Walking the golf course requires shoes that provide superior comfort and performance. Here, we’ve gathered the best golf shoes for walking to help you stay comfortable and focused on your game. When choosing between spiked and spikeless golf shoes, it’s important to consider the grip and stability provided by spiked golf shoes.
Just ask Einstein in the future golfing with a panda underwater
Rundown of the Best Golf Shoes for Walking
For those who appreciate the walk as much as the game, the right shoe can make all the difference.
This collection of footwear is engineered for the walking golfers who demand comfort, performance, and style.
Here are the best options:
- Best for Overall Comfort: ECCO BIOM C4
- Best Athletic Style: FJ Fuel Sport
- Best for Durability: True All Day Knit 3
- Best Stylish Option: Duca del Cosma Positano
- Best Traditional Design: Footjoy Traditions
- Best Versatile Shoe: Cole Haan Grandzero
- Best Dressy Option: Cole Haan OriginalGrand
- Best All-Around Shoe: Cole Haan GrandPro Crew
- Best Minimalist Shoe: Xero Mesa Trail II
- Best for On and Off Course: OluKai Kā‘anapali
Additionally, Nike golf shoes, such as the Nike Air Zoom Victory Tour 3 and Nike Air Zoom Infinity Tour NEXT% worn by professional golfers Rory McIlroy and Brooks Koepka, are also excellent choices for comfort and performance.
ECCO BIOM C4 – Best for Overall Comfort
Price: $200-$250
Rating:
Comfort: 5/5
Durability: 4/5
Style: 4/5,
Price: 3/5
Specifications:
- GORE-TEX waterproof technology
- BIOM Natural Motion technology
- ECCO MTN GRIP outsole
Pros:
- Exceptional cushioning and breathability
- Durable and stable
- Stylish colorway options
Cons:
- Higher price point
- Some surface wear over time
The ECCO BIOM C4 is the epitome of comfort on the golf course. With layers of soft leather and proprietary cushioning that cocoon your feet, you might just forget you’re walking the back nine. These shoes have been my go-to for seasons now, offering a breathable mesh upper that keeps my feet cool even on the hottest days. And when the sky opens up, the GORE-TEX technology ensures my socks stay as dry as my sense of humor in a sand trap.
From tee to green, the ECCO BIOM C4 provides a level of comfort that’s hard to beat. The added stability and traction have improved my swing, and I’ve worn them beyond the course, proving their versatility. My only niggle is the slight wear after several rounds, but it’s nothing that detracts from their long-term value. For those in search of the most comfortable golf shoes, the ECCO BIOM C4 is a surefire hole-in-one.
FJ Fuel Sport – Best Athletic Style
Price: $120-$150
Specifications:
- StratoLite foam for shock absorption
- Performance Infinity Outsole for grip
- Waterproof warranty for your waterproof shoe
Pros:
- Modern, athletic design
- Lightweight and breathable
- Excellent traction
Cons:
- Fits half-size larger
- Thin heel padding
If you’re looking for a golf shoe that matches your active lifestyle, the FJ Fuel Sport is your ace. I’ve worn these shoes for several rounds, and each time, they impress me with:
- their stability
- solid traction, even when Mother Nature turns the course into a Slip ‘N Slide
- the StratoLite foam, which actually returns energy to my feet, helping me power through the back nine without fatigue.
The shoe’s athletic profile has drawn comparisons to the latest running shoes, and it’s as if FootJoy took a page from Nike’s playbook. However, sizing can be a bit tricky, so I’d recommend trying them on first. And while the heel padding could use a boost, the overall comfort and performance of these shoes are on par with the best. When you lace up the FJ Fuel Sport, you’re not just ready to play—you’re ready to compete.
