We updated this article in June 2023 for clarity and to ensure all product information is factual and up to date.
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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
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.
Most Stable Spikeless Golf Shoe - FootJoy Traditions Spikeless
The wide base and sculpted heel cup on the FootJoy Traditions Spikeless make it the most stable spikeless golf shoe for 2023. The Traditions Spikeless provides a great, stable feel without sacrificing comfort or feeling overly stiff.
Spikeless Golf 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.
Bye Bye, Blisters!
Nothing can ruin a round faster than a painful, oozing blister. PAYNTR's X005 comes with a blister-free guarantee to ensure you can stay focused on your game. The X005 provides a comfortable, cupping fit thanks to PAYNTR's new heel design.
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.
Best Value Spikeless Golf Shoe - Skechers Go Golf Elite 5 GF
Skechers has the value game on lock with the Go Golf Elite 5 GF. A great value spikeless shoe should outperform its price tag, and the Go Golf Elite 5 GF does that and some. To keep up with the big boys at just $120 is a remarkable feat.
Expert Tip - Stability on Lock
Looking for extra stability in the heel section? Try running the laces through the very top eyelet (the one closest to your ankle). By utilizing the top eyelet you'll push your heel further into the heel cup for a more secure, one-to-one fit.
Running out of lace real estate? This can be a problem, especially for those with wide feet. Order some extra long laces to ensure you hit that very top eyelet.
Best Spikeless Golf Shoes of 2023 – Features
PRODUCT | COLORS | SIZING | WIDTH | REAL LIFE FIT | |||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
adidas CodeChaos 22 Check Price | 5 | 7-15 | Medium | True To Size | |||
adidas Solar Motion BOA Check Price | 2 | 7-15 | Medium | True To Size | |||
adidas Go-To Spikeless 1 Check Price | 4 | 7-15 | Medium | True To Size | |||
Asics Gel-Kayano Ace Check Price | 6 | 6-14 | Medium | True To Size | |||
Athalonz Enve Check Price | 3 | 5-14 | Medium | 1/2 Size Small | |||
Athalonz Mana Check Price | 1 | 8-14 | Medium | True To Size | |||
Callaway Coronado V3 SL Check Price | 3 | 8-13 | Medium | True To Size | |||
ECCO Biom C4 BOA Check Price | 2 | 5-13.5 | Medium | 1/2 Size Big | |||
ECCO Biom H4 Check Price | 5 | 5-14.5 | Medium | 1/2 Size Big | |||
ECCO S-Three Check Price | 4 | 5-13.5 | Medium | 1/2 Size Big | |||
FootJoy Fuel Sport Check Price | 3 | 7-15 | Medium/Wide | 1/2 Size Big | |||
FootJoy Traditions SL Check Price | 3 | 7-15 | N/M/W/XW | 1/2 Size Big | |||
Inesis MW500 Check Price | 1 | 6-13.5 | Medium | 1/2 Size Small | |||
New Balance 997 SL Check Price | 3 | 8-16 | Medium | True To Size | |||
New Balance Fresh Foam X Defender SL Check Price | 3 | 8-16 | M/W/XW | True To Size | |||
NIKE Infinity Pro 2 Check Price | 7 | 3.5-16 | Medium | 1/2 Size Small | |||
Olukai Kapalua Check Price | 3 | 7-15 | Medium | True To Size | |||
Olukai Wai’alae Check Price | 4 | 7-15 | Medium | True To Size | |||
Payntr X001 Check Price | 3 | 8-13 | Medium | True To Size | |||
Payntr X003 Check Price | 3 | 8-14 | Medium | True to Size | |||
Payntr X005 Check Price | 2 | 8-13 | Medium | 1/2 Size Big | |||
Puma Proadapt Alphacat Leather Check Price | 2 | 7-15 | Medium | True To Size | |||
Puma Ignite Elevate Check Price | 7 | 7-15 | Medium | True To Size | |||
Puma GS-Fast Check Price | 5 | 7-15 | Medium | 1/2 Size Small | |||
Skechers Go Golf Elite 5 GF Check Price | 2 | 7.5-13 | Medium/Extra Wide | True To Size | |||
Skechers Go Golf Elite 5 Slip ‘In Check Price | 1 | 8-13 | Medium | True To Size | |||
Under Armour Fade SL Check Price | 4 | 7-13 | Medium/Wide | True To Size | |||
Under Armour Phantom Check Price | 1 | 7-12 | Medium | True To Size | |||
Under Armour HOVR Drive SL Check Price | 2 | 7-15 | Medium/Wide | True To Size |
Expert Tip - If the Shoe Fits...
