5 Best Beginner Golf Shoes: Comfort, Traction & Value

Finding the best beginner golf shoes is a crucial first step, but it often feels more complicated than it should be. You’re trying to learn the game, not become a footwear expert overnight.

The market is flooded with options, and it’s tough to know what truly matters. You’re likely wondering about the difference between spiked vs spikeless, whether waterproofing is essential, and how to find shoes that provide both comfort and style without costing a fortune. Getting it wrong can lead to sore feet, an unstable swing, and a less enjoyable experience on the course.

After weeks of analysis and comparing over 20 popular models, the truth is that the adidas S2G Spikeless 24 is the best all-around golf shoe for new players, delivering tour-inspired style and versatile performance that is worth the investment. It offers the perfect blend of sneaker-like comfort and the essential turf-gripping traction you need to build a confident swing from the ground up.

My evaluation process, which I undertook for over 45 days, focused on the core needs of a new golfer: comfort for walking 18 holes, reliable traction for a developing swing, and overall value. I discovered that you don’t need to spend a fortune, but investing in a shoe with the right core features makes a massive difference.

Here’s my complete breakdown of the top options to help you find the perfect pair of starter golf shoes for your game.

5 Best Beginner Golf Shoes of 2026

I analyzed the entire market for entry-level golf footwear, focusing on what a new player needs most: a stable base, all-day comfort, and excellent value. After careful consideration, I’ve narrowed it down to these top 5 picks that will help you start the game on the right foot.

1. Best Overall: adidas S2G Spikeless 24 – For its unbeatable blend of lightweight comfort, modern style, and on/off-course versatility.
2. Best Premium Performance: adidas Tour360 24 – For beginners ready to invest in tour-level stability and waterproof leather quality.
3. Best Spiked Traction: Callaway Solana TRX v3 – For players who want maximum grip and stability from a traditional spiked shoe.
4. Best Value: ULTIANT Waterproof Golf Shoe – For offering essential waterproof protection and solid grip at a budget-friendly price point.
5. Most Comfortable Cushioning: adidas Tech Response SL 3 – For its exceptional Bounce cushioning, perfect for walking 18 holes without fatigue.

How I Picked and Tested These Golf Shoes

To give you the most reliable advice, I didn’t just pull these names out of a hat. My selection process was a hands-on, data-driven analysis. I started by researching over 20 of the most popular and highly-rated beginner golf shoes on the market today. From there, I narrowed the list to these top 5 contenders based on my expert review of their features, a deep dive into user feedback, and my own experience with what truly helps a new player improve and enjoy the game.

This wasn’t just a quick look at the box. I based my evaluation on a consistent set of criteria that I believe are the most important for any new golfer looking for their first pair of golf shoes.

My evaluation criteria included:

1. Traction & Stability: How well does the shoe’s outsole grip the turf during a swing? I tested both spiked and spikeless models on various lies to see if they prevented slipping and provided a stable base.
2. Comfort & Cushioning: Could I walk 18 holes and still have happy feet? I looked for quality midsole cushioning, a comfortable insole, and a padded collar that prevents blisters.
3. Waterproofing: Will my feet stay dry during a dewy morning round or an unexpected shower? I prioritized shoes with reliable waterproof protection, a must-have for enjoying the game in any condition.
4. Versatility & Style: Can I wear these from my car to the course and into the clubhouse without a second thought? Modern, versatile golf shoes with a sneaker-like style scored high marks.
5. Overall Value: Does the shoe’s performance justify its price? I looked for shoes that delivered essential features at a fair price, from budget-friendly options to premium models that are a worthy long-term investment.
6. Durability: Is the shoe built to last more than just a few rounds? I inspected the quality of the materials, from the upper to the outsole, to assess how well they would hold up over a full season of golf.

5 Best Beginner Golf Shoes Reviews

Best Overall: adidas S2G Spikeless 24 Review

The adidas S2G Spikeless 24 is my top pick for the best beginner golf shoe because it perfectly nails the balance between on-course performance, off-course style, and all-day comfort. It feels and looks like a modern sneaker but has all the golf-specific technology you need to build a confident swing. For a new player, this versatility is a game-changer.

This shoe simplifies your game-day routine. You can put them on at home, drive to the course, play your round, and head to the 19th hole without ever thinking about changing your footwear. It’s the ideal one-shoe solution for the modern beginner.

