Best Links Footwear Review ’24

By Jason Bruno

You’re probably here because you love golf shoes (who doesn’t?), or perhaps you’re just in need of a new pair or two for the summer season (and likely can’t make up your mind what brand and model is best for you). You know what looks good to you, but will that model suit your game, budget, and most importantly your feet? All worthy questions, so let’s dig in . . .

We’ve been officially testing golf footwear for over a decade now, but before companies sent us product to analyze and write about, I had a deep affliction for footwear – especially the variety that pertained to golf. In fact, the obsession runs so deep that if you asked me to choose between testing a really cool pair of new kicks or the hottest new $600 driver . . . it’s a safe bet I’m choosing the treads.

The industry and the market trends are constantly in flux, but three things are certain. (1) The price of new golf footwear has jumped along with everything else we purchase these days – the average price of a fully equipped tour offering is now 200 bucks (ouch babe). Often online retailers will carry the previous year’s model at less than half the price, but if you don’t want to wait for clearance deals, there are decent choices for those on a tight budget. (2) Product lines continue to get better and more innovative. The days of “a shoe is a shoe” are long over. In other words, there are so many choices for every golfer regardless of budget, style preference, sizing, and support/stability needs. (3) Spikeless golf footwear continues to trend up, and our review samples reflect that with nine of the test samples falling into that category. Four brands sent both cleated and spikeless – Asics, FootJoy, Skechers, and Under Armour, while a few brands sent exclusively spikeless models – Duca Del Cosma, Payntr, Puma, and TRUE Linkswear. While Adidas, New Balance, and SQAIRZ sent fully cleated models.

For the sake of consistency – 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 or 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 feel or do you lean more towards a minimalist barefoot vibe?

Below are a few tips to help you choose your ideal links kicks

• Sizes vary by brand/model, we’ve given some sizing/width notes on each model to guide you with your purchase, but when it’s not possible to try them on at a retailer, check their site for sizing specs and read reviews by those who have previously purchased.
• The amount of stability each player needs is another important factor, probably best to NOT be looking at that flexible casual knit model if you need a shoe with beefed-up max stability. Shoes that have technology built into the midfoot section with a wider base usually provide the best stability. Aggressive high-speed swingers of the club often require footwear with significant midfoot and outsole support built in.
• Traction is another element that should be considered in determining your footwear (especially when choosing a spikeless model), and varies from a casual lifestyle versatile shoe with basic treads to the dedicated golf model with a sophisticated outsole. Do you play most of your golf early when the turf is often wet with morning dew or from nighttime irrigation?
• Versatility vs Golf Specific – If you can play your best and have happy feet all day in a casual knit spikeless offering, then you likely can be less particular about your golf footwear . . . meaning, your shoes are lifestyle versatile. A fully spiked tour equipped shoe is created specifically for on-course performance and isn’t intended or designed to be worn away from the course.
• Intangibles/Confidence – Confidence is an elusive thing, and we’re all searching and trying to capture that feeling of playing our best. Having the proper footwear for YOUR game can only help. It may be tough to measure the data on such a thing, and a few OEMs like SQAIRZ and Under Armour have been conducting tests to quantify the performance benefits. It has been my personal view, that after hundreds of on course footwear reviews over the past decade – footwear that fits well, is comfortable, and that provides proper stability and traction DOES contribute to giving you the best chance of playing well. In other words, if you’re worried about your feet aching, an improper fit, a lack of structural support and treads that keep slipping on the downswing . . . it’s time to make a change.

Each brand is presented in alphabetical order:

• Adidas
• Asics
• Duca Del Cosma
• FootJoy
• New Balance
• Payntr
• Puma
• Skechers
• SQAIRZ
• True Linkswear
• Under Armour

Adidas – Tour360 24

The iconic Tour360 makes a valiant return in 2024 with an updated model that improves upon what has made this Tour favorite a legend in the “Tour Premium” genre. A cleaner BOOST component in the heel compartment and a refined leather upper lead the way to once again put the Tour 360 among the top of its class.

