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BEST SPIKED GOLF SHOES OF 2023
If all of your friends switched from spiked golf shoes to spikeless, would you make the switch, too?
In a world where droves of golfers are making the transition to spikeless golf shoes, it’s OK to stick with your tried and true spikes. Just because everyone is doing it doesn’t mean you should.
The best spiked golf shoes of 2023 feature stellar traction, ultimate stability and comfort that rivals any of their spikeless counterparts. But, despite the category shrinking at a rapid rate, the host of spiked golf shoe options can be daunting to digest.
We want you to experience firsthand the best that the spiked golf shoe category has to offer … regardless of the industry trends.
Dying breed? Not on our watch. The tradition of spiked golf shoes is well and alive—and we’re here to prove it.
Here are the best spiked golf shoes of 2023.
WINNER – FOOTJOY HyperFlex Carbon
Who is it for?
- The golfer who values stability in the heel and midfoot
- Someone who seeks a comfortable, one-to-one fit
- The player who wants to stay grounded no matter the tempo of their swing
Most Comfortable Spiked Golf Shoe – PAYNTR X004 Luxe
The buttery soft tumbled leather on the PAYNTR X004 Luxe is something every golfer should experience. Couple that with a blister-free heel cup and comfy PMX foam midsole, it’s no wonder the X004 Luxe has taken the comfort crown for 2023.
EXPERT TIP – Greenside Assistance
Noticing a loss of traction? Just like the grooves on a wedge, the spikes on your spiked golf shoes can start to wear out and become less effective. Instead of replacing the entire shoe, most manufactures make it possible to remove and replace the spikes with a fresh set.
The Best Spiked Golf Shoes of 2023 – Features That Matter
Comfort
The general knock on spiked golf shoes has always been comfort. Don’t let the past influence what you decide to do today. The spiked golf shoes in our test are plenty comfortable, with some rivaling their spikeless counterparts.
Certainly, comfort should be the most important factor when choosing new spiked golf shoes, no matter if you walk or ride. Just as you’d never trade the plush, spacious, comfy seat in first class for the cramped, uncomfortable seat in economy, you should opt for a comfortable spiked golf shoe for your next trip down the fairway.
If you want to feel your best and play your best, you need a spiked golf shoe that’s first class in the comfort department. The most comfortable shoe in our test is the PAYNTR X 004 Luxe. The adidas ZG23 BOA is another solid choice if you want a comfortable option without the price tag that accompanies the full-grain leather X004 Luxe.
Traction
You’re reading this as opposed to our spikeless golf shoe buyer’s guide because you want great traction, right? It’s no secret that the best traction is found in the spiked golf shoe category as opposed to spikeless.
It’s rare that a spiked shoe has anything but good traction, although some are definitely better than others. And, while most golf spikes themselves are similar, the secondary traction lugs on each spiked golf shoe can also make a difference.
The best traction in our group of 2023 spiked golf shoes comes courtesy of the FootJoy HyperFlex Carbon. The FootJoy Premiere Wilcox and its tried and tested VersaTrax+ Outsole performed admirably as well.
To Lace, or not to Lace
There are a host of lacing solutions to help you stay locked in during your round. You’re probably familiar with BOA, which makes an appearance on the ZG23 BOA and the ECCO Biom G5. If you’re looking for a non-BOA lacing solution, Sqairz new Sta-put laces are worth a mention. The laces are studded with non-slip silicone dots to keep the laces tied and tight for the duration of your round.
Stability
A stable spiked golf shoe has a sculpted heel cup (often referred to as a heel counter) and generally a rigid mid-foot section. The addition of TPU saddles (similar to that seen on the HyperFlex Carbon) also helps promote lateral and medial stability through the swing.
The most stable spiked golf shoes of 2023 are the Sqairz SPEED Bold and FootJoy Premiere Wilcox.
Most Stable Spiked Golf Shoe – SQAIRZ SPEED Bold
The wide base and squared toe of the SQAIRZ SPEED Bold make the shoe incredibly stable. If you’re in need of ultimate stability without sacrificing comfort, this is a great spiked golf shoe for you.
Expert Tips
- Shop for new spiked golf shoes in-store rather than online. This is the best way to ensure you find a shoe that matches your preferences for fit and comfort.
- Make note of warranties. A host of spiked golf shoes features a waterproof warranty or coverage on spikes. Save yourself some cash and take advantage of these warranties when/where applicable.
- If you’re not afraid of a round in the rain, look for something like the ECCO Biom G5 which features Gore-Tex waterproof technology.
- Take some time to clean your spikes. If you take care of your shoes, they’ll take care of you.
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How We Test
We’re here to help you find the perfect spiked shoe to fit your needs.
To do that, we employ a thorough and fully independent testing process that leaves no feature unexplored, no detail unchecked, and no stone unturned.
Our Metrics
Spiked shoes are tested head to head using rigorous protocols.
The metrics we consider when rating spiked shoes include Stability, Comfort, Elements and Traction.
Best Spiked Golf Shoes of 2022 – FAQ
Q: How much should I spend on a shoe?
A: How much are you willing to spend? Golf shoes range in price depending on what you’re looking for. Luxury materials, such as the leather found on the PAYNTR X 004 Luxe, generally come with an upcharge while synthetic or multi-material constructions cost less. For the most part, you can find a good spiked golf shoe for less than $200.
Q: Can I wear spiked shoes on concrete?
A: You can but it will cause the spikes to wear out faster than normal. It’s best to take them off after your round to preserve the integrity of those spikes.
Q: Do I need to buy golf shoes? Can I play golf in regular shoes?
A: You don’t need to buy golf shoes to play golf but a proper golf shoe can help your game in more ways then one. The traction, comfort and waterproof features on spiked golf shoes are sure to contribute to a better round.
Q: Is BOA/DISC technology better than laces?
A: Some golfers prefer these 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 and, while it’s not a big deal to re-tighten, it can be an annoyance. Also consider that if a shoelace breaks, it’s easily replaceable whereas warranty replacements for other closure systems can take time. BOA is a great solution, though, for those who lack the dexterity to tie traditional laces.
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