Game-changing traction and comfort: Discover the best spikeless golf shoes of 2024
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Spikeless golf shoes have now become the preferred choice of amateurs and tour pros alike, but which pair are the best for your game?
Best Spikeless Golf Shoes – Jump to:
Nowadays, many of the best golf shoes are in fact, spikeless models. That’s because the latest spikeless golf shoes offer a grip that can match, if not beat, the best-spiked golf shoes whilst also being incredibly comfortable and lightweight.
If you’re after waterproof golf shoes then many of the spikeless offerings have you covered, meaning they can be worn all year round (even in the British summer). With the evolution of golf shoes from metal spikes, through soft spikes and now spikeless, technological advancements mean you can get immensely comfortable golf shoes that also provide you with considerable levels of traction.
Editor’s choice
Spikeless: Ecco LT1 Golf Shoe | VIEW OFFER
The best spikeless golf shoes 2024 shortlist:
Best spikeless golf shoe: FootJoy Pro/SLX Carbon Golf Shoe | VIEW OFFER
Best waterproof spikeless golf shoe: adidas Solarmotion BOA | VIEW OFFER
Best budget spikeless golf shoe: Puma Ignite Elevate | VIEW OFFER
Best looking spikeless golf shoe: J.Lindeberg Vent 500 Golf Shoes | VIEW OFFER
Spikeless golf shoes have emerged as a popular alternative to traditional spiked footwear, offering golfers a balance of style, comfort, and versatility on the course. With advancements in technology and design, spikeless shoes are now capable of providing the traction and stability needed for optimal performance without the hassle of traditional spikes.
In this buying guide, we delve into the world of spikeless golf shoes, exploring the key features, benefits, and considerations to help you find the perfect pair for your game. All the major golf shoe manufacturers – FootJoy, Ecco, Adidas, Nike, Under Armour, Puma, and so on – have a comprehensive range of spikeless shoes, see our favorites below.
Spikeless Golf Shoes 2024
A much-needed update of an iconic golf shoe
The Pro/SLX and Pro/SLX Carbon mark a new era of innovation, boasting cutting-edge materials and advanced technologies. With features like the PWR TRAX System, Pro/SLX dynamically redistributes energy for maximum stability and traction, ensuring a grip that exceeds expectations on any course.
Crafted for supreme comfort, the StratoFoam midsole absorbs and returns energy with every step, while the 3D Molded Collar secures the foot for unparalleled comfort and a consistent fit. Enhanced stability during swings and ground engagement is ensured by the 3D X-Wing and FTF+ Foam, providing precision and control in every swing.
After testing I was full of praise for the Pro/SLX as it delivers on its promises, offering out-of-the-box comfort, waterproof durability, and responsive stability. I think the Carbon model with its 3D X-Wing, helps these shoes redefine traction and comfort, for superb performance on the course.
Read our full FootJoy Pro SLX golf shoe review
Pros
- Better support than the previous model
- Athletic look
- Well thought through traction system
- Super easy to clean
Cons
- Yet to find one
| Sizes | 6 – 14 |
| Colors | 6 |
| BOA | Yes |
| Waterproof | Yes |
An unbelievably comfortable golf shoe
The LT1 is built for comfort and stability, the LYTR Foam and soft polyurethane in the midsole provide a great level of comfort while allowing you to maintain stability throughout your swing. As with many spikeless golf shoes, you wonder where the grip is going to come from but the design on the LT1 offers multi-directional traction to ensure optimal grip on any terrain.
Gamed on tour by the likes of Henrik Stenson and Lydia Ko I can see why these shoes would be so popular. The design is super clean with minimalist accents and is the perfect summer golf shoe. Although it is great for the warmer months the LT1 performs great in the wet thanks to the waterproof membrane which is superb at keeping your foot dry and comfortable.
Read our full Ecco LT1 golf shoe review
Pros
- Super soft upper
- Molds around the foot
- Lightweight
- Clever BOA system
Cons
- Require plenty of looking after
| Sizes | 6 – 13 |
| Colors | 4 |
| BOA | Yes |
| Waterproof | Yes |
Designed to help you gain an edge on the course
The thermoplastic polyurethane inserts and rubber outsole offer superior traction, while the dual-density midsole with HOVR foam and Charged Cushioning ensures comfort and guides natural foot motion. The Swing Support Strap ensures a secure fit, enhancing stability during swings. I was full of praise for its sleek design, comfortable fit, and lightweight feel, with features like the curved heel and padded cuff adding to its appeal.