First Impression: These 24’s look aggressive and aimed at regaining the pole position.

Tech/Features:

• Regular fit
• Waterproof leather upper with 360Wrap support
• INSITE® sockliner
• Torsion Bridge
• Lightstrike cushioning
• Seven-spike TPU outsole

These beauties arrived after Xander won the PGA Championship. Which colorway do you prefer?

Grades:

• Oncourse-specific or Lifestyle versatile? Oncourse-specific
• Sizing/Width Fit: Standard/Med-Narrow
• Aesthetics: A
• Comfort: A
• Support/Stability: A+
• Traction: A+
• Value: B+
• Overall: A

Testing: After a sustained run as perhaps the finest all-around tour offering for a decade and a half, Adi’s flagship model fell off a bit in ’22. In 2024, Masun Denison and the 3 Stripes team went back to what made the Tour 360 great and refined a few simple elements like the BOOST midsole and upper orientation. Our testing felt like the glory days, what a no-compromise, premium tour shoe could be.

Pros – Tour360 24 is the best golf shoe Adidas has produced in the last decade, style/comfort, quality leather upper, superior traction outsole and a refined BOOST midsole, are all top-notch. A true performance-driven shoe of the highest order.

Cons: Hard to find anything to ding here. A few years ago, we would have said value, but $200 is now the norm for a premium leather tour shoe.

Best suited for the player who wants a Ferrari. A premium leather tour-validated shoe, high-performance and max energy return with each step.

MSRP $200 – https://www.adidas.com/us/men-golf-shoes

Asics – Gel-Kayano Ace 2

Asics Gel-Kayano Ace 2 is a spikeless design inspired by their iconic stability running shoe platform. The GKA2 is designed for the player who wants the comfort and flexibility of an Asics runner, but also the support and traction to support their swing.

First Impression: A clean looking athletic themed model that just happens to double as worthy golf footwear.

Ultra comfortable heel padding improves the shoe’s overall fit, while FLYTEFOAM technology provides the midsole energy return for a smooth ride down the fairway.

Tech/Features:

• FlyteFoam provides lightweight shock absorption
• Gel Technology for shock absorption and max comfort under the heel
• Waterproof PU Lining
• Air mesh and TPU in the heel cradles your feet for a flexible yet supportive fit
• FG traction sole pattern and flex grooves

Grades:

• Oncourse-specific or Lifestyle versatile? Versatile
• Sizing/Width Fit: Standard/Medium
• Aesthetics: B+
• Comfort: A
• Support/Stability: B
• Traction: B+
• Weatherproof: A
• Value: B-
• Overall: B+

Testing: Have always been a fan of the Gel-Kayano Ace, and this years edition held up to the expectations – super comfortable with worthy traction. Exceptional under dodgy weather conditions.

Pros – The type of kicks that can do it all – practice, short course, all day play, as a trainer at the gym or athletic shoe. “Swiss Army knife” of golf shoes. Solid performer in all weather conditions.

Cons – A tad pricey for a spikeless with a synthetic upper.

Best suited for the player who prefers a sporty spikeless that provides a worthy walking experience and can be worn as multi-use athletic gear.

MSRP $170 – https://www.asics.com/us/en-us

Asics – Gel-Ace Pro M

Hideki’s Tour kicks might be the most underrated tour-premium model in the industry. The upper features an external heel counter that reinforces stability so that you can maximize your potential. Meanwhile, a waterproof upper helps keep your feet dry when you’re playing in adverse conditions.

First Impression: They look very aggressive by design. Hideki gets after it, so these make me wanna rip drivers like the 2021 Masters Champion.

