Do your feet ache after a long round of golf? Maybe you worry about tearing up the greens with every swing. Choosing the right traction for your golf shoes is a big deal. It affects your comfort, your stability, and even how well you play the game.
The world of golf spikes can feel confusing. Should you choose soft spikes or something else? What materials are best? Many golfers feel lost when looking at all the different types and brands available. Getting this wrong can lead to sore feet or even penalty strokes for damaging the course.
This post cuts through the confusion. We will break down everything you need to know about Soft Spikes for golf shoes. You will learn what they are, why they matter, and how to pick the perfect set for your game and your shoes.
Ready to step onto the course with confidence and comfort? Let’s dive into the details of finding your perfect Soft Spikes.
Top Soft Spikes For Golf Shoes Recommendations
- 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.
- Fits golf shoes with Fast Twist, Fast Twist 3.0, Tour Lock, Slim-Lok, and Tri-Lok systems. Use the cleat reference guide to find which insert style you need
- TEN POINTS OF CONTACT - 9 legs and the center post provide the Pro Level traction, responsiveness, and comfort
- DYNAMIC TRACTION - This patented design reacts and flexes with every twist and force exerted by while providing maximum comfort and top performance
- THE SCIENE OF TRACTION - Two materials come together, designed to deliver incredible traction and unmatched stability.
- 18 COUNT PACK - Includes one set of replacement golf spikes featuring the Fast Twist 3.0 Insert System. Wrench sold separately. Compatible with the Softspikes Cleat Kaddy
- Complete Replacement Kit: Includes 50 golf shoe spikes and 1 removal spanner, providing more than enough cleats for multiple replacements. Prevents running out during the season and eliminates frequent repurchases.
- Strong 6-Direction Traction: Features 6mm metal thread screws and a multi-directional grip pattern for superior traction on wet grass, sand, slopes, and uneven terrain. Reduces slippage and enhances stability for confident swings.
- Durable TPU + Metal Construction: Made from high-strength TPU and reinforced metal, these golf cleats deliver excellent abrasion resistance and long-lasting performance—ideal for both casual golfers and competitive players.
- Fast & Easy Installation: Comes with an ergonomic spanner for quick replacement—left to remove, right to install. No residue, no specialized tools, and no learning curve. Saves time and ensures a secure fit every time.
- Ideal Gift for Golfers: A practical and thoughtful gift for golf lovers. Suitable for seasonal replacements, tournaments, holidays, or birthdays—perfect for beginners, weekend players, and seasoned pros.
- Compatibility – Our Black Widow 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 added comfort and unmatched green friendliness, ground contact, and performance 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.
- 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 - Includes one set of eighteen replacement Pulsar 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.
- Fits PINS Insert System
- Lowest Profile Available
- Flexible for Ultimate Comfort
- Found on NEW 2013 FJ M:Project shoes
- Black/Grey color design
- Flexible legs provide ideal traction on all types of ground
- Reacts to every angle of force for improved ground interaction
- Green-friendly
- Fits golf shoes with Fast Twist, Tour Lock, Slim-Lok, and Tri-Lok systems
- (2) 18 count packs--wrench sold separately
- Fits golf shoes with Fast Twist, Tour Lock, Slim-Look, and Tri-Look systems. Use the cleat reference guide listed in the pictures to find which insert style you need
- 18 count pack-wrench sold separately
- Flexible legs provide ideal traction on all types of ground
- Reacts to every angle of force for improved ground interaction
- Green-friendly
Your Essential Guide to Choosing the Best Soft Spikes for Golf Shoes
Golf spikes are small but mighty. They give you the grip you need for a powerful swing. Soft spikes are the most popular choice today. They protect the greens better than old metal spikes. This guide helps you pick the perfect set for your game.
Key Features to Look For
When buying new soft spikes, check these important features first. These details make a big difference in how they perform.
