By Jason Bruno
Are you in need of that new pair of golf kicks for the season or a special golf event? If so, you’re in the right place. With so much to choose from, today’s golf footwear is better than ever. Regardless of your budget (or lack thereof), you’re in luck. Whether you’re just a consumer looking for a deal or you’re a golf shoe addict (guilty as charged), this year’s Best Links Footwear Review has you covered with 20 worthy models vying for your business.
The industry and the market trends continue to evolve, here’s what you need to know – (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 north of two bills. (2) Product lines continue to improve from an innovation standpoint. 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, foot support and stability needs. (3) Spikeless continues to lead the way, 15 of 20 shoes in this year’s review are sans removable cleats. Four brands sent both cleated and spikeless – FootJoy, Skechers, Payntr, and TRUE Linkswear (who introduced their very first cleated golf shoe this year, and it was worth the wait!) Several brands sent exclusively spikeless models – Duca Del Cosma, Puma, Adidas, Asics, and ECCO.
A huge thanks to the ten brands who participated this year. Adidas, Asics, Duca Del Cosma, ECCO, Footjoy, Payntr, Puma, Skechers, SQAIRZ, and TRUE Linkswear.
As usual we present each brand in alphabetical order.
If there’s a model that catches your eye, be sure to read the summary for each – we include some sizing specifics and a few ways to get discounts on several brands.
Adidas – Code Chaos 25
A new iteration of Code Chaos is always a breath of fresh air. Adidas only presents a new edition of Code Chaos every few years, it’s model we look forward to testing because of its edgy aesthetic, super cushy energy return and superior traction.
- Regular fit
- Multi-layered waterproof knit upper with a lace closure
- BOOST foam and ultralight Lightstrike cushioned midsole provides unparalleled comfort and energy return
- 3D Torsion System creates a stable and powerful base
- Twistgrip outsole offers excellent spikeless traction
- INSITE sockliner provides a superior fit and perfect foot balance
- Contains a minimum of 20% recycled and renewable materials
- 1-Year Waterproof Warranty
- 90-Day Comfort Guarantee
This year we present every model as it appears from the wearer’s perspective. Code Chaos25 passes the eye test with flying colors.
BOOST midsole = Max energy return
Summary –
Sizing/Fit: Standard /Med Width
Aesthetics: A
Comfort: B+
Foot Support: A
Innovation: A
Energy Return: A
Traction: A+
Weatherproofing: A
*Price / Value: B+ (MSRP $160)
Overall: A
Who’s it for? The legion of Adi Code Chaos loyalists who need the latest edition, and those who also prefer the superior energy return of a BOOST midsole. Fit is a smidge larger than typical Adidas, we suggest you try on first.
Are these an upgrade from prior editions of Code Chaos? That’s subjective, but at the very least they’re the second best iteration in our opinion. Value is still there at a buck sixty for a shoe with this much tech —— *We’ve seen retailers (like Carl’s Golfland) selling these online for $99!
https://www.adidas.com/us/golf
AdiZero
Lightweight yet packed with tech, AdiZero features Lightstrike Pro cushioning and a dynamic stability system for the most aggressive swings. AdiZero is made with a blend of recycled and renewable materials.
Spikemore grip technology handles the ground forces, while the Dynamic Torsion System stabilizes the mid-foot during even the fastest swings.
- Regular fit
- Lace closure
- Advanced waterproof Synthetic Sprintskin upper improves support, reduces weight, and provides protection from the elements
- Proprietary ultralight Lightstrike Pro cushioning offers exceptional comfort, maximum energy return, and optimal responsiveness while reducing walking fatigue
- Spikemore Grip technology, an advanced design including a mix of tractable undercut bars and cone-shaped lugs, delivers immense grip in all lies and turf conditions
- Dynamic Torsion System stabilizes the foot during multi-directional movements and wraps up to provide the upper with extra support
- External heel counter offers lockdown stability
- 1-Year Waterproof Warranty
- 90-Day Comfort Guarantee
Cloud White / Lucid Red / Core Black shown.