Tech/Features:

• Soft synthetic uppers are waterproof to keep your feet dry when golfing in wet course conditions
• Flytefoam® technology in midsole provides lightweight cushioning and underfoot comfort
• Asics Gel technology strategically placed under heel for maximum comfort with each step
• Ankle and tongue padding, inspired by ASICS running shoes, for comfortable fit and feel
• TPU stabilizer extends from rear to front of foot provides additional midfoot support
• Strategically-placed 7-spike design for outstanding stability, grip and traction
• Flex grooves on the outsole offer flexibility so you can walk the course with ease

FLYTEFOAM Propel technology helps lighten the overall weight of the midsole. Simultaneously, the GEL® technology in the heel offers good comfort throughout the variation of the course.

Ultralight FlyteFoam and heel-side Gel Technology further the tradition of ASICS’ legendary comfort, while a flexible outsole pattern, Proflex Spikes, and X-Shaped TPU Trusstics provide all the stability, traction and support you need to really perform.

Grades:

• Oncourse-specific or Lifestyle versatile? Oncourse-specific
• Sizing / Width Fit: Standard/Med
• Aesthetics: B+
• Comfort: B
• Support/Stability: A
• Traction: A+
• Weatherproof: A
• Value: B
• Overall: B++

Testing: Hideki’s tour treads don’t disappoint, ticking all of the boxes with what you’d expect from a tour-validated golf shoe. The Asics Gel Ace Pro M doesn’t wow in any one category, but is consistently good across the board and looks super clean at address.

Pros – A top-notch tour offering worthy of your consideration, a solid performer even in wet conditions. Styling is passable, but nothing to get excited about.

Cons – Value, synthetic upper for two bills is a smidge over the price point sweetspot.

Best suited for the player who wants a sporty golf specific offering that has tour validation and an aggressive profile.

MSRP $200 – https://www.asics.com/us/en-us

Duca Del Cosma – Davinci

I’m not sure their was a more exciting reveal than unboxing these new Davinci kicks from Duca Del Cosma. Check out the subtle branding imprint on these premium Italian Nappa leather uppers.

First Impression: Saw these at the PGA Show, they had me at hello -stunning. Same outsole as the Joost Luiten model (JL2) worn on tour, so you know they’re worthy treads.

Tech/Features:

Not gonna lie, the Davinci from DDC might be the coolest classic style kicks we’ve ever had in the 10 year history of Best Links Footwear features. Premium quality and fine detail is the theme here.

Grades:

• Oncourse-specific or Lifestyle versatile? Versatile
• Sizing / Width Fit: Standard/Med
• Aesthetics: A+
• Comfort: B
• Support Stability: B
• Traction: B+
• Weatherproof: B
• Value: B-
• Overall: B+

Testing: On the course, Davinci proves that it’s more than just a pretty face, providing commendable traction using the same tour-proven outsole of the brand’s JL2 model. Nappa leather offers exceptional quality, aesthetics and softness. Like most classic style shoes, Davinci is firmer feeling underfoot, with not much energy return..

Pros – The authentic Italian style and quality European craftsmanship of DDC’s Davinci is as impressive as any leather footwear we’ve reviewed. Don’t be fooled by the looks, Davinci packs plenty of performance “under the hood”.

Cons – The firmer feeling outsole isn’t for everyone.

Best suited for the player who wants to show off their impeccable style and appreciation for top-shelf quality craftsmanship (deep pockets required).

MSRP – $250 https://ducadelcosma.us

Duca Del Cosma – Davanti

If Davinci is the classic formal vibe, Davanti is the exact opposite, a more casual and sporty style – but created with the same premium materials and craftmanship. The upper consists of Nappa Leather combined with onDura Nilo, a very durable and breathable nylon.

First Impression: Euro cool, casual vibe, that Marina Blue with the Nubuck Tan Leather is striking. Looks like a cushy ride . . . couldn’t wait to put these on and walk a golf course.

Tech/Features:

• An Ergonomic design featuring a wide base
• high absorbtion CMEVA midsole
• Arneflex memory-foam insert
• Smart sole with three types of traction nubs
• Waterproof

The Davanti hits all of the right notes both on and off the course – the most versatile and cushy performance model in Duca’s lineup.

