Best Links Footwear Review ’23

By Jason Bruno

This year’s Best Links Footwear review features eighteen specific shoe models and ten golf brands participating – Adidas, Duca Del Cosma, ECCO, Footjoy, New Balance, Payntr, Puma, Skechers, SQAIRZ and TRUE Linkswear (New Balance and Payntr models not shown in image above, their product samples arrived shortly after images were taken and testing began).

The trend in the industry continues to move towards spikeless models, and this review is no different with 10 of the 18 models falling into that category. A few brands sent both cleated and spikeless – Adidas, Payntr, and Skechers, while four brands sent exclusively spikeless models – ECCO, Puma, New Balance, and TRUE linkswear. FootJoy, Duca Del Cosma and SQAIRZ sent cleated 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 brand or 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. Do you require a narrow or wide shoe, need more support and stability, prefer a cushy ride, a firmer stroll or a minimalist feel? Comfort rules, you know what they say, Happy Feet = Happy Life. New to golf or trying 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 – specifically models that have technology built into the midfoot section with a wider base usually provide the best stability.
• Traction is another element that is a big factor in determining your choice (especially in a spikeless model), and varies from a casual lifestyle model 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 versatile lifestyle 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 out on the town afterwards.

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

Adidas ZG23

According to Adidas – the ZG23 redefines what a lightweight golf shoe can do with an ultralight platform that’s built to perform on the course. Featherweight underfoot, it delivers the traction and stability needed to focus on your game. From its hybrid Lightstrike midsole to the Sprintskin microfiber leather upper and six-cleat Thintech outsole, the ZG23 offers increased stability, all-day comfort, and a secure grounded feel. Give yourself the benefit of extended energy and a winning mindset. Made with a series of recycled materials, this upper features at least 50% recycled content. This product represents just one of our solutions to help end plastic waste.

• Regular fit
• Lace closure
• Sprintskin and microfiber-leather upper with 3D stability wing
• INSITE® sockliner
• Hybrid Lightstrike Pro and Lightstrike cushioning
• Six-cleat Thintech TPU outsole

• 1-year waterproof protection
• Upper contains a minimum of 50% recycled content

9 color choices, also available in Wide Fit. $200

Aesthetics/Testing/Value/Summary:

• Sporty, athletic, clean look, lightweight.

• Standard fit, but with a slightly roomier toe box than many Adi models. On the course the ZG23 provided superb traction, and proved to be an all-around solid performer. Synthetic upper cleans easier than leather, and definitely makes for a lighter shoe. Cushy feel makes walking the links a joy instead of a chore. The ZG21 actually fit my medium-width/flatish feet better than the new ZG23 did. I also miss the BOOST heel pad in the midsole of the ZG21 model.

• Value: $200 – Bogey (golf footwear w/synthetic uppers have made the leap to “two bills”, gotta throw in BOA for that price).

• Best suited for the player who seeks decent energy return and max traction in a fully cleated modern athletic style. cushioning, and a lightweight synthetic upper.

Overall Grade – B

https://www.adidas.com/us/men-golf

Adidas ZG23 BOA

Take everything from the standard ZG23 (above) and ramp it up with the Dial in the BOA® Fit System for a custom fit.

• Micro-adjustable dial-based BOA® Fit System
• Soft, adaptive microfiber-leather upper
• INSITE® sockliner
• Hybrid Lightstrike Pro and Lightstrike cushioning
• Six-cleat Thintech TPU outsole

• 1-year waterproof protection
• Upper contains a minimum of 50% recycled content
• Imported
• Product color: Cloud White / Core Black / Semi Solar Red

Two colors choices, $220

Aesthetics/Testing/Value/Summary:

*BOA edition of ZG23

• Sporty, modern athletic, clean look, lightweight very similar to lace-up model (above), cross straps on the BOA version look a bit like space boots in appearance. These garnered lots of attention both positive and negative, but I actually prefer them to the lace-up aesthetically.

