2019 SPIKELESS SHOE BUYERS GUIDE
Trivia Time:
What do Lee Westwood, Ian Poulter, Adam Scott, and Fred Couples have in common?…You guessed it. They all play golf. Not only that, they all play impressive golf in spikeless golf shoes. If it’s good enough for them, why not for you?
Companies are building performance shoes with the comfort of your everyday gym shoe, but the grip of a trusty spiked shoe. Extensive testing at MyGolfSpy headquarters only confirmed our growing suspicions. Spikeless shoes are a force to be reckoned with and their spiked older brothers should watch out.
Whether you’re looking to buy a new spikeless shoe today, looking for some buying advice, or just want a closer look at what’s on the market right now, this guide will help you find the right spikeless shoe to fit your needs.
How We Test
We're here to help you find the perfect spike-less shoe for your needs.
To do that, we employ a rigorous and fully independent testing process that leaves no sole unexplored, no arch unsupported, and no stone unturned.
The Test Process
Shoes are tested head to head with rigorous protocols. Consideration is given to the design, comfort, and ultimately the performance of the shoe, both while walking and while swinging.
Our Metrics
The metrics we consider when rating golf shoes include Comfort, Traction, Stability, Resistance to the Elements, and Style.
GOLF SHOE FEATURES THAT MATTER
Comfort
It’s important to understand that a significant portion of comfort comes from proper sizing. If you have a wide foot, you should absolutely gravitate to brands that offer wide sizing. The same is true for the narrow-footed among us. Every aspect of golf shoe performance begins with a proper fit.
A golf shoe should be comfortable from the moment it goes on your foot. There shouldn’t be any rubbing or discomfort after just a few minutes of use. A quality golf shoe doesn’t require any significant break-in period. Simply put, under no circumstance should comfort be sacrificed.
Traction
The last thing you want is to slip or spin out during your swing. Seldom is a quality golf shot preceded by a slip. There is significant variation in the traction offered in spikeless designs. Shoes that are designed to go from the office to the golf course sometimes sacrifice traction for everyday functionality. While the versatility is convenient, it may not serve you well on the golf course, particularly when the course isn’t dry.
Stability
While it’s not universally true, in general, spikeless designs tend to be less stable than traditional spikeless shoes. Some of that is by design, as early spikeless designs were intentionally unstructured to allow more freedom of movement within the shoe and increased comfort. As the spikeless shoe has gone mainstream, more traditional – i.e., stable – designs have emerged giving those who want it, options for greater stability. The most stable designs tend to look more like traditional golf shoes, and aren’t as well-suited for everyday wear. As with spiked designs, the level of stability necessary depends on the golfer, and it remains true that a shoe should never be so unstable that it allows the foot to spill over the edge of the footbed.
EXPERT TIP - What Does Fit Really Mean?
It cannot be overemphasized: Fit is the most critical element of golf shoe performance. As you likely know, sizing is often inconsistent from brand to brand and even from model to model. The length and width of supposedly same-sized shoes varies tremendously, as do other fit-related elements like the toe box, mid-foot section, and heel cup. You're going to want to ensure that the shoe you buy is snug, yet comfortable and requires next to no breaking-in time.
