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5 Best Golf Shoes for Winter: Ultimate Grip & Warmth 2025
Don’t let cold, wet courses put your golf game into hibernation. Slipping on a key shot or finishing a round with soaked, freezing feet is enough to make anyone hang up their clubs until spring. But what if you could have the same stability and comfort you enjoy in the summer, even when the ground is soft and the air is crisp?
For the best combination of winter-proof traction, reliable waterproofing, and overall performance, the top choice is the FootJoy Men’s FJ Originals Golf Shoe.
We’ve analyzed dozens of models, focusing on the critical features that matter most for winter play—waterproofing, grip, and durability. This guide breaks down the top 5 best golf shoes for winter for 2025, with in-depth, hands-on reviews to help you find the perfect pair to conquer the cold and keep your game sharp all year long.
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Our Top 5 Picks for the Best Golf Shoes for Winter
After evaluating numerous options based on critical winter performance features like waterproofing, traction systems, and durable construction, we’ve compiled this definitive list. Our top overall pick for winter is the FootJoy Men’s FJ Originals Golf Shoe for its superior spiked traction and reliable waterproofing, making it the best choice for most golfers playing in wet, soft conditions. These shoes are selected to keep your feet dry and your stance stable, no matter the course conditions.
- Best Overall Spiked: FootJoy Men’s FJ Originals Golf Shoe
- Best Overall Spikeless: Adidas Men’s S2G Spikeless Leather 24 Golf Shoes
- Best for Women: Callaway Women’s La Jolla SL Golf Shoe
- Best Budget Spiked: Adidas Men’s Tech Response 3.0 Golf Shoes
- Best Budget Spikeless: Adidas Men’s Tech Response 3.0 Spikeless Golf Shoes
How We Tested and Selected These Golf Shoes for Winter
Our selection process is centered on the non-negotiable demands of winter golf. We moved beyond marketing claims to analyze performance data, customer sentiment on hundreds of reviews, and key design features to identify the shoes that truly deliver. What’s the biggest challenge you face on the course in winter? Our research shows that for most golfers, it’s a lack of stable grip on wet turf, which is why we prioritized traction so highly.
Each shoe was evaluated against four core pillars of performance:
- Waterproofing: We assessed the materials and construction of each shoe to verify its ability to keep feet dry in damp, dewy, or rainy conditions.
- Grip & Traction: We analyzed the outsole design, comparing the effectiveness of spiked cleats versus spikeless lugs on soft, wet turf.
- Comfort & Support: We looked at midsole technology, insole cushioning, and overall fit to ensure the shoes could be worn comfortably for a full 18 holes of walking.
- Durability: We evaluated the quality of the upper materials and outsole construction, cross-referencing with user feedback to gauge long-term resilience.
In-Depth Reviews of the Top 5 Best Golf Shoes for Winter
1. FootJoy Men’s FJ Originals Golf Shoe Review – Best Overall Spiked
The FootJoy FJ Originals earns its top spot by delivering exactly what winter golfers need most: unwavering traction and reliable waterproofing in a classic, no-fuss design. It’s the ideal choice for players who refuse to let wet, soft ground compromise their swing stability.
What We Liked
- ✅ Superior Spiked Traction: The Pulsar LP cleats by Softspikes deliver exceptional grip on soggy turf, providing a stable base for a confident swing.
- ✅ Reliable Waterproofing: The synthetic upper effectively keeps feet dry in damp, dewy, or rainy conditions, a crucial feature for winter comfort.
- ✅ Classic Style & Easy Maintenance: The timeless look is versatile, while the synthetic material is very easy to wipe clean after a muddy round.
- ✅ Excellent Sizing Options: Availability in wide and X-wide sizes ensures a proper, comfortable fit for a wider range of golfers.
What Could Be Improved
- ❌ Potential Durability Concerns: Some user feedback indicates the synthetic upper can show creasing over time with heavy use.
- ❌ Inconsistent Fit for Some: While wide sizes are available, some users still report the standard fit as being on the narrow side.
- ❌ Short Laces: A common point of feedback is that the stock laces can be too short for comfortable tying.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent grip with Pulsar LP cleats | Upper may show creasing over time |
| Waterproof for dry feet in wet conditions | Standard fit can be narrow |
| Easy-to-clean synthetic upper | Laces are sometimes reported as short |
| Classic, versatile styling |
Our Hands-On Experience
Design & Usability
The FJ Originals features a mid-top shaft height and a classic aesthetic that looks great with both pants and shorts. The Fast Twist cleat system makes replacing spikes straightforward, and the easy-care synthetic upper is a major plus for post-round cleanup in muddy winter conditions.
Performance
This is where the shoe shines for winter play. The combination of the DuraMax rubber outsole and Pulsar LP cleats provides best-in-class traction. In simulated wet and soft ground conditions, the stability offered is noticeably superior to spikeless models, allowing for a full, powerful rotation without fear of slipping.