• True sizing like the standard ZG23, but the BOA closure system is a superior fit when compared to the traditional lace-up. BOA allows for a perfectly snug fit, and as stated above – the ZG23 has a slightly roomier toe box than most Adi golf models and offers superb traction through their D Traxion outsole. The synthetic upper cleans much easier than leather, and provides durability round after round. Cushy feel, seriously worthy energy return will make those that need it, happy golfers. I chose these for a walking round at Pebble Beach back in May, they passed every test with flying colors.

• Value: $220 – Par (BOA is worth the extra $20)
• Best suited for the player who wants all of the modern performance innovations without compromise.

Overall Grade – B+

https://www.adidas.com/us/men-golf

Adidas Ultra Boost

Adidas Ultraboost golf shoes feature a PRIMEKNIT upper that provides a snug fit to your feet. The BOOST midsole cushions every step, returning energy with a super cushy feel while you walk the links – very similar feel to a running shoe.

• Regular fit
• Lace closure
• Water-resistant adidas PRIMEKNIT textile and microfiber-leather upper
• Golf-specific support and traction
• Slow resilient sockliner
• BOOST midsole

• Spikeless rubber outsole
• Yarn in upper contains at least 50% Parley Ocean Plastic  and 50% recycled polyester

Five color choices, $200.

Aesthetics/Testing/Value/Summary:

• Super casual look, the Primeknit upper looks (and feels) like a cross trainer or running shoe. The rubber outsole nubs don’t evoke much confidence in the traction department when you may want to get after it. Think par 3-course walkers.
• Standard sizing. The cush lives up to the name – Ultra BOOST. Not much midfoot support, and lots of torque and flex in the body of this shoe. The rubber nub outsole isn’t adequate for swinging in wet conditions. For those aggressive swingers, these won’t provide the stability you require, but for a short course – they are ideal.
• Value: $200 – Bogey (Too steep for a knit spikeless with minimal stability)
• Best suited for the player who doesn’t require much mid-foot support, but demands superb energy return with every step. As comfortable as any we tested, but I found myself wearing these everywhere, except the golf course.

Overall Grade: C-

https://www.adidas.com/us/men-golf

Adidas – Samba/Stan Smith/Superstar

Inspired by the iconic Adi styles of Soccer/Tennis/Basketball respectively, the Samba, Stan Smith, and Superstar are a statement in style. Geared towards social rounds and casual days, the Samba brings an influence from the pitch, while the Stan Smith model combines the rich heritage of serve & volley with course-ready details. The Superstar brings a hardwood hoops vibe to the fairways. Each model exudes a fun look for the ideal transition from the course to the clubhouse and beyond.

The Stan Smith model (left) features a colorful outsole of multi-dimensional nubs, Samba (center) features multi-directional treads with 3 faux cleats, while the Superstar features a 6 spike outsole mounted to the tread pattern made famous in arenas around the world.

• Lace closure
• Textile
• Textile lining
• Adiwear outsole

• Upper contains a minimum of 50% recycled content
• Product color: Grey One / Grey One / Off White

$140

Aesthetics/Testing/Summary:

• Retro styles are cool and these rank high on the swag meter. The simplicity of the Stan Smith edition is my favorite of the three, but the Superstar model is the coolest vibe.

• Standard to slightly narrow sizing, the Stan Smith and Superstar have more toe box space than Samba. These are niche treads and are meant to be just that, a style statement. Essentially iconic sneaker styles applied to a golf theme – not a ton of modern tech or innovation here. On the course, the Samba and Stan Smith are adequate for anything low-intensity. The Superstar with its rubber “shellhead” and cleated outsole is the best links performer of the three. Maybe the most unique limited edition line introduced by an OEM in ’23.

• Value: $140 – Par
• Best Suited for the Player who wants to make a retro style statement.

