Best Links Footwear – 2022

Our annual Best Links Footwear review features eleven brands participating – Adidas, Asics, Duca Del Cosma, ECCO, Footjoy, Lambda, New Balance, Payntr, Puma, Skechers and TRUE Linkswear. Considering supply chain issues going on around the globe these days, we are proud to have all of these companies participate in our completely unbiased testing (and because of the supply chain issues the shoe samples arrived on different dates spaced over a few months- therefore not all test brands are represented in the photo above).

We allow each brand to send what they’d like us to feature and review, and clearly, the trend has moved heavily towards spikeless models. Only Adidas, Asics, Footjoy, and Skechers chose to send footwear with traditional cleats (Footjoy & Skechers also sent spikeless models). So in this review, we have directed the focus primarily on spikeless models.

As we’ve stated before in each edition, there is no best golf shoe, these days the competition is too fierce for an inferior product line to survive in the marketplace. It all boils down to what’s best for you, specifically your budget, your style preference, where and how you play – walk/ride and perhaps most importantly – your feet. Are you narrow or wide, need more support and stability, prefer a cushy ride or a firmer stroll. Comfort rules, you know what they say, Happy Feet = Happy Life. New to golf or the spikeless market – Below are a few tips to help with your search

  • Sizes vary by brand/model, so when it’s not possible to try them on at a retailer, check their site for sizing specs.
  • The amount of stability each player needs varies greatly, probably best to NOT be looking at that flexible casual knit model if you need a shoe with beefed-up max stability. Models that have technology built into the midfoot section and with a wider base provide the best stability.
  • Traction is another element that is a big factor in determining your spikeless choice, and varies from a sneaker style with a few nubs to the dedicated golf model with a sophisticated outsole.
  • If you’re a linkster who can play their best and have no excessive foot fatigue from a lifestyle versatile spikeless, then you have a ton of choices – not only in performance features but styles. And you can wear your kicks from the 18th green to dinner at the restaurant.

We’ll go through each brand we reviewed in alphabetical order with the features of each, a summary of our thoughts and who each model might be best suited for:

Adidas – TOUR360-22

After a brief hiatus from the product line, the legend returns with a new look. The latest premium tour shoe from the 3 stripes brand was developed by Masun Denison with input from Xander Schauffele. The new flagship has more curves in the design, an abundance of BOOST energy-returning foam in the midsole, an INSITE® sock liner that offers cushioning for optimal fit, and a new outsole . . .

The outsole features SPIKEMORE integrated traction with 6 non-replaceable integrated TPU spikes. 360Wrap locks in and supports the foot for enhanced stability and a secure fit.

  • Ergonomic fit
  • Leather upper with padded collar
  • 360Wrap support
  • INSITE® sockliner
  • Dual stack BOOST midsole
  • SPIKEMORE traction and six-spike TPU outsole
  • 25% of the components used to make the upper are made with a minimum of 50% recycled content

Testing/Summary:

The new iteration of Tour360 is a refined evolution of sporty styling. BOOST midsole is always a welcome sight – providing the best energy return experience in golf footwear today. The sizing and fit are standard with a slight lean towards narrow width. The 360Wrap is another best-in-class support. Wore these earlier this spring for the round of a lifetime at Cypress Point Club – they didn’t let me down. Superior traction and Standard fit make the Tour360 22 the finest in a long lineage of tour-proven treads. MSRP – $210

Who are they for? The player who demands everything from his golf footwear and is willing to pay for it. Those who prefer maximum energy return (cushy ride), a slightly narrow to medium width fit, and those that demand top-shelf midfoot support. A premium tour offering, high quality, high performance – high cost.

Pet Peeve – Non-replaceable spikes, why?

ASICS Gel Ace Pro (M Standard)

Just as we began to wrap up the review and go to post, Asics came in hot with a rush shipment for us (thanks Noelle). Well worth delaying this post for a few more days of on course testing. The first of two Asics models we tested is the company’s fully loaded tour premium flagship, the long-awaited “Hideki Model” – Asics Gel Ace Pro now available at retail.

Tour validated by the 2021 Masters Champion . . .