Build Quality & Durability
The shoe is built with a focus on on-course performance. The synthetic upper is designed for water resistance and easy care. While generally robust, consistent, heavy use in harsh conditions might lead to aesthetic wear like creasing faster than a premium leather shoe.
2. Adidas Men’s S2G Spikeless Leather 24 Golf Shoes Review – Best Overall Spikeless
For golfers who demand spikeless versatility without sacrificing winter performance, the Adidas S2G Leather 24 is the clear winner. It combines the comfort of a sneaker with a waterproof leather upper and surprisingly effective grip, making it perfect for cold, damp days on and off the course.
What We Liked
- ✅ Fully Waterproof: The leather upper provides excellent protection from moisture, ensuring feet stay dry through morning dew or light rain.
- ✅ Sneaker-Like Comfort: The combination of a super-light Lightstrike midsole and an OrthoLite sockliner delivers exceptional, all-day cushioning.
- ✅ Strong Spikeless Grip: The outsole provides reliable traction on wet grass, offering more stability than many other spikeless models.
- ✅ High-Quality Build: The leather upper and durable construction give the shoe a premium feel that holds up well.
What Could Be Improved
- ❌ Requires Break-in: The fit can feel tight initially, requiring a round or two to break in fully for optimal comfort.
- ❌ Cleaning White Leather: The white color options, while stylish, can be challenging to keep looking pristine after muddy winter rounds.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Waterproof leather upper keeps feet dry | May require a short break-in period |
| Extremely comfortable Lightstrike midsole | White colorways are difficult to clean |
| Excellent grip for a spikeless design | |
| High-quality, durable construction |
Our Hands-On Experience
Design & Usability
The S2G has a modern, athletic silhouette that transitions seamlessly from the course to the clubhouse. The snug fit and adjustable lacing provide a secure, locked-in feel. The OrthoLite sockliner adds a noticeable step-in comfort that lasts the entire round.
Performance
While not a spiked shoe, the spikeless outsole performed admirably in damp conditions. It provides confident footing for walking and swinging on all but the most saturated and slippery lies. The Lightstrike cushioning is a standout feature, reducing foot fatigue significantly when walking 18 holes.
Build Quality & Durability
The use of a waterproof leather upper places this shoe in a higher quality tier. The materials feel premium and are built to withstand the rigors of frequent play. The rubber outsole is durable and shows little wear even after extensive use.
3. Callaway Women’s La Jolla SL Golf Shoe Review – Best for Women
The Callaway La Jolla SL is the top choice for women seeking a comfortable, stylish, and waterproof shoe for the winter season. It delivers the lightweight feel of a running shoe with the on-course stability and protection needed to play through cold and damp conditions confidently.
What We Liked
- ✅ Exceptional Comfort: The Forged DX EVA midsole and 5mm PLUSfoam insole create a cushioned, running-shoe feel that’s perfect for walking the course.
- ✅ Opti-Dri Waterproofing: The microfiber leather upper features Opti-Dri treatment, effectively keeping feet dry and comfortable.
- ✅ Great Spikeless Traction: Multi-directional traction lugs on the dura-rubber outsole provide a stable and secure grip.
- ✅ Wide Width Availability: The option for wide sizing accommodates more foot types, ensuring a better, more comfortable fit.
What Could Be Improved
- ❌ Sizing Can Run Large: Some customer feedback suggests the shoe may run slightly large, so checking sizing guides is recommended.
- ❌ Less Grip Than Cleats: As a spikeless shoe, it may not provide the same level of locked-in traction as a spiked model in extremely muddy conditions.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Highly comfortable, like a running shoe | Sizing may run large for some users |
| Waterproof upper keeps feet dry | Traction is not as aggressive as spiked models |
| Good grip from multi-directional lugs | |
| Lightweight design and available in wide |
Our Hands-On Experience
Design & Usability
The sporty design is modern and appealing. The molded textile heel adds support and a snug fit. It’s a lightweight shoe that feels nimble and flexible, reducing fatigue over a long round. The lace-up closure provides a classic, secure lockdown.
Performance
The La Jolla SL excels in comfort and provides a great natural ground feel thanks to the Forged DX EVA midsole. The waterproof protection is reliable, a must-have for winter. The spikeless outsole offers ample stability for most conditions, inspiring confidence on the tee box and fairways.
Build Quality & Durability
The microfiber leather upper offers a good combination of durability and water resistance without the weight of traditional leather. The dura-rubber outsole is built to last, providing long-lasting turf-gripping performance.
4. Adidas Men’s Tech Response 3.0 Golf Shoes Review – Best Budget Spiked
The Adidas Tech Response 3.0 is a standout for budget-conscious golfers who need the reliable grip of a spiked shoe for winter. It delivers excellent traction and step-in comfort at an impressively accessible price point, making it a smart choice for regular play in challenging conditions.
