What Are Golf Shoes Made Of?

Good, old-fashioned cowhide - better known as leather - has always been and probably always will be the king of golf shoe materials. But it's not the only game in town.

As R&D departments continue to push for cost-effective, high-performing alternatives, shoe manufacturers regularly roll out new products made with the latest and greatest synthetics, polymers and hybrid fabrics. These include microfiber, mesh and, yes, faux leather. If you like your shoes to make a statement, there's always exotic-animal route.

Here's a look at the different materials used to build golf shoe uppers - the top covering and most visible part of the shoe.

Leather

There's a reason for leather's lasting popularity. Actually, there are several reasons. For starters, it's highly breathable, waterproof, stretch-resistant, snug-fitting and forever fashionable. It's also available in a variety of surfaces and styles, including:

Full-grain leather - If you'd rather not splurge for calfskin, full-grain is the next-best thing. Made from the top layer of cowhide, it's waterproof, comfortable and often specially tanned for a lovely finish.

Nubuck (or nubuc) - The term for full-grain leather that's been buffed for a suede or napped look. Nubuck is waterproof and boasts added durability and flexibility, although it requires special care to maintain its distinctive surface and feel.

Oil-tanned nubuck - Treated to impart a distressed or lived-in look, oil-tanned nubuck sometimes features surface "blemishes" to enhance its casual appearance

Synthetic leather

The primary benefits to the fake stuff? It's cheaper and easier to maintain than the real thing. On the other hand, affordability comes at a price. Synthetic leather lacks the waterproof qualities and breathability of genuine cowhide, and may cause overheated feet when it's warm or you're walking the course.

Synthetic leather's biggest drawback might be its appearance, plus the stigma attached to the wearer, if you (or your snobby friends) are into that sort of thing.

Microfiber

This silky substance is everywhere these days, most notably in cleaning cloths. Microfiber, as you might expect, is ultra-lightweight and flexible, and allows air to pass through nicely. In other words, a great choice for the walking golfer. It's also purported not to stretch like leather.

Microfiber golf shoes are generally quite affordable, too.

Mesh

Another lightweight fabric with similar qualities to microfiber, mesh is often combined with a second material, such as synthetic leather, in building athletic-type golf togs. Again, you may sacrifice a bit in the style department, but you'll have a few more bucks to spend on balls and gloves.

Exotic materials

For those who want to really stand out, but prefer to skip the loud plaid pants, there are golf shoes made from all sorts of beasts and critters. Sharks, alligators, snakes, lizards and ostriches are among those supplying skins to the cause of golf shoe fashion.

Golf Shoes - Problem Feet Require Orthopedic Attention

Finding comfortable, foot-cradling golf shoes is a cinch these days, thanks to technological advances and intense competition among manufacturers to deliver the latest and greatest. But what about golfers with "problem feet" who are plagued by ailments like tendinitis, trauma or plantar fasciitis?

These unlucky souls must turn to orthopedic shoes, of which few are made specifically for golf, or to orthotic inserts placed inside the shoe. Both products are designed to correct improper foot positions while standing, walking or running by putting the foot in a "neutral" alignment with the leg when lifted off the ground.

Orthopedic shoes feature things like padded footbeds, extra-wide toe boxes and added arch support. Orthotic inserts can be bought over the counter based on shoe size, specially made to match a mold of your feet, or custom-built to your exact dimensions and needs based on a podiatrist's prescription.

If you're a golfer plagued by a foot condition, orthopedic shoes or orthotics are a necessity.

Golf may seem like a low-impact activity, but the swing's twisting motion can put serious stress on muscles and connective tissues in the legs, back and abdomen. When the feet are out of balance, the golfer will often (unknowingly) overcompensate and overuse certain muscles, as well as tendons and ligaments.

Orthopedic shoes and orthotics eliminate imbalance so that weight is distributed evenly and body parts function together properly. Remedial footwear can also correct over-rotations in the rolling motions known as pronation (inward) and supination (outward), reducing the risk of injury.

Studies have proved that golfers benefit from such footwear. One survey found that wearing orthotics for a nine-hole round reduced fatigue; others have concluded that orthotics help improve shot accuracy through better balance.

One simple solution for golfers with problem feet is to transfer the orthotics from your regular shoes into your golf shoes when it's time to tee it up. A better idea, though, is to have a pair of orthotics made specifically for golf. The unique motion of the golf swing is best supported with tools designed precisely for that purpose.