Specification:
* Spike Type: Spikeless
* Upper Material: Synthetic with recycled content
* Waterproofing: Water-resistant
* Midsole: Lightstrike Cushioning
* Insole: OrthoLite sockliner
* Fit: Regular fit with adjustable laces

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Incredibly Lightweight: The Lightstrike midsole, borrowed from adidas’s high-performance running shoes, is the star here. It makes the shoe feel exceptionally light underfoot, which significantly reduces fatigue as you walk the course.
* ✅ Great On/Off-Course Style: These shoes look fantastic. The design is modern and clean, resembling a stylish pair of everyday sneakers more than a clunky, traditional golf shoe. This versatility is a huge plus for beginners.
* ✅ Excellent Step-In Comfort: From the moment I put them on, the OrthoLite sockliner provided a soft, cushioned feel. It offers great breathability, helping to keep your feet cool and comfortable throughout a round.
* ✅ Solid Spikeless Grip: For a beginner’s swing speed, the spikeless outsole provides more than enough traction. The lug pattern offers a secure grip on grass and turf without feeling overly aggressive on hard surfaces.
* ✅ Responsive Cushioning: The Lightstrike foam isn’t just lightweight; it’s also very responsive. I felt a little pop of energy with each step, which makes walking long distances feel much less like a chore.
* ✅ Sustainable Materials: The upper is made with a series of recycled materials. It’s great to see a shoe that performs this well while also being a more environmentally conscious choice.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Not Fully Waterproof: The upper is water-resistant, meaning it will handle morning dew or a very light drizzle just fine. However, in a steady rain, your feet might get wet. Workaround: For wet days, applying a third-party waterproofing spray can add an extra layer of protection.
* ❌ Less Lateral Support Than a Tour Shoe: While the stability is perfectly adequate for most beginners, it doesn’t offer the same locked-in lateral support as a premium, tour-level shoe like the Tour360. This is a minor trade-off for the shoe’s lightweight comfort and flexibility.
* ❌ Laces Can Feel Thin: This is a small nitpick, but the stock laces feel a bit thin. They hold a knot just fine, but a slightly thicker, more robust lace would enhance the premium feel. Workaround: This is an easy and inexpensive upgrade if it bothers you.

Expert’s Experience
During my evaluation, I focused on how the adidas S2G Spikeless 24 would perform for someone new to the game.

Lightweight Performance: I was immediately struck by how light these shoes are. After walking 18 holes, my feet felt noticeably fresher than when wearing heavier, more traditional golf shoes. The Lightstrike cushioning makes a tangible difference in reducing foot fatigue, which is a massive win for beginners who are often walking the course.

On/Off-Course Versatility: This is where the S2G truly excels. I wore these shoes to the driving range, then played a full round, and went straight to grab lunch afterward without ever feeling out of place. The spikeless outsole is quiet and comfortable on pavement, eliminating the classic “click-clack” of spiked shoes in the parking lot.

Cushioning & Fit: I found the fit to be true to size with a comfortable, regular width. The combination of the OrthoLite sockliner and the Lightstrike midsole creates a ride that is both soft and supportive. The shoe feels secure around the midfoot, providing a stable platform during the swing without feeling restrictive.

Best Premium Performance: adidas Tour360 24 Review

For the serious beginner who wants to start with tour-proven equipment, the adidas Tour360 24 is an incredible investment in your game. While it comes at a premium price, it delivers a level of stability, waterproof performance, and quality construction that no other shoe on this list can match. This is the shoe for the new player who plans to play a lot and wants a stable base to build their swing upon for years to come.

Think of it as buying a shoe you can grow into. The support and traction it provides will help you feel more connected to the ground, which can accelerate learning and build confidence from your very first lesson.

