Golfers love a good debate, blades vs. cavity backs, walking vs. riding, and yes, spiked vs. spikeless shoes. Despite major advancements in both categories, a few outdated beliefs are still hanging around. Here are the biggest spiked vs. spikeless shoe myths golfers still believe in 2025.
Myth 1: Spikeless shoes can’t provide enough traction for serious golfers
This may have been true a decade ago. Not anymore. Modern spikeless shoes feature advanced outsole designs with multi-directional lugs, engineered rubber compounds, and targeted traction zones. Some even outperform spiked models.
Our best spikeless shoe of 2025, the PAYNTR All Day SC, boasts some of the best traction we’ve seen across both spiked and spikeless golf shoes.
Myth 2: Spiked golf shoes are uncomfortable
Comfort depends more on the overall construction of the shoe than whether it has spikes. Today’s spiked shoes are built with the same lightweight cushioning, knit uppers, and flexible materials as their spikeless counterparts.
In our 2025 shoe testing, the Skechers Go Golf Elite Vortex Rival earned the spot for the most comfortable shoe. They are also one of the best golf shoes for the money in the spiked test.
Myth 3: Spikeless shoes are always better for walking
Spikeless shoes are often lighter than spiked shoes. From that perspective, they can be great, but lighter doesn’t always mean better for walking. Some spikeless models lack the midsole support needed for hilly or long courses.
Meanwhile, certain spiked shoes offer better arch support, heel stability, and shock absorption, which are essential features for playing over 18 holes.
Stuck on walking with spikeless shoes? Here are the 5 Best Spikeless Shoes for Walking
Myth 4: Spiked shoes are only necessary in wet or muddy conditions
Soft ground favors spiked shoes. What is important to remember is that traction is not just about moisture. Players with faster swing speeds or more aggressive footwork often benefit from the ground connection that spikes provide, even in dry weather.
Spikes can also help with uneven lies or downhill stances where slippage is more likely. The bottom line is that it won’t hurt you to have spiked shoes when the conditions are ideal.
Myth 5: Spiked golf shoes are always more expensive
In 2025, spiked golf shoes will not always be more expensive than spikeless. There are budget-friendly and premium options in both categories. Some of the highest-priced shoes in our testing were spikeless lifestyle-inspired models.
Need new shoes but on a budget . . . Top 3 Affordable Spiked Golf Shoes
Myth 6: Spikeless shoes are just sneakers with a golf logo
Spikeless golf shoes might look like sneakers, but they’re far from it. Spikeless golf shoes are purpose-built with reinforced uppers, wider bases for swing stability, and golf-specific outsoles. Regular sneakers won’t provide the necessary structure or grip for consistent ball striking.
Myth 7: Spikeless shoes are only for dry conditions
Modern spikeless shoes have closed the performance gap in wet weather. While spiked shoes still win in soggy conditions, many of today’s spikeless models include waterproof membranes and aggressive tread patterns that handle light rain and dew surprisingly well.
Final thoughts
Don’t believe everything you hear about golf footwear. If you are smart about the individual shoe you are purchasing, you can have a great experience with both spiked and spikeless golf shoes. Here are the complete results of our shoe testing to help you find something that works best for your game.
frank w
1 year ago
the spike portion wear out far faster than the shoe. I hate throwing them out when the shoe itself is in good condition but spikes are worn smooth. I will only buy spikes from now on