For comfort and versatility, the spikeless golf shoe has revolutionised golfing footwear. Delivering great grip, stability and style, here we consider some of the best on the market
Best Spikeless Golf Shoes
Thanks to incredible innovation the spikeless shoe market has grown rapidly to the point where the best spikeless golf shoes can more than stand up against the best spiked designs.
These golf shoes are one of the most versatile pieces of kit to have come into the mainstream in recent years. Wearable on and off the course, they deliver style and functionality.
In years gone by they would have been scoffed at by the serious golfer for offering far less grip and traction than the best spiked golf shoes but, thanks to innovative designs by the major manufacturers, the new generation of spikeless designs provide impressive levels of grip and stability.
So much so that many of the world’s top professional golfers now opt to wear spikeless shoes. If you haven’t yet tried a pair, you really should, you’ll be surprised and might just be converted.
Below are some of the best spikeless golf shoes currently on the market.
Additionally, if you think comfort or waterproofing are king when it comes to shoes, then make sure you read our guides on the most comfortable golf shoes, and the best waterproof golf shoes too.
Best Spikeless Golf Shoes
Ecco Biom H4 Golf Shoes
Best Sporty/Athletic Design
KEY INFO
Sizes: 6.5-12.5 Waterproof: 100% BOA option: Yes
Colors: 4 Men’s (White, Black, Grey, White) 4 Women’s (White, Black, Pink, White)
+ Stylish and extremely comfortable
+ Ample grip from different lies and protection from the elements
– More expensive than most of the other shoes on the list
Three years on from the Biom Hybrid 3, Ecco has introduced the next generation of the hybrid performance model.
Not only does the Biom H4 look sportier and more athletic thanks to the new Biom 2.0 last that it has been crafted on, but the traditional areas of performance have also been enhanced.
The leather upper has a premium feel and features a Gore-Tex membrane for breathable, waterproof protection, while a new MTN Grip outsole provides excellent traction.
Additionally, Ecco’s Fluidform technology creates a moulded midsole that strikes the right balance of cushioning and stability. All in all, this is one of Ecco’s best golf shoes ever.
- Read our full Ecco Biom H4 Golf Shoe review
FootJoy Pro/SL Golf Shoes
Improved Over Time
KEY INFO
Sizes: 6.5-14 Waterproof: 100% BOA option: Yes
Colors: 5 Men’s (White, Black, Blue, Grey, White) 3 Women’s (Navy, White, Grey)
+ Exceptional all-round performance
+ Continuing to lead the way when it comes to spikeless grip and stability
+ Plenty of walking comfort
– Supple leather does scuff quite easily
As you would expect the FootJoy Pro/SL makes our list of the best spikeless golf shoes. This edition features an Infinity outsole, which is 11.5 per cent wider than the previous version and also has 30 per cent more traction points with the ground for increased grip.
There’s also a redesigned Power Harness for support and the upper is now made of soft Chromoskin leather, which is waterproof and more breathable.
In our testing we thought the extra perimeter stability to be immediately obvious, especially during the golf swing.
The grip is excellent thanks to the extra contact points with the ground, even in wet conditions you can go after your drives with no fear of slipping or excess movement.
- Read our full FootJoy Pro/SL Shoe review
Adidas Codechaos Golf Shoes
Best Shoes To Stand Out
KEY INFO
Sizes: 6.5-11 Waterproof: 100% BOA option: Yes
Colors: 4 Men’s (White, Black, Grey, Green) 2 Women’s (White, Black)
+ Super comfy and provides excellent grip
+ Low profile feel and flexible when walking
– Quite garish in certain colorways
A shoe that was a huge hit when it was released last year, the Codechaos shoes from adidas feature an upper made of multi-layer mesh, giving the shoe a unique texture while enhancing durability and breathability.
This also keeps them extremely lightweight which is perfect for out on the course.
The design and look may not be for some, but after thorough testing they are not only one of the best spikeless golf shoes on sale at the moment, but also the best adidas golf shoes too.
- Read our full Adidas Codechaos Shoe review
Puma Ignite Fasten8 Pro Shoes
Top Water And Dirt Protection
KEY INFO
Sizes: 7-11 Waterproof: 100% BOA option: No
Colors: 3 Men’s (White, Grey, Black) 3 Women’s (White, Grey, Black)
+ Simple and versatile
+ Good value
– Other Puma models produce more grip
This stylish new offering from Puma features the all-new Fasten8 fit system.
Consisting of eight interior webbing support straps that are integrated into the lacing, this system delivers a secure and personalised fit for golfers with a variety of foot shapes and sizes.
Puma’s Ignite Foam midsole provides an abundance of comfort, while the microfibre upper is both breathable and waterproof.
The traction comes from the Pro-Form TPU outsole that features an organically altered traction pattern for maximum stability.