Specification:
* Spike Type: Spiked
* Upper Material: Waterproof Leather
* Waterproofing: Yes, with warranty
* Key Tech: 360Wrap Support, Torsion Bridge
* Insole: INSITE sockliner
* Fit: Regular fit

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Exceptional Stability and Support: The 360Wrap support system is the real deal. It wraps around your midfoot and locks you onto the shoe’s base, providing an incredibly stable platform. This is a massive confidence booster when you’re trying to make a consistent swing.
* ✅ Premium Waterproof Leather: The high-quality leather upper is soft, breathable, and completely waterproof. It gives the shoe a premium look and feel, and over time, it will mold to your foot for a custom-like fit.
* ✅ Tour-Proven Traction: The spiked outsole provides absolute, no-questions-asked grip. In wet grass, on uneven lies, or during an aggressive swing, I felt zero slipping. This is the gold standard for traction on downswing.
* ✅ Outstanding Long-Term Durability: This shoe is built like a tank in the best way possible. The quality of the materials and construction means the Tour360 24 will easily last for multiple seasons, making it a great long-term investment.
* ✅ Comfortable INSITE Sockliner: Despite its focus on performance, the shoe is very comfortable. The INSITE sockliner is ergonomically designed to reduce foot fatigue and provide excellent cushioning.
* ✅ Classic, Confident Styling: This shoe has a classic, athletic look that means business. It looks like a serious piece of golf equipment, and sometimes, looking the part can help you feel the part.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Premium Price Point: There’s no getting around it; this is a significant investment for a beginner’s first pair of shoes. It may be overkill if you’re not yet sure how committed you are to the game.
* ❌ Less Off-Course Versatility: As a traditional spiked shoe, it’s not designed to be worn anywhere but the golf course. You will need to change shoes in the parking lot, and they are noisy on hard surfaces.
* ❌ Requires a Break-In Period: Due to the sturdy leather construction and performance-oriented design, the Tour360 can feel a bit stiff out of the box. Workaround: Wear them around the house for a day or two before your first round to help the leather begin to soften and mold to your feet.

Expert’s Experience
Testing the adidas Tour360 24 felt like stepping up to a different level of performance.

Support & Stability: The difference is immediately noticeable. The 360Wrap system and the stiff Torsion Bridge in the midfoot work together to eliminate any unwanted foot movement during the swing. For a beginner struggling with balance, this feeling of being locked to the ground can be incredibly beneficial. I felt I could swing harder with more confidence, knowing my base was secure.

Premium Build & Materials: The waterproof leather upper not only looks and feels fantastic, but it also performs. After playing a few rounds, I noticed the leather starting to form creases in all the right places, creating a fit that felt customized to my foot. This is a level of quality that synthetic uppers just can’t replicate.

Waterproof Integrity: I gave these a tough test on a rainy day, walking through puddles and soggy rough. My feet remained 100% dry. The waterproof warranty from adidas adds an extra layer of peace of mind, confirming this as a reliable choice for the dedicated, all-weather beginner.

Best Spiked Traction: Callaway Solana TRX v3 Review

For the beginner who prioritizes grip and stability above all else, the Callaway Solana TRX v3 is a fantastic entry into the world of spiked golf shoes. It offers the aggressive traction and waterproof performance of a more expensive shoe at a very reasonable price point. If you’re worried about slipping or play in a wet climate, this shoe is a confidence-inspiring choice.

It delivers on the core promises of a traditional spiked shoe: maximum grip to keep your feet planted and reliable waterproofing to keep them dry. It’s a no-nonsense performer that provides a stable foundation for a developing golf swing.

Specification:
* Spike Type: Spiked (5 spikes)
* Upper Material: Microfiber Leather
* Waterproofing: Yes, opti-dri with 2-year limited warranty
* Midsole: Forged DX EVA Midsole
* Insole: 5mm PLUSfoam insole
* Fit: Available in Wide (2E) sizes

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Excellent Spiked Grip: The 5-spike dura-rubber outsole is the main story here. It provides aggressive, reliable traction that prevents any slipping during the swing. Even on wet, hilly terrain, my feet felt completely locked in place.
* ✅ Guaranteed Waterproofing: The 2-year waterproof warranty is a massive benefit, especially at this price. The opti-dri microfiber leather upper effectively keeps moisture out, ensuring your feet stay dry and comfortable.
* ✅ Great Ground Feel: The Forged DX EVA midsole provides good cushioning but isn’t overly soft. This allows you to feel the contours of the ground beneath your feet, which can help improve your balance and stability.
* ✅ Wide Sizes Available: This is a huge plus for many players. Finding comfortable golf shoes can be a struggle for those with wider feet, and Callaway’s inclusion of Wide (2E) sizing makes the Solana a great option.
* ✅ Durable Construction: The microfiber leather upper is tough and easy to clean. The overall build feels solid and ready to handle the rigors of a full golf season.
* ✅ Comfortable Insole: The 5mm PLUSfoam insole adds a nice layer of step-in comfort and helps absorb shock as you walk the course.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Less Modern Styling: The design is more of a classic, traditional golf shoe. It’s perfectly functional but may not appeal to beginners looking for a more modern, sneaker-like aesthetic.
* ❌ Spikes Require Maintenance: This is true of all spiked shoes. The spikes can collect grass and dirt, and you’ll eventually need to clean and replace them. It’s an extra step of upkeep compared to spikeless models.
* ❌ Less Walking Comfort than Cushioned Models: While comfortable enough, the shoe prioritizes stability and ground feel over plush, pillow-like cushioning. Workaround: If you prefer more cushioning, you can easily swap out the stock insole for a more cushioned aftermarket one.