Grades:

• Oncourse-specific or Lifestyle versatile? Versatile
• Sizing / Width Fit: Standard/Med
• Aesthetics: A
• Comfort: A
• Support/Stability: A
• Traction: A
• Weatherproof: B+
• Value: B-
• Overall: A

Testing: These are our favorite Duca’s to walk in, a wide base and the CMEVA midsole keep you bouncing down the fairways. For some, the slightly higher profile may take a bit of getting used to . . . the multi-nub rubber outsole provides superb grip to the ground.

Pros – The unique Euro styling is cool, a superb all-around performer. Super cushy ride, with max energy return. Unmatched traction for a spikeless.

Cons – Value, high quality is expensive.

Best suited for the player who wants Duca high-quality craftsmanship in a sporty casual that can go from the 18th green to the clubhouse grill.

MSRP $250 – https://ducadelcosma.us

FootJoy – Premier (Field LX)

The FootJoy Premiere Series has it’s own place in the game, an Iconic style that’s timeless. FJ has taken the classic vibe, and reimagined its functionality with supercharged modern technology and innovation – a favorite out on tour by many of the world’s best players.

First Impression: The FJ Premiere Field is a fresh look in a timeless silhouette. I don’t wear too many formal dressy looking golf shoes anymore, but we’ll make an exception here. Classic and comfortable seemed to be a unicorn until now.

Tech/Features:

• Premium Chromoskin Leather/detailing/waterproof
• VersaTrax+ outsole provides max traction
• Full Leather Linings
• Pulsar Low Profile Cleats by Softspikes
• FastTwist 3.0

Grades:

• Oncourse-specific or Lifestyle versatile? Oncourse-specific
• Sizing / Width Fit: 1/2 size large / Med
• Aesthetics: A
• Comfort: B+
• Support/Stability: B+
• Traction: A+
• Weatherproof: A
• Value: B-
• Overall: A

Testing: The Premiere – Field is an FJ flagship shoe, wearing these feels special, not just because of the high-quality leather uppers and classic looks . . . these are high-performance kicks cloaked in an iconic dress shoe theme. As you’d expect, a firmer feeling underfoot doesn’t provide a ton of energy return (but the Ortholite Impressions insoles help add some cushion).

Pros: Tour-proven, classic styling, sophisticated outsole. He who wears these will be a “sharp-dressed man”.

Cons: Value – Two C-notes would have been a par.

Best suited for the player who prefers a classic look, but who also wants modern tech and innovation. *Check sizing above

MSRP $220 – https://www.footjoy.com

FootJoy – Pro SLX Carbon

FJ’s newest spikeless, the Pro/SLX is the evolution of their best-selling PRO SL. A complete redesign here . . .

First Impression: These look space age. As a fan of the previous PRO SL model, definite mixed emotions about this release . . .

FJ engineered the PRO SLX with what they call their PWR TRAX System, and 3D X-Wing, (I know it sounds like George Lucas created it), which redistributes the energy from your swing for enhanced stability. The Race Trak outsole, Radial Disc Traction (I know, now it’s sounds like Indy car jargon) extends into the ground to optimize overall traction, handling various course conditions and walking needs. Furthermore, the 3D X-Wing, FTF+ foam, and exposed heel stabilizer, effectively manages lateral and upper movement, ensuring a comprehensive blend of traction, comfort, and control allowing you to advance your game. In layman’s terms, the tech in these shoes will help you make your most aggressive swings, all while keeping your balance.

Tech/Features:

• Premium ChromoSkin™ Leather
• CARBON PWR TRAX System
• Race Trak Outsole
• 3D Molded Ankle Collar
• Ortholite® Impressions FitBed®
• StratoFoam Tuned for Golf Comfort
• Laser Plus Last
• 2-Year Waterproof Warranty

Grades:

• Oncourse-specific or Lifestyle versatile? Oncourse-specific
• Sizing / Width Fit: 1/2 size Larger than standard /Med-Wide
• Aesthetics: B
• Comfort: B
• Support/Stability: A+
• Traction: A
• Weatherproof: A
• Value: B-
• Overall: B+

Testing: The FJ PRO SLX Carbon is a beefed-up super alpha version of the former best-selling Pro/SL. A roomier toe-box and wider base complement the newly designed carbon fiber-powered outsole. The PRO SLX Carbon has a firmer feel underfoot than many other premium tour proven offerings. Do we prefer it over the Pro SL Carbon? Undecided.

