Brave the cold – Here are my top picks for the best winter golf shoes in 2024
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What are the best golf shoes to keep your feet warm and dry this winter?
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To make the TG shortlist for the year’s best golf shoes, a quality winter golf shoe needs to be the perfect companion through the wind, rain, and even snow. The ideal winter shoe might not necessarily be a specific style (as you will find out below), but they all need to do one job, and that is to make winter golf more enjoyable.
Winter golf comes with its challenges: muddy clubs, wet grips, cold hands… but one you could and should avoid is cold and wet feet! Thankfully these winter golf shoes are designed specifically to prevent this. They also offer great comfort, traction, and durability. If you’d prefer something more purpose-built for wet and cold conditions then check out our guide to the best golf boots.
Finding the perfect pair of winter golf shoes is essential to keeping your feet dry, warm, and supported throughout the round. With waterproof materials and insulation designed to protect against rain and frost, today’s best winter golf shoes ensure that the weather won’t hold you back from performing your best.
As the grass gets wet and fairways get muddy traction becomes a necessity as the chances of slipping become ever greater. Winter golf shoes are engineered to provide superior grip, whilst helping you maintain your balance and swing. Whether you’re on the fairway or the greens, a good solid grip will keep you steady and prevent unnecessary mishaps.
The Best Winter Golf Shoes at a Glance
As is the case with every shoe, they should fit well even with extra layers of thermal socks and offer long-lasting protection against the elements. After all, investing in high-quality winter golf shoes ensures that your feet remain comfortable and your shoes last for many seasons to come.
This list doesn’t only contain the best-spiked golf shoes as a matter of fact I’ll be highlighting some of the best spikeless golf shoes in this guide too. As technology has moved on in the game it’s not just clubs that have gotten better but footwear has too. Thanks to the design and materials used in spikeless footwear these shoes can now deliver some surprising levels of traction on the course.
If you’re in the market for winter golf gear then check out our guides to the best thermal golf jackets, waterproof trousers, mid layers, mitts, beanies, towels, and umbrellas.
Best Winter Golf Shoes 2024: Men’s
Face the brunt of any storm
Like a modern football boot, the sock provides a nice level of support to the ankle whilst keeping the water well away from the top of the shoe as it can be integrated with a pair of winter trousers.
As always with Nike Air, the shoe is super comfortable and gives the support you want on the course along with Nike React Foam for the extra comfort and springiness in the sole.
Read our full Nike Infinity Tour 2 golf shoe review
Pros
- Comfortable
- Great traction
- Good heel support
Cons
- Would like a more suitable winter colorway choice
Sizes | 4 – 15 |
Colors | 1 |
BOA | No |
Waterproof | Yes |
Celebrating nearly two decades of innovation
Crafted meticulously with premium materials, it offers an enhanced fit and uncompromising performance for golfers navigating uneven terrain or executing precision shots. Available in laced and BOA versions, it caters to diverse preferences and styles. Engineered for optimal performance, it's INSITE 2.0 Sockliner and Internal 360WRAP ensure precise fit and stability throughout the swing.
The Torsion Bridge and Jet Boost cushioning provide stability and comfort, while the Replaceable Thintech 7-spike outsole offers superior traction on any terrain. With features like a 'T-Shape' suede microfiber heel and waterproof leather upper, it's built to withstand diverse conditions without compromising style or performance. The Tour360 24 sets a new standard in golf footwear, blending style with substance for discerning golfers seeking unrivaled performance and comfort.
Read our full adidas Tour360 24 golf shoe review
Pros
- Improved heel support
- Locked in fit
- High-quality material
- Super comfortable
Cons
- Not found one yet
Sizes | 6 – 12 |
Colors | 4 |
BOA | Yes |
Waterproof | Yes |
A much-needed update of an iconic golf shoe
The Pro/SLX and Pro/SLX Carbon mark a new era of innovation, boasting cutting-edge materials and advanced technologies. With features like the PWR TRAX System, Pro/SLX dynamically redistributes energy for maximum stability and traction, ensuring a grip that exceeds expectations on any course.