Summary –
Sizing/Fit: Standard /Med Width
Aesthetics: B
Comfort: B
Foot Support: A
Innovation: A
Energy Return: B+
Traction: A+
Weatherproofing: A
*Price / Value: B ($170)
Overall – B+
Who’s it for? The progressive-minded golfer who wants the most aggressive outsole in a superlight-weight spikeless.
Bold progressive design, with an outsole that grips the ground like no other (best in class). Lightweight but loaded with technology. For those seeking a more subtle color way, Adizero is available in five colors.
https://www.adidas.com/us/golf
Asics – Japan S
According to Asics – The JAPAN S GOLF shoes are based on one of our throwback offerings from 1981. This reworked iteration retains its classic aesthetic, but modified for the golf course. Mimicking the aesthetic of a retro basketball sneaker, this heritage style is formed with synthetic leather overlays that help create a comfortable fit.
retro style
The shoe’s outsole is constructed with a turf tread pattern to help provide grip and stability on the links.
Summary –
Sizing/Fit: Standard /Med-Narrow
Aesthetics: B
Comfort: B
Foot Support: B
Innovation: C
Energy Return: C
Traction: B-
Weatherproofing: B
*Price / Value: B ($100)
Overall: B-
Who’s it for? The retro style enthusiast. Wide feet need not apply, Japan S has a narrow toe box
A throwback shoe, more of a lifestyle offering with an old school hoops vibe. Not much modern tech here, think of it as Asics version of the Air Force One golf shoe = fashion statement.
https://www.asics.com/us/en-us/mens-golf/c/aa10407000/shoes
Duca Del Cosma – Bosco
At this year’s PGA Show, the first Duca Del Cosma shoe that peaked our interest was the Bosco. Lots packed into this modern classic.
- Waterproof Bootie System for dry feet
- Premium full grain leather with durable microfibre
- High quality and durable Airplay Milano outsole with a lightweight EVA midsole, providing increased grip, stability and performance enhancement
- INSITE® ArchRelief™ support insoles for additional comfort, rebound & cushioning
- Enhanced fit for optimal functionality
Bosco features Premium full-grain leather combined with a durable microfiber in the upper. The EVA midsole provides superb energy return, while INSITE® insole offers much-needed arch support.
Who doesn’t love some Italian style?
Summary –
Sizing/Fit: run half size small /medium width (only full sizes available – Size 12 US = 45 EU)
Aesthetics: A
Comfort: A+
Foot Support: A
Innovation: A
Energy Return: A
Traction: B+
Weatherproofing: A
*Price / Value: B+ ($189)
Overall: A
Who’s it for? The golfer who prefers a classic aesthetic with a Euro vibe, and maximum comfort. Try on, available in full sizes only – tricky when converted to Euro.
So impressed with everything we tested from Duca Del Cosma this year, the Bosco is no exception – combining classic style with extreme comfort. The craftsmanship and quality is exceptional. The outsole isn’t sophisticated, but handles the heavy lifting out on the course quite nicely. I wore these recently to a special round at an exclusive club, several people approached me inquiring about these Italian kicks. At under two bills, the Bosco is a worthy acquisition.
Duca Del Cosma – Genova
Duca Del Cosma sent an eclectic array of spikeless models for review, and each has its own unique place in your footwear rota. Genova brings a sporty, casual vibe. The fabric mesh and microfiber upper is very comfortable and striking. The Airplay Roma outsole provides the traction you need to play fearlessly.
INSITE® insole offers top-notch arch support.
- Waterproof Bootie System for dry feet
- Advanced fabric mesh and microfiber upper with non-wicking properties
- High quality and robust Airplay Roma outsole with a lightweight EVA midsole, distinctively designed to provide utmost grip, durability, traction and performance
- INSITE® ArchRelief™ support insoles for additional comfort, rebound & cushioning
- Enhanced fit for optimal functionality
EVA midsole provides superb energy return.
Summary –
Sizing/Fit: run half size small /medium width (only full sizes available – Size 12 US = 45 EU)
Aesthetics: A
Comfort: A+
Foot Support: A
Innovation: A
Energy Return: A
Traction: A
Weatherproofing: A
*Price / Value: B ($189)
Overall: A
Who’s it for? The golfer who prefers extreme comfort with excellent traction in a casual sporty spikeless. Try on, available in full sizes only – tricky when converted to Euro.
