What to Look for in Golfing Shoes

Aren't you glad you're picking golfing shoes in this century? Your golfing shoes don't need to be boring anymore. In fact, they even come in three major styles, each with dozens of style variations. Furthermore, technology is no longer confined to those fancy basketball sneakers - golfing shoes have also harnessed these new features and taken them to create the kind that don't only provide comfort but can even mean a difference in your golf swing.

If you're in the market for a good pair of golfing shoes, here are some things you might consider before buying:

Your golfing shoes must fit.


Don't be carried away by the new styles or those fancy pairs worn by your golf buddies during your last game. Feet are built differently, that's why there are different styles for different shapes and forms. When choosing your golfing shoes, pick the pair that will fit your feet comfortably - not too tight and not too loose either. If your shoes are too small for your feet, you'll be walking with a limp before the day is over.

Try going for a 15- or 20-minute walk first before trying on a pair of golfing shoes. Walking expands your feet so you won't make the mistake of choosing a pair that will later on become too tight after a few holes. Try the shoes on for size and walk around for about 10 to 15 minutes in the store. This should give you a good feel of whether it's the right fit or not.

Consider your unique feet.


If you have problems with your ankles and prefer more support, try getting a pair of boot-style golfing shoes. These shoes have the appropriate height and will maintain your ankles in the right position. Just make sure the make does not impede your walking and swinging.

If you wear orthotics, simply take them out of your regular day-to-day shoes and put them into your golf shoes. It's a good idea to maintain these support pads for optimum comfort.

You'll be walking around with your golfing shoes.


By the time you finish a round of golf, you would have walked several miles in your golfing shoes. Choose shoes that offer stability and excellent traction. Stability gives you confidence and superior balance during movement while traction ensures your shoes are where they should be - on the ground.

Traction is also provided by spikes or cleats. The metal spiked shoes of yore are becoming less popular although many golfers including pros still use them. Metal spikes are longer and sharper so your golfing shoes have a better grip on the ground. The only problem is that they do punch holes into the greens and tear up the ground. They are also quite uncomfortable when you're playing on a hard surface.

A good alternative are golf shoes with plastic spikes. They offer traction but are softer and gentler on the greens than their metal counterparts. They are also lighter so you won't get too tired easily. Other than that, most plastic spiked shoes are great at spreading your weight on your feet, creating more comfort and less holes. They are also replaceable.

You'll be playing in different weather conditions.


Whether you're playing in summer or in winter, it pays to have a different pair of golfing shoes for the different weather conditions prevalent during your game. In summer when it's hot, you might want to choose golfing shoes that offer breathable comfort.

For this, you can choose a pair made with good quality leather. Leather is tough but it's also soft enough to keep you comfortable while walking. You can also try golfing sandals, especially if you're the kind of golfer who moves around in a golf cart. The sandal's open-toed style allows ventilation for your feet so you don't feel hot even in the middle of the day. They're not recommended for long walks though, because the straps can rub against your feet and chafe your skin.

In winter, you might want to try on the more classic saddle golfing shoes with good waterproof protection. These keep your feet warmer and also keep moisture away. Even if it rained, you don't need to walk around with slushy shoes because of its weatherproofing. You can also get the golfing shoes that are styled as boots, which offer not just protection from the weather but also ankle support and protection from the rain.