2019 Spikeless Shoe Features Chart
| Product | Material | Colors | Sizing | Width | Warranty | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Adidas Tour 360 XT-SL Check Price | Leather and Microfiber Synthetic | 4 | 7 to 15 | M/W | 1 Year |
 | Adidas Adipower 4orged S Check Price | Forged Microfibre Leather | 4 | 7 to 15 | M/W | 1 Year |
 | Athalonz EnVe Check Price | Leather | 1 | 5 to 14 | M | NA |
 | Ecco Biom Hybrid 3 Check Price | YAK Leather | 7 | 5 to14.5 | M/W | 1 Year |
 | Footjoy Pro Sl Check Price | ChromoSkin Leather | 4 | 7 to 15 | M/W/EW | 2 Year |
 | Inesis Dry Grip Check Price | Polyurethane Lining | 3 | 6.5 to 13.5 | M | 2 Year |
 | Inesis Waterproof Check Price | Thermoplastic Polyurethane | 5 | 6.5 to 13.5 | M | 2 Year |
 | Jack Grace Innovator 1.0 Check Price | Premium Leather | Many Styles | 8 to 14 | M/W | 45 Days |
 | Puma Grip Fusion Check Price | Microfiber | 4 | 7 to 14 | M/W | 1 Year |
 | Puma Ignite NXT Check Price | Performance Mesh TPU | 4 | 7 to 14 | M | 1 Year |
 | Puma Grip Fusion Sport Check Price | Mesh | 4 | 7 to 14 | M | 1 Year |
 | Skechers Mojo Elite Check Price | Full Grain Leather | 4 | 7.5 to 14 | M/EW | 2 Year |
 | Skechers Drive 4 Check Price | Smooth Leather | 4 | 7.5 to 13 | M/EW | NA |
 | Skechers Max Check Price | Synthetic and Mesh | 3 | 7.5 to 13 | M/EW | NA |
 | Stuburt Classic Tour Event Check Price | Premium Leather | 2 | 7 to 12 | M | 1 Year |
 | Stuburt Dri Back Check Price | Full Grain Leather | 1 | 7 to 12 | M | 1 Year |
 | True linkswear True Knit Check Price | Polyester | 4 | 4 to 15 | M | NA |
PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT - PUMA IGNITE NXT
The PUMA IGNITE NXT offers three different closure styles (Disc, Soleace, lace). While each fits a bit differently, they all offer midfoot stability uniquely tailored to your footwear needs. The IGNITE NXT LACE (tested), features a traditional lace system for those who like to do things the old-fashioned way. The IGNITE foam sole is incredibly responsive making it an exceptional walking shoe. It's so comfortable, you wouldn't know it's a golf shoe unless you know it's a golf shoe.
EXPERT TIP - Traction is your friend
When playing your shot, you never want to be worrying about slipping or spinning out of the shot. Your swing is the star of the show, and it can't perform its best when your feet are sliding out from under you. Your shoes are meant to be silent partners, supportive and reliable, not something you need to worry about letting you down. Choose a shoe that has your back, keeps you firmly planted, and supports you for an entire round.
More Tips
- Not everyone needs the most stable golf shoe one can find. It’s worth doing some experimenting with different shoe designs to determine what level of stability works best for you based on how you load your swing.
- For those who do require more stability, look for designs with some form of “cage” technology in the mid-foot section to help keep you anchored in your shoe. While this type of construction has traditionally been reserved for spiked designs, as the market has moved towards spikeless, companies are beginning to incorporate stability-enhancing elements into their spikeless designs.
- BOA/DISC offerings are not as prevalent in spikeless designs. However, it remains true that, when offered, these systems secure the shoe, and ultimately your foot, differently than the laced alternative. If something doesn’t feel quite right in an otherwise comfortable shoe, it may be worth trying the BOA/DISC alternative when it’s offered. Note that these closure systems often increase the cost of the shoe.
- While style preferences will vary among golfers, comfort is an absolute. Make it your top priority and don’t sacrifice it for any reason.
- Even with spikeless designs, a healthy percentage of comfort comes from proper fitting. Take the time to have your foot measured to ensure you’re buying and wearing the proper size.