The Genova might just be the sleeper of this entire review. Sporty looks in a fabric microfiber upper puts these as much in the versatile lifestyle category. A superb walking shoe. Personally, these might fit my feet better than any shoe we tested. The outsole traction is top shelf in the spikeless category.
Duca Del Cosma – Positano
- Waterproof Bootie System for dry feet
- Premium full grain leather embossed and textured, with a durable onMicro® microfibre upper
- High quality and robust Airplay Roma outsole with a lightweight EVA midsole, distinctively designed to provide utmost grip, durability, traction and performance
- INSITE® ArchRelief™ support insoles for additional comfort, rebound & cushioning
- Enhanced fit for optimal functionality
Summary –
Sizing/Fit: run half size small /medium width (only full sizes available – Size 12 US = 45 EU)
Aesthetics: A
Comfort: A+
Foot Support: A
Innovation: A
Energy Return: A
Traction: A
Weatherproofing: A
Price / Value: B- ($229)
Overall: A
Who’s it for? The consumer who demands craftsmanship and European style without sacrificing performance. Try on, available in full sizes only – tricky when converted to Euro.
Similar to the Genova, in that both models share the identical Airplay Roma outsole. Positano features a full-grain leather/micro fibre upper. Hence the larger price point. Another winner from Duca here.
ECCO – Biom Hybrid5
ECCO’s Biom Hybrid 5 is by far the most edgy golf offering they’ve produced to date. Part rock climber and links walker, the Biom H5 is a cool breeze on a hot day – a surprise, if you will. They’re as comfortable as they look.
- ECCO Performance Leather with a one-piece engineered knit sock for a modern, sporty aesthetic and all-day comfort
- ECCO-TEX waterproof membrane keeps your foot dry and comfortable in wet conditions
- Removable and washable Ortholite® insole supplies long-term cushioning with the option of removing it for extra width
- BIOM® NATURAL MOTION® technology for a snug fit, along with stability and forward momentum for power during the swing
- Made with ECCO FLUIDFORM™ Direct Comfort Technology – soft, light and provides bounce and energy return
- New and innovative outsole for stability and traction
ECCO loyalists will want these, and rightly so, but a roomy toe box and a slightly larger than the standard size means trying them on before buying is a good idea.
As usual, the ECCO leather and quality craftsmanship is as good as it gets.
Summary –
Sizing/Fit: run half size small /medium width (only full sizes available – Size 12 US = 45 EU)
Aesthetics: A
Comfort: A
Foot Support: B+
Innovation: A
Energy Return: A
Traction: B
Weatherproofing: A
Price / Value: C ($229)
Overall: B+
Who’s it for? The consumer who knows ECCO quality and doesn’t mind the higher pricepoint. These run about a half size larger than standard. Euro sizes aren’t as specific, example 11-11.5 + Euro 45. Try on first.
Overall: The mega comfortable Biom H5 is as good a walking shoe as there is in the review. The outsole will make greenskeepers happy, but is only adequate on the traction front. As usual, the ECCO leather and quality craftmanship shines through.
FootJoy – Hyperflex
Hyperflex has continued to gain popularity as golf footwear continues to evolve towards high-tech athletic gear. A few big-name players on tour have switched out the classic FJ model and into the new Hyperflex.
Hyperflex combines the comfort and style of a laminated knit upper with high-level midfoot support, and the performance and stability of a fully cleated tour model.
- ControlKNIT Spiral-Wound Engineered Knit Technology with Durable, Easy-To-Clean Coating
- TruFIT System Provides Easy-On Flexibility & Secure, Locked-In Heel Fit
- Responsive StratoFOAM Tuned For Golf Comfort & Performance
- PowerPlate Maximizes Energy Transfer by Harnessing Rotational Forces
- OptiFlex Outsole Bends Naturally with Your Foot to Reduce Walking Fatigue
- Renewable Traction with Pulsar LP Cleats by SoftSpikes®
- Energy Absorbing OrthoLite® Rebound & Recovery FitBed®
Summary –
Sizing/Fit: standard/medium width
Aesthetics: A
Comfort: B+
Foot Support: A+
Innovation: A
Energy Return: B
Traction: A+
Weatherproofing: A
Price / Value: B+ ($190)
Overall: A-
Who’s it for? The Hyperflex loyalist, a player who wants all of the tech, and doesn’t mind a slightly firmer ride. May run a half size large when compared to other brands.