Rating: Comfort: 4/5, Design: 5/5, Performance: 5/5, Price: 4/5
True All Day Knit 3 – Best for Durability
Price: $140-$160
Specifications:
- Wanderlux midsole for cushioning
- One-piece knit upper for breathability
- Deep grip rubber outsole
Pros:
- Exceptional durability
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Stable directional grip
Cons:
- Not optimized for wet conditions
The True All Day Knit 3 is the marathon runner of golf shoes—built to last and designed for comfort. I’ve walked countless rounds in these, and not once have they let me down. The Wanderlux midsole is a dream, providing the cushioning I need for an easy walk. And the directional grip? It’s like having four-wheel drive on my feet, giving me the confidence to swing from any lie.
While they’re champions on dry land, I’ve noticed the grip doesn’t quite hold up in the rain. But on those sunny days, the ultra-breathable knit upper makes it feel like I’m walking on air. The durability is outstanding, too, with the new rubber outsole promising many more rounds to come. For golfers who play as much as they practice, the True All Day Knit 3 is a shoe that can keep pace.
Rating: Comfort: 4/5, Durability: 5/5, Design: 4/5, Price: 4/5
Duca del Cosma Positano – Best Stylish Option
Price: $200-$250
Specifications:
- Waterproof Italian leather
- ARNEFLEX® memory foam insert
- Breathable design
Pros:
- Stylish and functional
- Premium Italian craftsmanship
- Comfortable memory foam sole
Cons:
- On the pricier side
When it comes to golf shoes, the Duca del Cosma Positano is like wearing a masterpiece on your feet. With their meticulous Italian craftsmanship and a keen eye for style, these shoes are for the golfer who wants to stand out on the course. They’re waterproof, too, so you can strut through morning dew and rain with the confidence of a catwalk model.
Yes, they command a higher price, but once you feel the luxury of the ARNEFLEX® memory foam under your feet, you’ll understand why. It’s a small price to pay for walking in elegance and comfort. And while I’m all for saving a few bucks, I can’t deny the appeal of slipping into something that looks and feels this good. If your golf attire is as important as your score, the Duca del Cosma Positano is the shoe for you.
Rating: Style: 5/5, Comfort: 4/5, Durability: 4/5, Price: 3/5
Footjoy Traditions – Best Traditional Design
Price: $100-$130
Specifications:
- Full-grain leather upper
- Pulsar LP cleats for traction
- Available in multiple colors and widths
Pros:
- Classic design with modern comfort
- Durable full-grain leather
- Excellent traction with traditional spikes
Cons:
- Slightly heavier than spikeless shoe models, possibly due to the spiked shoe design
- Leather upper may be stiff initially
The Footjoy Traditions:
- Are a nod to the timeless style of golf’s golden era, blended with today’s need for comfort
- Bring a sense of nostalgia with their classic spiked design
- Don’t skimp on the modern amenities
- The full-grain leather is as durable as it is stylish
- The Pulsar LP cleats provide grip that keeps you grounded through every swing.
While these shoes have a bit more heft than their spikeless cousins, the added weight is a small sacrifice for the superior traction and support they offer. And though the leather may take a round or two to soften up, the padded heel design ensures that blisters won’t be part of your golfing woes. For those who appreciate the charm of the past with the performance of the present, Footjoy Traditions are a clear winner.
Rating: Style: 5/5, Comfort: 4/5, Performance: 4/5, Price: 4/5
Cole Haan Grandzero – Best Versatile Shoe
Price: $150-$180
Specifications:
- Not available
Pros:
- Stylish, versatile design
- Comfortable for on and off the course
- Lightweight and breathable
Cons:
- Not specifically designed for golf equipment
Cole Haan has a knack for creating shoes that look as good at the clubhouse as they do on the green, and the Grandzero is no exception. As someone who values versatility, I’ve found these shoes to be a staple in my wardrobe, easily transitioning from a round of golf to a casual dinner. They’re lightweight and breathable, which is a blessing when walking 18 holes on a warm day.
While the Grandzero isn’t packed with golf-specific features, it doesn’t hold back on comfort. However, if you’re looking for a shoe with the nitty-gritty tech of a dedicated golf shoe, you might want to explore other options. But for the golfer who enjoys a shoe that can keep up with their varied lifestyle, the Grandzero is a hole-in-one.
