Best Spiked Golf Shoes 2024: Buyers Guide and things to know

If you want to purchase a new pair of spiked golf shoes in 2024, you've come to the right place. 

Here at GolfMagic, we've put all of the best spiked golf shoes through their paces, racking up thousands of steps on countless golf courses. 

Our aim? To find out which spiked golf shoes perform the best, deliver value for money, and look good.

We've tested shoes from all of the biggest brands in the game, including Under Armour, FootJoy, Nike and Adidas. 

So let's find out which shoes delivered comfort, stability, value and good looks in 2024. 

Best Spiked Golf Shoes 2024

Not every golf shoe this year can deliver the optimum combination of performance and comfort. You need to be able to pick out the best from the worst and invest in that option.

Let’s take a closer look at what we consider to be the very best golf shoes on the market in 2024, starting with our favourite of the bunch: 

Under Armour Drive Pro

Price: £150

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Key Features:

• UA Swing Support System: provides smarter traction, dual-foam cushioning & lockdown lacing
• Swing Support Strap: combines with reinforcement in the upper to provide biomechanically correct lock-in
• Energy-returning UA HOVR foam + supportive Charged Cushioning: guides natural motion of the foot in a golf swing

Pros:

• The best-performing shoes we've tested in 2024
• Excellent comfort and traction
• Locked in feel is second to none

Cons:

• Not the best-looking shoes we've tested this year

The Under Armour Drive Pro Golf Shoes prioritise performance, featuring a synthetic upper with various textures and patterns. Despite their bulky appearance, these shoes excel in comfort and functionality. The discreet Under Armour logo and dark grey collar enhance their overall design.

Designed with input from Tour pros and world-renowned biomechanist JJ Rivet, the Drive Pros deliver exceptional comfort as soon as you wear them. The generous padding and cushioning ensure a secure fit, and a spacious toe box and cushioned collar provide comfort without rubbing.

The shoes' standout feature is the Swing Support System, comprising S3 spikes, a dual-density midsole, and the Swing Support Strap. The S3 spikes, placed in the medial heel and lateral forefoot, offer excellent traction, complemented by Tour Flex Pro spikes for stability on wet surfaces. The dual-density midsole, made of HOVR foam and Charged Cushioning, supports effective weight transition and enhances walking comfort and swing platform.

The Swing Support Strap integrates with the spikes and laces, providing a 360-degree wrap-around effect that locks your feet in place. This combination of technologies significantly improves swing speed and distance, as extensive testing in Orlando confirmed.

In summary, the Under Armour Drive Pro Golf Shoes stand out for their unparalleled comfort, traction, and performance benefits. While not the most aesthetically pleasing, they are the best-performing golf shoes tested in 2024. For those prioritising performance, these shoes are a must-buy.

FootJoy Premiere Series Field LX

Price: £179.00

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Key Features:

• OrthoLite EcoPlush Fit-Bed: delivers long-lasting on course comfort
• VersaTrax+ outsole: provides unbeatable traction on a wide variety of ground conditions
• Premium full-grain leather construction: soft, supple, stylish and waterproof

Pros:

• The timeless design looks outstanding
• VersaTrax+ outsole delivers excellent traction
• The shoes deliver classic aesthetics with all the trappings of a modern golf shoe

Cons:

• Price point is a bit punchy

The FootJoy Premiere Series Field LX golf shoes exude sophistication with their premium full-grain leather and calfskin detailing, reminiscent of a bygone era yet versatile for modern golf attire.

The minimal FootJoy branding maintains the shoe's sleek aesthetic, enhanced by a subtle metallic FJ badge and folded-edge rand detail for added texture and structure.

In terms of comfort, the Field LX offers a different experience compared to trainer-like designs like the FootJoy Pro/SLX. Its supple leather construction requires minimal wear-in time.

The OrthoLite EcoPlush Fit-Bed provides cushioning and support, moulding to the feet over time while offering stability during the golf swing. The VersaTrax+ outsole ensures reliable traction on various surfaces, from bunkers to rough terrain.