The shoe was a great complement to various outfits. Notably, I experienced increased ball speed and consistency of strike, indicating its performance benefits. Overall, the Under Armour Drive Pro delivers on its promise of stability, comfort, and performance, making it a standout choice for golfers seeking an edge on the course.
Read our full Under Armour Drive Pro SL Golf Shoe review
Pros
- Great traction
- Secure fit all around
- Cushioned underfoot
- Sleek design
Cons
- A poor finish on the material around the tongue
| Sizes | 7 – 13 |
| Colors | 4 |
| BOA | No |
| Waterproof | Yes |
A golf shoe that can do it all
The lightweight design makes walking the fairways a dream and whilst you can get lost in the comfort of the shoe it still supports you every step. Featured throughout the adidas franchise and can be seen in many other brands too, the OrthoLite liner provides an excellent fit around the foot for a full day on the course. The plastic heel cup and molded memory foam collar secure your foot in nicely and I found it reduces heel slippage.
The BOA system makes getting the shoe on and off a breeze and gives you the perfect fit every time. The system is now hidden below the zip shroud and looks much sleeker. Whether you are playing in the rain or shine the Adiwear outsole and Gripmore rubber offer a superb grip as the sole anchors into the turf under load. The soft waterproof upper is also amazing at keeping the water out and ensuring your feet stay dry, it is also great at regulating heat in the warmer weather too.
Pros
- Out-of-the-box comfort
- Perfect for wide feet
- Great looking golf shoe
- True to size
Cons
- Would like more colorways
| Sizes | 6 – 12 |
| Colors | 2 |
| BOA | Yes |
| Waterproof | Yes |
Out-of-the-box comfort
Payntr’s ‘Neverwet’ skin is remarkable. I found it was impenetrable, even in the worst weather, and it proved easy to keep looking new. The Ortholite X40 sock liner gave added weatherproof assurance and ensured they were comfortable out of the box – something I can’t say about every golf shoe.
I was impressed by the grip and that the TPU outsole didn’t hold soil, sand, or grit like a spiked shoe can. A couple of quick bashes together after the round was sufficient to get all of the sand and mud off after a UK winter round.
Rob Jerram, the TG digital editor, is a massive fan too. Despite having access to a host of big-name models, he’s chosen to wear them for more than 50 rounds.
Pros
- Instant comfort
- Ultimate weatherproofing
- Spike-like grip
- Easy to maintain
Cons
- Upper creased easily
| Sizes | 7 – 12 |
| Colors | 2 |
| BOA | No |
| Waterproof | Yes |
A great blend of designer looks and premium golf performance
As usual, G/FORE's massage insole speaks for itself the feel is superb, and the comfort is unmatched. The synthetic upper is soft and supportive, I found after a few rounds some creasing did appear but that certainly didn't take away from the way they felt.
The G.112 is built around traction, the standout spikes are there for a reason. The grip is that of a spiked equivalent, the single rubber studs stretch from heel to toe and give a solid grip whilst not restricting your movement. Having worn these round after round during the summer they've easily become one of my favorite spikeless offerings for 2024.
Pros
- High quality
- Great traction
- Super comfortable
Cons
- Creasing across the toe area after a few rounds
| Sizes | 7 – 15 |
| Colors | 17 |
| BOA | No |
| Waterproof | Yes |
Breathable performance in a contemporary trainer style
The Gore-Tex surround is combined with an Ecco "Exhuast Grid" that scoops fresh air towards the sole of your foot, making the Biom C4 one of the most breathable golf shoes you will find, and they're still 100% waterproof.
Pros
- Highly breathable performance leather
- 100% Gore-Tex waterproof protection
- Good level of comfort
Cons
- Mesh lining difficult to clean
| Sizes | 7 – 13 |
| Colors | 3 |
| BOA | No |
| Waterproof | Yes |
So much like a trainer, it doesn't feel like a golf shoe
As the name suggests, Phantom uses UA’s Charged midsole, which is responsive to movement and durable. The shoe has a bootie design with a sock-style fit which we found super comfortable and forgiving on our heels, even across 36 holes in a day.
It uses reinforcements to support you through the golf swing and it boosted my confidence over the ball.
