In 2010, Fred Couples hit the Masters with something unheard of—a shoe without replaceable spikes. Instead, Couples’ Eccos had permanent nubs that gripped the ground. It was unheard of; after all, plenty of PGA Tour players were wearing steel spikes at the time in a quest to gain more stability and traction, especially on wet surfaces.
More than a decade later, that’s entirely changed. This year’s lineup of spikeless shoes offers mores looks to match your fit, and tons of technology to ensure you’re stable even on the fastest swing. Many golfers love spikeless shoes for their versatility—put them on as you leave the house, wear them while driving, and step right out onto the course. Experts suggest spikeless shoes might have other benefits—being easier on your back, for example, and keeping your entire foot connected to the turf for a more balanced swing.
FOOTJOY Pro SLX Spikeless
The PRO/SLX offers a great meeting place between spike and spikeless shoes. You get the comfort and feel of spikeless shoes with an athletic look, but the stability that comes with fixed traction offered by the new PWR Trax System. Using a molded 3D X-Wing that is activated when swinging to distribute energy to the outside of the shoe, the PRO/SLX also utilizes the Race Trak Outsole to increase overall traction.
NIKE Air Pegasus ’89 G
Nike has done a nice job in recent years of tapping into its lengthy history of classic athletic footwear, and that’s the case with the Pegasus ’89, which connects a vintage vibe with the latest in technology. A rubber traction connects you to the ground, even on muddy and wet turf, and there’s Zoom Air tech built into the heel. While you’ll love the look, the synthetic leather overlays, and connected stretch skin and mesh, keep out any water.
ECCO Men’s BIOM C4 Spikeless
Thirteen years ago, ECCO turned the golf business on its head with the creation of a shoe that didn’t use traditional spikes. In the ensuing time, the company has continued to captivate golf consumers through its innovative shoes, incredible styling and industry-leading manufacturing. That said, the company wasn’t known for its youthful approach. That’s changed with the BIOM C4, with its sporty aesthetic. But they also offer the tech you come to expect from Ecco, including 360 degree breathability, and a great balance of cushioning and airflow.
ECCO Men’s LT1 Spikeless
Light and super comfortable. That’s the key to Ecco’s LT1 line. Using a new midsole foam called Ecco LTYR alongside its renowned Fluidform technology to create a midsole with more cushioning and more rebound than ever before, the feel is ultra-comfortable. The new cushioning is designed to keep you comfortable and fresh even late into your rounds.
FOOTJOY Men’s Pro SLX Carbon
Performance is always key for FootJoy, and that’s true of the Pro SLX Carbon, which uses its CARBON PWR TRAX to engage the Race Trak outsole and specific traction elements to provide no-slip grip throughout your round. Using a 3D X-Wing that distributes energy throughout your swing, and Radial Disc Traction, which extends into the ground to optimize overall traction, you’ll find these are shoes that work for the most aggressive swing.
Click here to shop.
UNDER ARMOUR Phantom
Perhaps some of the most underrated shoes in the business, UA’s golf kicks have long focused on technology to propel them forward. That’s the key to the Phantom, which uses a cushioning platform throughout the midsole, as well as compression molded foam to deliver ultimate responsiveness and durability. Comfort is key throughout these shoes and the details are there if you look closely— the flat knit collar and molded EVA sockliner both make these shoes easy to wear for four hours on the course, and the lightweight, breathable knit upper supports the golf swing, especially in the toe area.
FOOTJOY Fuel
A staple for two years, Fuel is where FootJoy captured a modern style and added its timeless technology that has made it the leader in golf footwear. Fuel is a sharp, athletic shoe that is super comfortable—not too cushy, but with the right amount of shock absorption.
SKECHERS Women’s Go Golf Walk 5 Slip-On
Shoes you don’t even have to tie up—that’s the key to Sketchers Go Golf slip on shoes. Using a Twist-Fit dial system, which is on the side of the shoes, you can slip these on and then tighten the fit to your specifications. Like the Boa system, you don’t have to worry about the laces loosening over time. With a removable Arch Fit insole, and Heel Pillow, these are comfortable, practical golf shoes.