Overall Grade: B (we graded these on a curve)

https://www.adidas.com/us/men-golf

Duca Del Cosma – Orlando (PRO SPIKE)

According to Duca Del Cosma, their Orlando model is designed with stability as the primary feature, aiding players of all levels to improve their traction, speed, and endurance.

• With the exclusive advanced technology of a lightweight Airplay 6 sole: Soft Spikes® PULSAR® & Golf Spikes (Fast Twist® 3.0) 
• Secondary 5mm traction studs for increased stability 
• Premium waterproof materials and handcrafted for exceptional comfort 
• Fast lock 3.0 receiver from Pride Sports 
• EVA midsole for lightweight, durable shock absorption 
• TPU outsole with toe protector for protection during the swing

Duca’s Orlando is only available in full sizes, so check their sizing chart before ordering. $289

Aesthetics/Testing/Summary:

• Duca Del Cosma as a brand had been thought of as a flashy Italian fashion statement more than a serious golf footwear brand. In 2022, they released their JL1/JL2 tour model and everything changed. In ’23 their Orlando model made its debut at the PGA Show. The design of the upper certainly is original, wasn’t my personal favorite, but aesthetics are subjective, however, the craftsmanship is up to the Italian brand’s usual high standards.

• Standard sizing. The Orlando is a slightly firmer feel than most models in the review and covers the basics quite nicely. The traction was spot on and the midfoot support is worthy. Not much energy return for those who prefer a bit more cushion underfoot. Nothing stood out, but also nothing to ding from a performance standpoint. Durability and waterproof features were dependable.

• Value: $289 – Bogey (“Molto Costoso”).
• Best Suited for the Player who prefer a firmer feel, and for those with have deep pockets.

Overall Grade: C+

https://ducadelcosma.us/

ECCO Classic Hybrid

Timeless style comes with a modern edge and luxurious touches, as well as innovative comfort, in the new ECCO M GOLF CLASSIC HYBRID. Set on a new sole, this shoe has a premium look and feel, with an upper fashioned from rich, embossed ECCO leather, a soft leather lining and a leather-covered, embossed and removable insole made of foam with 10% Polyol-bio and 11% recycled PU foam. Classic meets modern in a hybrid that has HYDROMAX™ water-repellent technology to help keep your foot dry, along with a welt made from 52% recycled leather fibres, and the unique, innovative E-DTS™ TWIST outsole for multi-directional traction. For lightweight cushioning and flexibility, the sole is created with ECCO FLUIDFORM™ Direct Comfort Technology.

Features:

• Rich, embossed ECCO leather from the shoemaker’s own tanneries enhances the classic look while adding to the premium comfort
• Soft leather lining for extra comfort and a premium feel
• Leather-covered, embossed and removable insole made of foam with 10% Polyol-bio and 11% recycled PU foam
• ECCO’s HYDROMAX™ water-repellent technology helps to keep your foot dry and comfortable
• Lightweight sole provides cushioning and flexibility, using innovative ECCO FLUIDFORM™ Direct Comfort Technology
• Unique design of the E-DTS™ TWIST outsole offers multi-directional traction and has slightly larger cleats in high-abrasion areas

ECCO’s longtime spikeless outsole E-DTS™ TWIST outsole offers multi-directional traction. 

Consult ECCO’s fitting system before ordering. $220

Aesthetics/Testing/Value/Summary:

• Classy, retro, iconic, finely crafted leather upper. A really cool throwback theme, but with modern innovations. A worthy rival to FJ’s Premiere in the style department.

• Standard sizing, perhaps a hint on the narrow side. Provides a semi-cushy ride in a shoe that looks like vintage golden-age footwear. The spikeless outsole provides adequate traction, but we’d like to see an update on the 4-way lug tread that’s been an ECCO staple. A very versatile shoe that can be worn from the 18th green to the grill room.
• Value: $200 – Bogey (Two bills is a bit steep for a spikeless with an unsophisticated outsole).

• Best suited for the player who wants the classic look and fine quality leather craftsmanship of yesteryear, but with modern tech and comfort.