  • ASICS FlyteFoam providing lightweight shock absorption
  • TPU TRUSSTIC mid-sole and an X-Shaped TRUSSTIC sole
  • Constructed with synthetic leather
  • Traction sole pattern places spikes for and traction
  • GEL cushioning for increased shock absorption

Proflex spikes provide the traction while  X-Shaped TPU Trusstics provide all the stability you’ll need.

Gel-Ace Pro comes in two color choices – White/Black & Black/Silver

Testing/Summary:

Asics Gel-Ace Pro is a legit modern-day tour golf shoe – spiked outsole, synthetic leather upper, and serious mid-foot support. Standard sizing that favors a slightly medium/narrow width toe box. Stable, decently comfortable, and tour-proven. Nothing jumps off the page style-wise, but nothing to criticize either. A solid worthy performer. MSRP – $200

Who are they for?

Hideki fans will go nuts for these. The Gel-Ace Pro is a fully equipped tour shoe that’s priced as such, and will impress those seeking a golf shoe that offers a firm sturdy feel and solid underfoot support.

Pet Peeve – Fooled me a bit with the synthetic leather upper (looks and feels like the real thing), but at two hundy, these kicks probably need to have the real McCoy.

Asics Gel-Kayano Ace

Inspired by ASICS running shoes, GEL-KAYANO ACE is an athletic spikeless that features a lightweight synthetic upper, FlyteFoam midsole and extra padding on the ankle and tongue for a really high energy return.

Flex Groove traction sole pattern place the treads exactly where they need to be for stability and superb traction during your most aggressive swings.

FlyteFoam and heel-side Gel Technology take care of the heavy lifting.

Flexible mesh upper provides a comfortable fit, while a thin waterproof PU lining keeps your feet dry in wet conditions. Gel-Kayano Ace is available in four colorways.

  • Lightweight Frame Work and Flexibility – ASICS FlyteFoam provides lightweight shock absorption and plenty of support. ASICS Gel technology is strategically placed for maximum comfort under the heel.
  • Flexible Waterproof Upper – Flexible mesh provides a comfortable fit, while a thin waterproof PU lining keeps your feet dry in wet conditions.
  • Supportive Fit – Featuring air mesh and a TPU heel cradle to provide a flexible yet supportive fit. Additional ankle padding helps ensure a custom fit that adapts to your every move.
  • Golf Specific Tooling – The FG traction sole pattern places spikes exactly where they need to be for stability during the golf swing and traction while walking the course. Featuring GEL cushioning for increased shock absorption while Toe and Lateral rubber wraps help maintain stability throughout the golf swing.

Testing/Summary:

Asics Gel-Kayano Ace is a really unique spikeless, it feels like a high-end premium running shoe. Lightweight with great energy return through its Flyte Foam midsole. Standard sizing and fit, that can accommodate a wide toe box. They’re so comfortable, such a soft ride that you may just choose to wear these every day for casual wear or workouts at the gym. Whether you view this as a positive or negative, depends on what you prefer in your golf footwear. I personally subscribe to the happy feet, happy golfer scenario, and these make my feet smile. Love the metropolis/Gunmetal colorway. MSRP – $170

Who are they for? Gel-Kayano Ace is perhaps the exact opposite of their tour shoe, everything about this offering says casual, light, soft, roomy, athletic, and lifestyle versatile. If you prefer to wear your golf shoes to the gym, office, coffee shop, or the park, then these treads may be for you. Standard sizing length-wise, but definitely has a roomy toe box for those who might be looking to buy online.

Pet Peeve – A bit on the pricey side for a lightweight spikeless.

Duca Del Cosma – JL2

The Duca Del Cosma JL2 is a premium tour inspired spikeless created in collaboration with Joost Luiten, the Dutch European Tour player and six-time winner. The JL2 features color accents in Joost’s favorite shade of orange.

Italian Designer Baldovino Mattiazzo brought his own innovation and style to the JL2. On the inside, the comfortable, breathable ARNEFLEX® insert sole memory foam is covered with OnSteam® recyclable microfiber with heel support made from recycled cork.

The Airplay XI spikeless outsole doesn’t look very sophisticated, but it’s comprised of 5mm square-shaped nubs that generate progressive stability and optimal grip during the swing, DDC says the heightened heel improves your stance, preventing foot fatigue.