Hyperflex is a, bonafide fully cleated premium tour shoe (JT switched into these in ’25). A slightly firmer feel under foot, may not be for those who prefer max cush and energy return. Carbon version is an extra $40, and is meant to increase stability for the most aggressive swingers, but honestly, the standard version doesn’t twist even the slightest. Value is there at $190.
FootJoy – Quantum
Quantum is another sleeper in the spikeless category, it appears to be a casual sporty offering, which it is. . . but it can handle a full 36 hole walking day and then some.
- Lightweight, Breathable Mesh Upper with Ripstop Heel
- SofFOAM Delivers an Incredibly Cushioned & Plush Ride for All-Day Walking & Playing Comfort
- Folded 3D Collar Maximizes Comfort & No-Slip Fit
- Mold to Your Foot OrthoLite® Impressions FitBed®
- Multi-Dimensional Traction Targets Rotational & Lateral Swing Forces
- 1-Year Waterproof Warranty
There are not a lot of golf footwear in these golf gear reviews that can be your everyday shoe, the Quantum came out of the box and instantly was an everyday shoe. High praise. Note the spiral textured laces, hands down best in class, hate having to retie shoes over and over again. We haven’t had to re-tie these once.
Summary –
Sizing/Fit: standard/medium width
Aesthetics: A
Comfort: A+
Foot Support: B+
Innovation: B+
Energy Return: A
Traction: A
Weatherproofing: B-
Price / Value: B- ($170)
Overall: A-
Who’s it for? The golfer who wants his golf shoes to be as comfortable and versatile as his favorite sneakers. These are on our must have list.
FootJoy’s Quantum is a super-versatile all-around shoe that can go from the range, to the first tee, grill room, a twilight spin around the short course and straight to the airport without missing a beat. I recently walked Pinehurst No.2 in these, provided great bounce and surprisingly good grip on those firm Fairways. *Several retailers online like Global Golf are offering these for under $150.
Payntr – Match Day
Our final arrival, and Payntr’s latest entry into the spikeless genre – Match Day, is a collaboration between Jason Day and Co-Founder / Footwear Creator Michael Glancy. We waited patiently for these to arrive, and as they say, ‘good things come to those who wait’. Match Day is the cleatless companion to Day’s Eighty Seven SC.
Match Day also features a Carbitex propulsion plate to generate ground forces into clubhead speed.
Match Day = Eye Candy
- CLARINO Trivela microfiber upper delivers lightweight support and flexibility.
- WATERPROOF+ & breathable membrane fused to the lining and sealed with a bottom gasket.
- ARIAPRENE® tongue & bootie offers supreme foot lockdown to provide maximum stability and lightweight, breathable support.
- TPU Outsole delivers traction in three dimensions for the life of the shoe.
- PMX Nitro+ Footbed delivers lightweight, responsive cushioning for the shoe’s life.
- PMXNitro+ Midsole provides maximum energy return & ultimate underfoot support.
- CARBITEX GearFlex™️ propulsion plate allows golfers to harness ground reaction forces more effectively.
Summary –
Sizing/Fit: standard/medium width
Aesthetics: A+
Comfort: A
Foot Support: A
Innovation: A+
Energy Return: A
Traction: A
Weatherproofing: A
Price / Value: A- ($200)
Overall: A+
Who’s it for? The golfer who knows what Payntr offers, and the one who hasn’t been introduced to Payntr yet.
We had one of the game’s finest course architects test these for us, and he had lots to rave about. Just one ding, the lack of padding around the ankle and upper heel area. Generally, $200 for a spikeless offering won’t garner a high value grade, but the inclusion of the carbon fiber sole plate justified the price.