This was one of the lightest weight shoes I tested thanks to the breathable mesh upper and rubber outsole. I found it delivered incredible grip thanks to the setup of the studs.
The Charged Phantom is not waterproof, but it comes with UA’s Never-Wet treatment, which I found perfectly adequate in showers.
Pros
- Great grip
- Super lightweight
- Very comfortable
Cons
- Could have more support when swinging
| Sizes | 6 – 14 |
| Colors | 4 |
| BOA | No |
| Waterproof | No |
The everyday golf shoe
It may look like a premium designer shoe but it is full of practicality. The Vent 500 boasts a water-repellent upper crafted from the unique transparent hex texture mesh, which proves to provide breathability and protection, with the seam-seal technology offering waterproof reliability.
With a trainer style such as this, you need to ensure the grip is as good as it says and thanks to the TPU outsole this does just that, delivering exceptional traction and durability even in the softer conditions. I found the underfoot comfort a joy thanks to the SPANCO+ Ortholite insoles and an EVA midsole, the Vent 500 is built to elevate your game and style the next time you step onto the course.
Pros
- Soft underfoot
- Lightweight
- Great for on and off-course activities
Cons
- Not for wide feet
| Sizes | 6 – 11 |
| Colors | 4 |
| BOA | No |
| Waterproof | Yes |
The standout spikeless trainer
It has a lightweight design aimed at improving performance with a popular triple-density foam footbed for soft comfort. The fully waterproof upper is supported by a molded heel cup to secure your foot in place while swinging and reducing lateral movement.
Pros
- Comfortable
- Secure fit
- Great grip
Cons
- The ankle cuff wore away quickly
| Sizes | 3 – 11 |
| Colors | 5 |
| BOA | No |
| Waterproof | Yes |
The king of practicality
Having worn previous iterations I had high expectations and they certainly delivered, they're a great shoe for on and off the course and look great with nearly every outfit! Not to forget how comfortable they are, the IGNITEFOAM midsole is super comfortable and gives plenty of support during the round.
Thanks to the EXOSHELL the shoe has high durability and makes the shoe really lightweight which is perfect when you're wearing the shoes all day from home to the course and back.
Pros
- Durable
- Great heel support
- Lightweight
Cons
- Traction could be a little better
| Sizes | 7 – 15 |
| Colors | 8 |
| Waterproof | Yes |
| BOA | Yes |
Best spikeless shoe for traction
The uppers of the Biom H4 are crafted from premium, durable, thin leather, made in Ecco’s own tanneries. This provides natural protection from wind and water. I love the use of Gore-Tex in golf products – there is nothing better at helping keep your feet dry and comfortable on the golf course.
The redesigned tongue and toe area made the Biom H4 more comfortable and gave a sleeker, slimmer look. I’ve always found H4 to be a comfortable golf shoe but the subtle design tweaks have created a more balanced golf shoe and it’s a huge favorite of our Equipment Editor Simon Daddow.
Pros
- Very comfortable
- Super soft leather
- Breathable
- Great cushioning
Cons
- Can be hard to maintain
| Sizes | 3.5 - 13 |
| Color | 6 |
| BOA | Yes |
| Waterproof | Yes |
Building on an iconic trainer style
Styling pulled straight from the 1990s is paired with an Abzorb midsole, which I found to be comfortable and lightweight. I could really feel the spring in the midsole during my swing.
The NDurance outsole is designed with small rubber studs which, in my experience, would be better suited to slightly firmer conditions, but they still coped admirably when it was damp.
I’m a sucker for a good warranty because it shows the brand has faith in its products and New Balance offer an impressive two years.
Pros
- Love the trainer style
- Great on and off the course
- Goes with any outfit
Cons
- Could have a better grip
| Sizes | 7-15 |
| Color | 3 |
| BOA | No |
| Waterproof | Yes |
The style of the court designed for the links
However, like the Jordan range, there is nothing too ‘out there’ about what Nike have done. The sole is very different from the original to aid with grip, but the overall package is relatively conventional.
The stitched leather upper is pure classic, while the heel is supported by encapsulated air. Could almost be one for the growing number of shoe collectors.