Rating: Style: 5/5, Comfort: 4/5, Versatility: 5/5, Price: 3/5
Cole Haan OriginalGrand – Best Dressy Option
Price: $180-$210
Specifications:
- Not available
Pros:
- Elegant design suitable for dressier occasions The soft leather upper provides added comfort, making it an ideal choice for long hours of wear.
- Durable construction
Cons:
- Not tailored for golfing needs
The Cole Haan OriginalGrand is for the golfer who doesn’t want to sacrifice style for function. Its soft leather upper and elegant design make it a top pick for those looking to make a statement from tee to green. I’ve worn these shoes at both golf outings and formal events, and they’ve never felt out of place.
However, it’s worth noting that while they are comfortable and durable, they lack some of the technical features you’d expect in a golf-specific shoe. But if you’re after a shoe that can double as part of your business attire, the OriginalGrand’s dapper look and comfortable fit might just be what you’re looking for.
Rating: Style: 5/5, Comfort: 4/5, Versatility: 4/5, Price: 3/5
Cole Haan GrandPro Crew – Best All-Around Shoe
Price: $160-$190
Specifications:
- Not available
Pros:
- Versatile design for different personal preferences
- Offers both athletic and waterproof versions
- Known for its comfort
Cons:
- Some models lack dedicated golf features
The Cole Haan GrandPro Crew is like the Swiss army knife of golf shoes—it has a little bit of everything. Its versatility is its strongest suit, with options ranging from athletic to waterproof to dressier versions. This shoe has earned its place in my closet for its sheer adaptability, managing to be appropriate for a quick nine, a workout session, or a casual stroll in the city.
Comfort is a given with the GrandPro Crew, and while some models may not tick every box for the golf purist, they more than make up for it in overall appeal. It’s a comfortable golf shoe that understands the lifestyle of the modern golfer—on and off the course.
Rating: Comfort: 5/5, Versatility: 5/5, Design: 4/5, Price: 4/5
Xero Mesa Trail II – Best Minimalist Shoe
Price: $120-$140
Specifications:
- 5mm FeelTrue® rubber sole
- 3.5mm lug depth for traction
- 5,000-mile sole warranty
Pros:
- Ultra-lightweight and flexible
- Roomy toe box for comfort
- Promotes natural walking experience
Cons:
- Not marketed as a golf shoe
The Xero Mesa Trail II is for the golfer who seeks a closer connection to the ground and a more natural walking experience. This minimalist shoe offers the following features:
- Light as a feather
- Flexibility that allows feet to move freely, mirroring the terrain with every step
- Roomy toe box that provides ample space without compromising on stability
These features make it a great choice for those with wide feet, especially when it comes to finding comfort for the left foot.
While it’s not specifically designed for golf, the Mesa Trail II’s grip and protection have served me well on dry courses. Plus, the 5,000-mile sole warranty is a testament to its durability. If you’re open to a minimalist approach on the links, the Xero Mesa Trail II might just change the way you think about golf shoes.
Rating: Comfort: 5/5, Durability: 5/5, Design: 4/5, Price: 4/5
OluKai Kā‘anapali – Best for On and Off Course
Price: $130-$160
Specifications:
- Not available
Pros:
- Instant comfort with no break-in period
- Versatile for golf and casual wear
- Breathable and lightweight design
Cons:
- Some users report less heel support
The
OluKai Kā‘anapali is the chameleon of golf shoes, blending seamlessly into both golf and casual settings. Its features include:
- Lightweight and breathable design
- Ideal for long walks on sunny days
- Immediate comfort with no break-in period required
- Suitable for teeing off or casual wear
The Kapalua has quickly become a go-to in my footwear lineup.
The minimalist styling is a nice touch, but some users may find the heel support lacking when compared to other golf-specific shoes. That said, its versatility and comfort more than make up for it, making the Kapalua a solid choice for golfers who value practicality and style.