2019 Spikeless Shoe Results
| Product | Stability | Comfort | Elements | Style | Traction | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adidas Tour 360 XT-SL Check Price | 1st | 5th | 1st | 1st | 6th | 94 |
| Inesis Waterproof Check Price | 1st | 1st | 1st | 15th | 1st | 93 |
| Puma Grip Fusion Check Price | 7th | 8th | 4th | 5th | 4th | 89.5 |
| Adidas Adipower 4orged S Check Price | 5th | 10th | 6th | 3rd | 3rd | 89 |
| Ecco Biom Hybrid 3 Check Price | 8th | 7th | 1st | 5th | 9th | 88 |
| Skechers Mojo Elite Check Price | 5th | 5th | 13th | 10th | 9th | 85.5 |
| Footjoy Pro SL Check Price | 1st | 14th | 4th | 3rd | 7th | 83.5 |
| Puma Ignite NXT Check Price | 10th | 2nd | 14th | 2nd | 16th | 83 |
| Inesis Dry Grip Check Price | 15th | 2nd | 14th | 13th | 1st | 80 |
| Athalonz EnVe Check Price | 1st | 14th | 10th | 10th | 9th | 79 |
| Skechers Drive 4 Check Price | 12th | 11th | 8th | 17th | 14th | 78.5 |
| Puma Grip Fusion Sport Check Price | 16th | 2nd | 16th | 8th | 4th | 78 |
| Stuburt Classic Tour Event Check Price | 10th | 14th | 6th | 5th | 9th | 78 |
| Skechers Max Check Price | 8th | 12th | 9th | 15th | 17th | 77 |
| Stuburt Dri Back Check Price | 14th | 13th | 10th | 13th | 9th | 75.5 |
| True linkswear True Knit Check Price | 17th | 8th | 16th | 5th | 8th | 73.5 |
| Jack Grace Innovator 1.0 Check Price | 13th | 17th | 10th | 10th | 14th | 68.5 |
PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT - Skechers Mojo Elite
You're going to want some Mojo in your life after checking out the new Skechers Mojo Elite. They're spikeless, they're breathable, and Skecher's legendary comfort doesn't come at the expense of stability. Laugh if you like, but Skechers has become a force to be reckoned with in the spikeless category.
FAQ
Q: How much should I spend on a shoe?
A: We’ve found that it’s possible to find a well-designed, fully featured golf shoes for around $80. That said, the majority of top performers, including our choice for Best Overall, are closer to $200. As with anything else, your rate of play should factor in the decision. Golfers who play just a few times a year may be able to find a suitable option for less. Just don’t skimp on comfort to save a buck.
Q: What is the main feature I should look out for when buying a spikeless shoe?
A: Comfort is by far the most important factor, followed by traction. While stability is an important consideration, the level of stability needed varies between golfers. Only after you have those three considerations covered should style factor into the decision.
Q: Is BOA/DISC technology better than laces?
A: Use of BOA and DISC technology is less prevalent in spikeless designs, but 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 throughout a round, and while that’s not a big deal to re-tighten, it can become an annoyance. Also consider that if a shoelace breaks, it’s easily replaceable, whereas warranty replacements for other closure systems can take some time.
Christopher Gordon
2 years agoHarry Nodwell, did you happen to test any other True Linkswear shoes?
Waqas
3 years agovery cool and comfortable shoes i have used it since long water proofing and so relaxable
CalGolfer
3 years agoIn the market now and for the $109 price point I thought the Adidas Adipower 4orged S would be a good choice….until I tried them on and discovered its tongue design was too long and the front edge cut into the front of my shin…also since it is made out of very thin material, the edge was relatively sharp. Really a shame as rest of the shoe seemed very comfortable and good-fitting. Looks like I’ll have to go with the more expensive Adidas 360’s; probably the spikeless model – they are definitely comfortable as your rankings suggest.
Daniel Salazar
3 years agoThe True Links original is hands down the best golf shoe I’ve worn (and I’ve worn a lot). Surprised they’re not on this list.
Drew
3 years agoI tried the INESIS Waterproof shoe but got blisters after one round – these will have to be returned. Back to my comfy Sketchers.
Drew
3 years agoBuyer beware about INESIS. They have no phone number, NO customer support, and don’t respond to emails. I’m stuck with a shoe that I cannot use.
Thomas
3 years agoThis does not square with my 15-year experience with them: If you can reach a Decathlon store (yes, Inesis is only one of their distributor brands), they will systematically exchange your product without question.