Pros: Carbon PWR Trax outsole and wide base provide fantastic stability.

Cons: Outsole feels a bit rigid. Value is a bogey.

Best suited for the player who wants max stability (Carbonfiber), and doesn’t mind a slightly firmer feeling outsole. *See sizing above.

MSRP – $220, (non-carbon standard model $189) – https://www.footjoy.com

New Balance – Heritage

New Balance’s Heritage has the look and feel that longtime NB loyalists have come to expect. Paying homage to its roots, Heritage brings new age technology to the course in a retro running shoe vibe. Their DynaSoft midsole provides worthy energy return and plush cushioning. Traction provided by six Fast Twist 3.0 Pulsar cleats.

First Impression: Old School running shoe vibe, likely to appeal to the jackrabbit dew sweeper.

Tech/Features:

• NDurance rubber outsole designed to move with the natural motion of your foot
• FastTwist 3.0 removable Pulsar cleats*
• DynaSoft® 10mm drop* midsole provides lightweight cushioning & premium responsiveness
• CUSH+® insole for increased comfort
• 2 year waterproof warranty*
• Weight: 12.6 oz

Grades:

• Oncourse-specific or Lifestyle versatile? Oncourse-Specific (spiked)
• Sizing / Width: Standard /Med-narrow
• Aesthetics: B-
• Comfort: A
• Support/Stability: B+
• Traction: A
• Weatherproof: B+
• Value: A
• Overall: B++

Testing: Superlight and ultra-comfortable, these fit my feet like a glove. New Balance seems to impress us every year no matter what they bring to the marketplace, no exception here. Think of your favorite running shoe with a golf-specific outsole, that’s the NB Heritage. A retro style rockstar.

Pros: Value, comfort, traction.

Cons: Although subjective, the Heritage aesthetic is an acquired taste.

Best suited for the player who loves a running shoe and wants that same feel on the links.

MSRP $140 – https://www.newbalance.com/men/shoes/golf

Payntr – Trainer X 001 w/Carbitex

Since Payntr arrived on the scene a few years ago, they’ve aced everything they’ve launched, so now they introduce their super versatile Trainer X 001. These are geared towards fitness more than actual on-course, but who says you cant go to the range or walk a par 3 course in these?

First impression: Another cool looking and outside-the-box innovation and vibe from footwear innovator Michael Glancy. The guy is uber creative and a true talent. He was wearing these in a Carbon-fiber themed upper at the PGA Show. I had envy.

Tech/Features:

• Engineered woven jacquard upper weaves TPU thread for lateral support w/nylon for lightweight flexibility.
• Carbitex™️ GearFlex propulsion plate 
• PMX Grip Lite rubber outsole 
• PMX Nitro+ infused with PMX Foam™️ midsole provides max energy return
• PMX Nitro+ infused with PMX Foam™️ provides footbed comfort

• Oncourse-specific or Lifestyle versatile? Versatile
• Sizing / Width Fit: Standard /Med
• Aesthetics: A
• Comfort: B+
• Support/Stability: A
• Traction: B-
• Weatherproof: B+
• Value: B
• Overall: B+

Testing: Cool edgy sneaker-style trainer. A bit of an anomaly compared to the others in this review, probably should have its own separate category – golf/fitness. Carbitex sole plate boosts underfoot stability. As a training shoe, par 3/short course walker or practice footwear – these ace the exam.

Pros: A golf/workout, athletic performance shoe that offers several applications.

Cons: Value – any shoe with integrated carbonfiber technology is costly.

