When it comes to winter golf, there’s no greater game-changer than the golf boot. The best golf boots keep your feet warm, snug and dry while delivering excellent grip and traction in punishing conditions. But what makes golf boots so special?
To be honest, it's all the same factors that make a good hiking boot. We'd even go as far to suggest replacing your walking boots with a pair of golf boots—you will have made an investment that will double up for both dog walking and playing in muddy conditions. Why? Click here to find out in our guide on why golf gear is best for dog walkers.
Golf boots will keep your feet feeling so comfortable and prevent injuries on slippery slopes. Plus they also offer the added benefit of decent traction when it comes to swinging the club on a sticky fairway. If the higher ankle fit of a boot just isn't for you check out our best waterproof golf shoes guide or our look at the best golf shoes for wide feet guide. But if a boot is what you are after, read on...
The Quick List
One of the best-looking and performing golf boots we've tested with the premium materials and a clever lacing system standing out in our testing.
A lack of support in the heel, plus divisive aesthetics could put some off, but the impressive waterproofing abilities and brilliant traction in the sole ensure it delivers in plenty of other key areas.
This is an eye-catching boot that is beautifully styled, but most importantly is really comfortable to wear and keeps feet warm and dry.
They are comfy, warm and, importantly, fully waterproof. Some may be put off by the aesthetics but, with all the other boxes being ticked, they certainly deliver as a winter boot.
This is a stunning boot that performs as good as it looks. Additionally it is very comfortable, keeps your feet warm and dry, and the traction is good for winter golf.
The Adicross GTX Spikeless shoe better resembles a hiking boot than a traditional shoe, making it the perfect choice for trudging through wet rough, muddy fairways and on rainy days.
Best Golf Boots 2025
Duca Del Cosma Bologna Golf Boot
Boasting five different boot models for men and seven for women, Duca Del Cosma is one of the market leaders when it comes to winter golf shoes.
Aesthetically, the golf boot might split opinion but it's crucial to remember that it's substance over style with this type of shoe. The Bologna, however, is probably one of the best examples of a visually appealing golf boot. In the black and orange colorway I tested it in, I think it looks like a smart, premium, and subtle golf boot. I actually received quite a few compliments on my first day of testing them.
I also really liked the Quick Lacing System too, giving a sporty look and yet I found it to be easy and convenient to use as well. This lacing system gave a solid, comfortable fit that tightens and loosens in areas normal laces can't achieve.
I must admit it was strange for a golf boot to use a spikeless outsole rather than conventional spikes, because this is a shoe designed to be worn in the worst of the worst conditions when it's wet underfoot - why not use conventional spikes to be safe? However, I didn't have any problems with grip while I was testing these on a damp-ish day, and it was solid in some wetter conditions in my testing.
- Read our full Duca Del Cosma Bologna Golf Boot review
Nike Air Zoom Infinity Tour NEXT% Shield Shoe
Certainly a leading player in the best golf boot market, the Air Zoom Infinity Tour NEXT% Shield is a strong all-around product.
Looks-wise, these boots have split opinion among consumers but I think this is one of the best-looking winter golf shoes on the market right now - especially when you consider how difficult it is to make a golf boot look as stylish as its summer rival. The iron grey colorway that I tested did not look out of place with any outfit and they also hid mud and dirt well too - a significant plus point, especially in the winter.
Traction was another huge plus point especially from the balls of your feet when swinging on wet tee boxes or in slick fairways. While there are only four protruding plastic spikes underneath, they delivered nicely and will keep your stance stable throughout the swing. Of course the waterproofing here is also top notch too.
Now admittedly these are not the most comfortable golf shoes out there. The heel in particular is an area I think could be improved. The back consists of a hard plastic and an inefficient amount of cushioning which could potentially lead to blisters or simply discomfort for some. I admit I did not experience this, but everyone's feet are different so these are worth trying on before buying to see if there is any discomfort here.
- Read our full Nike Air Zoom Infinity Tour NEXT% Shield review
Duca Del Cosma Palazzo Golf Boot
If you are after a great-looking. versatile pair of golf boots then the Duca del Cosma Palazzo might be the best model for you. Featuring an outer cow leather that is exceptionally soft, the boots also have a faux fur lining around the top of the collar and inside the tongue which immediately gives these boots a stylish and a cosy appearance. The packaging equals the luxuriousness of the boots and first impression is that they look too good to wear for playing golf or any other outdoor activity for that matter, and you could happily wear them as a day-to-day lifestyle boot.
When you slip them on, they fit nice and snug, especially around the ankle and feel like a comfy pair of slippers. I also thought they were ultra-lightweight, comfortable, and fit true to size as well which is a good thing to know with specific brands.
When the boot is laced up, the tongue does gape open slightly, but this allows you to pop your trousers inside the boot with ease, and in my opinion this design detail adds to the overall modern look. Finally I thought the stability of the outsole was good too because of the full coverage of 5mm nubs which make up the Airplay VI outsole.
- Read our full Duca Del Cosma Palazzo Golf Boot Review
Puma DRYLBL Golf Boots
Another boot to consider is the Puma DRYLBL Boot which might be the best-looking model in this list in my opinion because of the sleek black finish. They look especially good with black trousers.
