If you don’t play golf, you might think of it as a relaxing sport, but it actually involves a lot of walking, standing, and pivoting – all of which can put strain on your feet. That’s why the right comfortable golf shoes can make a huge difference in comfort and performance as you play. It’s also why so many people ask: are golf shoes necessary?
Let’s put it this way: the wrong pair can lead to foot pain, blisters, or even affect your swing, while the right shoes will keep you supported and focused. And your regular sneakers or running shoes might not cut it.
This begs the question: What shoes to wear golfing? Comfort, stability, and proper grip are essential, but with so many options out there, knowing which features to prioritize can help you make the best choice for your feet and your game. Understanding the right golf shoe fit is key—not only for comfort, but for maintaining balance and control throughout your swing.
Grab your golf club, aim for the green, and let's tee up the right shoe choice for your game.
What to wear golfing: Essential features of ideal golf shoes
When trying to work out what shoes to wear for golfing, you should think about stability and balance, and performance. The best golf shoes will support your feet during those long rounds, improve your traction on varied terrain, and keep you comfortable throughout your game.
Let's break down the key features to look for when wondering what shoes to wear golfing.
Traction and grip: spikes vs. spikeless
One of the very first features to consider within the larger issue of what shoes to wear golfing is with or without spikes.
Spiked golf shoes
These shoes are equipped with metal or soft spikes that dig into the ground, providing excellent grip, especially on wet or uneven surfaces. This is a key advantage for golfers who often play on courses with challenging terrain or wet conditions. The enhanced grip helps prevent slipping, giving you the stability needed during powerful swings and while walking up, down or on the slopes of hilly grounds [1].
However, spiked shoes may be less comfortable for extended walking and are not suitable for walking off the golf course.
Spikeless golf shoes
Offering a more versatile option, spikeless golf shoes feature a special tread design on the sole that provides traction. These shoes are ideal for golfers who want a comfortable, multi-purpose shoe that can easily transition from the course to everyday wear.
While they might not offer as much grip in wet or hilly conditions, they still perform well on dry or flat courses [2][3].
So, what shoes to wear for golfing? When it comes to performance, spiked shoes generally give you a better grip during the swing, which can be particularly helpful for stability and balance. Spikeless shoes, on the other hand, might sacrifice a bit of grip for added comfort and versatility, especially for golfers who prefer a pair of more casual, everyday shoes.
Waterproofing and breathability
Moving down the list of what shoes to wear golfing, keeping your feet dry is the next very important feature.
Golf can take you through all kinds of weather, and that’s why waterproofing is an essential feature in many golf shoes. If you often find yourself playing in wet conditions, waterproof shoes will keep your feet dry, preventing discomfort and blisters during long rounds. Modern waterproofing technologies help ensure that water stays out without sacrificing breathability [1].
While keeping your feet dry is crucial, breathability is also an important aspect as it helps maintain comfort throughout your game.
Golf rounds can last several hours, and your feet are bound to sweat. Shoes with breathable uppers, such as mesh or ventilated internal or external materials, allow air to circulate, keeping your feet cool and reducing fatigue.
The combination of waterproofing and breathability is key for golfers who are wondering what shoes to wear for golfing, no matter the conditions.
Stability and support for swing mechanics
Last on our what shoes to wear for golfing features list, but certainly not least, is proper support and stability, which directly affects a golfer’s performance.
Golf requires precise movement, particularly during the swing, when your feet need to remain steady while transferring weight from one foot to the other. Golf shoes designed with stability in mind help keep your balance in check, ensuring a more controlled swing no matter which club you use [1].
Whether you’re working on your drive or your putt, a well-supported shoe can make a noticeable difference in your performance [3]. Key features like cushioning, arch support, and firm construction around the heel provide the stability needed for proper foot alignment during each shot.
Golf shoes with excellent arch support help maintain proper foot mechanics, align your feet with your legs, hips, and back, and correct your gait. This prevents discomfort and reduces the risk of injury.
Shoes that feature solid soles with minimal flex are particularly beneficial for golfers looking to maintain a firm base during their swing.
What to wear golfing? A quick look at golfing clothing
Just like shoes, when choosing your golf apparel, you should prioritize comfort and functionality, though that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style. Golfing requires a full range of movement, so you’ll want to wear athletic attire that allows you to swing freely and move comfortably throughout your game.
Start with a breathable collared shirt or crewneck, both of which are common golf attire and are typically accepted at most golf courses. For cooler weather, sweaters or hoodies are golf clothes that can keep you warm without sacrificing mobility. Women may also consider golf leggings, or a golf skirt or dress, while men typically opt for golf clothes like slacks, shorts, or golf-specific joggers for a relaxed yet professional look.
Always be mindful of your club’s dress code, as some courses may have specific requirements, such as no denim or non-collared shirts.
Avoid wearing an overly restrictive outfit or anything made from uncomfortable materials. Clothes like tight jeans, shorts or fabrics like non-breathable synthetics should be left in your closet, as they can limit your movement and feel very uncomfortable when you play golf.