Btw Other than being a customer, I have no link with them.
Drew
3 years agoWanted to provide an update that it was my error that I did not hear from them. I requested the refund from a different email but they responded to the email used to place the order (and I rarely use or check that email).
So my apologies. I also tried the shoes out again and decided to keep them. I did use a golf cart this time but I have a feeling they just needed to be broken in. It was the rainiest round of golf for the season and they provided excellent grip and kept my feet dry. Still not sure how walking will be but they are worth keeping in my book.
Morphs
2 years agoI had exactly the same problem… The shoes felt ok in the store, but after 5 mins on the golf course I got some serious blisters…. Brought them back, money refunded no questions asked.
Will
3 years agoGood article… Kindly consider adding a catagory; whether the shoe is a “true to size” or smaller/larger fit, assuming that all the models you test are the standard size/with…
Will
3 years ago“Width”
Sharkhark
3 years agoNote for those that might take an interest in the INESIS the image they show is a women’s shoe.
I kept searching couldn’t find that style color until I found it under women’s for those guys interested.
Also a bit confusing searching for buying them the name is INESIS but sold by decathalon
MyGolfSpy
3 years agoHey SharkHark! Sorry it was tough to find. But it is actually the 2nd colorway listed on the link for the men’s shoes as well.
Regarding the confusion regarding the brand name. It is similar to going to a retail store let’s say Dick’s and the brand being Callaway or Tommy Armour.
Javier
3 years agoThe Inesis, how do they run big, small, wide, narrow? What did you guys notice? Unfortunately unless you live in CA they won’t ship them, or maybe that’s just to Alaska, wa wa waaaa….. sadface.
Michael Salem
3 years agoHi Javier,
I’m the U.S. brand manager for Inesis. I’ve heard from our customers and from personal experience that the waterproof shoes run true to size. Also, we ship to all 50 U.S. states, so if you’re in Alaska, you should beeligible to receive them! Hope this helps.
Michael
Charlie
3 years agoHow did the Inesis not win?? It was first place in every category except for ‘looks’. If they are the most comfortable and have the best traction, I don’t care so much about loos. I’m going to order a pair and try them.
Harry Nodwell
3 years agoThe difference between 1st and 2nd in an individual category might only be .5 of a point. In other categories the difference might be 5 or 10 points. Each category were based on you, the consumers feedback. There was a point difference between the Inesis and the winner. In one category the Inesis lost a few points on style and after everything added up, the numbers are what you see on the results chart. We are here to give you the best advice possible, but ultimately you make the final decision on what you want to buy based on our findings.
Chris
3 years agoI’ve been using the footjoy pro sl boa’s and love them. I highly recommend the boa system
Dave S
3 years agoI’m not a Nike fanboy or anything, but there seems to be a surprising lack of Nike models in these golf shoe tests. Why? Nike definitely makes a fair number of spikeless golf shoes.
SV677
3 years agoHaving a wide foot (9EEEE) I have found Footjoy can not be beaten. At this point I don’t even look for other brands.
Mike Cahn
3 years agoA few years ago Footjoy had the M Project model in spikeless, it was a great shoe and quite durable. It would be great to see an item like this back on the market.
Dom
3 years agoGreat reviews as usual. But in terms of comfort, I think shoe width plays a big factor that’s not talked about enough. I have a wide foot and the True Linkswear Originals are by far the best shoe I have tried. The thin sole means there isn’t a lot of support but the feel like slippers. And you’re mostly walking on grass, so it’s even more comfortable. I also did some hiking with them on rocky terrain and they held up nicely. I’ve tried “wide” shoes from FootJoy, Nike, Adidas, Puma, New Balance, and Skechers. None can compare in terms of comfort. There’s a reason why I have three pairs of True Linkswear OGs at home and can’t wait to see what new colors they come out with.