For serious golfers seeking timeless style and modern performance, the Premiere Series Field LX is a worthy investment despite its higher price point. These shoes excel in both aesthetics and functionality, making them a top choice for those prioritising comfort, traction, and durability on the course.

READ OUR FULL FOOTJOY PREMIERE FIELD LX REVIEW

G/FORE Gallivan2r

Price: £149

Key Features

• Waterproof synthetic upper: supple and easy to wipe clean while provideing plenty of protection from the elements
• 3D Moulded external heel cup: provides lateral support and keeps your heel locked in place
• Eva midsole with auxetic sidewall: designed to provide long lasting comfort and prevent foot fatigue
• Removable textured insole: massages your feet with every stride
• Amplified sole with rubber spikes: extra traction points deliver stability and traction

Pros

• Outstanding levels of comfort
• Monochrome design looks fantastic with any outfit
• The best insole on the market
• Spikes provide fantastic traction
• Wide footprint delivers excellent stability

Cons

• Large outsole around the toe box does make your feet look particularly large

G/FORE, known for bold branding and quality, has continued to innovate in golf fashion since its 2011 debut. The Gallivan2r shoes exemplify this trend, blending traditional silhouettes with modern updates to meet contemporary golfer needs.

Constructed from synthetic fabrics with performance enhancements, they stand out as premier spiked models. Visually, they combine classic shapes with modern details like a black and grey wraparound panel, textured midsole, and numbered strip, exuding luxury.

Comfort-wise, they excel with a snug yet comfortable fit, aided by a unique insole that massages your feet. The Eva midsole provides energy return, while adequate arch and ball support prevent fatigue.

Stability and traction are on par with top models like the FootJoy Pro/SLX Carbon, ensuring grip even during rigorous swings.

Despite a slightly oversized appearance due to the pronounced outsole, their overall performance, comfort, and style make them a top choice in 2024. If you seek a blend of classic aesthetics with contemporary performance, the Gallivan2r is a solid investment in golf footwear.

READ OUR FULL G/FORE GALLIVAN2R REVIEW

adidas TOUR360 24

Price: £159.99

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Key Features:

• TORSION BRIDGE: Enhanced stability and control for an elevated performance on the course
• THINTECH 7-Spike Outsole: Optimal traction designed to conquer various terrains with ease
• JET BOOST Cushioning: Unprecedented comfort and energy return, ensuring peak performance

Pros:

• Supple leather upper looks and feels superb
• TORSION BRIDGE provides outstanding stability throughout the golf swing
• Jet Boost heel cushioning delivers excellent energy return and comfort

Cons:

• Slight lack of arch support may be an issue for some golfers

The TOUR360 24s by adidas offers a blend of class, athleticism, and modernity, impressing right out of the box. Crafted from premium leather, their all-white upper adorned with the iconic three-stripe design and subtle green accents exude elegance.

Perforations around the collar add texture, while the green torsion bar injects a touch of contemporary flair. The streamlined appearance and traditional toe box appeal to golfers preferring a sleek look at address.

Comfort and performance excel, thanks to the 360-degree wrap, which ensures outstanding stability, and the JetBoost heel padding, which provides a supportive yet bouncy feel.

The shoes offer immediate comfort with no stiffness. The level of traction on offer is also exceptional, with the THINTECH 7-spike outsole ensuring grip across various terrains.

Fully waterproof with a one-year guarantee, these shoes are a reliable investment. If you seek a blend of style, performance, and durability, the TOUR360 24s deserve your consideration, promising years of comfortable and stable wear on the course.

READ OUR FULL ADIDAS TOUR360 24 REVIEW

PUMA Phantomcat Nitro+

Price: £130

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Key Features:

• TPU outsole and FLEXSPIKES: offer ultra supportive multi-density performance where you need it most​
• NITRO foam midsole: Advanced nitrogen-injected foam designed to provide superior responsiveness and cushioning in a lightweight package
• EXOSHELL UPPER​: 1-year waterproof EXOSHELL upper keeps the elements out while providing support and comfort

Pros:

• Deliver instant out-of-the-box comfort
• Outstanding level of traction
• Fresh design that pairs well with almost any outfit

Cons:

• No notable cons

The PUMA Phantomcat Nitro+ golf shoes boast a clean white upper with a small silver PUMA logo, offering a minimalist design compared to previous models. The black-and-white colour scheme is complemented by discreet nitro branding and a vibrant green outsole, providing a splash of colour and PUMA flair.