Pros
- Iconic design
- Comfortable on and off the course
- Durable
Cons
- Lack of traction
- Not as supportive as classic golf shoe
| Sizes | 6 - 13 |
| Colors | 4 |
| BOA | No |
| Waterproof | Yes |
Premium quality at a great price
Designed to bring support and springy responsiveness that will push you further every day, it makes for a great companion in a golf shoe. With the waterproof leather upper, the two make for a stable comfortable feel all whilst keeping your feet dry on the fairways
The sole is fairly sturdy and provides excellent traction on hard surfaces thanks to the Adiwear outsole and supportive heel the S2G is engineered to maximize grip.
As the German sports company strives to end plastic waste the upper of the S2G is made up of at least 50% recycled materials.
Pros
- Secure fit
- Comfortable
- Great value
Cons
- Chunky look on the foot
| Sizes | 7 – 15 |
| Colors | 4 |
| BOA | Yes |
| Waterproof | Yes |
Best Golf Shoes 2024: Women’s
Athletic fit and performance
Although they look like a trainer the shoe is built for support and traction. The synthetic upper is waterproof and durable and certainly enhances the comfort aspect of the shoe. Partner the soft upper with the high-density FitBed and you have a shoe built to ensure comfort all day long.
The VersaTrax outsole not only provides great traction on the course but also allows golfers to have the perfect shoe to wear home or out after the game of golf.
Pros
- Available in wide and medium fit
- Super comfortable
- Great for support
Cons
- Grip could be better in soft conditions
| Sizes | 4 – 8 |
| Colors | 3 |
| BOA | No |
| Waterproof | Yes |
Golf Shoes Buying Guide
How do we test golf shoes?
Here at Today’s Golfer, our team of carefully selected reviewers tests and assesses each product over an extended period of time. Having tested tens of thousands of products over the years, we know exactly what to look for. We will ask every possible question about each product that we review. With a range of everyday golfers testing products you can rest assured that if it’s a situation that can arise for you on the golf course, we’ve already put the product through that scenario before recommending it.
With golf shoes, testing means wearing them for multiple rounds so we can determine the out-of-the-box performance in a variety of conditions. The overall performance of a product will depend on variables such as grip, durability, versatility, comfort, and fit.
We are lucky enough to attend product launches and meet the manufacturers to understand why they release a new product and its benefit to the consumer. The TG team pride ourselves on the fact that we understand and test all of our products to give you our honest and in-depth opinion on whether it is worth buying or not. The golf shoe reviews and recommendations are there with you the readers as our highest priority, so we can recommend products that will help you improve your game.
See a full guide to how we test golf equipment.
How to choose a golf shoe
One of the most important things to get right for the golf season is your golf shoes. There are a number of different variables to consider when picking what’s going to be on your feet out on the course. To assist you along your shoe-buying journey we have put together what we think are key points to consider when buying your next pair.
Budget
The first thing we advise when buying any golf product is to set yourself a realistic budget and stick to it. You can spend anything from £50 to £250 on golf shoes, depending on the brand, style, tech, and materials.
With hundreds of different models available, setting a budget for your next golf shoes will help to narrow down your search.
If the brand isn’t important to you then you’re more likely to be able to spend less money than if your heart is set on a pair of current FootJoy or Ecco shoes for example.
If you’re just starting out in golf, this is your first pair of golf shoes, or you only play occasionally we’d recommend setting a lower budget. Firstly, there’s no point in blowing a fortune on the shoes if you’re going to discover you don’t actually like the game as much as you hoped or only get on the course a couple of times a year. Secondly, the money you save on shoes can be spent adding other equipment, paying for some rounds, or getting yourself some lessons.
Spiked or spikeless
Many of the best golf shoes seen above and across the best brands now are split evenly between spiked and spikeless which both have their advantages and disadvantages.
Spiked
Golf shoes with spikes tend to give better grip/traction out on the golf course with them having soft spikes placed around the outsole. Spiked shoes are the more durable option as they have replaceable spikes, meaning if you look after and replace them there should be no reason they won’t last a long time.
With spikes on the outsole, the shoe has added pressure points on the foot which can result in a slightly less comfortable fit. Spiked golf shoes are less versatile as they aren’t designed to be worn both on and off the golf course.
Spikeless
The Spikeless option may not give golfers as much traction as spiked golf shoes but they have come a long way in recent years. Spikeless golf shoes tend to feature small rubber molds on the outsole to aid grip, however, with technological advancements, companies are finding new ways to improve spikeless traction.