Crafted for supreme comfort, the StratoFoam midsole absorbs and returns energy with every step, while the 3D Molded Collar secures the foot for unparalleled comfort and a consistent fit. Enhanced stability during swings and ground engagement is ensured by the 3D X-Wing and FTF+ Foam, providing precision and control in every swing.
After testing I was full of praise for the Pro/SLX as it delivers on its promises, offering out-of-the-box comfort, waterproof durability, and responsive stability. I think the Carbon model with its 3D X-Wing, helps these shoes redefine traction and comfort, for superb performance on the course.
Read our full FootJoy Pro SLX golf shoe review
Pros
- Better support than the previous model
- Athletic look
- Well thought through traction system
- Super easy to clean
Cons
- Yet to find one
Sizes | 6 – 14 |
Colors | 6 |
BOA | Yes |
Waterproof | Yes |
Designed to make the most out of your swing
The custom S3 Spikes and Tour Flex Pro Spike offer superior traction, while the dual-density midsole with HOVR foam and Charged Cushioning ensures comfort and guides natural foot motion. The Swing Support Strap ensures a secure fit, enhancing stability during swings. I was full of praise for its sleek design, comfortable fit, and lightweight feel, with features like the curved heel and padded cuff adding to its appeal.
The shoe was a great complement to various outfits. Notably, I experienced increased ball speed and consistency of strike, indicating its performance benefits. Overall, the Under Armour Drive Pro delivers on its promise of stability, comfort, and performance, making it a standout choice for golfers seeking an edge on the course.
Read our full Under Armour Drive Pro golf shoe review
Pros
- Great traction
- Secure fit all around
- Cushioned underfoot
- Sleek design
Cons
- A poor finish on the material around the tongue
Sizes | 7 – 13 |
Colors | 4 |
BOA | No |
Waterproof | Yes |
Supportive comfort with old-school styling for every occasion
The old-school look with a few vibrant colors will really set your outfit off and have your playing partners jealous on the 1st tee. Partnering with superb traction from the new Tour Flex Pro Softspikes, you have a shoe that's perfect for practice or a trip to the course.
You'll have no concerns regarding keeping dry, so wet weather isn’t a problem and there is plenty of grip too. Unquestionably you will get a smooth ride from a shoe that is very waterproof. It is just that some players may not like the feel during the swing because of how soft the heel is.
Read our full Nike Air Zoom Victory Tour 3 golf shoe review
Pros
- Super grip
- Looks great on the foot
- Breathable and waterproof
Cons
- Crease on the upper easily
Sizes | 3.5 – 16 |
Colors | 5 |
BOA | No |
Waterproof | Yes |
Contemporary design for the fashion-conscious
Duca say it's their most stable shoes ever and I can vouch for that. The shoe is not only sleek but full of comfort. The high-heel design supports your foot well and hugs your heel for a secure fit. As for the stability, it was refreshing to wear a Duca shoe that interacted with the turf and supported you through the swing.
“Power in the golf swing comes from stability and as Tour players we demand that from our golf shoes to perform at the highest level," Duca staff player Joost Luiten said of the new models.
"Walking the long courses each week on Tour in the new Duca shoes makes a big difference and it gives me confidence knowing my footwear is up to the test.”
Read our full Duca del Cosma Orlando golf shoe review
Pros
- Great traction
- Awesome design with Tron-style lines
- Solid high-heel support
- Soft leather
Cons
- Only available in one color
Sizes | 7 – 14 |
Colors | 1 |
BOA | No |
Waterproof | Yes |
A design to suit every occasion
The lightweight design makes walking the fairways a dream and whilst you can get lost in the comfort of the shoe it still supports you every step. Featured throughout the adidas France and can be seen in FootJoy too, the OrthoLite liner provides an excellent fit around the foot for a full day on the course. The plastic heel cup and molded memory foam collar secure your foot in nicely and I found it reduces heel slippage.