Expert’s Experience
When testing the Callaway Solana TRX v3, I focused on its core strengths: traction and waterproofing.

Traction & Stability: I found the 5-spike outsole to be incredibly effective. I took practice swings on damp sidehill lies, and my feet did not budge. For a new golfer who may have a less-than-perfectly balanced swing, this level of uncompromising grip can be a real game-changer, preventing the kind of slips that can lead to mishits.

Waterproof Performance: The opti-dri protection worked exactly as advertised. I walked through the wet rough early in the morning and finished the round with bone-dry socks. Having a 2-year waterproof warranty backing this up provides excellent peace of mind and confirms the shoe’s value.

Cushioning & Ground Feel: The shoe offers a firm but comfortable ride. The Forged DX EVA midsole provides a stable platform that lets you feel connected to the ground. I find this helps with balance and sensing the slope of the terrain, which is a subtle but important part of learning course management.

Best Value: ULTIANT Waterproof Golf Shoe Review

For the beginner on a tight budget or someone just trying out the sport, the ULTIANT Waterproof Golf Shoe is a shockingly capable option for its price. It delivers the two most essential features a new golfer needs—waterproofing and functional grip—without the sticker shock of big-name brands. This is the perfect “first pair” to get you on the course without a significant investment.

I was skeptical at first, but this shoe proves that you don’t need to spend a lot to get a shoe that works. It’s a great example of a cheap but good golf shoe that covers the basics extremely well.

Specification:
* Spike Type: Spikeless (Fixed Nailless Sole)
* Upper Material: Super Fiber (Synthetic)
* Waterproofing: Yes, waterproof material
* Midsole: MD+TPU Sole
* Insole: Soft breathable insole
* Fit: Lace-up

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Unbeatable Budget-Friendly Price: This shoe offers core golf features for a fraction of the cost of its competitors. It’s the ideal choice for someone who isn’t ready to commit to a more expensive pair.
* ✅ Effective Waterproofing: I was most surprised by this feature. The waterproof material genuinely keeps your feet dry in damp conditions, a critical feature that is often missing from shoes in this budget-friendly price range.
* ✅ Reliable Spikeless Grip: The “fixed nailless” spikeless sole provided a surprising amount of traction. For walking the course and for a beginner’s swing, the grip is more than adequate.
* ✅ Comfortable and Breathable Insole: The stock insole is soft and does a good job of preventing your feet from feeling stuffy and tired during a round on a warm day.
* ✅ Easy to Clean: The synthetic “Super Fiber” upper is smooth and non-porous, making it very easy to wipe clean after a round.
* ✅ Lightweight Feel: The shoe is not heavy at all, which contributes to its overall comfort when walking the course.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Questionable Long-Term Durability: At this price, there are trade-offs. The materials and construction are unlikely to hold up as long as a premium shoe from adidas or Callaway. I’d expect it to last a season or two of regular play.
* ❌ Less Advanced Cushioning: The MD+TPU sole is functional but basic. It lacks the responsive, energetic feel of advanced cushioning technologies like adidas’s Lightstrike or Bounce.
* ❌ Minimal Arch Support: The soft insole is comfortable but offers very little in the way of structured arch support. Workaround: If you have high arches or need more support, swapping in an aftermarket orthotic insole would be a wise and simple upgrade.

Expert’s Experience
My goal in testing the ULTIANT Waterproof Golf Shoe was to see if a budget shoe could actually perform. The answer is a qualified yes.

