioning the removable Arch Fit insole, which provides podiatrist-certified arch support. Combined with the Heel Pillow, you’re guaranteed a comfortable and ‘locked in’ feel, which is something we also experienced when testing the Pro 5 Hyper shoe worn by Matt Fitzpatrick.

• Read our full Skechers Go Golf Elite 5 Slip 'In golf shoe review

This environmentally-friendly golf shoe not only looks great, but feels fantastic on your feet all while reducing harmful ammonia and phosphorous in industrial wastewater - a win-win for the environment and golfers looking for a stylish new spikeless golf shoe.

First things first, the Genem WG GTXs look fantastic. The shoe is currently available in three colorways, but I tested the white and black pair for a few rounds on the course to see if the performance matched the aesthetics. The comfort was instantaneous when sliding into these BOA-powered shoes, largely down to the Mizuno Enerzy - a super soft midsole that has been taken from Mizuno running shoes and transferred into the Genem WG GTX golf shoes.

The upper of the Genem WG GTXs is created through recycled synthetic materials and the BOA wire is also recycled. The BOA system worked seamlessly and provided a really secure fit when walking and swinging.

• Read our full Mizuno Genem WG GTX BOA Golf Shoe review

The Ecco Biom G5 aims to bring together the best elements of two previous Biom shoes into one feature-packed model. Notably, the cleated outsole of the Biom G3 and the athletic look of the impressive Biom H4. We have to say, Ecco has done a great job and the addition of the BOA lacing system in the pair we tested is the cherry on top.

The first thing you’ll notice with the Biom G5 is the weight, or the lack of it, with the Biom G5 weighing 18 grams lighter than the Biom H4, no mean feat given the addition of the cleats on the outsole. Talking of the cleats, there are only six in this model, which are positioned at the very edge of the outsole to provide perimeter stability as well as excellent grip. 

It still features Ecco's Gore-Tex protection and wipe-clean characteristics of the leather upper, which make this a robust winter shoe option. What's more, the modern, athletic take on a heritage shoe will appeal to a wide range of ages and visual tastes among the four colorways available.

• Read our full Ecco Biom G5 Shoe Review

Golf shoe styling has moved on a lot in recent times. From particularly traditional designs to new sporty shoes that boast a lot of flair, manufacturers are constantly breaking the mold, designing stylish and eye-catching shoes. And that epitomizes the work that G/Fore do, with their G/Drive golf shoe being a fine example of how the brand have blended sleek designs with modern and unique styling.  

The G/Drive boasts a spikeless sole and also comes with a cable BOA lacing system. As you can see from the images, this consists of two dials that sit to the side of the tongue that you can loosen and tighten to suit your preferred fit. These are perhaps one of the best BOA golf shoes on the market right now and I was impressed by how well they helped pull the top of the shoe onto my feet for a snug but very comfortable fit. Just as you'd find with the BOA lacing system on some of the best FootJoy golf shoes, the dials were easy to use and also add to the premium look of the shoe. 

The blue and white ‘Twilight’ version we tested on the golf course combines a fairly traditional color combination with some ultra modern flashes, like the large heel area and the trademark G/FORE skull and crossbones branding on the tongue. One final thing worth pointing out is, having heard that G/FORE shoes can come up a little snug, we'd recommend going half a size up from normal. 

• Read our full G/FORE G/Drive Twilight Golf Shoe Review

We love both the BOA and laced versions of this shoe, we included it in our guide on the best golf shoes for walking because underfoot it feels incredibly soft and during our testing it performed at such a high level over some long days at the golf course. There is more than enough grip too thanks to the seven strategically placed cleats.

As far as which model to go for, this is all about personal preference. The Wrapid fastening system in the BOA gives an excellent fit but so does the laced option for those who want more of a traditional look. Finally the looks are very modern and almost trainer-like which we definitely are a fan of. The colors FootJoy have gone for are very good too.

• Read our full FootJoy HyperFlex BOA Shoe Review

The brilliant adidas Codechaos has an all-new look for 2022. Its similarly bold to the 2020 model featured on our best adidas golf shoes guide but now comes with a new wraparound outsole that adds a unique looks as well as more grip and stability. It's a super comfortable golf shoe too. The Codechaos one of those golf shoes that you forget you are wearing, such is the nature of the comfort, support and grip on offer.

Plus as it comes in a BOA option, the fit is superb and your foot feels nice and secure inside of the shoe and doesn't feel too constricted either. It features adidas' Boost technology throughout the sole of the shoe - a technology we have become familiar with in the similarly excellent adidas Tour 360 and adidas Rebelcross golf shoes. As advertised by the brand, the Boost midsole gives instant comfort and the Codechaos 22 shoes took no time at all to break in. They also look fantastic and will add a sporty look to any golf outfit. 

• Read our full adidas Codechaos 22 Golf Shoe Review

When we tested the Ignite NXT golf shoes from Puma there were lots of things we liked. For starters we found it to be supremely comfortable, the grip and stability were both excellent despite being such a lightweight shoe and the price tag offered good value. It is one of the few BOA options in the Puma golf shoe range but it has a premium feel with the BOA dial being located on the top of the shoes tongue, making it very easy to adjust when you're on the course. 