The BOA system makes getting the shoe on and off a breeze and gives you the perfect fit every time. The system is now hidden below the zip shroud and looks much sleeker. Whether you are playing in the rain or shine the Adiwear outsole and Gripmore rubber offer a superb grip as the sole anchors into the turf under load. The soft waterproof upper is also amazing at keeping the water out and ensuring your feet stay dry, it is also great at regulating heat in the warmer weather too.
Pros
- Out-of-the-box comfort
- Perfect for wide feet
- Great looking golf shoe
- True to size
Cons
- Would like more colourways
Sizes | 6 – 12 |
Colors | 2 |
BOA | Yes |
Waterproof | Yes |
The one with all the tech
And your eyes are inevitably drawn to the sole that looks like nothing else we’ve seen before. Turn the shoe over and you are staring at an outer sole so full of grip it makes you wonder if they are made for ice golf. FootJoy believes its Optimised Performance Stabiliser (OPS) is a bit of a game changer and it will certainly give its golf shoe rivals plenty to think about.
The OPS is made up of three components. The heel in particular looks like a wonder of engineering. The molded 3D Heel counter is designed to lock the heel in place during your swing and anchors an FTF dual Durometer midsole that incorporates a soft-core midfoot piece. Holding everything together is an A-Frame TPU structure and is the absolute definition of stability.
The Ortholites Impressions Fitbed adds comfort to the stability which is completed with nine highly-prominent spikes. A Chromo-Skin leather upper, in the finest Footjoy traditions, rounds things off very nicely while there is the option of the BOA or double BOA Wrapid fit system to ensure the ideal fit with pressure applied in just the right places.
Read our full FootJoy Tour Alpha 2.0 golf shoe review
Pros
- Quality materials
- Super comfortable
- Very supportive
Cons
- The overhanging outsole is slightly off-putting
Sizes | 7 – 15 |
Colors | 4 |
BOA | Yes |
Waterproof | Yes |
An ideal partner for any outfit
Orthopedic experts design the molded insole and ensure the Ringer is as comfortable after 18 holes as it was on the 1st tee. On my feet, the first thing that struck me was how light and supportive they were. They looked great with trousers and shorts too!
I love the clean and simple look, coupled with the discreet branding, which will appeal to a huge number of us who don’t want to be loud and brash. The excellent Softspikes felt like they really hunkered into the turf during my swing. They are easily replaceable when required, which should extend the shoe’s life.
Pros
- Subtle branding
- Supportive insole
- Breathable
Cons
- Not too many color options
Sizes | 8 – 14 |
Colors | 3 |
BOA | No |
Waterproof | Yes |
An unbelievably comfortable golf shoe
The LT1 is built for comfort and stability, the LYTR Foam and soft polyurethane in the midsole provide a great level of comfort while allowing you to maintain stability throughout your swing. As with many spikeless golf shoes, you wonder where the grip is going to come from but the design on the LT1 offers multi-directional traction to ensure optimal grip on any terrain.
Gamed on tour by the likes of Henrik Stenson and Lydia Ko I can see why these shoes would be so popular. The design is super clean with minimalist accents and is the perfect summer golf shoe. Although it is great for the warmer months the LT1 performs great in the wet thanks to the waterproof membrane which is superb at keeping your foot dry and comfortable.
Read our full Ecco LT1 golf shoe review
Pros
- Super soft upper
- Molds around the foot
- Lightweight
- Clever BOA system
Cons
- Require plenty of looking after
Sizes | 6 – 13 |
Colors | 4 |
BOA | Yes |
Waterproof | Yes |
The discreet on-course sidekick
Unlike most of the Payntr range, the 006 features a Pebax power plate rather than its carbon fiber equivalent. The Pebax plate is super responsive and allows golfers to get the most energy return during the swing.
The heel of the shoe has plenty of padding and support; for golfers out there who struggle with blistering and rubbing on the course, the 006 would be a great choice.
The soft Clarino upper is treated with Neverwet to ensure that it's not only soft and comfortable but enhances its performance in unpleasant weather.
During practice on the range, I found the shoes to be super grippy and helped me maintain good solid posture while swinging. The traction was that good, when I stepped away they'd torn up the ground I was standing on.
