Ever feel like your feet are slipping during your golf swing? A solid stance is key to a great shot, but the right traction underfoot makes all the difference. If you’ve ever had a shot go sideways because your footing wasn’t secure, you know this struggle well. Choosing the perfect golf shoe can feel like a maze of materials, brands, and spike patterns.
Many golfers face the headache of picking between comfort, grip, and keeping their shoes dry. Do you opt for maximum stability or lightweight ease? Finding that sweet spot where performance meets pavement-friendly wear is tough. That’s where soft spikes come into play, offering a modern solution to old problems.
This post cuts through the confusion. We will break down exactly what soft spikes are, why they matter for your game, and how to choose the best pair for your swing and your course. Get ready to step onto the green with confidence. Let’s explore how the right soft spike golf shoes can truly elevate your next round.
Top Soft Spike Golf Shoes Recommendations
- Regular fit
- Textile and synthetic upper
- Slow-resilient padding around collar and tongue
- Textile lining
- Bounce midsole
- Men's golf shoes for performance on the course
- BOUNCE: Lightweight Bounce cushioning provides enhanced comfort and flexibility
- TRAXION OUTSOLE: Traxion outsole maximizes grip in all directions with lugs designed for rugged terrain
- CUSHIONY COMFORT: Slow-resilient padding around collar and tongue
- MADE WITH RECYCLED CONTENT: 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
- Microfiber leather upper with opti-dri waterproof protection
- 5 Spike dura-rubber outsole for maximum stability and control
- Forged DX EVA midsole for natural ground feel and comfort
- 5mm PLUSfoam insole for increased comfort
- 2 Year limited waterproof warranty
- Compatibility – Our Pulsar spikes fit any Fast Twist, Tri-Lok, and Slim-Lok cleats from almost every major golf shoe including FootJoy, Nike, New Balance, Under Armour, Callaway, and more.
- 18 Count Pack - Includes one set of eighteen replacement golf spikes featuring the Fast Twist 3.0 Insert System. Remove and replace your old spikes quickly and easily with the Softspikes Cleat Kaddy.
- 8 Points of Contact - Eight flexible legs offer great traction, responsiveness, and comfort no matter the course condition to ensure you get the most out of every swing.
- Increased Distance – Gain an average of 5 yards off the tee box when you replace your old spikes.
- Green Friendly - Engineered to help minimize surface damage by dispersing weight through multiple contact points so you won’t tear up any greens.
- Men's leather golf shoes provide a combination of reliable comfort and outstanding performance
- SNUG FIT: Adjustable laces provide a secure fit
- ADIDAS LIGHTSTRIKE: adidas Lightstrike is redefining the next generation of speed with a super-light midsole designed for dynamic, lightweight movement
- CUSHIONED COMFORT: Enjoy the comfort and performance of OrthoLite sockliner; Officially licensed OrthoLite product
- Light Cushioning & Smooth Mobility: New Balance Men's 997 Golf Shoes feature a 10mm drop Abzorb midsole for premium responsiveness and lightweight cushioning & NDurance rubber outsole that moves with the natural motion of the foot for lasting comfort
- Superior All-Terrain Traction: Equipped with FastTwist 3.0 Pulsar cleats, these New Balance shoes offer reliable grip, ensuring improved traction on the golf course & maintaining stability while swinging. The cleats are removable for easy maintenance
- All-Weather Protection: Stay dry on wet courses with these men's golf shoes featuring a waterproof microfiber leather upper, designed to protect your feet from moisture. Play confidently in any weather condition without worrying about wear and tear
- Style & Performance: With a modern, performance-driven design and Molded CUSH+ insole offering soft and responsive cushioning, the 997 mens golf shoes are ideal for golfers looking for a balance of performance, support, and relaxed fit
- Function Meets Fashion: As a leading sports footwear & apparel brand, New Balance offers a full range of performance wear. Our commitment to sports & craftsmanship inspires not only athletes but men, women & children to move with confidence and style
- Compatibility – Our Pulsar spikes fit almost every major shoe that use the following install systems: Fast Twist, Tri-Lok, SLIM-Lok, or Tour Lock system. Compatible golf shoes include FootJoy, Adidas, Nike, and more.
- Easy Cleat Replacement – The two wrenches included make replacing your spikes a breeze. Get back to better golf with new spikes in no time.
- Increased Distance – Gain an average of 6 yards off the tee box when you replace your old spikes.
- The #1 Spike on Tour - See why more pros trust Softspikes than any other brand on the market.
- Green Friendly – Engineered to help minimize surface damage by dispersing weight through multiple contact points so you won’t tear up any greens.