Orthofeet's recommendations for golfing comfort
Knowing how much the right shoes can impact your game and your comfort, we designed two golf-ready options that are packed with features to keep you stable, supported from heel to toe, and performing your best on every round.
The core support system of the Birdie and Fairway golf shoes is the same, but the details differ. Choosing between them? It depends on what matters most to you. Here’s what they share, and how to decide which one suits you best.
The common ground
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Hands-free slip-on design
No more bending down or even tying laces – with an innovative spring that bends then recoils to hug your heel, you can just step in and go. Great for anyone who likes comfort and a lifesaver for those with knee, back, or mobility issues.
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Ortho-Cushion™ System
Includes removable orthotic insoles with anatomical arch support, an Arch Booster for customizable support, and a mild rocker sole to reduce foot and heel pain.
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Wide toe-box and extra depth
Gives your toes room to spread out naturally and helps relieve pressure on bunions, hammertoes, and swollen feet with wide-toe shoes. Fitting spacers are included so you can fine-tune the fit.
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Soft, padded interior
Seam-free, soft lining protects sensitive feet and helps prevent irritation – ideal for conditions like diabetes or neuropathy.
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Turf spike tread
Keeps you steady on uneven or wet terrain, with the grip you need to give more force and precision to your swing.
What sets them apart
Fairway
- Upper material: Flexible, breathable, water-repellent fabric
- Look & feel: Lightweight and aerated with extra give – especially good if you have foot conditions like bunions, hammertoes, or swelling
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Style: Sporty, casual
Birdie
- Upper material: Water-repellent, non-restricting leather
- Look & feel: More structured and polished, with moisture-wicking interior materials and a classic leather look that still feels soft and flexible
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Style: Sleek, traditional
Which one is for you?
- If you’re looking for a lightweight, breathable shoe that moves easily with your foot, go with Fairway. It’s especially comfortable for those with sensitive or swollen feet.
- If you prefer a more structured shoe with a classic golf look that still delivers all-day comfort, try Birdie. It’s a good choice for those who want durability and style, without giving up on foot support.
Matching shoes to play style and course conditions
To optimize your performance, it’s best to match your golf shoes to both your playing style and the conditions of the course.
Best shoes for different types of golf courses
It’s always a good idea to match your footwear to the conditions of the course you most often play. Each type of golf course presents its own challenges, and wearing the right pair of shoes can make all the difference.
Here’s a breakdown of what to look for depending on the course type you’re playing:
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Links courses
Often found along coastlines, links courses feature rugged terrain with undulating hills and firm, sandy soil.
For these courses, you should wear spiked golf shoes that offer maximum traction. Metal or soft spikes are ideal for wet or windy conditions, providing the grip you need on the more challenging, often slippery surfaces [1]. These shoes should also be durable to withstand the wear and tear of playing in more variable weather.
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Parkland courses
The lush grass of parkland courses is typically more forgiving when it comes to grip but still requires stability. Spikeless shoes are a great choice here, as they provide excellent comfort and are suitable for the flatter, manicured grounds. Shoes should also have good arch support and cushioning to keep you comfortable over long rounds, especially if you’re walking the course.
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Desert courses
Desert golf courses can be hot and dry with little shade, often featuring hard, rocky ground. Shoes with breathable materials are essential to keep your feet cool and dry in the heat. It’s best to wear a spikeless design or shoes with soft rubber studs that won't wear out on the hard surfaces. The right shoes will also offer extra cushioning to support your feet when navigating through rougher terrain.
Explore Orthofeet's golf shoe solutions
Orthofeet isn’t just about shoes, it’s about changing the way you feel on and off your feet. Every pair is built from the ground up to relieve pain, improve alignment, and support your body where it needs it most.
Our design approach is rooted in biomechanics, with foot-shaped contours, premium orthotic insoles, targeted arch support, and a pressure-free fit – an approach that addresses over 20 common foot conditions.
On the golf course, that means less strain and more stability with every step, so you can stay focused on your swing, not your feet. And off the course, it means comfort that lasts all day, no matter where you’re headed.
With Orthofeet’s comfortable golf shoes on your feet, carefree life becomes the norm — just you, your game, and the love of the sport from first drive to final putt.
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[1] Bradley Turner. 5 Reasons Traditional Golf Shoes are Worth It. Keiser University College of Golf. December 15, 2022. Accessed April 28, 2025.
https://collegeofgolf.keiseruniversity.edu/5-reasons-traditional-golf-shoes-are-worth-it/
[3] Paul Worsfold, Neal A. Smith, Rosemary J. Dyson. Kinetic Assessment of Golf Shoe Outer Sole Design Features. PubMed Central. December 1, 2009. Accessed April 28, 2025.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3761538/
[2] Paul Worsfold, Neal A. Smith, Rosemary J. Dyson. Kinetic Assessment of Golf Shoe Outer Sole Design Features. PubMed Central. December 1, 2007. Accessed April 28, 2025.