Payntr – Eighty Seven SC
The Eighty Seven SC is the model that put Payntr into the stratosphere.
Although it came out in prototype form last summer and then to select media outlets in the fall, the Eighty Seven SC was really introduced to the masses in early ’25. Like the classic Shelby Hertz GT350H (which was a rental car back in the day – yep, a musclecar reference in a golf footwear review), the Eighty Seven SC has a subtle yet classy style from the top view, but is a beast under the hood. This fully cleated tour premium shoe is loaded with all of the goodies.
CARBITEX GearFlex propulsion plate allows golfers to more effectively harness ground reaction forces.
CLARINO Trivela microfiber upper delivers lightweight support and flexibility
WATERPROOF+ breathable membrane fused to lining and sealed with a waterproof bottom gasket.
ARIAPRENE® tongue & bootie offers supreme foot lockdown to provide maximum stability and lightweight, breathable support.
TPU Outsole, with Fast Twist insert system, delivers traction in three dimensions for the life of the shoe.
PMXNitro+ Footbed delivers lightweight, responsive cushioning for the life of the shoe.
PMXNitro+ Midsole provides maximum energy return & ultimate under foot support.
Summary –
Sizing/Fit: standard/medium width
Aesthetics: A+
Comfort: A
Foot Support: A
Innovation: A+
Energy Return: A
Traction: A+
Weatherproofing: A
Price / Value: A- ($220)
Overall: A+
Who’s it for? The player who wants the Ferrari (yep, another car reference). Innovation and style at an elite level.
An instant classic, an absolute top-of-the-line tour premium model, the Eighty Seven SC.
Like the Match Day, some ankle and upper heel padding would be the only gripe. At $220, it’s pricey… but considering everything, I’d have to consider it a par on the value scale.
Puma Ignite Elevate 2
Ignite Elevate 2 continues the lineage of Puma’s long line of super comfortable spikeless footwear. Players like Rickie Fowler (who wears the tour spiked model) and Gary Woodland can be seen wearing these on tour.
- IGNITE FOAM
- FLOATPLATE
- PWRSADDLE
- CRYSTAL RUBBER
- 1-YEAR WATERPROOF
Elevate 2 features ultra-supportive midsole that features FLOATPLATE Technology, stabilizing the midfoot and providing better torsional rigidity. The PWRSADDLE wraps the foot ensuring minimal movement during your most powerful swing.
Summary –
Sizing/Fit: standard/medium width
Aesthetics: B+
Comfort: A
Foot Support: B+
Innovation: B
Energy Return: A-
Traction: A
Weatherproofing: B+
Price / Value: A+ ($130)
Overall: B+
Who’s it for? The consumer who wants versatility, a sharp look and value.
Puma keeps cranking out quality footwear offerings and at a great value. The Ignite Elevate 2 is a worthy spikeless crossover that’s super comfortable and worthy of anything you can throw at it.
Puma – Ignite Elevate X
The Ignite Elevate X is the brethren to the Elevate 2, with the upper designed in a different orientation. The lack of a midfoot saddle signals an even more casual application geared more to the lifestyle genre.
The undefeatable traction from 100+ semi-transparent lugs may not look like much but the grip the ground in a serious way.
Note the midfoot shank (orange insert) for added stability.
- IGNITE FOAM
- FLOATPLATE
- EXOSHELL
- CRYSTAL RUBBER
- 1-YEAR WATERPROOF
Summary –
Sizing/Fit: standard/medium width
Aesthetics: B
Comfort: A
Foot Support: B+
Innovation: B
Energy Return: A-
Traction: A
Weatherproofing: B+
Price / Value: A+ ($130)
Overall: B+
Who’s it for? Value-conscious player who wants to bounce down the fairway like Rickie.
Rinse and repeat on the impressions from Elevate 2, the Ignite Elevate X shares the same DNA with a slightly different upper. Elevate X is the type of offering that everyone needs to have a few pairs of.
Skechers – Go Golf Prestige SL
Skechers enters the classic golf shoe genre with their own twist of ultra-comfort and fantastic value. Can they grab some of the market share from industry titan Footjoy?