Under Armour Spieth 5 SL Golf Shoes
Tech-driven performance
KEY INFO
Sizes: 7-11 Waterproof: 100% BOA option: No
Colors: 1 (White)
+ Provides a snug fit that boosts comfort and support
+ Impressive levels of grip
– Only one color option available
This shoe features a unique 3D moulded footbed that features an additional wrap over the inside and top of the foot. This wrap eliminates ‘gapping’ between your foot and the shoe from the inside to create a fit that is tailored to your specific foot shape.
The grip impressed us too. In fact, levels of traction seemed to be close to that of some cleated shoes because the Spieth 5 SL has firmer TPU nubs for ground penetration and softer rubber nubs in key areas to create friction, something we noticed testing when the ground was slightly damp.
The Spieth 5 SL might just be the brand’s most advanced shoe to date, maximising performance through a better fit but also by letting testing data with elite players and biomechanical insights shape the design.
There doesn’t appear to be any trade off by going spikeless and the unique insole certainly enhances the connection you have with the shoe and the ground to boost power potential.
- Read our full Under Armour Spieth 5 SL Shoe review
FootJoy Pro/SL Carbon Shoes
Best All-Round Performance
KEY INFO
Sizes: 6-12 Waterproof: 100% BOA option: No
Colors: 2 Men’s (Black, White)
+ Exceptional all-round performance
+ Leads the way when it comes to spikeless grip and stability
– Carbon model makes the standard Pro/SL a little redundant
The FootJoy Pro/SL Carbon shoe may look similar to the stylish Pro/SL, but in fact it has a carbon fibre inlay integrated into the midsole running along the entire length of the shoe.
It is an extremely comfortable and stable spikeless shoe – making it one of the best and atop the tree when it comes to the best FootJoy golf shoes.
It is a little more rigid in all directions than the Pro/SL, ideal for golfers with overactive lower halves that need even more stability during their swing. Despite that, it still feels supremely comfortable thanks to the extra padding around the ankle.
- Read our full FootJoy Pro/SL Carbon Shoe review
Under Armour HOVR Fade SL Shoes
Ideal For Walking
KEY INFO
Sizes: 7-12 Waterproof: 100% BOA option: No
Colors: 3 Men’s (White, Grey, Black)
+ Very lightweight and comfortable
+ Fully waterproof
– Not as suitable for off-course wear as others
Under Armour’s HOVR Fade shoe has several pieces of technology to ensure high performance on the course.
Chief among them is the HOVR technology that supports the foot’s natural movement throughout the swing while providing a ‘zero gravity feel’ that reduces the impact felt step after step.
The Rotational Resistance outsole is light so does offer some flexibility but there’s no compromise in traction.
Overall, a very comfortable and lightweight option that doesn’t skimp on performance.
Nike Air Max 90 G Shoes
Best For Versatility
KEY INFO
Sizes: 3.5-15 Waterproof: 100% BOA option: No
Colors: 6 Men’s and Women’s (Grey, White, Black, Red, Pink, Green)
+ Tour validated performance
+ Each colour is unique
– Design may put some off
A design you will undoubtedly have seen out on Tour, the Air Max 90 G shoes are one of the best Nike golf shoes on the market.
A combination of fused overlays, additional eyestays and strategically placed mesh capture the look of the original Nike Air Max 90. The mesh has a thin, flexible overlay that helps keep out water and makes it easy to clean your shoes.
An integrated traction pattern gives you exceptional grip in a variety of conditions.
Obviously the main stumbling block to some may be the styling, however perhaps younger players will enjoy the fact that these are extremely versatile for on and off the golf course.
G/FORE MG4+ Shoes
Best Color Choice For Men And Women
KEY INFO
Sizes: 7-15 Waterproof: 100% BOA option: No
Colors: 4 Men’s (Black, Snow, Nimbus, Twilight) 5 Women’s (Snow, Racer, Stone, Nimbus, Scarlet)
+ Use all day
+ Modern, stylish design with good colour/size choice
– Can feel slightly heavy after a day on the course
Whilst G/FORE are synonymous with outlandish designs and colour ways, the MG4+ has a more understated, and yet modern look and appeal.
Lightweight and completely waterproof, the shoe does not compromise in terms of comfort either thanks to ForeFoam cushioning and a triple density footbed which is “the ultimate massage for your soles.”
When we put the shoes through their paces, they were comfortable from start to finish, and performed about as well as is possible on a debut outing and beyond.
A common thing with spikeless shoes can be less stability and grip than spiked models but there was never a situation in which this came to fruition in these shoes. This is thanks to the non-slip outsole and the stability comes from the heel cup at the back of the shoe that really locks the foot in place without sacrificing any comfort.