Testing/Summary:

The JL2 is a legit golf shoe, featuring a traditional formal shape with a progressive Camo styling. It’s an outside-the-box original, and don’t mind the aesthetics and how it rides on the course. The JL2 definitely rests on the firmer side of the feel scale. The outsole provides surprisingly worthy traction for such a simple-looking tread pattern, but the midsole lacks cushion and energy return. With this shoe, Duca Del Cosma moves from a blingy boutique brand to a worthy spikeless golf brand, but can they bite into the Euro genre that ECCO rules at the moment? Now they have a shoe worthy to make a run. MSRP – $229

Who are they for? The player who wants something different from the status quo and is willing to pay the premium price tag. Perhaps more than any other shoe or brand in this review, Duca Del Cosma had the biggest questions to answer, and the JL2 answers them – it’s a serious golf shoe with a unique style.

Pet Peeve – How bout some cush? #FirmFeel

ECCO – BIOM C4

ECCO BIOM C4 features a culmination of the brand’s best technology – the latest breathable comfort and innovative performance with the next generation of the BIOM® COOL PRO. ECCO’s world-class leather uppers are the industry standard, and nothing changes with this contemporary, sneaker-style aesthetic. The brand that introduced spikeless golf footwear has a pretty healthy legion of loyal consumers, and the BIOM C4 will please them with a super clean look, especially in the white/concrete colorway. Four color choices are available.

For 360-degree breathability and 100% waterproofing, the GORE-TEX SURROUND® construction is combined with the EXHAUST GRID that enables air ventilation towards the sole of your foot.

Comfort and the fine details are where ECCO excels. Biom C4 is crafted from ECCO Performance Leather and a cushy super stretch mesh sock that includes a ribbed padded ankle collar.

Biom C4 is set on the progressive ECCO MTN GRIP outsole, and powered by BIOM® NATURAL MOTION® Technology.

Testing/Summary:

Standard sizing in both length and width is spot on with the BIOM C4, and an element I’ve always liked about ECCO is the removable OrthoLite® insole for long-term cushioning and breathability (and helps accommodate some that need extra room). The arch support is significant and helps get you into the correct posture. The BIOM C4 offers decent energy return, but not exceptional. However, the stroll was quite comfortable I’m nit picking, but wish there was one more eyelet up closer to the ankle collar for the laces to cinch things up a bit. The Natural Motion outsole isn’t the best traction in the spikeless category, but it’s a solid performer. The Biom C4 is a high-level premium shoe that’s priced accordingly – MSRP $230

Who are they for?

ECCO loyalists and other deep-pocket consumers interested in the latest spikeless tech. $230 is a serious price to pay for a pair of golf shoes (especially spikeless), but the heart wants what the heart wants – and the BIOM C4 is a worthy splurge.

Pet Peeve – $230

Footjoy – Fuel

Footjoy Fuel is the industry leader’s latest spikeless – a sporty, flashy lightweight model designed to fit in the lineup between the Pro SL and their Hyperflex. According to Ken Mello and the team at Footjoy – FJ Fuel delivers sneaker-inspired looks, fit and feel, packed full of golf-specific innovation: support and traction elements.

Stratolite foam is engineered to deliver lightweight cushioning and ensure ultimate comfort and max walkability round after round.

  • Waterproof Construction
  • Stratolite Foam
  • Power Stabilizer
  • Flex Last
  • Tour-Proven Traction

The all-new Power Stabilizer outsole features tour-proven traction with an all-new Stability Bridge to provide optimal support and control.

Waterproof, performance synthetic uppers provide a comfortable fit and added durability. FJ warrants FUEL for waterproofing for one year (U.S. Warranty).

Testing/Summary:

FJ FUEL features a roomy toe box, and solid arch support on a wide stable platform that gives a slightly firm feel underfoot. Almost a half bigger than standard fit. The athletic sneaker-like aesthetics will attract a wide range of golfers, but the large FJ logo on the upper may not appeal to some. MSRP $130.

Who are they for?

Those seeking a big bang for their buck, and a bold look – a youthful sporty vibe in a value-based Footjoy. Fuel has a wider fit than standard and a rigid outsole platform for aggressive swingers. The durable weatherproof synthetic upper will take a beating and keep you dry.

Pet Peeve – Has a plastic feel and sizing/fit is off by about half a size.