Prestige SL immediately has become part of the starting rotation. Not gonna lie, these had me at hello. The slip-in feature and heel pillow are both upgrades from any of the other brands that offer a classic model. ECOFLIGHT midsole provides a smooth ride down the fairway.
- Skechers Hands Free Slip-ins® for an easy fit
- Exclusive Heel Pillow™ holds your foot securely in place
- 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
- Skechers ECO FLIGHT™ lightweight and resilient cushioning made with at least 10% recycled materials
- One-year waterproof warranty
- Lace-up leather upper
- Spikeless outsole provides superior traction and stability
- Skechers GO GOLF® logo detail
Summary –
Sizing/Fit: standard/medium width
Aesthetics: A
Comfort: A
Foot Support: A
Innovation: A
Energy Return: A-
Traction: A
Weatherproofing: A
Price / Value: A ($150)
Overall: A
Who’s it for? Anybody, especially the classic style aficionado, who wants a cushy spikeless for a decent value. Roomy toe box, but standard size.
*(see discount offer below)
Last year the Go Golf Blade was awarded top billing along with Adi’s Tour360 in the Tour premium category, these can hold their own with any $225 shoe in the classic style category. . . and at $150, the value is there. *Join there email list and get 20% off today.
https://www.skechers.com/men/shop-by-activity/golf
Skechers – Go Golf Prestige
Go Golf Prestige. Hit repeat on the Prestige SL, except add a fully cleated outsole for extra traction.
- 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
- Skechers ECO FLIGHT™ lightweight and resilient cushioning made with at least 10% recycled materials
- Replaceable Softspikes® for maximum grip, featuring our Tour Flex Pro system
- One-year waterproof warranty
- Replaceable Softspikes® for maximum grip, featuring Pulsar PIN system
Summary –
Sizing/Fit: standard/medium width
Aesthetics: A
Comfort: A
Foot Support: A
Innovation: A
Energy Return: A
Traction: A+
Weatherproofing: A
Price / Value: A ($150)
Overall: A
Who’s it for? The person who’s goes for the classic FJ Premiers, but wants a bit extra cushion and to save a few bucks. *(see discount offer below)
Nearly the identical twin to the Prestige SL, the Prestige is a fully cleated version of the same shoe with no upcharge! Show me another brand that charges the same for their spiked model. *Join there email list and get 20% off today.
https://www.skechers.com/men/shop-by-activity/golf
Skechers – Go Golf Drive 6
The Go Golf Drive 6 is a spikeless waterproof design featuring a full-grain leather upper and removable Arch Fit insole. Check out the Goodyear powered rubber outsole.
- Patented Skechers Arch Fit® insole system with podiatrist-certified arch support, 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
- Relaxed Fit® for a roomy comfort fit at toe and forefoot
- Waterproof protection with one-year warranty
- Goodyear® Rubber Outsole delivers enhanced traction, stability, and durability
- Premium full-grain leather upper with a lace-up front
- Waterproof golf shoe with removable insole
- Spikeless durable grip outsole with 1/4-inch cleats
- 1 1/4-inch heel height
- Skechers GO GOLF® and Arch Fit® logo details
Summary –
Sizing/Fit: standard/medium width
Aesthetics: B
Comfort: A
Foot Support: B
Innovation: B-
Energy Return: B
Traction: B+
Weatherproofing: B+
Price / Value: A ($100)
Overall: B
Who’s it for? The golfer who prefers a simple and clean tennis shoe style in a spikeless design for $100. *(see discount offer below)
A minimalist classic tennis shoe style upper packed with modern day comfort and weatherproof technology. Genuine leather and Goodyear powered outsole all for a hundred bucks. Looks like Skechers has figured out the sweetspot for a large demographic of golfers, the GG Drive 6 is another hit. Value winner. *Join there email list and get 20% off today.
https://www.skechers.com/men/shop-by-activity/golf
SQAIRZ – PRO S2 LT
If you were interested in checking out what SQAIRZ is all about, there’s no better time – their footwear is the best it’s been since the company’s inception – lighter and more comfortable than ever. . .
