Golf shoes have evolved considerably over the last decade or so. Today’s best sellers are lighter, more athletic, less rigid and friendlier for off-course use.
To most, that sounds like your regular sports shoe. So, what’s the difference between specialist golf footwear and ordinary trainers? Are golf shoes still relevant in 2026?
As is the case with most aspects of golf attire, there has been a modern styling tweak to the majority of golf specific shoes. They have come a long way from the heavy, leather designs that we traditionally associate with the game.
It has got to the point, that with running shoes, gym trainers and casual trainers becoming increasingly more versatile, it can be tempting to refrain from buying golf shoes altogether.
But, according to Chris Murtagh, Head of Footwear Optimisation at Under Armour, this isn’t an optimal approach. He believes different types of athletic footwear are designed for very different movements. As such, what you wear on your feet could be affecting your performance more than you realise.
“I would much prefer someone to play in the shoes that they wear,” he said.
“I think the problem with athletic shoes is there are so many different ones these days. If you’re using a genuine runner that is designed to propel you in a forward motion, that’s going to greatly inhibit the ability for you to coil properly.
“So, I think often practicing in shoes which are not golf shoes is very detrimental.”
Murtagh notes that it’s important to remember the differing physical demands of various sports, like running and golf. What is important for runners, isn’t always the case for golfers. And, vice versa.
However, that doesn’t mean every non-golf shoe should be ruled out.
“That being said, there are some runners and some cross trainers, which actually can be okay,” Murtagh said.
Advertisement
“But, as a rule of thumb, if you’re going to practice, practice in the shoe you play in, and I think that’s the best policy.”
Under Armour spiked and spikeless shoes
Under Armour provide quality options whether you prefer the more traditional spiked golf shoe or the more modern sneaker look.
The Drive Pro Clone Golf Shoe was released earlier in the year and got a 5 star review from our resident golf professional Jack Backhouse.
Jack Backhouse commenting that it ‘is a genuinely innovative golf shoe that delivers outstanding comfort, stability and traction. Its auxetic upper (thicker when stretched and thinner when compressed) adapts to the shape of your foot during play before returning to its original form, offering a near custom-fit feel straight out of the box. Combined with excellent grip in wet conditions and a noticeably improved aesthetic, this is one of the most impressive performance golf shoes currently available.’
If you prefer the sneaker look then take a look at the Halo – a comfy pair of modern golf shoes. Rarely do they produce something sub-par that this is definitely not the case here. They deliver tour-level stability and comfort in a stylish silhouette. Read our full review here.
- NOW READ: Best Under Armour Spring Summer Apparel 2026
- NOW READ: Under Armour expert: How your golf shoes could be holding your game back
- NOW READ: Why some golfers should ditch spiked golf shoes – and why others shouldn’t
NCG GIVEAWAYS – WIN FREE STUFF
- RELATED: Deals of the week – grab yourself a bargain
- RELATED: Golf gear giveaways – FREE prizes
YOUR GOLF NCG YOUTUBE CHANNEL
Don’t forget to check out and like our YouTube channel – YOUR GOLF NCG – where you will find lots of hints, tips and equipment reviews.
Discount golf balls – up to 80% off!
MailOrderGolf are #1 when it comes to lake balls.
Their lake balls are collected directly from divers, then carefully cleaned, sorted, and graded to ensure top quality.
MailOrderGolf aim to provide quality balls at reasonable prices – with savings of up to 80%!