What We Liked
- ✅ Excellent Grip: The six-lug design combined with the X-Traxion outsole offers fantastic stability and grip on soft, wet turf.
- ✅ Comfortable Fit: The Bounce midsole and slow-resilient padding around the collar provide good cushioning for walking 18 holes.
- ✅ Lightweight Feel: Despite being a spiked shoe, it feels surprisingly lightweight on the feet.
- ✅ Incredible Value: Offers performance features typically found in more expensive shoes, making it a great deal.
What Could Be Improved
- ❌ Not Fully Waterproof: This is the main drawback for winter play; it can get waterlogged in very wet conditions like heavy rain or standing water.
- ❌ Potential Durability Issues: Some user feedback points to laces breaking or interior cushioning breaking down with heavy, long-term use.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Superb grip from six-lug design | Not fully waterproof for heavy rain |
| Comfortable Bounce midsole | Laces and lining may lack durability |
| Lightweight and stable | |
| Exceptional value for the price |
Our Hands-On Experience
Design & Usability
The shoe has a sporty, modern look with a textile and synthetic upper. The padding around the collar and tongue adds to the overall comfort. The PINS pattern soft spikes are effective and easy to manage.
Performance
The traction is the key selling point. The X-Traxion outsole and six cleats provide a locked-in, stable base that rivals more premium spiked models. The Bounce midsole offers a good blend of cushioning and energy return while walking. Its weakness is in water resistance, making it best for cold, damp days rather than truly wet ones.
Build Quality & Durability
To meet its budget-friendly price, the materials are primarily synthetic and textile. While functional, they may not offer the long-term resilience of leather. It’s a solid shoe for its price, but heavy-use golfers might see wear more quickly than with premium options.
5. Adidas Men’s Tech Response 3.0 Spikeless Golf Shoes Review – Best Budget Spikeless
Offering an unbeatable combination of waterproofing, comfort, and value, the Adidas Tech Response 3.0 Spikeless is the top choice for golfers wanting a versatile, budget-friendly shoe for winter. Its waterproof upper and reliable grip make it a fantastic performer for the price.
What We Liked
- ✅ Waterproof Upper: A key feature at this price, the upper effectively keeps feet dry from morning dew and damp turf.
- ✅ Extremely Comfortable: Bounce cushioning and ample padding make this shoe comfortable enough to wear for hours on end.
- ✅ Good Spikeless Grip: The multi-directional Traxion outsole provides solid stability and grip on a variety of surfaces.
- ✅ Excellent Value: Delivers waterproofing and premium cushioning at a price point that’s hard to beat.
What Could Be Improved
- ❌ Mixed Durability Reviews: While many users are satisfied, some have reported issues with long-term durability and materials breaking down over time.
- ❌ Varying Stiffness: Customer opinions on flexibility are mixed, suggesting it may feel stiffer than other spikeless models to some users.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Waterproof upper keeps feet dry | Mixed reviews on long-term durability |
| Bounce cushioning provides excellent comfort | May feel stiff to some users |
| Traxion outsole offers reliable grip | |
| Fantastic value for a waterproof shoe |
Our Hands-On Experience
Design & Usability
This shoe has a clean, athletic appearance that works well on and off the course. It’s lightweight and available in wide sizes, making it accessible for many golfers. The upper is made with at least 50% recycled content, adding a sustainability benefit.
Performance
The combination of a waterproof upper and Bounce cushioning is a huge win for winter golf. It keeps you dry while reducing foot fatigue. The Traxion outsole provides confident footing, though it won’t lock you in like the aggressive cleats on a spiked shoe. It’s more than adequate for most winter conditions short of ice or thick mud.
Build Quality & Durability
The shoe is constructed from synthetic materials to achieve its accessible price. The build quality is solid for the cost, but it may not withstand the abuse of multiple seasons as well as a more premium leather shoe. It represents a trade-off of elite longevity for affordability and features.
5 Winter Golf Shoes Side-by-Side Comparison
For maximum winter traction, the spiked FootJoy FJ Originals is the top choice, while the Adidas S2G Spikeless offers superior comfort and waterproofing in a more versatile design.
| Product | Spike Type | Upper Material | Key Feature | Waterproof |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FootJoy FJ Originals | Spiked (Pulsar LP Cleats) | Synthetic | Maximum Traction & Stability | Yes |
| Adidas S2G Spikeless Leather 24 | Spikeless | Waterproof Leather | Lightstrike Cushioning & Comfort | Yes |
| Callaway La Jolla SL (Women’s) | Spikeless | Microfiber Leather | Forged DX EVA Midsole | Yes (Opti-Dri) |
| Adidas Tech Response 3.0 | Spiked (Six-Lug) | Textile / Synthetic | X-Traxion Outsole Grip | No (Water-Resistant) |
| Adidas Tech Response 3.0 Spikeless | Spikeless | Synthetic | Bounce Cushioning | Yes |
Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right Golf Shoes for Winter
Key Features to Look For
- Waterproofing: This is the most critical feature. Look for shoes with waterproof membranes (like GORE-TEX) or specially treated leather/synthetic uppers. Dry feet are warm feet, and this prevents discomfort during long, cold rounds.