These shoes are built from the ground up using Puma’s Pro-Form TPU outsole with an organically-altered traction pattern, featuring over 100 strategically placed directional hexagon lugs for maximum stability and traction. The contemporary and sporty look really jumps off the shelf and thanks to the sneaker's Soleshield, they are extremely easy to clean as well. Finally, we think the looks are a big plus point because they can be used both on and off the golf course. Overall it is an excellent, versatile, lightweight summer shoe that will suit those seeking comfort and a street/sporty look.

• Read our full Puma Ignite NXT 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. The shoes listed above have been personally used by a member of the Golf Monthly team, while our writer Dan Parker heads up all golf shoe testing on the site.

This is the best way of testing a golf shoe, as using it in the real world over a number of rounds allows us to see how they perform when variables change like weather, ground conditions, different stances, lies, and so on. We think this also gives us information on the little details as well. For example, our testing process allows us to see which brands come up small or large, which models start to rub a bit too much after 36 holes, and which designs can be used away from the golf course or for the drive home. We are very rigorous in our testing process 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 best golf shoe

The golf shoe market features a ton of high-tech options that can sometimes make picking the right shoe quite an overwhelming decision. If you're new to golf or if you're a single-figure handicapper, there are some things that we all need to consider when picking out our next pair of golf shoes. For that reason, we've put together below a list of the key things to consider when purchasing your next golf shoe. 

1. Spiked or spikeless?

Perhaps one of the most important considerations you need to make when purchasing your next pair of golf shoes is whether they have spikes (or cleats) on thier soles. Spiked shoes offer greater grip and stability and can be used in all weathers. But they are perhaps better suited to wet weather and colder climates when the ground is a little softer underfoot. If you're looking to improve your connection with the ground as you rip through your shots then spiked shoes are the way forward. 

But if you plan on playing primarily through the summer months, spikeless golf shoes are perhaps a slightly better bet. While they don't have cleats on their soles, spikeless shoes will typically have rubber teeth or a very grippy sole that gives golfers ample grip on harder, dryer terrain. For that reason, spikeless shoes are also more lightweight and offer greater breathability than a spiked shoe. Many of the spikeless shoes featured above feature cushioned rubber soles that give you spongy underfoot support. Plus they offer more versatility away from the course, with golfers able to wear these shoes on carpets inside the clubhouse.

2. Waterproofing

An essential feature that any good golf shoe should have is waterproofing. You never know when the rain could strike and there's nothing worse than having soaking wet feet while you're on the course. If you live in a warmer, dryer environment, you might consider other factors on this list more significant, but if you live in a colder, wetter climate, then having waterproof shoes is invaluable. 

Some players choose to wear a waterproof pair in winter and a lighter pair of shoes for summer. But one other important thing to factor in when purchasing a golf shoe is how easy your shoes are to clean. Sometimes breathable fabrics can be a lot more difficult to wipe down than a synthetic material or leather. 

3. Support

The average golfer walks between three and six miles during a round of golf. That means you can be stood on your feet for as much as five hours and for that reason, you need to protect your feet and give them as much support as possible to reduce the risk of fatigue and the amount of stress going through your feet. 

For that reason, it is imperative that you purchase a golf shoe that is both comfortable and gives added support to your feet while you walk. You should bear in mind also that when you purchase a pair of supportive shoes, you are not just protecting your feet but are also protecting your knees, hips and lower back from stress-related injuries. 

Plus if you already have an injury to any of these body parts, you should look to buy a shoe that has a spongey yet supple sole that cushions your step while you walk. You may also want to consider purchasing shoes that give you greater heel support too to reduce the stress traveling up your achillies while you walk. That can also prevent you from turning over on your ankles as you traverse the undulating fairways of your local golf club. 

One final thing to note is that golf shoes can sometimes sacrifice comfort and stability for performance-enhancing features to help you get more distance on your shots. That's why we recommend always trying out a shoe in your local club shop before you buy it. That way, you'll get a better idea of the feel and comfort the shoe provides. 

4. Getting the right fit

Along with support and comfort, you also need to get the right fit. If you purchase shoes that are too tight, you'll find you'll quickly develop blisters on your heel and on your big toe. But if you purchase a shoe that is too loose, you'll struggle to feel well connected to the shoe and therefore to the ground which will prevent you from playing good and powerful golf shots. 

For that reason, it is always important to try on a pair of shoes before you buy them and we have a couple of tips you need to bear in mind when doing that. When trying on a new pair of golf shoes, listen for the 'whoosh' sound when you slide your feet in. That is the sound of the air leaving the shoe, showing that it is the right size. On top of that, you need to do a walking test to ensure your feet aren't too restricted but are snug inside the shoe. 

Another tip is to try on the shoes with the type of socks that you intend to wear them with. If you're buying a pair of spiked shoes for winter wear, you may want to wear a slightly thicker sock to your fitting session than you would if you're buying a spikeless shoe for summer wear. The better the fit, the more control and power you are able to generate in your golf swing and that means you'll be more confident when addressing the golf ball. 

5. Styling

Obviously, style is perhaps one of the most important factors to consider when purchasing a pair of golf shoes. While brands have started to innovate with the technology involved in the golf shoes, they have also modernized some of the styles you see in golf shoes currently on the market. 

But that doesn't mean that they have neglected more traditional styles of golf shoe, with many brands producing classic styles that still look very trendy on the golf course. Whatever your style, there is something for everyone these days. Take a look at our best adidas golf shoes guide or our best FootJoy shoes guide for several other high-tech options that can help enhance your performance on the course.

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