We got our hands on a pair of New Balance Fresh Foam PaceSL BOA golf shoes to see how they perform on the course

New Balance is one of the most popular sports products in the world as they cater for a number of different athletes – but what about their golf shoes?

New Balance Fresh Foam PaceSL BOA golf shoes review

new balance fresh foam pacesl boa golf shoes review
new balance fresh foam pace sl boa golf shoe review

NCG SUMMARY

The New Balance Fresh Foam PaceSL BOA shoes may not tick all the boxes with looks, but they do in comfort.

They guarantee solid waterproof performance and a soft, cloud-like feel on the golf course.

A spikeless shoe that will make you feel comfortable on and off the golf course.

PROS

  • Very comfortable with plenty of room in the shoe
  • The black, red, and white colour scheme is attractive
  • The grey-with-orange edition also looks great
  • The BOA Fit System passes the control of comfort to you

CONS

  • The design of the lip isn’t attractive and could put people off
  • Only two colour styles to choose from

New Balance Fresh Foam PaceSL BOA golf shoes

Now: £164.99
New Balance

Check out the best deals on the New Balance Fresh Foam PaceSL BOA golf shoes


First impressions of the New Balance Fresh Foam PaceSL BOA

When I got these shoes out of the box for the first time, I was immediately taken by the striking colour scheme. Design refers to personal preference, but from a first glance, they ticked that box.

I was about 14 when I first used a pair of golf shoes without the traditional lace structure. These New Balance golf shoes feature BOA lacing which allows you to tighten or relieve the shoe on your foot with the twist of a button.

new balance fresh foam pacesl boa golf shoes review

On first look, the shoes were very athletic. I could certainly see myself wearing these golf shoes out and about.

I have always enjoyed wearing shoes that are predominantly black, but with the white sole and hints of red, I was impressed with the New Balance pattern.

On-course testing

Technically, it doesn’t matter what your golf shoes look like. If they are comfortable and allow you to swing your swing, then you should have no qualms.

And in the comfort department, I didn’t.

I usually dislike the comparisons of golf shoes – or sports footwear in general – to slippers, but these golf shoes were really very comfortable.

The Fresh Foam midsole is meant to provide “an ultra-cush, cloud-like feel” and New Balance delivers exactly what it says on the tin in that regard.

new balance fresh foam pacesl boa golf shoes review

The smart rubber spikeless outsole complimented the midsole construction. This shoe could easily inspire you to switch from a traditional pair to this New Balance product with the BOA lacing system.

The waterproof mesh upper is fitted with the BOA Fit System. The upper is very solid and once you turn the wheel to tighten the grip on your feet, you’ll feel ready to go.

With this type of shoe, gone are the days of laces flying everywhere and having to bend down to tie them every so often. If you enjoy practicality and comfort, this is the shoe for you.

The New Balance Fresh Foam PaceSL BOA golf shoe can appeal to any golfer.

Whether you are a young person looking for a new pair for the summer, or a senior golfer looking for comfort and safety in the winter, these shoes cater for all.

One thing I would point out is the look of the shoes as you peer down at address. The design/aesthetic of the upper isn’t that appealing, but having said that, this was just according to my preference.

new balance fresh foam pacesl boa golf shoes review

The 19th hole

Comfort will take you anywhere with these shoes. They could certainly pass as multi-purpose footwear and with the absence of spikes, they could be worn in many different contexts.


New Balance Fresh Foam PaceSL BOA golf shoes

Now: £164.99
New Balance

Check out the best deals on the New Balance Fresh Foam PaceSL BOA golf shoes


The details

Fit: True to size
Style: Athletic/Off-Course friendly/Casual
Out-of-the-box comfort: 10/10
Stability: 10/10
Value for Money: 9/10

Available: Now
RRP: £164.99
Sizes: UK 7.5-11.5
Colours: Grey with Orange
More info: American Golf

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Matt Chivers

Tour Editor

Matt is NCG's man for all things going on in the world of tour golf. Kent born and bred, Matt is 7 handicap at Royal Cinque Ports and spent many years caddying at Royal St George's before moving north to study history at the University of Liverpool. Away from golf, Matt is an avid Arsenal fan and horse racing enthusiast. He is also keen to point out his surname is pronounced Chiv-ers, not Chive-ers. Matt is currently playing: Driver: Cobra LTDx LS, 3-wood: Cobra LTDx, Utility: TaylorMade 4 DHY, Irons: Ping G10 4-PW, Ping Glide 4.0 (50,54,58), Putter: TaylorMade Spider GTX

Handicap: 7

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