Best suited for the player who likes to play golf in a casual sneaker style training shoe that’s loaded with innovative features.

MSRP $180 – https://payntrgolf.com/

Puma – PhantomCat Nitro

First Impression: Whoa! What is that outsole?!

According to Puma’s Andrew Larson, “Puma’s new FLEXSPIKE is the golf cleat completely re-imagined. The increased surface contact of the uniquely shaped integrated cleats produce greater grip and better weight distribution for unrivaled traction and control in any playing conditions.”

Tech/Features:

• NITRO™ FOAM
• 1 Year Waterproof Full-Grain Leather
• Flexspike Outsole
• Pure-Fit last

Grades:

• Oncourse-specific or Lifestyle versatile? Oncourse-specific
• Sizing / Width: Standard /Med (roomy toe box)
• Aesthetics: B+
• Comfort: B+
• Support/Stability: A
• Traction: A
• Weatherproof: A
• Value: A
• Overall: A-

Testing: Typical good stuff from Puma. The unconventional FLEXSPIKES grip the turf far better than expected, but since they’re fixed and cannot be changed out, that might be a hang-up to some (Puma reasoned that studies found that nearly 90% of golfers never change out their removable cleats/spikes). Phantomcat Nitro proved to be a solid all-around on-course performer.

Pros: Innovative outsole, full-grain leather upper, best value in its category.

Cons: Moderate comfort, but was hoping for a bit more energy return from Nitro Foam.

Best suited for the player who prefers a premium tour leather shoe designed with loads of innovation, all while being way below 200 bucks.

MSRP $150 – https://www.pumagolf.com

Skechers – Go Golf Blade GF

The 2022 U.S. Open Champion Matthew Fitzpatrick wears these Skechers Go Golf Blade GF out on tour. The company boasts a “Best in Comfort experience” and considering our “Murderers Row” of footwear to choose from, that’s a bold statement. Check out our findings below to see how they fared.

First Impression – The honeycomb textured synthetic upper looks cool.

Tech/Features:

• Skechers Hands Free Slip-ins® for an easy fit
• Exclusive Heel Pillow™ holds your foot securely in place
• Lightweight and resilient Resamax® insole
• Skechers ECO FLIGHT™ lightweight and resilient cushioning made with at least 10% recycled materials
• Skechers GRIPFLEX™ spikeless TPU outsole provides superior traction and stability
• Padded collar and tongue
• One-year waterproof warranty

Grades:

• Oncourse-specific or Lifestyle versatile? Oncourse-specific
• Sizing / Width: Standard /Med
• Aesthetics: A
• Comfort: A+
• Support/Stability: A
• Traction: A
• Weatherproof: A+
• Value: A
• Overall: A+

Testing: The Go Golf Blade GF just might be the absolute sleeper of the entire ’24 review, outstanding in every facet – and well below the $200 price point of most of the other tour-driven performance footwear.

Pros: Mega comfort, cool looking synthetic upper, weatherproof, great on-course performance, superb value.

Cons: None

Best suited for the player who wants it all, and at a very reasonable price.

MSRP $165 – https://www.skechers.com/men/shop-by-activity/golf

Skechers – Go Golf Max 3

First Impression – Sporty sneaker appearance. Thermo-plastic outsole is aggressive and rigid.

Tech/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
• Ultra-lightweight Skechers® Soft Stride™ cushioning foam for added comfort
• Skechers® Waterproof Rain Jacket Protection with 1-year warranty

Grades:

• Oncourse-specific or Lifestyle versatile? Oncourse-specific
• Sizing / Width: Standard / Med
• Aesthetics: B-
• Comfort: B+
• Support/Stability: B+
• Traction: A
• Weatherproof: A
• Value: A+
• Overall: B+

Testing: The GG Max 3 sits on a higher profile from the ground than any shoe in the review, which may be off-putting to the serious player . . . conversely, the ultra-flight midsole and arch-fit insole make for a super-cushy stroll.

Pros: Best value winner.