But importantly performance is not limited to the aesthetic. I thought they were comfortable right out of the box and felt great too. The upper is made of a neoprene material, which adds to the comfort around your ankle whilst it also stops the boot from feeling rigid, nor did I feel any uncomfortable rubbing from said material either. The shoe then has a FUSIONFOAM Midsole which helps with energy transfer, while also keeping your foot more comfortable.
Obviously these boots are fully waterproof and they also have a little protective zip-over for the laces to make sure they are not getting wet too. This is a great feature as, on some waterproof golf shoes, the tongue area can let water in. Grip was also outstanding here and even in super wet conditions, I didn't feel any slippage. The sole is made of a rubber material, which aids durability and helps with traction, while it also has spikes and moulded rubber nubs for further stability.
- Read our full Puma DRYLBL Golf Boots Review
Duca del Cosma Olivia Boot
The Olivia golf boot is just of many new editions from Duca Del Cosma's extensive collection of shoes and boots—all designed to keep your feet snug and dry in harsh winter conditions. It's clear that the Italian brand leave nothing on the table when it comes to providing women with a range of shoe styles and we loved the Olivia when we tested it.
But it's not just looks...
This shoe performs too. In testing, I found the shoes were exceptionally comfortable whilst providing great protection from the elements too. Traction is just as important too and these provided suitable grip for winter golf. The Olivia is available in black and brown colorways for a smart, understated look.
- Read our full Duca del Cosma Olivia Boot Review
Adidas Women's Adicross GTX Spikeless Golf Shoe
A brilliant winter shoe. The Adicross GTX Spikeless shoe better resembles a hiking boot than a traditional shoe, making it the perfect choice for trudging through wet rough, muddy fairways and on rainy days. These shoes will definitely keep your feet warm and dry even in the worst weather.
There are some absolute advantages to owning a pair of the best golf shoes that are designed like boots and made from a waterproof, breathable fabric like these, especially if you play a lot of golf through the cold and wet winter months. The high back design prevents any water from being able to slip down the sides of your shoes and soak your socks, while the Gore tex lining works wonders at keeping your feet bone dry. This offering from adidas should definitely be on your shortlist if you play in wet and muddy conditions.
- Read our full Adidas Women's Adicross GTX Spikeless Golf Shoe Review
How we test golf boots
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 boots listed above has been personally used by a member of the Golf Monthly team while our writer Dan Parker heads up all golf shoe testing.
This is the best way of testing a golf boot is to use it in the real world over a number of weeks. That allows us to see how they perform when variables like weather, ground conditions, different stances and lies all change.
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 a golf boot
Golf boots come in many different shapes and have a ton of different features. From waterproofing outer shells to different grip styles, there is a lot to consider when purchasing your next pair of golf boots. For that reason, we’ve put together a list of handy tips that you need to consider when purchasing your next pair of golf boots. Check them out below
Spiked or spikeless?
The best golf boots come in spiked or spikeless designs and there are pros and cons of 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 boot.
Waterproofing
If you live somewhere that gets a lot of rain then a waterproof boot is a must. They must keep your feet dry because nobody wants to play with wet feet. However if you play golf somewhere that gets a lot of sun, then the other factors in this section may be more important to you.
Many players choose to have one pair of golf shoes for winter and another, lighter pair for summer to keep them fresh and suit different requirements. For that reason you may want to copy them and get yourself a light summer pair of golf shoes but a pair of sturdy boots for winter.
Getting the right fit
When picking out golf boots, getting the right fit is important because otherwise, blisters can build up. Your feet sliding around inside the shoe isn't great for stability either. 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.
It is also worth considering getting different laces when looking to get the right-fit golf shoe. 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.
Comfort and support
Similar to getting the right fit, you need to get a boot that is going to give you ample comfort and support during your round. Look for shoes that have padded-out soles and are cushioned on the inside, to give your feet a spongey ride. You'll also want to ensure that the boots don't come up too high around your ankles and offer excellent support to your achilles while you walk.
Styling
Thankfully there are ton of different golf shoe designs out there, not just the traditional classic-looking shoes made by brands. As we have seen from the boots above, there are some trendy 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.
Golf boots come in all shapes sizes. There are so many different options out there to consider and while the best golf boots are some of the top products on the market, there are plenty of other golf shoes you should try before you buy. For example, take a look at our guides on the best golf sneakers, the best winter golf shoes or even the best golf shoes for under $100.
FAQs
Can you play golf in a pair of boots?
Yes, you can play golf in a pair of boots. You may feel a little more locked in when you swing through your shot, compared to if you were playing with a standard pair of golf shoes. But golf boots offer more support, comfort and rigidity to your ankle than a classic golf shoe might. For that reason, they can be excellent for players looking for more support around the course.
Can you wear your golf boots to go hiking?
Yes, you can! You may want to ensure that your golf boots don't have spikes on them when you go hiking though, as that may become annoying or slippery when walking on gravel paths or concrete. If you want to double up and use your golf boot as a hiking boot, spikeless offerings are your best bet.
Will wearing boots restrict my swing?
Not necessarily. While some golfers may be skeptical that a golf boot might restrict their swing, preventing them from twisting their ankles through the shot, boots can help to give support and strength to your ankles and keep your feet locked in.