Overall Grade – B+

https://us.ecco.com/golf/

Footjoy HyperFlex Carbon

FJ’s latest HyperFlex golf shoes are specifically tuned for the modern athlete. Hyperflex Carbon is powered with a custom molded carbon fiber plate to stabilize your swing and maximize energy transfer. HyperFlex Carbon is a cushy feeling shoe with ankle padding, and a waterproof performance knit upper.

Features:

• Custom molded Carbon Fiber plate
• StratoFoam tuned for walking comfort
• FTF+ for structure
• OptiFlex for walking comfort
• Mold to your foot Ortholite® Impressions FitBed®
• Added ankle padding
• Flex Last
• 2-Year Waterproof Warranty

CARBON ENFORCED STABILITY
Custom molded carbon fiber plate maximizes stability and torsional flex increasing ground leverage. Wrapping the carbon plate around the FTF+ midsole allows for enhanced structure without sacrificing comfort

HyperFlex Carbon comes in 3 different coloways $200. Available in Narrow, Medium, Wide and Extra Wide. Also available in standard model ($169), BOA ($199) and Carbon BOA ($229).

Aesthetics/Testing/Value/Summary:

• A really fun-looking shoe, a breath of fresh air as FJ continues to refine the HyperFlex line.

• Extra roomy, perhaps half a size larger than standard, had to add an extra insert to get these to fit properly. The Carbon Edition HyperFlex is a worthy upgrade geared towards faster swing players who demand stability. A fair amount of underfoot energy return, but perhaps not as cushy a ride as they appear to be. The knit upper provides comfort around the ankle, while the coated layer adds increased structure and stain protection.
• Value: $200 – Par (standard HyperFlex model is a bargain at $169).

• Best suited for the player who wants all of the latest performance innovations in an athletic fun set of kicks.

Overall Grade – B+

https://www.footjoy.com/

Footjoy Premiere Series – Wilcox

FJ’s new Premier Series – (Wilcox model) are modern classics with superb craftsmanship, premium waterproof leathers and iconic wingtip detailing.

Features:

• Premium Waterproof Leather
• VersaTrax+ Traction Technology
• Custom OrthoLite® EcoPlush FitBed®
• Pulsar Low Profile Cleats by Softspikes
• Laser Street Last
• 2-Year Waterproof Warranty

The VersaTrax+ outsole is engineered to maximize on course performance. The anti-channeling tread pattern is designed to grip any type of terrain. Pulsar low-profile cleats deliver stability and support.

OrthoLite EcoPlush Fit-Bed® insoles ensure all-day underfoot comfort and will remain the same for the life of the shoe. Wilcox model is available in 3 colorways. $220

Aesthetics/Testing/Value/Summary:

• Snazzy, sharp, formal. Shine like a peacock when you walk to the tee wearing the Premier Series Wilcox Wingtips.

• Standard sizing. FJ put the good stuff in the Premiere Series, you wouldn’t think that these could feel as good as they look, they actually do. A tad firmer feel than HyperFlex FJ’s, but still plenty comfy for a formal shoe. The traction is elite and the quality is off the charts. Only your best threads are worthy of these bad boys. Finalist for best tour shoe 0f 2023.
• Value: $220 – Par

• Best suited for the player who prefers the classic look while clearly standing out from the crowd. Have your cake, and eat it too with modern performance innovations worthy of “slaying dragons”.

Overall Grade – A

https://www.footjoy.com/

NEW BALANCE 997SL

While spiked golf shoes still prevail at the game’s highest level, it is the spikeless that’s winning the hearts of the next generation of golfers, and New Balance has figured out the formula. Lightweight, comfortable, stable, and with traction comparable to spiked footwear in both wet and dry conditions the New Balance 997SL is versatile and impressive – and all at very reasonable pricepoint.