Cons: Hard plastic outsole can be slippery on walkways/cart paths.

Best suited for the player who wants modern technology performance features on a modest budget.

MSRP $105 – https://www.skechers.com/go-golf-max-3/214080WW_GYRD.html

SQAIRZ – VELO

First Impression – Updated styling, and looks a bit sleeker than past SQAIRZ models.

Tech/Features:

• Sta-Put lacing system has printed silicone on the top of the lace to lock in comfort and performance without ever having to tie the laces again throughout the round.
• Breathable textured tongue and collar lining forms to your foot for unrivaled comfort and airflow.
• Heel stabilizer that runs from the heel to the arch for integrated arch support.
• Dual-density compression foam footbed provides immediate step-in comfort.
• New lightweight responsive NRG-Foam midsole delivers optimal comfort and increases energy return.

Grades:

• Oncourse-specific or Lifestyle versatile? Oncourse-specific
• Sizing / Width: Standard / Med to slightly wide
• Aesthetics: B
• Comfort: B+
• Support/Stability: A+
• Traction: A+
• Weatherproof: A
• Value: B+
• Overall: A-

Testing: Velo features SQAIRZ best-in-class stability, all while being sleeker than previous models (and now comes in sizing closer to standard). Decent comfort for a walking round, but was hoping for a bit more cushion/energy return from the NRG midsole.

Pros: Top-of-the-line stability breeds confidence.

Cons: The square-toe look doesn’t appeal to some consumers.

Best suited for the player who doesn’t mind being unconventional and demands max stability.

MSRP – $200 – https://sqairz.com/

TRUE Linkswear – Lux G

First Impression: True Linkswear is always one the best reveals when unpackaging, the rubber coated knit toe-box upper of the Lux G looks weatherproof.

Tech/Features:

• 2-Year Waterproof Guarantee (TRUE PNWP Bootie Construction)
• NEW Durable Coated Mesh Vamp for Easy Cleaning
• Rubberized Saddle for Customizable Fit & Stability
• NEW Neoprene Easy-On Sock Fit Collar
• WANDERLUX™ Midsole for a Comfortable and Stable Ride
• Padded Heel Lock System
• Antimicrobial EVA Comfort insole
• TOUR Tested & Approved
• Mountaineering Grade Rubber Tread System

Grades:

• Oncourse-specific or Lifestyle versatile? Lifestyle Versatile
• Sizing / Width: Standard /Med
• Aesthetics: A
• Comfort: A
• Support/Stability: B-
• Traction: B+
• Weatherproof: A
• Value: B
• Overall: B++

Testing: Lux G combines everything that TRUE loyalists appreciate but with a more durable and weatherproof upper. A finalist for the most comfortable walkers of this review, and as always, JMoore and his team crush in the versatility genre.

Pros: Super stylish, lifestyle versatility, comfortable walker, more durable upper than previous True models.

Cons: Doesn’t offer the midfoot support and stability preferred by many aggressive high swingspeed players.

Best suited for the player who prefers to wear their golf kicks everywhere they go.

MSRP $175 – https://truelinkswear.com/

Under Armour – Drive Pro

First Impression: Jordan Spieth’s new kicks look like a shoe designed for serious athletes, UA claims Drive Pro will increase your distance performance off the tee. Placebo effect or valid?

Tech/Features:

• UA Swing Support System (S3) provides smarter traction, dual-foam cushioning & lockdown lacing
• Swing Support Strap combines with reinforcement in the upper to provide biomechanically correct lock-in
• Energy-returning UA HOVR™ foam + supportive Charged Cushioning® guides natural motion of the foot in a golf swing
• New UA S3 spikes—designed with Softspikes® & a golf biomechanist—for game-changing directional traction
• Outsole has strategic flex grooves, secondary traction & TPU up the side for added support at impact
• Updated fit with more room at the ball of the foot for improved comfort & stability
• Breathable, supportive engineered microfiber upper & full waterproof membrane with 1-year warranty
• Molded sockliner for enhanced fit & comfort
• 1 year waterproof warranty