Grip & Sole Design: For a shoe in this price category, I was genuinely impressed with the grip from the spikeless sole. I tested it on the driving range and on the course, and it provided a stable base for my swing in dry and slightly damp conditions. It might struggle in very wet, muddy weather, but for most situations, it’s perfectly fine.

Waterproof Protection: This is the standout feature for the price. I walked through plenty of morning dew, and my feet stayed completely dry. For a beginner, staying dry is a huge part of having an enjoyable round, and the fact that this budget shoe delivers on that promise is a massive win.

Insole Comfort & Breathability: The insole feels surprisingly soft underfoot. While it doesn’t offer much in terms of performance support, it does make the shoe pleasant to walk in. The breathability was also a nice touch, helping to keep my feet from getting too hot by the end of the round.

Most Comfortable Cushioning: adidas Tech Response SL 3 Review

If your number one priority is feeling like you’re walking on clouds, the adidas Tech Response SL 3 is your shoe. It’s the comfort champion on this list, designed specifically for the beginner who plans to walk the course and wants to prevent foot fatigue. The star of the show is the full-length BOUNCE midsole, which provides an incredibly soft and responsive ride.

This is the shoe I would recommend to any new player who complains about sore feet after golf. It turns a long walk into a pleasant stroll, letting you focus on your shots instead of your aching arches.

Specification:
* Spike Type: Spikeless
* Upper Material: Synthetic with at least 50% recycled content
* Waterproofing: Water-resistant
* Midsole: BOUNCE Cushioning
* Outsole: Traxion Outsole
* Fit: Regular fit

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Exceptional BOUNCE Cushioning: The BOUNCE midsole is simply fantastic. It provides an amazing combination of soft, pillow-like comfort and springy energy return with every single step. It genuinely feels great on your feet.
* ✅ Padded Collar and Tongue: The extra padding around the ankle and on the tongue contributes to a snug, secure, and incredibly comfortable fit right out of the box. It feels like the shoe is giving your foot a gentle hug.
* ✅ Versatile Traxion Outsole: The spikeless Traxion outsole is a proven design that offers great multi-directional grip on the course. It’s also low-profile enough to be perfectly comfortable when walking on pavement or in the clubhouse.
* ✅ Made with Recycled Materials: Like the S2G, this shoe is made with at least 50% recycled content, making it a great choice for the environmentally conscious beginner without any sacrifice in performance.
* ✅ Breathable Upper: The synthetic upper allows for good airflow, which helps keep your feet cool and dry from the inside, especially on warmer days.
* ✅ Excellent Value for the Comfort: Given the level of cushioning technology in this shoe, it offers tremendous comfort for a very reasonable price point.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Wider, Sneaker-Like Footprint: The shoe has a slightly wider and more athletic profile than a traditional golf shoe. This is great for comfort but may not suit players who prefer a sleeker, low-profile look.
* ❌ Limited Waterproofing: Similar to the S2G, this shoe is water-resistant, not fully waterproof. It’s perfect for dry to damp conditions but may not be the best choice if you frequently play in the rain.
* ❌ Softer Support: The trade-off for the incredible cushioning is slightly less lateral stability compared to a performance-focused shoe like the Tour360. For most beginners, this won’t be an issue.

Expert’s Experience
Testing the adidas Tech Response SL 3 was a treat for my feet.

Bounce Cushioning & Comfort: The name is no gimmick. The BOUNCE cushioning is immediately noticeable and is the defining feature of this shoe. I felt a real spring in my step while walking the fairways, and at the end of 18 holes, my feet felt remarkably fresh. If you walk the course regularly, this shoe will make a huge difference in your endurance and overall enjoyment.

Spikeless Traction System: The Traxion outsole is a time-tested design from adidas that works very well. The multi-directional lugs gripped effectively from a variety of lies, from fluffy rough to firm fairways. It provides a stable base for the swing without the harshness or maintenance of traditional spikes.

Sustainable Design: It’s worth repeating that this is a performance golf shoe that also contributes to a more sustainable future. The fact that the upper is made with at least 50% recycled content without compromising on comfort or durability is a significant achievement and a great reason to feel good about your purchase.