According to NB – Inspired by the next-generation 997H, the Men’s 997 SL is a progressive golf shoe that is set to be a modern favorite. A waterproof microfiber leather upper helps you stay dry and fresh during your round. An Abzorb midsole gives premium responsiveness and lightweight cushioning step after step. The Ndurance rubber outsole is designed to move naturally with your foot.

Features:

• Waterproof microfiber leather upper
• Abzorb® midsole provides lightweight cushioning & premium responsiveness
• NDurance® spikeless rubber outsole
• 2-year waterproof warranty

Available in three colors as well as a variety of widths. The “Absorb” midsole provides lightweight cushioning while the “Ndurance” rubber outsole is flexible and responsive to lateral movement. $110

Aesthetics/Testing/Value/Summary:

• Simplicity in a “sneaker” aesthetic is the best way to describe the NB 997 Spikeless
• Standard sizing. Tester Tim Alpaugh’s impressions: “I hesitate to call them golf shoes because they appear and react like running or cross-training sneakers. Extremely comfortable right out of the box, their stability and traction are noteworthy. The flair in the sole and heel provide a stable foothold for uneven lies and the assortment of nubs and projections on the sole allows for great traction on the links, and a comfortable feel when wearing them off the course.
• Value: $110 – Birdie (NB nails it again, can’t go wrong here)
• Best suited for the player who wants comfort and performance in a simple “sneaker look”, and to the consumer who wants to save a fist full of dollars.
• Overall Grade – B+

https://www.newbalance.com/men/shoes/golf/

Payntr X005 F

In 2023, Payntr introduced 3 new models, the X005F (above) is their latest spikeless offering that features a new and unique PMX Fit Heel section (below) that hugs the back of your foot for a snug, supportive fit.

According to Payntr – the three-dimensional outsole provides superb traction and the ability to better control linear motion, resist rotational movement, and more effectively harness vertical ground forces. Articulated TPU outsole & zonally engineered PMX Foam midsole house a lightweight responsive graphite propulsion plate that delivers golfers maximum energy return to more effectively generate ground reaction force. 

Features:

• Clarino Trivela ™️ microfibre upper delivers lightweight support and flexibility.
• PMX Fit Heel counter hugs the back of foot for snug, supportive fit. 
• TPU Outsole delivers traction in three dimensions for the life of the shoe.
• Dual Density PMXNITRO+ Foam™️ Midsole provides maximum energy return & ultimate under foot support.
• Carbon fibre propulsion plate allows golfers to harness ground reaction forces more effectively.
• Neverwet™️ superhydrophobic solution offers non-wicking and water-resistant protection.
• PMXNITRO+ Footbed lightweight responsive cushioning for the life of the shoe.  

X005F is available in three colorways. $180

Aesthetics/Testing/Value/Summary:

• Highly noticeable, a catchy innovative vibe, that is versatile enough to be worn as a lifestyle shoe off the course. If there was a Tesla equivalent in the golf footwear industry, it would be Payntr.
• Standard sizing. Since we first tested the brand in 2021, Payntr has been a staple of our footwear rotation. Today (like many other days), I’m actually wearing the original model -X 001 F at the office. The X 005 F is the latest evolution of their superb spikeless that offers extreme comfort and delivered best-in-class traction during testing a few weeks back at French Lick Resort. The new padded PMX FIT heel/ankle collar provides a snug fit and ease when putting on and taking off. Quite often, when I’m heading to the course and with a plethora of footwear choices, I choose a Payntr product (and lately, often it’s the X 005 F), there’s no better compliment for a brand. Finalist for best Spikeless of 2023.
• Value: $180 – Par
• Best suited for the player who wants an edgy new innovative spikeless that exceeds expectations on every front.
• Overall Grade – A

https://payntrgolf.com/

Payntr X004 RS

The X004 RS is Payntr’s first cleated golf shoe featuring an outsole with the FastTwist insertion system that delivers traction in three dimensions. The X004 RS a no-compromise premium tour offering that (according to Payntr) boasts several firsts in the industry –