- Men's golf shoes made to answer the call against top-tier competition
- SNUG FIT: Adjustable laces provide a secure fit
- 360 WRAP CONSTRUCTION: Progressive design blurs the lines between upper and outsole for total control
- ADIDAS LIGHTSTRIKE: adidas Lightstrike is redefining the next generation of speed with a super-light midsole designed for dynamic, lightweight movement
- ADIDAS JET BOOST: Energized comfort and stability to respond to your every move
The Ultimate Buying Guide for Soft Spike Golf Shoes
Choosing the right golf shoes makes a big difference in your game and comfort. Soft spike golf shoes are popular because they offer great grip without damaging the greens. This guide helps you pick the best pair for your next round.
Key Features to Look For
Good golf shoes have several important parts. Look closely at these features before you buy.
- Traction System: This is the spikes themselves. Soft spikes use replaceable plastic or rubber nubs. They dig into the turf for stability during your swing. Check how many spikes the shoe has. More spikes usually mean better grip on different surfaces.
- Waterproofing: Golf often means playing in damp grass or light rain. Waterproof shoes keep your feet dry. Look for terms like “Gore-Tex” or “waterproof membrane.”
- Support and Stability: Your feet move a lot when you swing. The shoe needs a firm heel cup and a stable mid-sole. This prevents your foot from rolling during the swing, which improves power.
- Comfort: You might walk several miles during 18 holes. Look for thick, cushioned insoles. A padded collar around the ankle also stops rubbing and blisters.
Important Materials Matter
The materials used determine how long the shoes last and how they feel.
Upper Materials:
- Synthetic Leather: This is common. It is usually light, easy to clean, and often waterproof. It generally costs less than real leather.
- Natural Leather: Full-grain leather breathes better and molds to your foot over time. It offers premium comfort but needs more care and usually costs more.
- Mesh/Textile: These are very breathable, keeping your feet cool on hot days. However, they might not be as waterproof as leather options.
Outsole Materials:
The outsole is the bottom part that touches the ground. Soft spikes are usually made of durable TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) or rubber. These materials grip well without leaving deep marks on the course.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all soft spike shoes perform the same. Quality comes down to construction and design.
What Makes a Shoe Better:
- Stitching Quality: Strong, even stitching prevents the shoe from falling apart where the upper meets the sole.
- Midsole Cushioning: High-quality EVA foam or specialized gel inserts absorb shock better. This reduces fatigue in your legs and back.
- Replaceable Spikes: Shoes where you can easily twist out the old spikes and put in new ones last much longer.
What Lowers Quality:
- Thin Soles: Very thin outsoles might feel great at first but offer poor long-term support. You will feel every pebble under your foot.
- Poor Sealing: If the seams where the upper meets the sole are not sealed well, water will leak in quickly.
- Cheap Fasteners: If the laces or the Boa closure system (a dial system) feel flimsy, they will likely break during play.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about when and where you play golf. This helps narrow down your choices.
For the Serious Golfer:
If you play every weekend, prioritize durability and waterproofing. You need shoes that maintain stability through hundreds of swings. Look for premium leather or high-tech synthetics with robust stability shanks in the mid-foot.
For the Casual Player:
If you only play a few times a summer, comfort and style might be more important than extreme durability. A lighter, more athletic-looking shoe often works well. Focus on good cushioning for walking the course.
Walking vs. Riding:
If you walk the course, cushioning and breathability are essential. If you ride in a cart most of the time, waterproofing is slightly less critical, but traction remains key for standing during your swing.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Soft Spike Golf Shoes
Q: Are soft spikes better than metal spikes?
A: Yes, usually. Soft spikes give you better grip on modern artificial turf and they do not damage the sensitive greens when you walk on them.
Q: How often should I replace the soft spikes?
A: You should check them every 5 to 10 rounds. Replace them when the traction points look worn down or rounded off.
Q: Do I need waterproof golf shoes?
A: If you live in a wet area or play in spring/fall, waterproof shoes are a must. They keep your socks and feet dry, which prevents blisters.
Q: How do I clean my soft spike golf shoes?
A: Wipe off surface dirt with a damp cloth after every use. For deep cleaning, use mild soap and a soft brush. Let them air dry; never put them in a machine dryer.
Q: Can I wear soft spike golf shoes casually?
A: Many modern designs look like athletic sneakers. You can wear them around the clubhouse or running errands, but they are best designed for the course.
Q: What is the difference between spikeless and soft spike shoes?
A: Soft spike shoes have distinct, removable plastic/rubber nubs. Spikeless shoes have patterns or small rubber nubs molded directly into the sole for traction.
Q: Should I buy leather or synthetic golf shoes?
A: Leather offers the best long-term fit and breathability. Synthetics are usually lighter, cheaper, and easier to keep clean.
Q: Do golf shoes really affect my swing?
A: Absolutely. Good traction means your feet stay planted, allowing you to transfer power efficiently without slipping during your downswing.
Q: How tight should my golf shoes fit?
A: They should fit snugly, like a comfortable running shoe, but not tight. You need about a thumb’s width of space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe.
Q: Are soft spike shoes comfortable for walking 18 holes?
A: They should be. Look specifically for shoes advertising enhanced cushioning or shock absorption in the midsole for maximum walking comfort.