Emery
3 years agoCannot beat a REAL supportive shoe like Adidas 360. If you want to wear jogging shoes, you have lots of options, but if you want a high end, high quality and stable shoe that is orthotically balanced, then the 360’s are very hard to beat. I own several pairs and have several of a lot of other manufactures in the closet that will be donated.
Mike D
3 years agoI tried the Puma Ignite Solelace this year (not one of the top shoes, but it is part of one of the spotlights above). Based on my experience, the comfort and traction ratings seem accurate – very comfortable, but traction isn’t great. The biggest problem I had: the lacing TPU snapped while tightening them last night (only my second time wearing them aside from trying them on for size), so I’m now waiting on customer service to see if they’ll replace them or if I’m out of luck.
Is there a reason you left New Balance shoes out of the test? The NB Minimus SL are my favorite walking shoes, so I’m interested in how they compete in other categories. Is it just that they haven’t released many (or any) new products in this category recently?
Mike D
3 years agoFWIW – Puma customer service was great. After calling, they were quick to act on it and offered up a choice for which model to send as a replacement (wasn’t required to be a 1-1 match). It’s possible that my case was just a manufacturing defect rather than a quality issue, but it was nice to have the option to switch to a different pair.
3Putter
3 years agoI need an extra-wide shoe and wear prescription orthotics. Extra-wide limits me to Footjoy and Sketchers. Sketchers doesn’t have removable insoles so I am forced to go with Footjoy.
MattF
3 years agoA 30 day warranty on the top choice Adidas doesn’t exactly inspire confidence. I love my Puma Fusions though.
Harry Nodwell
3 years agoThe warranty is 1 year with a 90 day comfort guarantee
MattF
3 years agoI see you fixed it, thanks Harry.
Juicy
3 years agoMy experience with the BOA system is that it definitely loosens up and can not work properly. Not sure if it’s dirt or just wear, etc. I have Footjoys with the BOA. I also have spikeless Pumas that I got at Costco for $40. I replaced the traditional laces with Lock Laces that I put in all my tennis and traditional golf shoes. Cheaper than one of the laceless system and easier too. Generally, once you have them set you just slide them on and off.
The Puma spikeless are great for comfort and really breathable, which is great for Florida heat, but you must be careful wear you step. Water easily soaks through the mesh and you’re socks are soaked. Even just morning dew from the rough will penetrate with no problem. Though that will likely evaporate off due to body heat.
Sharkhark
3 years agoI’ve never had the boa system loosen.
Love them
Christopher Langhoff
3 years agoI know that Nike is a powerhouse brand and it seems that sometimes you like to focus on other brands and while I appreciate that education leaving out Nike in this test seems off base. Half the tour is in Nike Shoes, and yes they get paid but so many guys wear them they can’t be bad. I love my Nike React Vapor 2 and still like my Nike Vapor’s (which are spikeless). I don’t run in Nikes, so i am not a plant but you need to have them in the mix in my opinion. Thanks
Chris (Texas)
Walter
3 years agoMaybe I missed it but where do you describe how you test for comfort. Great article as always, thanks.
Ednolan220
3 years agoI have the Puma ignites, played 4 rounds in 3 days and my feet didn’t hurt at all .. got them on sale for around $62. Only cons is they run small, so I got the 11.5 instead of my normal 11. Did you guys notice them running small during your test?
Harry Nodwell
3 years agoEDNOLAN220,
We didn’t find them to run small as such, but more narrow if anything.
Harry
Ednolan220
3 years agoThank you and I meant Puma Grip Fusion .. not even sure what I was thinking about
David
3 years agoIncredible that you have access to inesis products. Can’t wait for the new clubs they will offer next fall.
Question: why is stability so different between the waterproof and non waterproof model-? Did you find the reason?
Harry Nodwell
3 years agoDavid,
Great question. During testing we found that because of the two different materials, one being leather and the other a mesh material, your foot creates more movement in the mesh shoe when swinging.
Harry
David
3 years agoThanks, I think I understand why now.