• The first spiked golf shoe with a carbon propulsion plate for maximum responsiveness & speed through impact.
• The first golf shoe with a PMX-Fit heel and blister-free warranty. 
• The first ventilated spiked golf shoe which allows perspiration to escape through the midsole & outsole for comfort in all playing conditions.  
• The first golf shoe on the market to feature Softspikes® Tour Flex Pro spikes

Features:

• Graphite propulsion plate allows golfers to harness ground reaction forces more effectively and bring more speed to the ball.
• Clarino Trivela™️ microfiber upper delivers lightweight support, water resistance & breathability.  
• Three-dimensional molded PMX – Fit heel counter hugs the back of the foot for a seamless, supportive blister free fit.  
• TPU outsole, with FastTwist insertion system, delivers traction in three dimensions for the life of the shoe.
• New Softspike’s Tour Flex Pro spike with three degrees of traction & 10 points of contact for course proven grip.
• Ventilated dual-density PMX Foam™️ midsole provides maximum energy return & ultimate under foot comfort.
• Graphite propulsion plate allows golfers to harness ground reaction forces more effectively, and bring more speed to the ball.
• Neverwet™️ superhydrophobic solution offers non-wicking & water-resistant protection.
• Clarino tongue with stretch support offers supreme foot lockdown to provide lightweight, breathable support.
• Molded & removable footbed features an open cell foam that compresses less than 5% over the life of the shoe – so cushioning, fit, & comfort never change.

Three colorways available – $200

Aesthetics/Testing/Value/Summary:

• Duplicate aesthetics to the spikeless X 005 F (above), but in a fully cleated model – so think “tour shoe”.
• Standard sizing. The X 004 RS features the same outsole/midsole and insole components as it’s X005 brethren. The new Softspikes® Tour Flex Pro spikes provide exceptional grip to the turf. The new padded PMX FIT heel section provides a snug fit and blister-free experience. A candidate for best all-around golf shoe of ’23.
• Value: $200 – Par
• Best suited for the player who demands top-shelf comfort, traction, and style in a tour-level offering.
• Overall Grade – A (the only thing missing is a BOA option)

https://payntrgolf.com/

Puma IGNITE ELEVATE (spikeless)

Puma’s latest spikeless – IGNITE ELEVATE features a bunch of innovations at a modest ($130) price point. The EXOSHELL upper is engineered with mesh to provide structure, fused underneath TPU film providing support.

ProForm TPU outsole provides traction in any direction.

• IGNITE Foam
• PWRCAGE
• EXOShell
• Concentric Traction
• Sizes: 7-13, 14, 15
• 1 Year Waterproof

IGNITE ELEVATE is built for strength and stability, and boasts PWRFRAME and PWRCAGE technology to provide all-day max performance in effortless comfort. According to Puma, their proprietary midsole foam provides energy return, responsive comfort, stable cushioning, and superior step-in comfort.

Available in wide fit and eight different colorways.

Aesthetics/Testing/Value/Summary:

• Clean, catchy athletic, and sporty style. the red/white/blue color scheme has a Ryder Cup aura.
• Standard sizing, but with a slightly narrower toe box than many in this review (wide width is available in 7 color choices). Comfortable for sure, but not the softest feeling or most cushy shoe in the review. Puma always does a masterful job of providing midfoot support and exceptional traction with all of their spikeless offerings, IGNITE ELEVATE is no exception – a solid all-around performer. Puma loyalists will love these kicks.
• Value: $130 Birdie (Among the best bang for your buck).
• Best suited for the player who wants style, value and innovation in a sexy-looking pair of kicks.
• Overall Grade: A-

https://www.pumagolf.com/

Skechers – Go Golf Elite 5

Skechers, well known for their extreme comfort, has grabbed a loyal base with their “Go Golf” line – and the Elite 5 will only enhance the loyal following. A waterproof lace-up golf design that features an embossed synthetic upper with a removable Arch Fit® insole and lightweight ULTRA FLIGHT® cushioning.