Footjoy – Premier Series – Field

Footjoy took the classic timeless style of yesteryear and combined it with the tech of today with their Premier Series – linking generations of those seeking to wear iconic, classic golf footwear but demand modern performance and comfort.

According to Footjoy: The VersaTrax+ outsole is engineered with traction elements to create an outsole that is perfect for on-course performance with wear-to-the-course versatility. Translucent rubber traction elements offer a high-end look and feel while maximizing traction with each step you take. The unique anti-channeling traction pattern is designed for grip from any lie or angle.

Does seeing Tiger choose the Footjoy Premiere series footwear (while still under contract with Nike) tell you anything? It should.

  1. Premium Waterproof Leather
  2. VersaTrax Outsole
  3. OrthoLite FitBed
  4. Laser Street Last

Premium hand-selected full-grain leather and luxurious calfskin details offer the quality that puts the Premier Series in a league of its own when it comes to iconic classic styling.

A firmer density cup around the heel provides perimeter heel support and stability through the swing. An OrthoLite EcoPlush insole provides the cushion designed to help with foot fatigue for all-day comfort and performance.

Testing/Summary:

The typical knock on the classic style golf shoe is the lack of comfort and energy return, but the Premier Series Field bucks that trend with a decent amount of comfortability. The Versatrax+ outsole was outstanding for grip and traction, and the soft full grain leather and luxurious calfskin details set the Premiere in a class of its own. The soft sheepskin linings and lightweight performance materials are all top-notch. Standard sizing makes these a can’t miss. MSRP – $200

Who are they for?

Lovers of the classic FJ style will welcome the latest technology and comfort of modern golf footwear in the new Premiere Field. Be willing to part with two Benjamins.

Pet Peeve – none

Footjoy Pro SL Carbon

FJ’s Pro SL continues to be an industry leader around the world, and with good reason. Their “Carbon” model (shown above) is the suped-up version featuring undisputed industry-best stability in the spikeless category. In 2022, FJ made the best even better with increased rear-foot stability by adding a second carbon insert into the heel area of the shoe.

Three colorways available in the Pro SL Carbon model.

  • ChromoSkin Waterproof Leather
  • Fine Tuned Foam (FTF)
  • 3D Molded Collar
  • Carbon Insert
  • Laser Plus Last

The infinity outsole features 189 points of traction and 17% more surface area in the heel to provide the ideal grip and ground contact no matter the conditions. The integrated full-length carbon fiber plate supports balance, and provides more stability – while reducing underfoot fatigue.

STRATOFOAM midsole cushioning combined with FTF foam delivers maximum stability and soft underfoot cushioning. The integrated Power Harness provides medial and lateral foot support for max control and power.

Testing/Summary:

Can’t go wrong with the Pro SL, the ’22 iteration is the fourth model we’ve tested over the last few years (one standard, one BOA, and two carbon models). When asked to suggest a worthy spikeless golf shoe – Pro SL Carbon is always on the shortlist. FJ’s latest is easily their best yet – standard fit, really solid mid-foot support and new carbon outsole is ridiculously stable for one that provides a pretty cushy ride.

Who are they for?

Every player that leans towards comfort and innovation, and is willing to pay the freight. There tend to be two different types of Footjoy loyalists – those that have several pairs of the iconic wingtip and saddle style and those that covet the Pro SL. The Carbon model is worth the cost difference for those who demand extra stability underfoot.

Pet Peeve – A bit pricey. MSRP – $210

Footjoy Tour Alpha

The Tour Alpha is another new model introduced in ’22, geared purely for performance. Tour Alpha features the proprietary Optimized Performance Stabilizer system (OPS) that works to lock you in, allowing you to swing away with full force. According to Ken Mello and the FJ Team – Tour Alpha is the most advanced stability system FJ ever created

Fast Twist 3.0 cleat system with Pulsar spikes. The Fast Twist 3.0 cleat system is the most advanced insert system on the market. The lower profile design offers improved comfort while still securing each cleat with consistent torque for maximum comfort.

  • ChromoSkin Waterproof Leather
  • Performance OPS Outsole
  • OrthoLite FitBed
  • Laser Plus Last

ChromoSkin™ leather, developed by Pittards® of England, is a supple, lightweight, durable and 100% waterproof leather.
The proprietary TruFit System provides stability where you need it and comfort where you want it.