Rating: Comfort: 4/5, Versatility: 5/5, Style: 4/5, Price: 4/5
How to Choose the Best Golf Shoes for Walking
Walking a golf course is as much about endurance as it is about skill. Selecting the right shoes is crucial; after all, comfort can make or break your game. Imagine strolling the fairways in a pair of shoes that provide the same level of comfort as your favorite running shoes, with cushioning that feels like you’re walking on clouds. That’s what you should aim for—the best golf shoe that combines the shock absorption of a running shoe with the stability of a golf shoe, like the FootJoy Hyperflex Carbon.
But it’s not just about cushioning. You need a shoe that grips the ground firmly as you swing, offering stability and traction you can trust, much like the Adidas Codechaos 22 Golf Shoes. Spiked golf shoes, in particular, provide improved grip and stability compared to spikeless designs, making them ideal for maintaining balance during your swing. And let’s not forget about the unpredictability of the weather. Having waterproof shoes like the OluKai Kā‘anapali can be the difference between enjoying your round and sloshing through it with wet socks.
Lastly, while the aesthetics of your shoes might not improve your swing, they certainly can boost your confidence. Choose a shoe that reflects your style and fits your budget, because, at the end of the day, the best shoe is one that you feel great wearing.
Here are some well-known figures who prefer walking the golf courses instead of riding in carts:
While some may enjoy the convenience of a cart, there’s a certain pride that comes with walking the course as they play golf, a sentiment shared by some of the most notable names in sports and beyond. Golf legends such as Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson are frequently seen walking the fairways, a practice they share with stars like Rory McIlroy. Off the course, celebrities like Tom Brady and Michael Jordan, and even former President Barack Obama, have all been known to appreciate the game on foot, embracing the tradition and the tranquility that comes from a leisurely stroll across the greens.
It’s a reminder that sometimes, the simplest approach can be the most rewarding.
Get Your Walk On – Conclusion
As we’ve seen, the right golf shoes are more than just a fashion statement—they’re a key player in your golfing arsenal. With the right pair, your feet can find the balance and stability needed for powerful, accurate shots, transforming your game and your walking experience.
Remember, walking a golf course isn’t just about the exercise; it’s about being in the moment, feeling connected to the terrain, and enjoying the game in its purest form. Make no mistake, the wrong shoes can lead to discomfort, distraction, and even injury. But choose comfortable shoes wisely, and you’ll be rewarded with comfort, support, and breathability that can make those long hours on the course fly by.
So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or a weekend warrior, take the time to find that perfect shoe for walking. Your feet—and your scorecard—will thank you.
Summary
To wrap it up, finding the best golf shoe for walking is about balancing comfort, durability, style, and function. From the plush ECCO BIOM C4 to the versatile OluKai Kā‘anapali, we’ve walked through the top picks that cater to every golfer’s needs. Remember, choosing the right shoe is as vital as selecting the right club—it can enhance your performance, prevent injuries, and make your time on the course that much more enjoyable. So next time you’re gearing up for a round, consider your footwear carefully. Your perfect golf shoe is waiting to accompany you on your next walk down the fairway.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a golf shoe comfortable for walking?
A comfortable golf shoe for walking offers good cushioning, support, flexibility, and breathability, similar to features you’d find in high-quality running shoes. These features help reduce fatigue and discomfort during long walks on the course.
How important is waterproofing in golf shoes?
Waterproofing in golf shoes is crucial, especially in wet conditions or early mornings, to keep your feet dry and comfortable during the round.
Can I wear minimalist golf shoes on the course?
Yes, you can wear minimalist golf shoes like the Xero Mesa Trail II on the course for a more natural walking experience, but they may lack some golf-specific features.
Should I choose spiked or spikeless golf shoes for walking?
It depends on your preference and playing conditions. Spiked shoes offer better traction on wet or uneven terrain, providing enhanced stability and grip. Spikeless shoes, on the other hand, are lighter and more versatile. Consider your playing style and course conditions to make the best choice.
Are there stylish golf shoes that are also functional for playing?
Yes, there are stylish golf shoes that also provide functionality on the course, such as the Duca del Cosma Positano. They offer both style and performance for a great game of golf.
