Golf shoes: spiked vs spikeless for winter rounds

If your feet are slipping on wet fairways, it is usually not your swing. It is your footwear. Here is how to choose golf shoes that feel stable on soft winter turf and still stay comfortable for 18 holes.

Spiked or spikeless?

This is the first decision, because it changes how the shoe grips and how it feels off the course.

• Spiked golf shoes (with replaceable cleats) bite into softer ground. If you play early mornings, walk hilly courses, or you are often on damp grass, spikes are the safer bet for traction.
• Spikeless golf shoes use a rubber outsole pattern for grip. They feel more like a trainer underfoot and are easier if you walk from the car park, into the clubhouse, then back out again.

A common question we hear in-store is whether spikes tear up greens. Modern soft spikes are designed to be course-friendly, but always follow your club rules. If you are unsure, spikeless is the easy, no-drama option.

How much grip do you actually need?

Grip is not only about stopping you from sliding. It is also about feeling confident as you rotate through the ball, particularly on slopes or when your lead foot is wet. If you have ever backed off a shot because the ground felt slippery, you will play better with more traction.

As a simple guide:

• Mostly flat course, casual rounds, dry conditions: a good spikeless outsole is usually enough.
• Soft fairways, winter golf, lots of walking, uneven lies: consider spikes or a spikeless shoe with deeper, more aggressive lugs.
• You swing hard or you tend to lose your footing: prioritise stability and traction over a lightweight feel.

Waterproof or water-resistant?

In Melbourne winter, wet socks can ruin the back nine. Golf shoes are often labelled either waterproof (sealed construction) or water-resistant (some protection, but not built for puddles and heavy dew).

If you play early starts, or your local course holds water, waterproof is worth considering. If you only play the odd round and you can pick your weather, water-resistant can be fine, but keep expectations realistic.

Also check the tongue and lace area. That is where water usually sneaks in first, especially if you are walking through longer grass to find a ball.

Comfort for walking 18 holes

Golf is a lot of steps. A shoe that feels fine in the lounge room can feel very different after two to three hours of walking on uneven ground.

Here is what to look for:

• Heel hold: your heel should feel locked in without rubbing. If your heel lifts, you will get blisters and lose stability.
• Toe room: you want a thumb-width in front of the big toe. Downhill lies can push your foot forward, so too-short shoes can bruise toes.
• Midfoot support: if the shoe twists easily, it often feels less stable through the swing. A firmer midfoot can help you feel planted.
• Socks matter: a slightly thicker sports sock can reduce movement inside the shoe. Thin dress socks are a common reason shoes feel slippery.

Do I need a wide fit?

Plenty of golfers do, especially if you wear a wider running shoe or you are between sizes. In golf, foot swelling through a long round is real, and tight shoes can change how you walk. If you regularly feel pressure over the forefoot, look for wider options and focus on getting the lacing right, rather than sizing up too far in length.

If you are buying online, measure both feet at the end of the day (when they are slightly bigger). If one foot is larger, fit to the larger foot and use your lacing to snug the smaller one.

What should I do about spikes and replacements?

If you go with spiked shoes, it is worth learning how to check your cleats. Worn spikes can lose grip without looking obviously damaged. If the edges are rounded off, or you can see the centre disc sitting proud, it is usually time to replace them.

Keep a simple spike tool in your golf bag and give them a quick check every few rounds, particularly through winter when you are relying on them more.

Popular right now at Sportsmart

• ASICS GEL-Kayano Ace 3 D Men's Golf Shoes for golfers who want a supportive, stable feel underfoot across a full round.
• ASICS GEL-Kayano Ace 2 D Men's Golf Shoes if you like a structured fit and want a golf-specific build rather than a casual sneaker.
• ASICS Japan Classic D Golf Shoes for a cleaner, classic look that still sits like a proper golf shoe.
• ASICS Japan S Men's Golf Shoes as an easy everyday option for casual rounds and driving range sessions.
• SKLZ Home Driving Range Kit if you want to get swings in at home without chewing up the backyard.
• SKLZ Pure Path for golfers working on a more consistent club path during practice.

Common mistakes we see

• Buying for looks, not traction: if you play winter golf, prioritise grip and waterproofing first, then style.
• Going too small: tight shoes feel fine for nine holes, then become miserable by the 15th.
• Ignoring heel slip: if your heel lifts when you walk, you will slide more when you swing.
• Wearing the wrong socks: slippery socks can make good shoes feel unstable.
• Not cleaning the outsole: mud packed into a spikeless sole reduces grip fast. A quick rinse after the round helps.

FAQ

Are spikeless golf shoes okay in winter?
They can be, as long as the outsole has a deeper tread and you are not regularly playing on very soft or steep ground. If you play early mornings with heavy dew, spikes usually give more confidence on slopes.

How tight should golf shoes feel?
Snug through the midfoot with no heel lift, but not crushing the forefoot. You should be able to wiggle your toes. If you feel pressure across the toes standing still, it often gets worse once you start walking.

Can I use runners as golf shoes?
For a quick driving range session, some people do. On-course, runners often lack the lateral stability and traction you want on wet grass. A golf shoe is designed to keep you planted as you rotate, especially on uneven lies.

How long do golf shoes last?
It depends on how often you play and whether you walk or ride. If the outsole is worn smooth, you are slipping more, or the upper is letting water in, it is time to think about replacing them. With spiked shoes, fresh cleats can extend usable life.

What is the best way to dry golf shoes after a wet round?
Pull the insoles out, loosen the laces, and let them air-dry away from direct heat. Stuffing them with newspaper can help draw out moisture. High heat can warp some materials and shorten the life of the shoe.

Need a hand choosing?

Drop into our Moorabbin, Preston or Kilsyth stores to try a few options on. Or call our online team on (03) 9091 5024 and we can talk through what will suit your course and how you like to play.