Proprietary OPS system (Optimized Performance Stabilizer), made up of the external 3D molded heel counter, A-Frame and the lateral clip works to lock you in allowing you to swing away with full force.

Thicker OrthoLite EcoPlush Fit-Bed® insole ensures all-day comfort. OrthoLite does not take an impression of your foot, it refreshes to its original shape so the cushy ride will sustain for the life of the shoe.

Testing/Summary:

If there is a sleeper in the fully cleated category, Tour Alpha would be it. Simply stated, the Tour Alpha is a “five-tool player” (Fit, Support, Traction, Comfort, and Stability). Tour Alpha passed every test we threw at it – with flying colors. Standard sizing with ample room in the toe box area. A top-notch performance tour shoe that rivals Adi’s Tour360 22 as the most complete performance shoe of 2022. Three colorways available. MSRP $189

Who are they for:

Those who demand max foot support and stability in a fully spiked tour offering. A solid value ($20 less than both Adidas Tour360 22 and $10 Asics Gel-Ace Pro). An extremely clean look with subdued color and trim graphics back in the heel area.

Pet Peeve – none

Lambda – Potenza

Lambda Golf – A new classic golf shoe brand created, designed, handcrafted and manufactured with a passion for Golf. Lambda’s innovative patented technologies are incorporated in classic style – their handmade footwear is made in Portugal featuring premium boutque quality style and materials with flexible, lightweight comfort-driven innovation. Potenza spikeless model was the subject of review.


– European water repellent prime leather upper, aquastop inlay breathable membrane ensures waterproof guarantee.

100% Waterproof. All our shoes have a waterproof breathable membrane inserted between the leather upper and the leather lining (one year waterproof normal use guarantee). The outer leather undergoes a patented water repellent treatment during the tanning process that becomes our golf shoe’s first waterproof barrier and enables an easier cleaning and care after play.

A Hybrid construction, suitable for golf and streetwear. Potenza’s spikeless outsole is a flexible full TPU grip tread, very lightweight.

Cork insole for extra comfort.

Testing/Summary:

Lambda Potenza is an interesting case study. The quality of materials and craftsmanship is undeniable – the Potenza model is quite the blingy spikeless -fancy. Potenza is a very firm feeling, low-to-the-ground profile type of shoe. Standard sizing and proper fit. While big on style features and quality materials, the outsole traction is not exceptional and the midfoot support doesn’t quite measure up. MSRP – $260

Who are they for?

The Potenza is for the golfer who craves high-quality hand-crafted Euro styling, and doesn’t mind doling out the big bucks to get it.

Pet Peeve – The comfort and midfoot support just doesn’t quite stack up. By far the most expensive shoe in the review.

New Balance – Fresh Foam X Defender SL

New Balance’s line of Fresh Foam models has been a favorite among our testers for the last few years for their comfort, great fit, durability, and extraordinary value. The new Fresh Foam X Defender SL follows that lineage – high on performance and modestly priced.

According to New Balance, the Fresh Foam X Defender SL was built for the golfer seeking extraordinary softness and comfort featuring an ideal combination of a lightweight waterproof FantomFit upper and an ultra-cushioned, responsive underfoot feel. Featuring an exoskeleton TPU spikeless outsole designed to move with the natural motion of your foot. Three color choices available.

  • 100% welded waterproof FantomFit® upper for ultralight support
  • Exoskeleton spikeless TPU outsole designed to move with the natural motion of your foot
  • Fresh Foam X midsole cushioning is precision engineered to deliver an ultra-cushioned, responsive & lightweight feel
  • Molded CUSH+® insole for superior comfort
  • Welded, form-fitting tongue
  • 2 year waterproof warranty*
  • Weight 11.1 oz

Testing/Summary:

Time and time again New Balance comes into our review as a dark horse and exits taking GOLD.. The Fresh Foam X Defender SL (that’s a mouthful), is no different – ideal standard sizing, top of the heap in cushy energy return, and a synthetic welded upper offers 100% waterproofing, outstanding arch support, and the “blacked out” style with a hint of camo is simply badass. Oh, and that’s not all, the NB gets the value award again – MSRP – $119.

Who are they for?