In terms of comfort and performance, the shoes excel. Despite running half a size large, they offer immediate comfort with a supple upper, bouncy midsole, and ample arch support.

The Nitro Foam midsole provides a consistently springy feel throughout the round. Additionally, the shoes feature Flexspike cleats, which deliver excellent traction. Eight spikes across four positions ensure fantastic stability across a variety of ground conditions.

If you are seeking super comfy golf shoes with exceptional traction, the Phantom Nitro+ golf shoes are a compelling option in 2024. The Nitro foam ensures a smooth ride, while the innovative spike configuration delivers excellent grip in all conditions. With a 1-year waterproof warranty and priced at £130, they offer great value and durability for multiple seasons.

READ OUR FULL PUMA NITROCHARGE+ GOLF SHOES REVIEW

Nike Air Zoom Victory Tour 3

Price: £169

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Key Features:

• Full-grain leather upper: features a waterproof membrane to keep your feet dry and warm
• Zoom Air unit: stitched directly into the upper, the unit delivers energy back to the foot with every stride
• Tour Flex Pro SoftSpikes: deliver outstanding traction and stability throughout the swing
• Internal strap: stretches over then secures your foot, contouring to its shape

Pros:

• One of the best looking spiked shoes on the market
• Supple leather and Air unit provide exceptional comfort
• Excellent traction and stability

Cons:

• A touch on the pricey side

The Nike Air Zoom Victory Tour 3 Golf Shoes, favoured by Rory McIlroy, boast impressive tour pedigree and cutting-edge technology. Constructed with supple full-grain leather, Zoom Air units, and Tour Flex Pro SoftSpikes, they promise top-tier performance.

In terms of design, the Victory Tour 3s offer a classic silhouette with modern accents, providing a versatile aesthetic that complements any outfit. Available in various colour schemes, they incorporate subtle branding and a 3D moulded collar for a contemporary touch.

Comfort-wise, while the shoes initially feel snug, the supple leather ensures long-term comfort. With a secure fit and solid construction, they offer stability and arch support, crucial for maintaining balance and preventing foot fatigue during play.

The traction provided by SoftSpikes is exceptional, even in wet conditions, ensuring stability and confidence throughout the swing. Moreover, the shoes are fully waterproof, further enhancing their performance in adverse weather.

With their combination of style, comfort, and performance, the Nike Air Zoom Victory Tour 3s stand out as one of the best spiked golf shoes in 2024. Priced at £209, they offer excellent value for those seeking premium quality and versatility on the course.

READ OUR FULL NIKE AIR ZOOM VICTORY TOUR 3 REVIEW

New Balance 997 Golf Shoes

Price: £154.99

Key Features:

• Waterproof Microfibre Leather Upper: delivers style and protection in equal measure
• Abzorb Midsole & CUSH+ Insole: lightweight cushioned midsole provides comfort and responsiveness
• NDurance Rubber Outsole with SoftSpikes Fast Twist 3.0: designed to deliver long lasting traction and comfort

Pros:

• One of the most stylish golf shoes of the year
• Immediate out of the box comfort
• Traction elements provided a solid footing and plenty of grip

Cons:

• The slightly boxy design might not suit every golfer's eye

The New Balance 997 Golf Shoes draw inspiration from the iconic 997 range of trainers, aiming to blend style and performance.

Looks-wise, they maintain the classic New Balance design with subtle modifications for golf, seamlessly transitioning from streetwear to the course. The grey, white, and blue colour scheme, along with suede panels, adds a touch of luxury to their appearance.

In terms of performance and comfort, they offer immediate comfort with ample cushioning and solid arch support. The CUSH+ insole moulds to the foot for enhanced comfort over time. Traction is reliable, with rubber nubs and SoftSpikes providing stability even in wet conditions. Plus, they're waterproof, ensuring dry feet in rainy weather.