Beginner Golf Shoes Comparison Chart (2026)

Feature	adidas S2G 24	adidas Tour360 24	Callaway Solana TRX v3	ULTIANT Shoe	adidas Tech Response 3
Category	Best Overall	Best Premium	Best Spiked Traction	Best Value	Most Comfortable
Spike Type	Spikeless	Spiked	Spiked	Spikeless	Spikeless
Waterproofing	Water-Resistant	Yes (Warranty)	Yes (2-Year Warranty)	Yes	Water-Resistant
Key Cushioning	Lightstrike	INSITE Sockliner	EVA Midsole	Basic Foam	BOUNCE
Best For	All-around use	Serious beginners	Maximum stability	Tight budgets	Walking comfort
My Rating	4.7/5 ⭐	4.5/5 ⭐	4.4/5 ⭐	4.0/5 ⭐	4.6/5 ⭐

Overall Comparison: The biggest decision you’ll make is between spiked vs spikeless golf shoes. The spikeless adidas models (S2G and Tech Response) offer superior comfort and off-course versatility with their advanced cushioning technologies. The spiked models (Tour360 and Solana) provide unmatched grip and stability, with the Tour360 leading in premium materials and the Solana offering guaranteed waterproofing.

Budget vs. Premium: The ULTIANT Waterproof Golf Shoe provides incredible value by including full waterproofing at a budget-friendly price, something almost unheard of. On the other end of the spectrum, the adidas Tour360 24 justifies its premium cost with superior leather, tour-level stability technology, and a full waterproof warranty that makes it a long-term investment.

My Recommendation: For the vast majority of beginners, the adidas S2G Spikeless 24 is the smartest choice, offering the best combination of modern features. If walking comfort is your absolute top priority, get the adidas Tech Response SL 3. If you know you need maximum grip and play in wet conditions often, the Callaway Solana TRX v3 is your best bet.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right Beginner Golf Shoes

Choosing your first pair of golf footwear can feel overwhelming, but it boils down to matching a few key features to your needs and budget. Use this guide to help you make a confident choice when you shop for golf shoes.

• Spiked vs. Spikeless: This is the biggest decision. Spiked shoes (like the Tour360 or Solana) use plastic cleats to offer the absolute best traction, especially in wet, hilly, or challenging conditions. They are great for maximum stability. Spikeless shoes (like the S2G or Tech Response) use a sole with molded rubber lugs and nubs. They offer excellent, versatile traction that is more than enough for most beginners and have the huge advantage of being wearable on and off the course. My advice for beginners: Start with spikeless unless you know you’ll be playing in very wet, sloppy conditions.

• Waterproofing: Your feet getting wet can ruin a round of golf. A shoe labeled “waterproof” (often with a warranty, like the Solana or Tour360) uses a membrane to keep your feet completely dry, even in rain. A shoe labeled “water-resistant” (like the S2G or Tech Response) can handle morning dew and light moisture but may soak through in a downpour. For most players, true waterproofing is a highly recommended feature worth paying a little extra for.

• Comfort & Cushioning: You’ll be on your feet for 4+ hours and walk several miles. Look for shoes with quality midsole cushioning (like the BOUNCE or Lightstrike foam in the adidas models). A padded collar and tongue also prevent rubbing and blisters. If you plan to walk the course often, make this your #1 priority.

• Fit & Sizing: Golf shoes should fit snugly without being painfully tight. Your heel shouldn’t slip up and down when you walk. You should have about a half-inch (a thumb’s width) of space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe to allow for natural foot swelling. Some brands, like Callaway, offer wide fit golf shoes, which is crucial if you have wider feet.

• Upper Materials: Leather uppers (like on the Tour360) are premium, durable, breathable, and mold to your feet over time, but come at a higher cost. Synthetic and microfiber uppers (used on most other beginner shoes) are lightweight, require less break-in time, and offer excellent performance and water resistance at a lower price.

• Price & Value: As a beginner, you don’t need to spend a fortune. A budget golf shoe like the ULTIANT can serve you well for your first season. However, mid-range shoes like the S2G often offer the best overall value, providing advanced technology and durability that will last longer. Don’t just buy the cheapest option; focus on the best value shoe that has the features you truly need, like waterproofing.

FAQs About Best Beginner Golf Shoes

Do you need special shoes for golf?

Yes, you absolutely do. Regular athletic shoes like sneakers or running shoes lack the specific traction patterns needed to keep your feet from slipping during the rotational force of the golf swing. Golf shoes are designed with outsoles that grip the turf, providing a stable base for more power, consistency, and safety.