Pros
- Subtle design
- Lightweight feel
- High levels of on-course grip
Cons
- Lack of color choice
Sizes | 9 – 13 |
Colors | 2 |
BOA | No |
Waterproof | Yes |
Best Winter Golf Shoes 2024: Women’s
Stylish and stable for more speed and stamina
Precisely placed soft spikes provide optimal grip and traction during the swing, which is no surprise as the Avanti shoes were developed and tested in collaboration with experienced tour pros.
Premium waterproof materials and a lightweight outsole combine to provide exceptional comfort levels.
Pros
- Bootie style
- High heel support
- Sneaker-style comfort
Cons
- The loop on the heel is a bit too big for my liking
Sizes | 3 – 10 |
Colors | 1 |
BOA | No |
Waterproof | Yes |
Golf Shoes Buying Guide
How do we test golf shoes?
Here at Today’s Golfer, our team of carefully selected reviewers tests and assesses each product over an extended period of time. Having tested tens of thousands of products over the years, we know exactly what to look for. We will ask every possible question about each product that we review. With a range of everyday golfers testing products you can rest assured that if it’s a situation that can arise for you on the golf course, we’ve already put the product through that scenario before recommending it.
With golf shoes, testing means wearing them for multiple rounds so we can determine the out-of-the-box performance in a variety of conditions. The overall performance of a product will depend on variables such as grip, durability, versatility, comfort, and fit.
We are lucky enough to attend product launches and meet the manufacturers to understand why they release a new product and its benefit to the consumer. The TG team pride ourselves on the fact that we understand and test all of our products to give you our honest and in-depth opinion on whether it is worth buying or not. The reviews and recommendations are there with you the readers as our highest priority, so we can recommend products that will help you improve your game.
See a full guide to how we test golf equipment.
How to choose a golf shoe
One of the most important things to get right for the golf season is your golf shoes. There are a number of different variables to consider when picking what’s going to be on your feet out on the course. To assist you along your shoe-buying journey we have put together what we think are key points to consider when buying your next pair.
Budget
The first thing we advise when buying any golf product is to set yourself a realistic budget and stick to it. You can spend anything from £50 to £250 on golf shoes, depending on the brand, style, tech, and materials.
With hundreds of different models available, setting a budget for your next golf shoes will help to narrow down your search.
If the brand isn’t important to you then you’re more likely to be able to spend less money than if your heart is set on a pair of current FootJoy or Ecco shoes for example.
If you’re just starting out in golf, this is your first pair of golf shoes, or you only play occasionally we’d recommend setting a lower budget. Firstly, there’s no point in blowing a fortune on the shoes if you’re going to discover you don’t actually like the game as much as you hoped or only get on the course a couple of times a year. Secondly, the money you save on shoes can be spent adding other equipment, paying for some rounds, or getting yourself some lessons.
Spiked or spikeless
Many of the best golf shoes seen above and across the best brands now are split evenly between spiked and spikeless which both have their advantages and disadvantages.
Spiked
Golf shoes with spikes tend to give better grip/traction out on the golf course with them having soft spikes placed around the outsole. Spiked shoes are the more durable option as they have replaceable spikes, meaning if you look after and replace them there should be no reason they won’t last a long time.
With spikes on the outsole, the shoe has added pressure points on the foot which can result in a slightly less comfortable fit. Spiked golf shoes are less versatile as they aren’t designed to be worn both on and off the golf course.
Spikeless
The spikeless option may not give golfers as much traction as spiked golf shoes but they have come a long way in recent years. Spikeless golf shoes tend to feature small rubber molds on the outsole to aid grip, however, with technological advancements, companies are finding new ways to improve spikeless traction.
The use of compounds such as TPU has allowed brands like Under Armour and Ecco to produce a spikeless shoe that, when partnered with rubber molds, gives arguably as much traction as a spiked shoe. Spikeless shoes are becoming more and more durable, and modern styling makes them more attractive as an everyday shoe. With brands using tech from their running shoes in golf shoes, they are often uber-comfortable too.