Dozens of companies make orthotics for various activities, including golf. A quick Internet search will turn up a wide selection.

Finding orthopedic golf shoes, on the other hand, is rather difficult. One prominent manufacturer, Bite, was purchased by Crocs and later dissolved. You can sometimes find a pair of Bites on closeout or through auction sites.

Finn Comfort, a well-known German brand, makes two lines of orthopedic golf shoes for men and women. Each pair is hand-made and retails for around $365. Otabo's high-end custom golf shoes can be fitted with orthotics through the company's "Orthopedia" program. The price tag: $400 and up.

Fortunately, you don't have to spend that much. If you suffer from a foot-related malady, though, it's essential to invest in special golf shoes or orthotics.

Your feet, and your scorecard, will thank you.

Golf Shoes For Walking Golfers

There are plenty of golfers that enjoy a good walk around the golf course. Some golfers enjoy their own company, for some it is for the exercise and some simply like the feel of the turf under their feet. The only drawback is hauling one's golf bag for 5 to 7 miles.

On average a golf course measures around 4 to 5 miles, but there is much more than this to this march. You have the walk from the club house to the first hole, hilly terrain and the stray shots that go into the rough. You could be walking as much as 6 to 7 miles for a full 18 hole game.

If you intend to walk the course regularly you are going to need a pair of comfortable, lightweight golf shoes.

Below is some tips and guidelines when shopping for a pair of golf shoes.

You need good traction

You will mostly need good traction when you are taking a shot, but the traction your shoes provide are also great for walking up hills and on wet slippery surfaces.

Waterproof is recommended

Your shoes should be waterproof or at the very least water-resistant. Waterproof means your shoes will not let in any water, but water-resistant shoes will only turn away water for so long until your shoe starts to leak.

This feature is very important as many golfers will be playing in wet and dry weather conditions. Even in dry conditions you might still be playing on wet or damp fairways. Many courses sprinkle their fairways and early golfers will have the morning dew.

Most waterproof golf shoes come with a one or two-year waterproof warranty. Don't settle for anything less than a one year waterproof warranty.

You will also need moisture wicking

A few years ago moisture wicking was considers a luxury. These days moisture wicking is used in a wide range of products. You can cover yourself head to toe in these materials. You might be thinking why do I need moisture wicking when I have waterproof shoes? And yes waterproof shoes stop water getting in, but what about moisture your feet create?

Moisture wicking is a necessity especially for walking golfers. A special material lining draws the sweat/moisture away from your feet and it send it somewhere. We don't exactly know where this moisture goes, but trust us, this concept works very well.

They should be as light as possible

The heaviest of todays golf shoes are light compared to the standards of yesteryear. The ultralight materials of today are extremely durable. Perfect for walking the golf course. Many manufactures are improving and producing lighter, more durable shoes, they can weight as little as 13.8 ounces. Some are made of fabric or synthetic leather and you can also buy them in real leather.

Flexibility is critical

The technology of today has eliminated inflexibility from golf shoes making your shoes comfortable. You can buy them in real leather and fabric.

You can always go down to your local golf store and to try on shoes and have a little walk around before purchasing.

Golf Shoe Q & A: Spikes, Velcro, Flat Feet And More

I always heard the old metal spikes were good because they kept the greens aerated. When plastic spikes came along, they were said to be better for greens. What's the story?

Whatever benefits accrued from holes punched by metal spikes were more than offset by the damage done by foot-dragging golfers. In the metal-spike days, it was common to see tracks of six inches or longer scratched into the putting surface - invariably near the hole. Remember, the rules of golf forbid tapping down spike marks in one's putting line, so they're a real nuisance. (Especially when you've got a 3-footer to win a Nassau.)

Since plastic spikes don't protrude as far as metal spikes, and aren't as sharply pointed, you see far fewer scuffs and scrapes etched into greens these days. That means fewer missed putts and fewer headaches for greenskeepers.

How many spikes should my shoes have?

Most feature between seven and nine, but there's no accepted optimal number. Rather, it's the placement of spikes that's most important. Since stability is key to a proper swing, spikes are strategically placed along the outer edge of each foot, at the balls of the feet, and in the heel.

Are there shoes made for super-casual golfers?