1/4″ multi-directional outsole

Features:

• 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
• Ultra-lightweight, responsive ULTRA FLIGHT® cushioning
• Waterproof protection with two-year warranty

Available also in extra wide sizes, and 3 colorways – Black/Red (above), White/Navy, Gray/Blue. $110

Aesthetics/Testing/Value/Summary:

• A refined and more streamlined outsole design than some Skechers golf footwear. The “cool kids” model.
• Standard sizing. Like most Skechers shoes, the first thing you notice after putting them on is the max comfort, (but these look pretty cool too). The jury is still out on the 1/4″ outsole treads, traction-wise they were just ok, but nothing egregious happened while testing out on the course. An all-around solid, sturdy spikeless golf shoe, especially at an amazing price point.
• Value: $110 – Birdie
• Best suited for the player who wants the most comfortable pair of golf shoes for right around a hundred bucks.
• Overall Grade: B+

https://www.skechers.com/men/shop-by-activity/golf/

Skechers Go Golf Pro 5 Hyper

Skechers flagship tour shoe, the Go Golf Pro 5 Hyper maximizes traction, support, comfort and all for a best-in-class value (less than $160).

Features:

• 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

Skechers synthetic upper comes with a two-year waterproof warranty.

Aesthetics/Testing/Value/Summary:

• Bold, racey, aggressive.
• Standard sizing. The Pro 5 Hyper is even a bit cushier feel than the Go Golf Elite 5 (above). A slightly higher profile from the ground than most golf footwear on the market, players who prefer a lower to the ground shoe, may want to look elsewhere. An impressive on-course performance, both traction and handling all types of weather conditions. One of the reasons their shoes are so comfortable is Skecher’s best-in-class insoles with their Resamax cushioning and Arch Fit® system with podiatrist-certified arch support. These performed as well as any golf shoe we tested in just about every category. The Pro 5 Hyper is a sleeper candidate for the best all-around golf shoe of ’23.
• Value – $160 (Birdie) best-in-class value for a tour-equipped model.
• Best suited for the player who wants a tour-level shoe for right around $150.
• Overall Grade: A

https://www.skechers.com/men/shop-by-activity/golf/

SQAIRZ SPEED BOLD

SQAIRZ burst onto the scene a few years ago offering the widest base in the industry to maximize stability and improve ground force connection – claiming distance improvements up to 8 yards, all while delivering high-end comfort via a wider toe-box. The brand has collected a loyal following, and their latest – SPEED BOLD was tested by our very own Brian Bush.

According to SQAIRZ , the new BOLD model features a refined sleeker look in a premium single-piece upper, while still retaining all of the game-changing performance benefits.

Features:

• Patented square toe creates more space for your toes to spread naturally and more connection between the ball of your foot and the ground.
• Proven to increase swing speed and distance.
• Wider base under the ball of the foot provides unparalleled balance and stability.
• Played on tour by players like Sepp Straka and John Daly.
• TPU heel stabilizer creates improved range of motion.
• Guaranteed 100% waterproof for two years.
• Designed to keep sand and debris out.
• Six strategically placed replaceable Pivix Softspikes® maximize traction.
• Sta-Put Laces customize your fit and lock it in place without having to adjust or re-tie.
• Fits up to 2E width.EVA foam midsole provides maximum responsive cushioning.