The use of compounds such as TPU has allowed brands like Under Armour and Ecco to produce a spikeless shoe that, when partnered with rubber molds, gives arguably as much traction as a spiked shoe. Spikeless shoes are becoming more and more durable, and modern styling makes them more attractive as an everyday shoe. With brands using tech from their running shoes in golf shoes, they are often uber-comfortable too.
Spikeless shoes are lighter and much more versatile. They’re a shoe that you can drive in and hit drives in.
Waterproofing
Some of you may live in an area of the world that gets a lot of rain, making a waterproof shoe a must. Or you may be a golfer that likes to prepare for any outcome on the course and doesn’t want to be left with soggy feet from an unexpected shower.
In the UK waterproof shoes can be a sensible option when picking out what to wear on the course. Many golfers buy a waterproof pair for winter, and a more breathable lightweight shoe for summer.
Buying a pair of shoes that are guaranteed waterproof can cost a little more so if you live in a part of the world where rain rarely falls (hello Dubai), then you can save yourself a bit of cash with a non-waterproof model.
Correct fit
Arguably the most important part of picking out a new golf shoe is getting something that fits your feet correctly. This will help prevent blisters and stop your feet from moving around, which can limit your control during the swing.
When putting on a shoe for the first time always make sure there is no pinching or movement. When your foot slides in you always check your toes fit at the end of the shoe and have a walk around in them to make sure they feel comfortable. We’d even recommend making a few golf swing motions to ensure they are fit for purpose.
Under Armour use ‘normal’ laces throughout their range of shoes. But most big-name brands including FootJoy and Ecco use a system called BOA. This lets you twist a dial to tighten the specially formulated laces and can provide a better fit that doesn’t loosen when playing. While BOA often creates a more secure fit, the look and feel aren’t for everyone and BOA models tend to be more expensive.
Comfort
With your average round of golf being more than four hours, comfort is king when buying golf shoes. If your shoes are uncomfortable and hard-wearing on your feet, your mind will be distracted from playing good golf.
Try to find a shoe with good cushioning for the bottom of your foot and around the heel. Good heel and ankle support will keep your foot secure and will help with your golf swing.
You want to make sure that the shoe isn’t too soft as that may also hinder you in the long run as it won’t be as supportive. Finding a balance of support and comfort is what you should be looking for to make the most out of your new golf shoes.
Styling
Modern golf shoes come in many styles. It’s not all about the traditional look on the golf course anymore. A classic-looking shoe can now be seen next to the latest pair of sneakers on the tee box.
There are golf shoes out there for everyone, from brogues to lightweight, knitted models. You need to consider what shoes you wear and like wearing off the course and then you should have no trouble getting a style that suits you on the course.
We’d always recommend you thoroughly research all of the options and create a shortlist to try.
Best Spiked Golf Shoes: FAQs
Can you wear spikeless shoes on a golf course?
Yes. Many of the best spikeless golf shoes offer up as much grip as spiked golf shoes and tend to be comfier to wear. Spikeless golf shoes are also more versatile as they can be worn on and off the golf course as they feel like normal shoes.
Do pros use spikeless golf shoes?
Yes, tour pros do play with spikeless golf shoes. In fact, due to the fair conditions they play in, the majority of pros use them over spiked golf shoes.
Why do people wear spikeless golf shoes?
Golfers like to wear spikeless golf shoes as they find them more comfortable to walk in on and off the golf course. They’re more comfortable since there are no spikes to affect balance or apply pressure under the foot, spikeless golf shoes are also lighter and great to wear casually.
Do spikeless golf shoes work in the rain?
Spikeless golf shoes can give enough traction to help golfers in soft and wet conditions. Advancements in the golf shoe have meant spikeless soles now offer excellent grip thanks to things such as strategically placed rubber studs or TPU outsoles, which compete with most spiked models.
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About the Author
Will Shreeve-Peacock – Golf Equipment Writer
Will is an expert in golf shoes, GPS watches, rangefinders, and training aids.
He has a degree in journalism from Sheffield Hallam University and four years’ experience working in golf retail with American Golf where he was trained by a host of the big-name manufacturers.
A six-handicapper, Will has played golf for more than a decade and is a member at Burghley Park Golf Club in Stamford, Lincolnshire.
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Best spikeless golf shoes 2024