Fresh Foam X Defender is an absolute rockstar in every category, especially in weatherproofing, energy return/comfort and value. The price and performance features make these a no-brainer.

Pet Peeve – none

PAYNTR – X002 LE, X003 F

Payntr’s explosion onto the scene last year blew us away, in fact, I still wear the original X001 F’s all the time. We weren’t the only media outlet to have Payntr at the top of the spikeless category in 2021, and in 2022, the company didn’t rest on its early success. They kept the same formula, but added a couple of new models – the X002 – LE, a premium leather model that features a graphite propulsion plate to effectively harness ground reaction forces, and the value based X003 F with many of the same features as the more expensive models. As opposed to the original that came in 3 colorways, the two new models are only available in two color choices.

X002 LE Features (available in white and Black)

  • Full grain leather upper, all day comfort, water resistance and durable support.
  • TPU outsole, traction in three dimension for the life of the shoe.
  • Dual Density PMX Foam Midsole™️, maximum energy return, under foot support
  • Graphite propulsion plate, effectively harness ground reaction forces.
  • NeverWet™️ superhydrophobic solution, non-wicking and water-resistant protection.
  • ARIAPRENE® tongue, supreme foot lockdown, stability and breathable support.
  • Molded Ortholite™️ Footbed, cushioning, fit, and comfort never change.

(pictured left, X003 F is on right):

X003 F Features

  • Clarino™️ microfiber upper, lightweight support and water resistance.
  • Pebax™️ propulsion plate, effectively harness ground forces.
  • TPU outsole, traction in three dimension for the life of the shoe.
  • Single Density PMX Foam Midsole™️, maximum energy return, under foot support
  • NeverWet™️ superhydrophobic solution, non-wicking and water-resistant protection.
  • Ortholite™️ Footbed, cushioning, fit, and comfort never change.

Testing/Summary:

As a relative newcomer, Payntr continues to impress, and their two new models have the brand off to a tremendous sophmore campaign. The X002 LE, their new flagship model excels in virtually every category – quality, style, comfort and top-of-the-line traction. Payntr’s graphite propulsion plate rivals FJ’s Pro SL carbon for enhanced stability (and ground force propulsion) in a spikeless offering. Payntr models are standard sizing/medium width. MSRP – X001 F $130, X002 LE – MSRP $190

X003 F provides many of the features of its more expensive siblings, but offers at a value-based pricepoint. MSRP – $130

Who are they for: With choices of $130/$160/$190 models, it’s tough to beat the choices of Payntr’s lifestyle versatile spikeless footwear. All three models feature quality, comfort, traction and stability performance. Just pick the upper material you prefer – mesh, synthetic microfiber, or full-grain leather.

Pet Peeve – none

Puma – AlphaCat

Alphacat is the latest from designer Grant Knudson in collaboration with Rickie Fowler and the footwear team at Puma.

PROADAPT ALPHACAT combines a new multi-durometer traction system with premium technologies, available in four color combinations.

  • ADAPT Foam
  • Spikeless Outsole
  • PROADAPT Outsole
  • EXO Shell
  • Molded Comfort Collar
  • Size 7-15
  • 1 Year Waterproof

According to Andrew Lawson – Senior Product Line Manager of Golf Footwear, The multi-material PROADAPT outsole provides durability and stability for the best in class ground feel. Multiple shapes of lugs and rubber cleats provides ground-gripping traction and exceptional grip on any lie.

An innovative mesh upper provides structure, while a TPU Film delivers unrivaled durability and support with a 1-year waterproof warranty. Alphacat is available in both lace and disc version (no upcharge for disc).

Testing/Summary:

Puma is never short on producing kicks with curb appeal and Alphacat keeps that run going. The EXO Shell looks great and provides solid weatherproofing, all while making the shoe lighter and less expensive than a leather offering. There’s a lot to like here, but a few things that were a bit off. Sizing/fit was about 1/2 size on the large end of the spectrum, so try these on at a retailer before buying. Also, the ride wasn’t as responsive and cushy as you might expect from the Adapt Foam midsole – don’t get me wrong they’re plenty comfortable, but they look like a luxury glide and feel a bit more like firm low rider. The traction is superb. MSRP $160.

Who are they for?