1. Traction Pattern and Design
- Shape: Look at the shape of the legs or “cleats.” Some are round, others are star-shaped. Different shapes grip different types of turf better.
- Number of Spikes: Most shoes use 6 or 9 spikes. More spikes often mean better balance and grip on soft ground.
2. Flexibility and Comfort
Good soft spikes flex when you walk. This keeps your feet comfortable all 18 holes. Stiff spikes can make your feet tired quickly.
3. Cleaning Ease
Grass and mud get stuck easily. Spikes with wider openings between the legs are easier to clean with a small brush or tee.
Important Materials in Soft Spikes
The material determines how long the spikes last and how well they hold up against wear and tear.
Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU)
TPU is the gold standard. It is very durable and resists abrasion. TPU spikes last a long time, even if you walk on cart paths sometimes. They also offer excellent grip without damaging the greens.
Soft Rubber Compounds
Some budget spikes use softer rubber. These feel very comfortable right away. However, they wear down much faster than TPU. They are a good choice if you play only a few rounds a month.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all spikes are created equal. A few design choices clearly separate the great spikes from the weak ones.
Quality Improvement Factors
- Fast-Twist System Compatibility: Most modern shoes use a quick-change system (like Fast Twist or Slim Lok). Ensure your new spikes match your shoe’s receptacle perfectly for easy changing.
- Reinforced Base: A thicker base where the spike screws into the shoe prevents snapping under pressure during a hard swing.
Quality Reduction Factors
- Thin Walls: If the spike legs look very thin, they will likely wear down or break sooner.
- Poor Fit: Spikes that fit loosely in the receptacle will wobble. This reduces grip and can cause the spike to fall out mid-round.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about where and how often you play golf. This helps narrow down your choice.
Wet and Soft Conditions
If you often play on wet fairways, choose spikes with deeper, more aggressive traction patterns. TPU spikes handle mud well because they shed it easier.
Cart Path Walking
If you walk the course but often step onto concrete cart paths, look for spikes labeled “path-friendly.” These usually have slightly shorter or blunter secondary traction elements to handle the hard surface without wearing down too fast.
Walking vs. Riding
Riders can often use slightly softer, less aggressive spikes. Golfers who walk 18 holes benefit most from durable, comfortable TPU spikes that minimize foot fatigue.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Soft Spikes
Q: How often should I replace my soft spikes?
A: You should check them every 5 to 7 rounds. Replace them when the traction elements look noticeably worn down or if you start slipping more often.
Q: Do soft spikes damage golf greens?
A: No. Soft spikes are designed to flex and leave minimal impact, unlike the old metal spikes.
Q: What is the difference between Fast Twist and Slim Lok?
A: These are two common brands of cleat receptacle systems. You must buy spikes that match the system your shoe uses for them to lock in correctly.
Q: Can I use a regular screwdriver to change my spikes?
A: No. You need a special spike wrench tool. This tool fits securely into the spike and prevents scratching the shoe sole or breaking the spike during removal.
Q: Are metal spikes still allowed in tournaments?
A: Most modern golf courses ban metal spikes. Always check the specific course rules before playing.
Q: Do better spikes really improve my swing?
A: Yes, good spikes provide solid footing. Better footing means you can transfer more power through your swing without slipping.
Q: How do I clean mud off my spikes?
A: Rinse them under running water first. Then, use an old toothbrush or a stiff plastic pick to clear out any packed dirt between the legs.
Q: Are spikes universal, or do they fit all shoes?
A: No, they are not universal. You must match the spike type (e.g., Fast Twist 3.0, PINS) to the receptacle system built into your golf shoe sole.
Q: Should I buy softer or harder spikes for summer play?
A: In very dry, hard conditions, slightly harder TPU spikes offer more reliable grip. For soft, wet summer courses, standard flexibility works best.
Q: What material is best for longevity?
A: Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU) is generally the most durable material for long-lasting soft spikes.