The Different Types of Golf Shoes

Author: Fountpix

Ever since the creation of the game of golf in Scotland some 600 years ago, what shoe you wear to play the game has always been important. What you wear, not only makes a fashion statement on the course, but can impact your game and swing. Choosing a golf shoe that matches the conditions of play, can give you the edge you need. As with all golf wear, you want shoes that fulfill comfort and play, while making a statement of who you are.

You can never go wrong with the traditional leather golf shoe which offers the best traction and protection by providing a stable sole and covering your entire foot. There is a reason that this golf shoe has stood the test of time as at matches all of golf play criteria where effectiveness meets style. Making more than a stylish statement on the golf course, the classic saddle shoe design is reinforced with an extra leather strip which lends more stability and control to your swing. As well, leather is a durable material that is waterproof and lets your foot breath.

The advent of the modern age has seen the introduction of synthetic materials that match leathers proven function and durability. These materials have been introduced into golf shoe design as well. Obviously, synthetic materials which are generally plastic based are less expensive and offer a smart alternative. Goretex and Polyester designed shoes may not be as durable as leather, but are waterproof. Goretex is hotter and heavier than leather, but breathes; whereas, polyester made golf shoes are light weight, but do not breathe. Every golfer has to make a choice that meets their individual needs.

In our more casual times, there has also been the appearance of golf sandals on the course for hot days. Made with thick straps that are open on the side with open toes, golf sandals are an alternative for hot days. They are not great for walking the course and are not well-suited to golf tradition for diehards. For cold days, there has been the introduction of the golf boots which are a choice for cold and inclement days. The down side of the golf boot is that it does not offer the freedom of ankle movement that the traditional shoe offers. Fully waterproof, golf boots are usually the most expensive golf footwear; whereas, the sandals are the cheapest.

In recent years the biggest change to golf shoes is that the traditional metal spikes are disappearing. Although pros still wear them, metal spikes are being replaced with plastic ones. Due to the damage they cause to the course, some courses are banning metal spikes completely. Plastic spikes are just as beneficial as metal spikes but and do not cause damage to the greens. Most recently, Footjoy golf shoes introduced a hybrid golf shoe that can be worn both on and off the course.

Whatever you end up buying, make sure you do your research and get the golf shoe that best suits the demands of play and best expresses your style are on the green. In this way, the credo of golf will live with each swing.

Posted in: Golf