Puma loyalists that have an affinity for an edgy tech aesthetic will love the style of Alphacat, the EXO-Shell upper is a really sweet look and innovation for weatherproofing. Those that require a bit more room in the toe box width will be a good fit for Alphacat (Puma golf footwear usually runs a tad on the narrow width side). At $160, the value isn’t off the charts.

Pet Peeve – Try on in retail, sizing may be an issue. Rigid outsole provides fantastic grip but negates the usually cushy Adapt Foam.

Skechers – GO GOLF Pro 5 Hyper

Skechers GO GOLF Pro 5 Hyper™ features a waterproof synthetic upper, a removable Arch Fit® comfort insole with high-performance Resamax® cushioning, ultra lightweight HYPER BURST® cushioned midsole and replaceable Softspikes®.

Replaceable Softspikes® supply the traction featuring Stealth PIN system

Waterproof protection with two-year warranty
Synthetic upper with a lace-up front
Molded rubber grip bottom plate
Skechers GO GOLF® logo detail
Highly responsive, ultra-lightweight, long-lasting HYPER BURST® cushioning
Patented Skechers Arch Fit® insole system with podiatrist-certified arch support
Podiatrist-designed shape developed with 20 years of data and 120,000 unweighted foot scans
Removable insole helps mold to your foot to reduce shock and increase weight dispersion
High-performance Resamax® insole cushioning
Replaceable Softspikes® for maximum grip featuring Stealth PIN system

The Go Golf Pro 5 Hyper is available in 3 different color choices.

Testing/Summary:

Similar to New Balance and Asics, Skechers are known more for their cushy casual walking/running shoes rather than golf footwear, but once you lace up the Pro 5 Hyper you realize they make worthy performance golf footwear – standard sizing that leans towards the roomy side. The Pro 5 Hyper is a beefy luxury ride for your feet. Fully cleated, super durable waterproof synthetic uppers and all at a really solid value for Skechers top-of-the-line tour treads – MSRP $155

Who are they for:

The linkster that wants it all without the premium price tag, those that seek value get rewarded with all of the bells and whistles of a tour shoe. These might be the ideal Bandon or UK wear with the weatherproof synthetic upper and max cush underfoot.

Pet Peeve – Not much. Style-wise, they don’t look like a tour shoe but that’s nit-picking.

Skechers – Go Golf Elite 5 Sport

Skechers GO GOLF Elite 5 Sport™ has a casual walking on clouds vibe. Some may perceive them as an introductory model, but the Elite 5 Sport is not short on performance features – a mesh and synthetic upper, a removable Arch Fit® insole, lightweight ULTRA FLIGHT® cushioning, and GRIPFLEX spikeless outsole supplies the grip.

GRIPFLEX spikeless TPU outsole

  • Go Golf Elite 5 Sport is available in five color choices

Go Golf Elite 5 Sport features a durable mesh/synthetic upper and two-year waterproof warranty .

Testing/Summary:

As a value-based model, the Go Golf Elite 5 Sport is a spikeless that may not wow many from a style standpoint, but our tester raved about the performance features and the comfort of these kicks. An extremely soft cushy feel, and superb traction were a couple of superlatives our he listed. The Elite 5 Sport is standard sizing that favors a slightly wider toe box fit. At just $115 MSRP, there’s some serious value in these treads.

Who are they for:

The golfer who knows he wants value and comfort along with some modern performance features without breaking the bank.

Pet Peeve – Aesthetics, they look cheap.

TRUE Linkswear – Lux Sport

TRUE Linkswear’s Lux Sport is an instant classic, and that’s what TRUE excels at – edgy casual styles. Sport Lux is a spikeless that’s super versatile, as much lifestyle wear as it is golf specific, and that’s just how Jason Moore and the guys from the PNW drew it up.

Super clean aesthetics, a breathable Adaptive Sport Knit that can handle every type of weather condition. Lux Sport features TRUE’s 2-year waterproof warranty.

WANDERLUX Superfoam midsole for maximum rebound, comfort, and transitional drop for a more athletic feel.

TRUE’s high rebound sole offers the ideal amount of energy return, comfort, and a TOUR-validated tread.