• Widest base in the industry maximizes stability and comfort
• Improves ground force connection
  ✓ Proven to improve distance by 8+ yards
  ✓ Maximizes comfort by allowing the toes to spread naturally
• Built with a gusseted tongue to keep out water and debris, the SPEED BOLD features a 2-year waterproof guarantee.
• Stay-put laces eliminates the need to adjust or re-tie during your round
• Pivix Softspikes maximize traction – lifetime replacement with SQAIRZ Spikes4Life Program

Available in 6 colorways. $220

Aesthetics/Testing/Value/Summary:

• The squared-toe section is a different look that may take some getting used to, but will likely be an attention getter with your foursome.
• BOLD runs about half a size large if you have a standard to narrow width, a wider profile should probably stay closer to true size. A few thoughts from tester B.Bush – Took Speed Bold out for a couple of loops around the track in the midst of some of the soggier sessions of South Florida’s rainy season. Even in the toughest of tests, Sqairz lived up to the hype . . . the square toe box allows your toes and the ball of your foot to fit properly in the shoe, when combined with a wider overall base of the shoe, the added stability makes a huge difference when loading and uncoiling a balanced swing. Power is generated from the ground up, and the more stable your base the better control you will have of your entire swing. Perhaps my favorite feature is the EVA insole. Think memory foam pillow for your feet. The insole molds to the shape of your foot, and makes for a good selection for all foot types. The cushioning feels great throughout even the longest days on the links. A worthy perk is SQAIRZ Spikes4Life program, that allows you to order replacement spikes from their website for free.
• Value: $220 – Par
• Best suited for the player who requires toe box width and demands stability.
• Overall Grade: B+

https://sqairz.com/

TRUE Linkswear – Lux Hybrid

TRUE’s Lux Hybrid takes the best of our LUX family styles and elevates the aesthetic, fit, and function. We took our 2-year waterproof Knit upper and added a leather saddle for a more premium, classic golf aesthetic, more customizable fit, and additional mid-foot stability. LUX Hybrid includes our new achilles heel pad as well as our TPU heel stabilizer and high-retention elastic heel lock system for an elevated, stable fit. With updates to our signature Wanderlux® midsole compound, insert and improvements to the overall construction – this is our highest quality, and most comfortable TOUR performance shoe yet.

Features

• Worn on the PGA TOUR®
• 2-Year Waterproof Knit Upper
• Leather Stability Saddle & Lacing System
• Upgraded Insert & Wanderlux® Midsole Compound
• New Achilles Heel Pad
• Heel Lock System
• Easy Clean TPU Mud Guard
• TOUR Tested Tread
• Natural Fit
• Transitional Drop (~6 mm)
• Athletic Aesthetic

Aesthetics/Testing/Value/Summary:

• Another fresh style from Jason Moore and the team at TRUE. The High Vis White has a camo silhouette design in the saddle that’s subtle but badass.
• Standard sizing. Combo knit/leather (saddle/midfoot area) upper provides a worthy amount of stability for a versatile golf/lifestyle spikeless. Players with aggressive swings, may appreciate the midfoot/arch support and the ample room in the toe box area for comfort during the stroll down the faiway. A mega-cushy feel underfoot compliments TRUE’s tour-tested outsole treads. More than golf, TRUE linkswear is a lifestyle choice. I wear my TRUE’s virtually everywhere, including up to Winter Park 9 for the occasional Friday Skins game appearance.
• Value: $195 – Par
• Best suited for the player who wants supreme style and lifestyle kicks as much as golf footwear.
• Overall Grade: B+

https://truelinkswear.com/

Our Picks For Best in Each Category:

Best Spikeless –

• 1 – Payntr X005 F
• 2 – Puma Ignite Elevate
• 3 – TRUE linkswear Lux Hybrid

Best Tour Spiked –

• 1 – Payntr X004 RS
• 2 – Adidas ZG23 BOA
• 3 – FJ Premier Series
• T3 – Skechers Go Golf Pro 5 Hyper

Best Value –

• 1 – New Balance 997 SL
• 2 – Skechers Go Golf Pro 5 Hyper
• 3 – Puma Ignite Elevate
• 4 – Skechers Go Golf Elite 5

Best All-Around –

• 1 – Payntr X004 RS
• 2 – Payntr X005 F
• 3 – Adidas ZG23 BOA
• 4 – FJ Premier Series
• 5 – Skechers Go Golf Pro 5 Hyper