Spikeless shoes are lighter and much more versatile. They’re a shoe that you can drive in and hit drives in.
Waterproofing
Some of you may live in an area of the world that gets a lot of rain, making a waterproof shoe a must. Or you may be a golfer that likes to prepare for any outcome on the course and doesn’t want to be left with soggy feet from an unexpected shower.
In the UK waterproof shoes can be a sensible option when picking out what to wear on the course. Many golfers buy a waterproof pair for winter, and a more breathable lightweight shoe for summer.
Buying a pair of shoes that are guaranteed waterproof can cost a little more so if you live in a part of the world where rain rarely falls (hello Dubai), then you can save yourself a bit of cash with a non-waterproof model.
Correct fit
Arguably the most important part of picking out a new golf shoe is getting something that fits your feet correctly. This will help prevent blisters and stop your feet from moving around, which can limit your control during the swing.
When putting on a shoe for the first time always make sure there is no pinching or movement. When your foot slides in you always check your toes fit at the end of the shoe and have a walk around in them to make sure they feel comfortable. We’d even recommend making a few golf swing motions to ensure they are fit for purpose.
Under Armour use ‘normal’ laces throughout their range of shoes. But most brands including FootJoy, adidas, Nike, and Ecco use a system called BOA. This lets you twist a dial to tighten the specially formulated laces and can provide a better fit that doesn’t loosen when playing. While BOA often creates a more secure fit, the look and feel aren’t for everyone and BOA models tend to be more expensive.
Comfort
With your average round of golf being more than four hours, comfort is king when buying golf shoes. If your shoes are uncomfortable and hard-wearing on your feet, your mind will be distracted from playing good golf.
Try to find a shoe with good cushioning for the bottom of your foot and around the heel. Good heel and ankle support will keep your foot secure and will help with your golf swing.
You want to make sure that the shoe isn’t too soft as that may also hinder you in the long run as it won’t be as supportive. Look for a balance of support and comfort to make the most out of your new golf shoes.
Styling
Modern golf shoes come in many styles. It’s not all about the traditional look on the golf course anymore. A classic-looking shoe can now be seen next to the latest pair of sneakers on the tee box.
There are golf shoes out there for everyone, from brogues to lightweight, knitted models. You need to consider what shoes you wear and like wearing off the course and then you should have no trouble getting a style that suits you on the course.
We’d always recommend you thoroughly research all of the options and create a shortlist to try.
Best Winter Golf Shoes: FAQs
What are winter golf shoes?
Winter golf shoes are built specifically to battle the harsh elements of the off-season. Aiming to withstand the rain, wind, snow, and ice. Other golf shoes that are not made specifically for winter may struggle. Winter golf shoes have waterproof linings and are made thicker than your usual summer golf shoes to make sure that they retain heat and keep your feet warm.
Are spikeless golf shoes okay in winter?
Yes, spikeless golf shoes can be worn in the winter months, but like spiked shoes, all the soles are designed differently. For pairs such as the Nike Air Max the soles are designed more for the firmer ground in the summer months. Whereas the adidas CodeChaos have a Gripmore sole designed for more traction in the softer conditions of the off-season.
Do I need a pair of winter golf shoes?
They’re not a must however if you like to golf in the off-season when the conditions are mainly wet and muddy then they’re certainly something to consider. If you wear a pair of summer golf shoes that are built to be lightweight and breathable, then in the winter months you will more than likely end up with cold and wet feet.
Are Gore-Tex golf shoes waterproof?
Gore-Tex golf shoes come with guaranteed waterproofing. Gore‑Tex Surround Footwear offer an all-around breathability system for your feet.
About the Author
Will Shreeve-Peacock – Golf Equipment Writer
Will is an expert in golf shoes, GPS watches, rangefinders, and training aids.
He has a degree in journalism from Sheffield Hallam University and four years’ experience working in golf retail with American Golf where he was trained by a host of the big-name manufacturers.
A six-handicapper, Will has played golf for more than a decade and is a member at Burghley Park Golf Club in Stamford, Lincolnshire.