You bet. Start with models made to look like ordinary athletic shoes, of which there are many. If those aren't casual enough for you, there's a movement toward so called "street shoes" that resemble those worn by skateboarders. If those aren't your cup of tea, it doesn't get any more casual than sandals or flip-flops. Several companies make open-toed models with spikes and all, so you don't have to sacrifice traction while indulging your laid-back side.

Do any golf shoes have Velcro instead of laces?

Yes, although it's never become an especially popular style. Perhaps because Velcro's convenience is cancelled out by the grating noise it makes when pulled apart. It's not the sort of thing you want to hear mid-swing.

Are there any slip-ons with no bindings at all?

There are some, but not many. In fact, women will have better luck finding slip-ons than men. Hard to say why laceless shoes haven't caught on in golf, but it may have to do with the need for a snug fit that's difficult to achieve without bindings that can be adjusted based on one's foot size.

Are golf shoe sizes the same as regular shoe sizes, or is there a special sizing chart?

They follow standard charts in the U.S., Europe and elsewhere. In other words, if you wear a men's size 10 in sneakers or dress shoes, a size 10 for golf should fit as well.

Does anyone make shoes for golfers with flat feet (aka fallen arches)?

The major manufacturers do not, though you may find a custom shoemaker who can build you a pair. The best solution is to invest in custom-made orthotics that can be placed inside most any pair of shoes, golf or otherwise.

Golf Shoe Tips For Golfers Who Walk

Walking the golf course has many benefits compared with riding in a cart. Exercise is the most obvious, followed by less tangible pluses like getting a better feel for the course or avoiding being stuck in a cart with an annoying partner. Some golfers believe their scores improve when walking.

Then again, hauling one's golf bag for 5-7 miles does have drawbacks. The possibility of developing blisters or the painful foot condition called plantar fasciitis, for starters. Fatigue is another, especially for those who play in hot weather or on hilly courses. A properly fitting pair of lightweight golf shoes is one solution to these issues, but there are others.

Let's survey a few ways to combat the potential negative effects of walking the course.

Golf Shoes that are Roomy Yet Snug

Help prevent: Blisters, discomfort

This should go without saying, but how often have you bought a pair of golf shoes - or any shoes - that were a little too loose in the middle, or a bit tight in the toes?

Your golf shoes should have ample room in the toe box. Here's a literal rule of thumb: Make sure there's about one thumbnail's distance (a half-inch or so) between the longest toe's tip and the end of the shoe. Your heel should remain firmly in place as well.

Golfers require extra mid-foot security for stability in the swing; walking golfers, test to ensure your shoes are tight enough in the middle without squeezing the foot.

Golf Shoes with Excellent Support

Help prevent: Plantar fasciitis

Here's the No. 1 thing to know about plantar fasciitis: You don't want it.

Plantar fasciitis (PF) occurs when the plantar fascia tissue, which runs the length of the bottom of the foot, becomes inflamed, causing pain in the heel. Once you've got it, PF can prove difficult to overcome given the amount of time most people spend on their feet.

Walking golfers are certainly susceptible to PF, but it's easily prevented. Test any pair of shoes for plentiful supportive cushioning in the heel, arch and ball of the foot. This keeps the weight distributed evenly and relieves stress on the plantar fascia.

The dedicated walker's golf shoes should also be flexible at the midsole so that the foot rolls naturally from heel to toe, rather than slapping the ground. Another good way to stave off PF is by stretching the feet prior to your round. It's a worthwhile way to spend five minutes.

Breathable, Seamless Shoes and Socks

Help prevent: Blisters

Blisters are bad enough when you've got a cart for carriage. Woe to the golfer who develops a blister while walking 18.

The primary causes of blisters are friction, excess heat and sweaty feet. Friction can be minimized by choosing shoes that fit snugly enough (but not too snugly) to prevent rubbing, feature a soft interior surface and few or no raised seams. Breathability is also key, so look for shoes with a combination of mesh and leather that allow air to pass in and out.

Socks are important, too. Invest in a few pair made from technical, moisture-wicking fabric, rather than absorbent cotton. Leave the frazzled, worn-out socks in the drawer, and apply foot or talcum powder to keep the feet dry.

Golf Shoes For Walking 18 Holes

There are plenty of golfers that enjoy walking all 18 holes of the golf course. If you are one of these golfers, you are going to need a pair of golf shoes that will make your walk more enjoyable and much more comfortable.

On average a golf course measures around 4 miles, that is from tee to green. There is much more to this march than walking from tee to green. For example, you have the walk from the clubhouse to the course, the stray shots that go into the rough and hit trees and elsewhere stray shot might go.