- New Lightweight TPU Outsole: Crafted for maximum performance and durability while maintaining a featherlight feel.
- New Lightweight NRG™-Foam EVA Midsole: Optimized for energy return and comfort, keeping you fresh through every round.
- Dual-Density Compression Foam Footbed: Provides immediate step-in comfort for a superior experience from tee to green.
- 100% Waterproof Premium Microfiber Upper: Designed to keep your feet dry in any weather while offering exceptional breathability to ensure cool, all-day comfort on the course.
- TPU Heel Stabilizer: Extends from the heel to the arch, delivering exceptional integrated arch support for a secure, grounded stride.
- Hybrid Smart Traction System: The patented outsole delivers superior grip with over 290 points of ground contact, combining the comfort of spikeless shoes with the stability and traction of spikes for improved consistency and distance.
- Six Strategically Placed Replaceable Pivix Softspikes®: Triangulated under the pressure points of the foot to maximize traction and prevent slipping during every swing.
- TPU Heel Stabilizer: Extends from the heel to the arch for integrated arch support, delivering consistent performance.
- Sta-Put™ Lacing System: Silicone-printed laces lock in comfort and performance without the need for retying, keeping you focused on your game.
- Breathable Textured Tongue and Collar Lining: Forms to your foot for unparalleled airflow and comfort during every round.
- Lateral and Medial Embossing: Enhances structural integrity to keep you grounded under pressure.
According to the company, proven gains in speed and distance have been recorded:
- An average increase of 12 yards in distance
- 3.9MPH swing speed boost
- 30% dispersion tightening for improved accuracy
Summary –
Sizing/Fit: SQAIRZ has evolved closer to standard sizing, but still may be a half size large when compared to brands like Adidas. check their sizing chart on the webpage.
Aesthetics: C+
Comfort: A
Foot Support: A
Innovation: A
Energy Return: A
Traction: A
Weatherproofing: A
Price / Value: A ($179)
Overall:A-
Who’s it for? The consumer who doesn’t mind the boxy profile, and wants all of the bells and whistles for well under $200.
SQAIRZ has gained a pretty loyal following in its short time in the industry, and once you try a pair on it’s easy to see why – stability. The PROS2 LT is the brands lightest model, providing a comfortable ride. The simplified upper design is their best looking model yet. *Join SQAIRZ Nation for product discounts
TRUE Linkswear – OG3 PRO
A classic reborn with the same wide toe-box, zero-drop profile, featuring some really cool effects and refined features, the OG3 Pro is a True Linkswear loyalist’s must-have.
Check out the water-droplets on the heel ribbon tab, it might be the coolest visual effect on any shoe we’ve ever seen.
The new treads on the TPU outsole stick to the turf like super glue.
- Wide, Cushioned Zero Drop Construction
- Aggressive New TPU Spikeless Outsole
- Next Generation Pebbled Engineered Leather Upper
- Waterproof Bootie Construction (2-Year Waterproof Warranty)
- Naturally Flexible for Enhanced Comfort and Feel
- New, Easy-On Tongue System for Improved Entry and Exit.
Sizing/Fit: standard/medium width
Aesthetics: A
Comfort: A
Foot Support: B+
Innovation: A
Energy Return: B+
Traction: A
Weatherproofing: A
Price / Value: B ($199)
Overall: B+
Who’s it for? The golfer who prefers a wide toe box, and wants the coolest zero-drop kicks in the game. A very cool upgrade to a cult classic. Zero drop is an acquired taste, but if it’s your vibe, these are badass. *Join the TRUE email list to get 10% off
TRUE Linkswear – OG Cush
Another lifestyle versatile from the kings of the genre – the OG Cush could power your skateboard, BMX bike, walking Chambers Bay, and then dinner with your better half. . . take it from an ex – X Gamer, not many golf treads can handle all four.