Grades:

• Oncourse-specific or Lifestyle versatile? Oncourse-specific
• Sizing / Width: 1/2 size large / Med to wide width
• Aesthetics: B+
• Comfort: B+
• Support/Stability: A
• Traction: A+
• Weatherproof: A
• Value: A
• Overall: A

Testing – Drive Pro’s outsole performs the heavy lifting as well as any in this year’s campaign. HOVR foam provides better than average energy return. UA’s move to a synthetic upper in their flagship model offers a lighter, more weatherproof shoe. As for the distance gains, more data needed over a longer period of time to validate or nullify UA’s claim.

Pros: Superb stability and traction, value is a solid par in a marketplace of $200+ for tour-proven footwear.

Cons: Nothing to ding on these, but 1/2 size larger means in-store fitting is essential before purchase.

Best suited for the player who wants a performance golf shoe that’s specifically designed to maximize distance. *Check sizing above

MSRP $170 – https://www.underarmour.com/en-us/c/shoes/golf/

Under Armour – Phantom

First Impression: Can’t wait to walk in these cushy looking treads.

Tech/Features:

• 1 year waterproof warranty
• Lightweight, breathable knit upper with strategic reinforcements to support the golf swing
• Lightweight waterproof membrane & NeverWet™ treated upper to keep you cool & dry on damp days
• Knit collar for ease of entry & a plush feel with an external heel counter for stable support
• Ultra-breathable, SpeedForm® 2.0 sockliner provides softer underfoot support
• Responsive UA HOVR™ cushioning reduces impact, returns energy & helps propel you forward
• Durable, high-traction rubber outsole with strategic pattern for directional support
• Regular

Grades:

• Oncourse-specific or Lifestyle Versatile: Lifestyle Versatile
• Sizing / Width: 1/2 size large / Med to wide width
• Aesthetics: A
• Comfort: A+
• Support/Stability: B+
• Traction: B
• Weatherproof: A
• Value: A
• Overall: A

Testing – UA’s Phantom provides the cushiest most comfortable walking experience (and one of the lightest models) of the this review – hands down. The gummy spikeless outsole does an adequate job of providing grip to the turf. I was asked more about these shoes from fellow golfers and people at the green market where I wore them out, then any other pair in this review. You’ll love wearing these so much, you may need another pair for your everyday kicks.

Pros: Comfort of the highest order, do your feet a favor and get these on your must have list.

Cons: Spikeless rarely offer they same traction and stability as cleated models. Sizing is 1/2 size larger than standard, get to a retail store to try on.

Best suited for the player who wants the cushiest underfoot / max energy return experience. *Check sizing above

MSRP $140 – https://www.underarmour.com/en-us/c/shoes/golf/

Testing Summary by Category

Outstanding Value

• 1 – Skechers Go Golf Blade
• 2 – Skechers Go Golf Max 3
• 3 – Puma Phantomcat Nitro
• T3 – New Balance Heritage

Outstanding Stability/Traction

• 1 -SQAIRZ Velo
• T1 – FJ PRO SLX
• 3 -Adidas Tour 360 24
• T3 – Skechers Go Golf Blade
• T3 – Puma Phantomcat Nitro

Most Comfortable Walk

• 1 – UA Phantom
• 2 – Skechers Go Golf Blade
• 3 – NB Heritage
• T3 – TRUE Linkswear Lux G
• T3 – Adidas Tour 360 24
• T3 – Duca Del Cosma Davanti

Outstanding Performer Spiked

• 1 – Skechers Go Golf Blade
• T1 – Adidas Tour360 24
• 3 – FJ Premier Series – Field
• T3 – Asics Gel Ace Pro
• T3 – SQAIRZ Velo

Outstanding Performer Spikeless

• 1 – Duca Del Cosma Davanti
• 2 – UA Phantom
• 3 – Asics Gel Kayano Ace
• 4 – Duca Del Cosma Davinci