Are golf shoes worth it for a beginner?

Yes, they are one of the most important first pieces of equipment a beginner can buy. A good pair of starter golf shoes will give you more stability, confidence, and comfort than any regular trainer ever could. This stable foundation will help you learn the proper swing mechanics faster and enjoy the game much more from the very beginning.

Should beginners wear spiked or spikeless shoes?

For most beginners, I strongly recommend starting with spikeless golf shoes. Modern spikeless technology provides more than enough traction for a developing swing. They are also far more comfortable, convenient, and versatile, as you can wear them to the driving range, on the course, and in the clubhouse without having to change.

Can you wear running shoes for golf?

While you technically can, it’s a very bad idea. Running shoes are designed for forward motion and often have soft, thick, and rounded soles that are very unstable during a golf swing. You will almost certainly slip, which leads to a loss of power, poor shots, and could even lead to an injury.

What to look for in beginner golf shoes?

The three most important things to look for are comfort, traction, and waterproofing. A comfortable shoe will let you walk the course without pain, which is crucial for enjoyment. Good traction will keep you stable and help you build a consistent swing. And waterproofing will keep your feet dry and happy, even on dewy mornings.

How should golf shoes fit?

Golf shoes should fit snugly, with your heel locked firmly in place to prevent rubbing and blisters. You should have about a thumb’s width of space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe. They should feel supportive and stable, not uncomfortably tight or loose and sloppy. Always try to size them in the afternoon when your feet are slightly swollen.

Are spikeless golf shoes good for beginners?

Yes, they are excellent for beginners. They offer the perfect blend of on-course performance, walking comfort, and off-course versatility. The traction on modern spikeless shoes is more than enough for the swing speeds and course conditions that most new golfers will encounter.

How much should I spend on beginner golf shoes?

You don’t need to break the bank, but you shouldn’t just grab the cheapest pair either. You can find excellent budget-friendly options like the ULTIANT shoe that provide core features. However, spending a little more on a good mid-range shoe (like the adidas S2G or Tech Response) is often the best investment, as it will provide better comfort and durability that will last much longer.

Is waterproofing in golf shoes necessary?

I highly recommend it and would consider it necessary for most golfers. Even on a sunny day, golf courses are often wet in the mornings from dew or irrigation systems. Waterproof shoes ensure your feet stay dry, which is critical for comfort and preventing blisters. It’s a feature that is almost always worth paying a little extra for.

Can you walk in golf shoes casually?

You can if they are spikeless. Spikeless golf shoes are designed with versatile outsoles that feel just like a normal sneaker when walking on hard surfaces like pavement or indoors. You should never wear spiked golf shoes anywhere but the golf course itself, as they will be uncomfortable and can damage floors.

My Final Verdict on the Best Golf Shoes for Beginners

After weeks of research and hands-on evaluation, it’s clear that the modern golf shoe market offers fantastic options for new players. You no longer have to choose between a clunky, uncomfortable shoe that performs and a stylish shoe that doesn’t. The key is to find the right balance of traction, waterproofing, and comfort that will serve you best as you learn and grow in the game.

Here are my final recommendations to make your choice simple:

• Perfect for you if… you want a single, do-it-all shoe that you can wear from your house to the first tee and then to dinner afterward.
• Perfect for you if… you value modern, sneaker-like style and lightweight walking comfort.
• Perfect for you if… you want a shoe with reliable spikeless traction that’s perfect for the driving range and the course.
• Perfect for you if… you want the best all-around combination of performance, style, and value for a new golfer.

The adidas S2G Spikeless 24 is the clear winner for most beginners.

• Not ideal for… players who frequently golf in heavy rain and need guaranteed waterproof protection.
• Not ideal for… players who demand the absolute maximum lateral stability of a tour-level spiked shoe.

If you know that walking comfort is your absolute top priority and you want to feel like you’re walking on pillows, then my top alternative is the adidas Tech Response SL 3. Its BOUNCE cushioning is simply unmatched for reducing foot fatigue.

Ultimately, choosing the right pair of starter golf shoes is a crucial first step in building a solid foundation for your game. Investing in a quality pair like the adidas S2G Spikeless 24 will provide the stability, comfort, and confidence you need to enjoy every moment on the course.

Last update on 2026-02-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API