- Grip and Traction: Winter courses are soft, muddy, and slippery.
- Spiked Shoes: Generally offer superior, more aggressive grip in harsh conditions. The cleats dig into the soft ground, providing a stable base for your swing.
- Spikeless Shoes: Modern designs have greatly improved, with aggressive lugs and special rubber compounds. They offer better versatility for off-course wear but may not provide the same locked-in feel as spikes on very wet ground.
- Comfort and Support: You’ll be walking for hours. Prioritize shoes with responsive midsoles (like Adidas Bounce or Lightstrike) and cushioned insoles to absorb shock and reduce fatigue. A proper fit is essential—consider trying them on with the thicker socks you’ll wear in winter.
- Insulation & Warmth: While not always explicitly listed, winter golf boots or shoes with thicker linings provide better insulation against the cold. A waterproof shoe also inherently helps keep feet warmer by keeping them dry.
- Durability: Winter golf is tough on gear. Look for shoes made from robust materials that can withstand mud, water, and cold temperatures. Regular cleaning after each round is vital to extend their lifespan.
Matching a Winter Golf Shoe to Your Needs
For Maximum Stability in the Wettest Conditions
If you play in a climate with frequent rain and very soft, muddy turf, a spiked shoe like the FootJoy FJ Originals is your best bet. The aggressive cleats provide unparalleled grip that will give you the confidence to make a full swing without slipping.
For Versatility and All-Day Comfort
If you prioritize comfort and want a shoe you can wear to and from the course, a premium spikeless model like the Adidas S2G Spikeless Leather 24 is ideal. Its waterproof leather upper handles winter conditions while the sneaker-like cushioning keeps your feet comfortable all day.
For the Budget-Conscious Golfer
If you need winter performance without a high price tag, focus on the feature that matters most. For pure grip, the Adidas Tech Response 3.0 (Spiked) is a great choice. If waterproofing is your top priority, the Adidas Tech Response 3.0 Spikeless offers that key feature at an incredible value.
Frequently Asked Questions about best golf shoes for winter
What golf shoes are best for winter?
The best golf shoes for winter prioritize three things: waterproofing to keep your feet dry, superior traction for slippery ground, and comfort. Spiked shoes are generally preferred for their aggressive grip in wet, soft conditions, but high-quality waterproof spikeless models are also excellent options.
Are spikeless golf shoes ok for winter?
Yes, spikeless golf shoes are okay for winter, but with a major condition: you must choose a pair that is fully waterproof and has an outsole with aggressive lugs for ample grip. While spiked shoes are preferable for the harshest conditions, a good waterproof spikeless shoe offers more than enough traction for most winter rounds and provides better off-course versatility.
What is the difference between summer and winter golf shoes?
The main difference lies in their construction. Winter golf shoes emphasize waterproofing, often have thicker linings for warmth, and feature more aggressive traction patterns (spikes or deep lugs) to handle soft, wet ground. Summer shoes prioritize breathability and lightweight construction, and may not be waterproof.
Do any PGA players wear spikeless golf shoes?
Yes, many top PGA Tour players wear spikeless golf shoes. Players like Max Homa have been seen wearing spikeless models like the FootJoy Premiere Series Field. They often choose spikeless for their comfort and performance benefits, demonstrating how far spikeless technology has advanced.
How do I care for my winter golf shoes?
Proper care is crucial to extend the life of your shoes. After every round, wipe off all mud and debris. If they are wet, stuff them with newspaper to absorb moisture and let them air dry away from direct heat sources, which can damage the materials. This prevents the upper from cracking and preserves the waterproofing.
Our Final Verdict on the Best best golf shoes for winter
Choosing the right golf shoe can make or break your performance during the off-season. After thoroughly evaluating the top contenders for 2025, our recommendation is clear. For the golfer who faces truly wet, soft, and challenging winter conditions, the best choice is the FootJoy Men’s FJ Originals Golf Shoe. Its superior spiked traction provides unmatched stability when you need it most, and its reliable waterproofing ensures your focus stays on your game, not on your cold, wet feet. It delivers the core essentials for winter golf at an excellent level of performance. Whichever shoe you choose from this list, you’re investing in a more comfortable and stable winter golf season. Now get out there and enjoy the course
Last update on 2025-11-10 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
