2023 Spikeless Golf Shoes Buyer’s Guide

We’re all after that one little change that can fix our golf game for good, right?

Tweak and tinker as you might, getting over that performance plateau can seem nearly impossible. What is to be done?

With apologies to Mars Blackmon, here are some words of wisdom to live by: “It’s got to be the shoes!”

If you’re of the mindset that your choice of golf shoes has no bearing on your scores, you need a paradigm shift. Your shoes are more important than you think and what you wear is completely within your locus of control.

In a market that once favored spiked golf shoes, the ever-expanding spikeless golf shoe category is bigger (and better) than ever. Finding the right spikeless golf shoe is an easy, tangible change that can have a big impact on your score and we’re here to walk you through the purchasing process.

If you play your cards right, you can walk away from this article with new golf shoes and a better game. Sound like something you’re interested in?

How can you say no? Here are the Best Spikeless Golf Shoes of 2023.

WINNER – adidas CodeChaos 22

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Who Is It For?

Someone who values comfort and stability The golfer who needs superb traction Those who stick to their tee time, rain or shine.

Spikeless Shoe Features That Matter

Comfort

Nothing is more important in a spikeless golf shoe than comfort. Like a good mattress, a comfortable spikeless golf shoe is neither too plush nor too firm. The key is to find Goldilocks’ level of comfort—just right.

Comfort is more than what you feel underfoot, though. A truly comfortable spikeless golf shoe captures a holistic view of comfort, nailing the details like fit, pain points, areas of irritation and more.

The only pain you should feel on the golf course is the agony of a triple bogey on 18, not your feet, legs or back whimpering with every step.

The most comfortable spikeless golf shoes in 2023 are the PAYNTR X001 and the Skechers GO GOLF Elite 5 Slip ‘In. Both feature a comfortable fit and heavenly underfoot cushion without sacrificing stability. How does a pain-free 36-hole walk sound to you?

Traction

Contrary to what the metal cleat fanboys say, today’s spikeless golf shoes offer ample traction. And while you shouldn’t use the PGA TOUR as an indicator of what to buy, it’s impossible not to notice the waves of players switching from spiked golf shoes to spikeless.

Sure, the category as a whole won’t ever provide the same level of grip as a spiked golf shoe but there are plenty of spikeless models that grab the ground and won’t let go.

For traction that lasts beyond the honeymoon phase, try the adidas CodeChaos 22 or PAYNTR X005.

Stability

 

Second only to comfort, stability should be at the forefront of your mind when looking for a new spikeless golf shoe. A stable golf shoe keeps you balanced and in control throughout the swing, no matter how you swing. Whether you’ve got fancy footwork like Scotty Scheffler or stick with a more textbook approach, modern spikeless golf shoes offer great stability without a loss in comfort.

Determining the stability of a shoe is multi-faceted. A solid, stable spikeless golf shoe features exceptional heel lockdown, a wide, balanced base and a semi-rigid midsection underfoot. Stable shoes may also feature outriggers on both the medial and lateral side of the shoe to protect the integrity of the structure and stop the foot from sliding over the footbed.

The most stable spikeless golf shoe in 2023 is the FootJoy Traditions Spikeless. Another stable option in a less-traditional model is the adidas CodeChaos 22.

More Tips

Look for spikeless shoes that are waterproof and easy to clean. If you’re shelling out the cash for new shoes, you want to make sure your investment is well protected. While leather is naturally waterproof, it can hold on to dirt more than a TPU overlay or textile material. If you want exceptional lockdown and a fine-tuned fit, many spikeless golf shoes offer BOA as a lacing solution. Shoes like the adidas Solarmotion BOA provide a one-to-one fit with the turn of a dial. This is a great option for golfers who lack the dexterity to tie their shoes, too. Consider the weight of a shoe. While a lighter shoe may feel more comfortable, the trade-offs in the stability category can be dire. Look for a shoe that strikes a good balance, one that has a solid structure without the need for extra material. Looking for extra width? ECCO golf shoes have a removeable insole that makes the shoe up to a half size wider.

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Best Spikeless Golf Shoes of 2023 – FAQ

Q: How much should I spend on a shoe? 

A: While it’s possible to find a well-designed, fully featured golf shoe for around $80, the majority of top performers sell for around $150. If you’re looking for value, the Skechers GO GOLF Elite 5 GF and FootJoy Fuel Sport are on the lower end of the price spectrum. If you’re looking for an ultra budget-friendly option, the Inesis MW500 performed admirably.

Q: Do professional golfers wear spikeless shoes? 

A: Yes. More and more professionals are wearing spikeless shoes but many pros wear metal and rubber spike combos.

Q: What is the main feature to look for in a spikeless shoe?

A: Comfort should be the first thing you consider when looking for a new spikeless golf shoe. If a shoe is so uncomfortable that you can’t bear to wear it, then nothing else matters. Once you’ve found a comfortable shoe, you should also pay close attention to traction and stability and whether it’s waterproof.

Q: Is BOA/DISC technology better than laces?

A: Use of BOA and DISC technology is less prevalent in spikeless designs. Some golfers prefer modern closure systems to traditional laces but it’s certainly not a universal preference. Users of BOA and DISC report a tendency for their shoes to loosen during a round. Although it’s not a big deal to re-tighten, who wants to worry about it? Also consider that if a shoelace breaks, it’s easily replaceable whereas warranty replacements for other closure systems can take some time.

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