Testing/Summary:

There’s no denying Lux Sport is a looker, but it’s more than just a pretty face – the knit upper hugs your feet, while the outsole grabs the turf. Standard sizing, medium width that may slightly favor a narrow foot (but the knit fabric does allow a fair amount of stretch). Lux Sport is not a max support and stability underfoot shoe (see their Lux Pro model) – they are as much lifestyle footwear as anything else. Also, True Linkswear is notorious for having a low-to-the-ground profile. If you’re after style, versatility, traction and comfort – then Lux Sport may be for you. Available in 5 colors. MSRP – $185.

Who are they for?

Everyone, everywhere. Lux Sport is the coolest shoe in the review – by far. As we head out to Seattle, Lux Sport will be on the ground in the airport, the Pike Place Market in downtown, the Third Eye Blind concert in Portland, the sights in Vancouver and the towering sand dunes, massive fairways, and breathtaking views of the Puget Sound at Chambers Bay for their Solstice Event. They’re a bit on the pricey side, but they do it all . . .

Pet Peeve – Cost, seems a tad high for a knit spikeless.

True Linkswear – Ripstop

The latest innovation from TRUE Linkswear is the lightweight Ripstop.

  • Every component of the All Day Ripstop is hand selected to be light on the planet, and light on your feet.
  • ALL-WEATHER DESIGN built as the all-season counterpart to their most comfortable and popular ride, the All-Day Knit II.

Years of testing and research led to TRUE’s most sustainable model, featuring a wind and water-resistant 100% recycled, durable ripstop polyester shell.

TRUE’s outsole is tour proven by players like Joel Dahmen, Chris Kirk, Ryan Moore and Christina Kim.

Even the small details are finely tended to . . .

Testing/Summary:

Ripstop is another ultra-versatile cushy ride in an ultra-lightweight planet friendly sustainable model. The styling is purposely subdued for a minimalist vibe. – MSRP $150.

Pet Peeve – Some may not favor these super featherweight kicks.

Best of Categories:

(Spikeless) Best Comfort –

Asics Gel-Kayano Ace

FJ Pro-SL Carbon

New Balance Fresh Foam X Defender SL

Payntr X002 LE, X003 F

TRUE Lux Sport

(Spiked)

Adidas Tour360 22

FJ Tour Alpha

Skechers Pro 5 Hyper

(Spikeless) Best Conditions/Waterproof –

Asics Gel-Kayano Ace

Ecco Biom C4

FJ Fuel

New Balance Fresh Foam X Defender SL

Puma Alpha Cat

(Spiked)

Asics Gel Ace Pro

FJ Tour Alpha

Skechers Pro 5 Hyper

(Spikeless) Best Sizing/Accuracy –

Ecco Biom C4

FJ Pro SL Carbon

FJ Premiere Series – Field

New Balance Fresh Foam X Defender SL

Duca Del Cosma – JL2

(Spiked)

Adidas Tour360 22

Asics Gel Ace Pro

FJ Tour Alpha

(Spikeless) Best Traction/Stability/Foot Support –

Duca Del Cosma – JL2

FJ Pro SL Carbon

FJ Premiere Series – Field

FJ Fuel

Payntr X002-LE

(Spiked)

Adidas Tour360 22

FJ Tour Alpha

Skechers Pro 5 Hyper

(Spikeless) Best Style & Aesthetics –

Ecco Biom C4

FJ Premiere Series -Field

Payntr X002-LE

Puma Alphacat

TRUE Lux Sport

(Spiked)

Adidas Tour360 22

FJ Tour Alpha

(Spikeless) Best Value –

FJ Fuel

New Balance Fresh Foam X Defender SL

Payntr X003-F

Skechers Go Golf Elite 5 Sport

TRUE Ripstop

(Spiked)

FJ Tour Alpha

Skechers Pro 5 Hyper

(Spikeless) Best Walking Experience-

Asics Gel-Kayano Ace

FJ Pro-SL Carbon

New Balance Fresh Foam X Defender SL

Payntr X002-LE

TRUE Lux Sport

(Spiked)

Adidas Tour360 22

Skechers Pro 5 Hyper

(Spikeless) Best Quality/Craftmanship:

Duca Del Cosma – JL2

ECCO – Biom C4

FJ – Premiere Field

Lambda – Potenza

Payntr – X002 LE

TRUE – Lux Sport

(Spiked)

Adidas – TOUR360

FJ Tour Alpha

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