- Read our full G/FORE MG4+ Shoe review
FootJoy Premiere Series Flint Golf Shoes
Best Traditional Golf Shoe
KEY INFO
Sizes: 6-12 Waterproof: 100% BOA option: No
Colors: 3 Men’s (White, Blue, Black)
+ Arguably the best-looking shoe of 2021
+ Waterproof, stable and comfortable
– Premium price point may be a stumbling block
New for 2021, FootJoy’s Premiere Series Flint shoe is a throwback to the past.
With its classic styling and modern performance, it’s the perfect solution for golfers who want to look the part without making any sacrifices on the course.
Despite being a spikeless model, the Flint offers ample grip thanks to a Versa-Trax+ Outsole, while inside, the Ortholite FitBed enhances stability and comfort.
The leather upper is fully waterproof and features subtle details that only add to the elegance on offer. You’ll struggle to find a shoe better suited for wear off the course as well as on.
- Read our full FootJoy Premiere Series Flint Shoe review
Payntr X001 F Golf Shoes
Best New Golf Shoe Design
KEY INFO
Sizes: 7-11 Waterproof: 100% BOA option: No
Colors: 3 Men’s (White, Grey, Black)
+ Soft and comfortable while offering excellent grip and stability
+ Modern, sporty styling looks the part too
– Sizing comes up small.
A new entry to the list this year is the Payntr X001 F shoe.
The sports footwear performance brand has already turned heads in the golf world, with its shoe that is said to give golfers a competitive advantage thanks to a unique 3D traction system specifically designed to prevent rotational slippage.
There is also a Responsive Power Plate and midsole cavity that make it easier to utilise ground reaction forces, while the underfoot cushioning and PMX foam midsole provide all-day comfort that is breathable and waterproof.
Visually, this shoe will turn heads because there are lots of elements to catch your eye such as the color blocks and laces.
Overall it is an impressive debut by Payntr in the world of golf but there is one thing to remember – we found these shoes to come out on the small side, so you might want to opt for a half a size bigger than you normally would.
- Read our full Payntr X 001 F Golf Shoe review
Skechers GoGolf Elite Tour SL Golf Shoes
Keeps Your Feet Dry
KEY INFO
Sizes: 6.5-12 Waterproof: 100% BOA option: No
Colors: 3 Men’s (White, Grey, Black)
+ Outstanding grip and waterproofing
+ The best-looking model from Skechers’ ‘Elite’ series
– Perhaps won’t wow you like some of its competitors
Fully waterproof and featuring a durable grip outsole that provides a whopping 236 points of contact with the ground, the new Skechers Go Golf Elite Tour SL shoe is not to be overlooked in this list.
The low-drop design ensures golfers will feel close to the ground, but that doesn’t come at the cost of comfort, which is provided for thanks to the lightweight Ultra Go cushioning and Goga Max insole.
The combination of the insole, UltraFlight cushioning and the flexible outsole make these incredibly easy to wear. They offer trainer-like comfort but with enough structure to provide you with a stable base to hit from.
- Read our full Skechers GoGolf Elite Tour SL Shoes review
Duca Del Cosma Elpaso Golf Shoes
Eye-catching Italian Shoes
KEY INFO
Sizes: 6.5-12.5 Waterproof: 100% BOA option: No
Colors: 2 Men’s (White, Navy)
+ Made to the highest standard
+ Very comfortable and waterproof
– Style might not be to everyone’s taste
As eye-catching as ever, the latest collection from Duca del Cosma features the Elpaso model.
A new breathable and recyclable upper, coupled with the soft Arneflex insole means the entire foot is well taken care of in this comfortable offering.
OnSteam technology in the inner lining is waterproof, while the lightweight Airplay VI outsole contains traction knubs that allow golfers to swing with confidence.
Available in white and navy.
Mizuno Nexlite GS BOA Spikeless Golf Shoes
Extremely Light Design
KEY INFO
Sizes: 7-11 Waterproof: 100% BOA option: Yes
Colors: 3 Men’s (White, Blue, Black)
+ One of the most lightweight models
+ BOA system provides really stable feel
– Better looking shoes elsewhere on this list
Brushing the scales at just 235 grams per shoe, the new Nexlite GS spikeless shoe from Mizuno delivers that lightweight feel without skimping on performance elsewhere.
The soft-touch Kurary upper is fully waterproof and features Mizuno’s BOA system for a secure fit, while the EVA midsole provides a cushioned ride from start to finish.
Underneath, a hard-wearing X10 runner sole maintains grip in all types of conditions.
Now we do think there are better looking models on this list however, the fact the performance is so solid, and you can find these shoes for less than £100, the Nexlite GS BOA’s are definitely a model to consider.