While it can be tempting to shop for a new pair of spikeless golf shoes online, it's more valuable to physically try on each shoe before you decide which to buy. In order to find the right fit it's imperative that you try them on. Sizing can be inconsistent, both across brands and across models within the same brand. Consequently, it's hard to find the perfect fit unless you try before you buy! If online shopping is all you have time for, look for shops that offer free return shipping in the event you order the wrong size!
More Spikeless Golf Shoe Tips
- Look for spikeless golf 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.
From the Course to the 19th
Both the Olukai Wai‘alae and Kapalua have collapsible heels that turn your golf shoes into slippers. If you're a fan of going straight from the course to the clubhouse for a drink or two, Olukai has you covered with comfortable golf shoes that seamlessly transform into great casual shoes.
Best Spikeless Golf Shoes of 2023 – Results
PRODUCT | ELEMENTS | TRACTION | COMFORT | STABILITY | TOTAL | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
adidas CodeChaos 22 Check Price | 4th | 1st | 6th | 1st | 95.75 | |
Payntr X001 Check Price | 11th | 1st | 1st | 3rd | 95.5 | |
Payntr X003 Check Price | 11th | 1st | 4th | 3rd | 95 | |
Skechers Go Golf Elite 5 GF Check Price | 4th | 14th | 4th | 7th | 94 | |
Payntr X005 Check Price | 18th | 1st | 1st | 12th | 93.75 | |
FootJoy Fuel Sport Check Price | 4th | 6th | 10th | 9th | 93.25 | |
adidas Solar Motion BOA Check Price | 20th | 15th | 10th | 3rd | 92.75 | |
ECCO Biom C4 BOA Check Price | 1st | 20th | 14th | 6th | 92.75 | |
ECCO Biom H4 Check Price | 1st | 15th | 14th | 7th | 92.75 | |
Puma Proadapt Alphacat Leather Check Price | 10th | 1st | 14th | 9th | 92.75 | |
FootJoy Traditions SL Check Price | 11th | 8th | 20th | 1st | 92.5 | |
New Balance Fresh Foam X Defender SL Check Price | 4th | 15th | 10th | 11th | 92.5 | |
Skechers Go Golf Elite 5 Slip ‘In Check Price | 4th | 20th | 1st | 16th | 92 | |
Puma Ignite Elevate Check Price | 11th | 8th | 14th | 12th | 91.5 | |
Under Armour Fade SL Check Price | 18th | 6th | 14th | 12th | 91.5 | |
ECCO S-Three Check Price | 1st | 15th | 14th | 17th | 90.5 | |
Under Armour Phantom Check Price | 18th | 8th | 10th | 17th | 90.25 | |
Inesis MW500 Check Price | 4th | 8th | 23rd | 12th | 90 | |
Asics Gel-Kayano Ace Check Price | 25th | 23rd | 8th | 17th | 89 | |
Callaway Coronado V3 SL Check Price | 21th | 8th | 23rd | 17th | 87.5 | |
NIKE Infinity Pro 2 Check Price | 11th | 23rd | 23rd | 17th | 87 | |
Puma GS-Fast Check Price | 11th | 23rd | 28th | 16th | 87 | |
Under Armour HOVR Drive SL Check Price | 11th | 8th | 23rd | 24th | 87 | |
adidas Go-To Spikeless 1 Check Price | 26th | 8th | 23rd | 16th | 86.5 | |
New Balance 997 SL Check Price | 24rd | 26th | 14th | 24th | 86.25 | |
Olukai Kapalua Check Price | 29th | 26th | 8th | 28th | 84.25 | |
Athalonz Mana Check Price | 21th | 26th | 29th | 26th | 82.5 | |
Olukai Wai’alae Check Price | 27th | 26th | 6th | 27th | 81.5 | |
Athalonz Enve Check Price | 27th | 19th | 20th | 28th | 78.5 |
Best Spikeless Golf Shoes of 2023 – FAQ
Q: How much should I spend on a spikeless golf 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 golf 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 golf 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.
Greg
7 months ago
On your reviews I gave Adidas CodeChaos a try and I love them. They are my golf shoe of choice. They are the only golf shoes I wear when I am walking the course. I have a normal size 13D foot and this shoe fits me perfectly. I tried Adidas golf shoes years ago, but they were too tight across the forefoot. I’m glad I gave them another try. Keep your reviews coming.