For those who appreciate the aesthetic of athletic trainers but seek the performance of spiked golf shoes, the New Balance 997 Golf Shoes are an ideal choice. Their durable construction and timeless style make them suitable for year-round wear, especially for style-conscious golfers.

READ OUR FULL NEW BALANCE 997 GOLF SHOE REVIEW

Things to consider before buying a pair of spiked golf shoes

Materials

As you have probably gathered from our golf shoe reviews above, a multitude of materials go into the construction of golf footwear and this is why you see some big prices on your screen.

Leather is a very popular choice in the game and this is because leather makes golf shoes durable, waterproof and tight-fitting. Leather is more breathable than most materials and leather shoes are a good option for both summer and winter golf. Some golf shoes start at high prices because of their leather construction, but you are investing in a well-constructed and reliable product.

Gore-Tex is a high-quality material that is very thick and water-resistant. When you tee it up in the winter months, you should consider a pair of golf shoes constructed with Gore-Tex because this will mean the product is breathable, waterproof and it will feel significantly warmer than a leather shoe.

Synthetic materials are also used to construct golf shoes. This is a cheaper material than leather which spreads over the top of the shoe to protect the outer surface. It is thinner than leather and in general, shoes made with synthetic materials are cheaper because they are not as protective and breathable.

Type of golf shoe spikes

Traction is important on the bottom of your golf shoes and plastic spikes are the most popular type in the game. These are soft spikes that cause less damage to greens than metal spikes. They are usually wider which distributes the weight of the spikes across a larger area. Plastic spikes are regularly found on new golf shoes and they are more comfortable on your feet as you walk on dry summer ground or wet winter terrain.

Metal spikes are slowly leaving the game and this is because they aren’t as comfortable as plastic spikes. They cause more damage to greens and fairways and although some professional golfers use them, they could also cause pain when walking on hard ground. Some golf courses prohibit metal spikes because of the damage they can cause to golf courses.
Laces

You won’t be surprised to hear that traditional laces are the most common types of lacing systems found in golf shoes. They allow the player to tighten or loosen the grip of the shoes around their feet.

However, if you want to experience something different, we would highly recommend using shoes with a proprietary lacing system. They operate by using a mechanical lacing system that provides constant stability. They are very easy to use with just the twist of a circle and your laces become looser or tighter, depending on what you need. Although this type of lacing system is more expensive, they are very practical and comfortable too.

Looking after your golf shoes

You can buy the best golf shoe for your game, but if you neglect them and don’t maintain their qualities over time, their effect could be diminished and you may not get the best out of them.

If you have a pair of spiked golf shoes, make sure you keep an eye on the spikes. If they become too worn, you should replace them which can be done easily with a tool. If you leave your spikes to become small stumps, they can be very hard to replace, which is why spike maintenance is very important.

If you have just played in the rain and your shoes are soaked on the inside, make sure you dry them out when you return home. Maybe warm them up or fill them with paper in order to take the moisture out, but don’t leave this task until your next round because you don’t want wet feet as soon as you step on to the golf course.

If you are concerned about buying shoes that don’t become a good fit on the golf course, you can use a custom-fitting session to make sure you have the right pair for you. It may cost you a little more cash, but the fitters will make sure your feet are a perfect fit in every inch of the shoe.

How do we test golf shoes?

Testing golf shoes is very different to testing golf clubs. There is much less technology involved and fewer mechanics to consider.

However, GolfMagic Equipment Editor Alex Lodge rigorously tests the best golf shoes by wearing them over a number of weeks and months to assess their performance.

Over time, Alex assesses the shoe’s durability, comfort and stability on the golf course. He also judges the aesthetics and design of each model to decide which golfers are suited to a certain type of golf shoe.

Does the colour wear away after some time? Does the lacing in this shoe allow for maximum comfort? Is the underfoot spiking delivering stability?

Alex tests all golf shoes in a number of different weather conditions to get a well-rounded view of how they perform when challenged by dry and wet conditions.

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