Best Golf Shoes for High Handicap Golfers

Beginners may think that any pair of shoes is good enough as long as it’s comfortable, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Golfers need shoes designed with them in mind because golf courses aren’t just a walk in the park. Golf shoes are just as important as golf clubs.

High handicappers might think, “Well, I’m not that good yet, so why bother with expensive golf shoes?” Our answer is, “You should be extra careful when picking out your shoes!” The best golf shoes can make a big difference in the game. If you want to take golf seriously, invest in a good pair of shoes and see how far it can take you… Literally and figuratively!

Golf shoes are a whole new breed of shoes that come in spiked, spikeless, or hybrid variations. Let’s explore the options for the best golf shoes for high handicappers.

Spiked or Spikeless?

If you’ve been to any golf course wearing shoes you thought were good enough, you’ve probably almost slipped a couple of times. For first-timers, it’s acceptable. You don’t initially believe that the course could be slippery! But, as a high handicapper, you should know better. The two most critical bodily contacts in every swing are:

  1. Your hand on the club
  2. Your feet on the ground

How can you be firm when you swing if your feet can’t grip the ground? Spiked golf shoes, then, become your hero. Golf shoes with spikes or cleats provide the ultimate traction your feet need to keep you stable. The best part is these shoes come in various styles and colors while still providing the best grip.

Spikeless shoes, on the other hand, might not provide as much traction as spiked ones, but some also come with excellent grip. In some cases, they’re even lighter than spiked shoes and provide more flexibility and comfort.

Spikeless shoes can be your best choice if the golf course doesn’t pose that much slip hazard. You can also wear them outside the golf course, so you don’t have to bring a separate pair of shoes after a game!

Types of Golf Shoe: Spikes or Cleats

Choosing spiked golf shoes is almost always a good idea. They were designed for golf in the first place, so it’s best to trust them. But even within spiked shoes, there are different types of spikes available. Each type best suits a specific golf course condition and your personal preferences.

  • Metal spikes. Metal spikes are the most durable in our list of spikes. However, they can damage the green, so some golf courses have banned them.
  • Rubber spikes. Most popular and affordable? Check. Comfort and flexibility? Check. Durability? They don’t last long, but they’re still a great choice!
  • Ceramic spikes. Ceramic spikes are your best bet if you prefer resilient spikes that resist scuffs, scratches, and cuts. They may cost more than the other two, but they’re worth it if you want quality.

Best Spiked Golf Shoes

Generally, all spiked golf shoes are best for high handicappers. However, if we consider all the best features of a golf shoe — grip, comfort, style, and price — these best-reviewed spiked shoes stand out from the rest.

FootJoy Tour Alpha

FootJoy, as a brand, really takes its golf footwear seriously. The Tour Alpha is a perfect blend of all the best features. It’s waterproof and has exceptional swing support. What makes it even more outstanding is its modern styling. Golfers with a pair of FootJoy Tour Alphas will get strong support and look smashing while they do it! Many golfers find these shoes best for long-term wear.

Adidas Tour 360 22

Another trustworthy brand in the golf industry is Adidas. Their Tour 360 22 shoes have unique features that make them best for high handicappers. The real spikes allow players to control lower body movement and provide stability. Additionally, many golfers consider these spiked shoes the best-looking, so you can make a fashion statement too.

Under Armour HOVR Drive 2

At first sight, anyone would think that the Under Armour HOVR Drive 2 is something you wear in the gym, not on the golf course. But that’s what makes them superb — the combination of looks, comfort, and features! The designing of these shoes involved the application of the science of biomechanics on their outsole. These golf shoes are best for rotational, horizontal, vertical, and internal traction.

Best Spikeless Golf Shoes

Many excellent spikeless golf shoes are also available if you’re not into traditional golf shoes but still want to up your game. For high handicappers, the best spikeless golf shoes offer comfort and stability for extended periods of play. Which do we think are the best?

FootJoy Pro SL

Once again, FootJoy is here to make its mark on the best golf shoes for high handicappers. As expected, the Pro SL provides top-notch performance. The Fine-Tuned Foam (FTF) technology provides players with much cushioning, while the Dual-Density D2 midsoles make it so easy to walk even 18 holes. The FootJoy Pro SL may not have spikes but its traction and stability will keep you glued to the ground.

Under Armour HOVR Tour

Under Armour also has an excellent entry for the best spikeless golf shoes with the HOVR Tour Spikeless. If you need that “locked-in” feeling without the traditional spikes, this pair guarantees it. The design involves stretch and lockdown yarns that give your foot the support it needs where it needs it. And the rest of the shoe? Flexibility!

Ecco Biom C4

No other golf shoe screams “comfort” like the Ecco Biom C4 does. This shoe is sweet (and waterproof!). Ecco uses Exhaust Grid technology, scooping fresh air into the sole and keeping your feet cool. Biom C4 is also the most breathable golf shoe! High handicappers don’t have to worry about feet widths. The shoe is designed to be suitable for all feet sizes.

Best Golf Shoes for Men

Most golf shoe models are available for both men and women. However, some of the best golf shoes for men are better suited for the male anatomy. Here’s what we think will best help men with high handicaps:

Ecco Biom C4

Ecco Biom C4’s versatility and comfort make them best for male golfers. Ecco designed these shoes to suit larger feet; the sole is precisely engineered to provide optimal traction and stability to male feet.

FootJoy Tour Alpha

The FootJoy Tour Alpha also best suits male golfers. The exceptional swing support and the modern styling make this model great for men who take golf seriously.

Under Armour HOVR Drive 2

Again, Under Armour makes it to the men’s golf shoe picks list. Because of the shoe’s traction that’s best suited for men’s feet, many male players find the HOVR Drive 2 a must-have. Apart from the model’s functionality, its looks will also turn heads!

Best Golf Shoes for Women

Female golfers also have an array of options to choose from. The best golf shoes for high handicappers we’ve listed above are also suitable for women, but if you’re specifically looking for the best female golf shoes, here are our top picks:

Ecco Biom H4

You can call the Ecco Biom H4 the mother of Ecco Biom C4. This shoe is best for female golfers who want stability, cushioning, and flexibility. It also provides excellent breathability with the same Exhaust Grid technology. You don’t have to worry about the shoe being too tight or too wide; the snug fit is best for female feet.

FootJoy Premiere Series

The best golf shoes for women don’t have to be over the top. The FootJoy Premiere Series proves that you can look stylish and perform well on the course. The shoe is lightweight and any woman who wears it will feel timeless. The molded footbed allows for the best comfort and the new traction technology ensures excellent stability.

Duca del Cosma Women’s Wildcat

Duca del Cosma Women’s Wildcat combines waterproof sock and heel support systems. What makes it even more interesting is that it’s made of recycled cork! The model’s black and white colorway is clean and goes with any golfing outfit. And, because of its support systems, female high handicappers won’t worry about their feet slipping while they perfect their swing.

Best Budget Golf Shoes

Not everyone is immediately ready to invest in expensive shoes. Why not explore more affordable options first? This golf shoe will help you save until you’re ready to purchase best-in-class:

Nike Roshe G

This golf shoe model proves that you don’t have to sacrifice comfort and performance when shopping on a budget. The Nike Roshe G is best for high handicappers looking to improve their game without breaking the bank. It’s casual and comfortable and provides enough support for your golfing needs.

Conclusion

When choosing the best golf shoes for high handicappers, keep the following in mind: traction, durability, comfort, versatility, fit, style, performance, and price. Ultimately, it boils down to your personal preference and the best shoes for your individual game. With the best golf shoes in tow, you can look great on the green and get the best performance out of your game!

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