Choosing the right golf shoes can be a challenging affair, especially if you’re not familiar with your options. As with other golf gear, there are so many different types, brands, models, price ranges and features. This guide should help you to make an informed decision, but remember that buying golf shoes is also a matter of preference, so make sure you to visit your local store and check out on some shoes to see what feels best on you.
Check for Important Features
Compare the soles on various golf shoes to see what feels best for you. A stiff, thin, carbon fiber sole is usually ideal. If you play golf in areas where moisture is prevalent, consider buying shoes with perforated soles. Look for shoes with breathable materials and mesh patches if you need a shoe that will keep your foot cool during hot weather.
Sizing
Most experts recommend buying a golf shoe that is a half-size smaller than your regular shoe, but this may vary depending on the manufacturer. Even if you end up buying the shoes elsewhere, go to a local shop to try them on before you make a purchase. If you don’t have a golf shoes shop in your area, order them from an online company like True Linkswear that allows returns in case you have a sizing problem. Be sure to consider the width of your foot. Some golf shoe brands offer gender-specific shoes.
Consider the Cost
If you take golf very seriously, a high-end pair of golf shoes can be an excellent investment. It is possible to get a quality pair of golf shoes without paying an exorbitant cost, but you may find the performance gains are worth paying more if you are into the game of golf. If you compete in tournaments, make sure you buy shoes made specifically for that event.
Waterproof
Depending on the conditions you play in, you may want to consider a waterproof golf shoe. Waterproof golf shoes are more expensive, but they are much more comfortable in wet conditions. Leather uppers are the best for providing support and waterproofing. Golf shoes made of synthetic leather are less expensive but do not breathe as well nor do they offer as much waterproof protection.
Do Some Research
Like most products, there are good golf shoes and bad golf shoes, and prices do not always reflect quality. Talk to other more experienced golf players about which types of shoes they prefer and why they feel that way. Read what people on online golf forums have to say about their shoe choices. There are plenty of resources out there, so take some time to plan your purchase. The right shoes can dramatically increase your golf performance, so make the right choice the first time.
Brad, how do you feel about inserts for golf shoes? Is it better to find a shoe that fits perfect or modify a shoe you like that has good features like being waterproof and within price range?