The all-new OG grip tread is geared to provide max traction on all surfaces
- Zero drop construction for a natural, connected feel
- Extra wide toe box (up to EEE) for a natural fit
- All Season wear featuring mixed media, water-resistant, breathable construction
- Lightweight and Flexible – ensuring a ‘barefoot’ feel
- OG versatile rubber ‘T’ tread for more coverage and traction on all surfaces
- Wanderlux Cushioned midsole that looks good on and off the course (6MM of underfoot foam)
- Comfort Tongue opening, allowing for an easier on-foot experience
- TRUE Heel Padding System
Summary –
Sizing/Fit: standard/medium width (wide toe box)
Aesthetics: B
Comfort: B+
Foot Support: B-
Innovation: B-
Energy Return: B
Traction: B
Weatherproofing: B
Price / Value: B ($179)
Overall: B
Who’s it for? The player who wants a cool casual with a zero-drop profile.
The quintessential simulator or short course shoe, reminds me a bit of the old Airwalks or Vans when I was a young skater/BMXer – versatile. I wear these occasionally at WP9 for Friday Skins outings. *Join the TRUE email list, save 10% today.
TRUE Linkswear – Lux Maven
Did we save the best for last? Maybe. The Lux Maven has been in the project phase for several years, and Jay Moore and the gang weren’t gonna bring out the brand’s first tour-premium SPIKED shoe until everything was exactly right. And everything is exactly right. These are “Bentley’s” for your feet, and in relative terms, the cost matches the pedigree. Industry-leading 3-year waterproof warranty shows that the Tacoma-based company has supreme confidence in their new flagship. Check out the Carbon-Fiber Ground Force Reaction Plate (say that 3x fast), this is high-performance gear!
TRUE also introduced the same tech features and comfort of the Lux Maven in a “Lexus” price frame with it’s sibling, the Lux Player – which features a TRUEdura Laminated Waterproof upper and 2 Year Waterproof Warranty.
The Wanderlux (what a cool word) midsole matches Adi’s BOOST energy return pound for pound. The newbuck tan trim is brilliant.
- Spiked Outsole (Softspikes® Compatibility)
- Flexible, Full-Length Carbon-Fiber Ground Force Reaction Plate
- Wanderlux² High Rebound, Low Compression Superfoam Midsole
- Waterproof Bootie Construction (3-Year Waterproof Warranty – *with a 25% replacement credit in Year 3)
- Supple, Top Grain Napa Leather Upper
- TRUE Breezeway Heel Lock System
- TOUR Tested & Approved
Lux Maven come in 3 colorways – Tradition White, Charge White, and Heritage Black.
Summary –
Sizing/Fit: standard/medium width (roomy toe box)
Aesthetics: A
Comfort: A+
Foot Support: A+
Innovation: A+
Energy Return: A+
Traction: A+
Weatherproofing: A+
Price / Value: B- ($325)
Overall: A+
Who’s it for? The player who wants the shoe that has everything, and is willing to pay for it.
As close to a perfect grade/score as we’ve ever had in the 13 years of the Best Links Footwear Review, kudos to the entire TRUE Team on creating a shoe line this brilliant. Everything was thought of and implemented in the Lux Maven. Although the sample set of premium spiked offerings continues to be outnumbered by the spikeless genre, there will always be a decent market for a fully cleated premium tour offering. Lux Maven is the only shoe we’ve ever tested that performed this well in every category other than Adi’s Tour360 line.
Yep, the price will drive many in another direction, but keep in mind the Lux Player which has all of the same tech without the leather upper (and a year less on the waterproof warranty), costs nearly a hundred bucks less. *Join the TRUE email list, save 10% today
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Best of:
Tour Premium Cleated:
- TRUE Linkswear Lux MAVEN: A+
- Payntr Eighty Seven SC: A+
- Skechers Go Golf Prestige: A
Premium Spikeless:
- Payntr Match Day: A+
- Duca Del Cosma – Positano: A
- Duca Del Cosma – Bosco: A
- Skechers Prestige SL: A
Sport/Athletic Spikeless:
- Adidas Code Chaos25: A
- Duca Del Cosma Genova: A
- FootJoy Quantum: A-
Lifestyle/Versatile Spikeless:
- Puma Ignite Elevate2: B+
- Puma Ignite Elevate X: B+
- TRUE Linkswear OG3 PRO: B+
