GOLF footwear has undergone significant transformations over recent years, balancing tradition with innovation to enhance player performance and comfort.
The ongoing debate between spiked and spikeless golf shoes continues as manufacturers introduce advanced designs to cater to diverse golfer preferences.
In 2025, leading brands like Skechers, FootJoy, adidas, and ECCO have unveiled new models that exemplify this evolution.
The modern style of golf shoes has now gone away from the old heavy leather shoe styles and most of the brands have now drifter to designing shoes with lightweight materials that are still breathable and waterproof but look more casual more like a runner style.
Spiked golf shoes have been the standard for decades, primarily due to their superior traction which is more suited to the majority of parkland courses around Ireland.
Equipped with replaceable cleats, these shoes provide enhanced grip, especially beneficial in wet or uneven terrains. This added stability can lead to improved swing consistency and power.
However, spiked shoes tend to be heavier and may lack the versatility of their spikeless counterparts.
I personally carry at least one spiked pair of golf shoes and I use this throughout the year when the ground is wet. I save my spikeless golf shoes for when the weather is dry and the ground is firm. Using this method of alternating my shoes I find I get a longer wear out of my spikeless shoes in particular because they don’t get destroyed from the wet conditions.
Spikeless golf shoes generally feature outsoles with moulded traction patterns, offering versatility and comfort. They are lighter and can seamlessly transition from the course to casual settings. While advancements have significantly improved their grip, some golfers feel they might not match the traction provided by spiked shoes, particularly in damp conditions. The added benefits of spikeless shoes is you can keep them on after your round of golf inside the golf clubs. I also find when travelling abroad on a golf vacation I can double up the use of my spikeless runner style golf shoes as a pair of runners even when I am not at the golf course.
FOOTJOY:
FootJoy’s 2025 lineup showcases a blend of classic aesthetics and modern technology. The all-new HyperFlex model has been making waves on professional tours, offering golfers enhanced performance and comfort. Additionally, FootJoy has introduced new styles in their Premiere Series, featuring upgraded materials that elevate the standard for the brand’s offerings.
ADIDAS:
Adidas continues to push the boundaries of golf footwear with the release of the Solarmotion BOA Golf Shoes. This spikeless model emphasizes lightweight design and exceptional comfort, catering to golfers seeking versatility without compromising performance. The BOA lacing system ensures a precise fit, enhancing stability throughout the swing.
ECCO:
ECCO introduces the LT1 BOA Golf Shoes in 2025, combining Scandinavian design principles with functional excellence.
These spikeless shoes feature the BOA lacing system for a customized fit and are constructed with premium materials to ensure durability and comfort. ECCO’s commitment to crafting shoes that perform on the course while maintaining a stylish off-course appearance is evident in this latest offering.
Ecco’s pricing has also reduced dramatically in the past two years with shoes retailing at €249 been reduced to €199. I have to say to have a quality comfortable golf shoe with incredible support like Ecco on your foot for under €200 is great value for money.
SKECHERS:
Skechers’ 2025 Go Golf Elite golf shoes are designed with recycled materials, reflecting the brand’s commitment to sustainability. These waterproof shoes feature a lace-up mesh upper with synthetic overlays, offering breathability and durability. The inclusion of Skechers’ exclusive heel pillow ensures a secure fit, while the removable Arch Fit insole provides enhanced support, catering to golfers seeking both comfort and performance.
Selecting between spiked and spikeless golf shoes ultimately depends on individual preferences and playing conditions of the course you predominantly play. Golfers who frequently play in wet or hilly terrains might favour spiked shoes for their superior traction. In contrast, those who value versatility and comfort, and often play in dry conditions, may opt for spikeless designs.
I honestly feel because of our schizophrenic weather conditions in Ireland there is definitely benefits for having a spiked pair for the wet days and keep your spikeless pair for those dry days.