By the time you have made the 19 hole you would have walked at least 5 miles on possible hilly terrain with your bagful of clubs.

If you intend to walk the course then a pair of comfortable golf shoes is highly recommended.

Below we have some essential guidelines.

Light Construction

Your shoes should be light for your feet when doing a lot of walking. Major manufacturers have made huge strides when it comes to lightweight materials, making golf shoes weigh as little as 13.8 ounces a piece. Some are made of fabric or synthetic leather and they are also available in real leather.

Waterproof

They need to be waterproof or at the very least water-resistant. Waterproof means there is no way water is getting in your shoes and water-resistant shoes will turn away water for only so long until water seeps into your shoes.

This is a very important feature to have. Walking for 4 hours leaves you a long weather window for rain. Many courses sprinkle their fairways and on the early starts you have the morning dew. You should settle for no less than a one-year waterproof warranty.

Moisture wicking

Not long ago moisture wicking was considered a luxury, now it is possible to dress from head to toe in these materials. Waterproof shoes only stop water getting in from the outside, but what about the moisture your feet create?

Shoes with moisture wicking are a necessity for walking golfers. A special material lining inside draws the moisture away from the feet. It sends it somewhere, but trust us, this concept works very well.

Sock liners

Sock liners normally come with most golf shoes, but in case they do not, invest in a pair made from technical, moisture wicking fabric. Absorbent cotton socks are not recommended as they will not draw the moisture away from your feet.

Flexibility

Wearing stiff shoes on a golf course is completely unacceptable. The manufacturers have used the technology to eliminate inflexibility from golf shoes whether they are made from fabric or leather.

We suggest trying on a pair of shoes that interest you. Take a walk round the shop to get a feel for them.

Memory foam

This is more luxury than necessity, memory foam moulds to the shape of your foot and ankle and is very comfortable for your feet. As we said this is not a necessity but you wont regret it if you splash out on a pair of golf shoes lined with this stuff.

How To Choose The Right Golf Shoes

Choosing the right golf shoes all comes down to personal choice in what you are wanting. Are you going to be playing in dry or wet weather conditions? Are you wanting fashionable shoes? Are you wanting more comfort for you feet? Or maybe you are wanting a pair that has everything you want.

Your golf shoes should match your personality with what ever that means to you. Lets take a look at what to look out for and what you might not have considered.

You need good traction

At the bottom of your shoes you have several cleats. They are designed to grip a golfer to the ground and stabilize the body when taking a swing. They help you take a powerful, accurate shot and are great on damp surfaces. This will dramatically improve your score card.

Another important place good traction comes into play is in the bunkers. Golfers are not allowed to ground their club in to the sand or take a practice shot and it can be difficult to keep your balance on the sand. You can keep your balance by digging your shoes into the sand in a side to side motion. With this added stability, you should now be ready to take your shot.

Waterproof or water-resistant

It is recommended that golfers own a pair of waterproof golf shoes or at the very least water-resistant. Even in the summer there are days you will be playing on wet turf even if it hasn't rained. You can come across sprinkled fairways and if you like to play an early round of golf you might be playing in the morning dew. Of course if you are playing in wet conditions then it is a no brainer to have waterproof shoes.

Moisture wicking

Waterproof shoes only prevent water getting in your golf shoes, but what about the moisture inside?

Sweat makes moisture wicking shoes a necessity. There is a special lining material that draws the moisture away from the feet. We are not sure where it sends the moisture, but trust us, this concept works very well.

Comfort for your feet

Comfort is probably top of the list. Every golfer wants comfortable feet, especially the walking golfers. If you are a walking golfer you are going to want shoes that are lightweight and flexible. These shoes have lightweight materials that are designed to stop blisters by reducing the friction on your feet.

Look out for EVA (ethyl vinyl acetate) and TPU (thermoplastic urethane). EVA is soft, flexible and shock absorbent, this makes it perfect for shoes. TPU is durable, flexible and makes for a very comfortable experience.

Another comfortable feature is memory foam. This is more luxury than necessity but your feet will thank you. Memory foam conforms to the shape of your feet giving you a very comfortable experience.

Styles and designs

This all comes down to your personal taste. There are plenty of styles and designs to choose from and you can get designs that look very similar to athletic shoes.

Go down to your local golf store or look online for the golf shoes you want and need.