Inesis Men’s Grip Waterproof Golf Shoes
Best Value Shoes
KEY INFO
Sizes: 5.5-12.5 Waterproof: 100% BOA option: No
Colors: 6 Men’s (White, Blue, Black, Snow, Grey, Brown) 4 Women’s (White, Blue, Snow, Sepia)
+ Solid walking comfort
+ Great value on offer
– Perhaps may not have the durability of other shoes on this list
Don’t let the entry level price tag put you off as you can pick up some high quality golf gear from Decathlon while saving a few pounds in the process.
These shoes in particular are wateproof, relaxed fitting and feature an outsole with moulded spikes split three distinct parts – EVA boosts cushion for walking comfort, more rigid TPU spikes for traction and more flexible rubber spikes for versatility as you walk the fairways.
Ecco S-Three Golf Shoes
Top Grip And Stability
KEY INFO
Sizes: 6.5-12.5 Waterproof: 100% BOA option: Yes
Colors: 7 Men’s (White, Grey, Dark Grey, Blue, Navy, White, Black) 4 Women’s (White, Navy, Grey, White)
+ Ample grip from different lies
+ Protection from the elements
– Bulky for a spikeless model
A spikeless model that blends on-course performance with off-course style, the S-Three delivers dynamic comfort and modern looks with a mix of technologies to enhance performance.
The most notable innovation in this shoe is the Zonal Fluidform technology, which creates a moulded midsole with three distinct zones of softness to ensure the right balance of cushioning and stability exactly where you need it.
It features a modern design in a variety of cool colors, the Henrik Stenson edition in particular, whilst the thickness and softness of the leather is clear right away.
Stability and traction was also good and the waterproofing was an added bonus.
- Read our full Ecco S-Three Shoe review
Adidas Tour 360 XT-SL 2.0 Spikeless Shoes
Wide Color/Size Choice
KEY INFO
Sizes: 7-12 Waterproof: 100% BOA option: No
Colors: 3 Men’s (White, Black, White) 3 Women’s (Pink, White, Black)
+ Arguably the best golf shoe adidas make
+ Excellent choice in color, size and width of shoe
– Require wearing in
In terms of style, the adidas Tour360 XT-SL 2.0 shoes deliver an attractive blend of traditional golf shoe looks with a sporting edge. These are aesthetics that will appeal to a broad spectrum of golfers of different ages.
They also perform brilliantly thanks to the X-shaped traction system on the outsole, providing multi-directional grip throughout the swing even in tougher ground conditions.
The light construction and Boost cushioning is an added design flourish, and they are also one of the best waterproof golf shoes you can buy right now so we couldn’t recommend these enough.
How we tested the best spikeless golf shoes
When it comes to testing golf shoes Golf Monthly has a strong testing procedure that revolves around putting them to the test over a number of rounds and in a variety of different conditions. That way the golf shoes can be tested for comfort, waterproofing and also in terms of grip and stability too.
In particular, over the course of a few rounds we get ourselves into several odd lies and stances which help give a clear idea of how much traction is on offer.
That being said before testing we will usually attend product launches and meet with the manufacturer’s R&D experts to understand the new technology. That isn’t to say manufacturers can buy a good review though, because we tell it how it is for all golf product reviews, not just golf shoes.
What to consider when buying spikeless golf shoes
If you are thinking about getting some spikeless golf shoes, here are some factors to think about.
Comfort – As you would expect, comfort is king when it comes to golf shoes. An uncomfortable golf shoe is useless so it is worth trying some models on before you buy so you know what you like the feel of. For example some models have specific foam technologies, or specific sole designs that are designed to house your feet in comfort all day when out on the golf course.
Grip/Stability/Traction – Spikeless shoe design has improved massively in these factors. Previously, spiked models were the only way to ensure grip and stability in difficult lies or when the weather makes ground conditions slippery. This is no longer the case because most of the models above have specifically designed traction patterns and lugs to make sure your feet don’t slip.
Looks – This is entirely subjective but you need to make sure you like the look of your golf shoes and there is a model above for all different types of fashion sense. If you want a traditional design then something like the FootJoy Pro/SL will work well, whereas if you want to stand out a bit more, the adidas Codechaos or Spieth 5 from Under Armour are good choices.
Waterproofing – Most golf shoes these days offer a degree of waterproof protection but some are better than others so if you see yourself playing in the rain a lot models like the Inesis, Ecco or G/FORE are perfect for all weather play.
Sizes – Be wary of different sizes because many brands like Payntr and Nike offer shoes that can come up quite small or large if you have got the wrong size. As such it is worth checking out brand websites to see how the shoes convert to size guides from around the world.
Price – The last factor to consider is price. With the models above we have tried to find shoes at all different price points so if you want a cheap model, you can get one. Or if you want to spend more, you can do that too. Importantly there is something for everyone.
We hope you enjoyed this guide on the best spikeless golf shoes and for more buying advice check out the Golf Monthly website.
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