FootJoy Men’s Icon Sport Saddle (#52070)

On the hoof: You expect FootJoy golf shoes to be comfortable -- legions of pros wouldn’t wear them otherwise – and Icons are indeed. The moment you slide into them, Icons envelop the feet like a broken-in pair of slippers. Wear them on a warm day and you’ll appreciate the breathable leather linings. Stability and traction are first-rate.

In the mirror: Icon is a very versatile line boasting nine different models. We’re especially fond of #52070, featuring a subtle strip of black or tan calfskin over the white upper. A nice blend of classic and modern styling.

Recommended for: Serious golfers and those who just like to look the part.

Bottom line: Unlike some icons (hello, Tiger), these don’t disappoint

Ladies First In Golf Shoe Fashion

Where perception is concerned, men's golf apparel just can't outrun the sins of its past. Plaid pants and hideous, ill-fitting shirts leave an indelible impression. Fact is, men can actually play golf without looking ridiculous these days, right down to their shoes.

But when it comes to sporty, stylish clothing for the course, women are miles ahead. Go figure.

Uber-hip players like Natalie Gulbis wouldn't be caught dead in drab, outdated footwear, and that sense of style filters down to amateurs via companies like adidas, Nike and FootJoy. Ladies golf shoe makers don't do dowdy, stodgy or plain. At least, not if they want to move product.

Bright colors, sleek shapes and daring designs are all the rage among female golfers. It's not all about looks, though. Women's golf shoes are engineered with newfangled performance and comfort features to match the fashion-forward sensibility.

Here are a few of our personal favorites:

Adidas Signature Natalie and Signature Paula

Pinup girl Gulbis and Paula "Pink Panther" Creamer may have fallen short of expectations for their on-course results, but fashion-wise they've made quite an impression. Adidas has smartly capitalized on this star power by giving each golfer her own shoe line.

Gulbis' Signature Natalie is low-profile number with detailed stitching and eye-catching colors. Her logo and rhinestone design accent the heel and tongue. Creamer's Signature Paula shoes incorporate a ribbon graphic, and one model is striped in hot pink. Both Signature lines feature waterproof protection and a form-fitting footbed.

Also for ladies from adidas: Traxionlite Sport AT, Driver Isabelle 3.0, CC Slingback 2.0, Tech Response 2.0

Nike Air Zoom Vapor II

This ultra-lightweight shoe is the sibling of the men's version. Of course, you won't find many guys trodding the fairways in pink or cool mint kicks. (Well, maybe Ian Poulter.) The Air Zoom Vapor II is notable for its one-piece microfiber upper, which is not only waterproof, light and breathable, but stretch resistant. The contoured, removable sockliner is a bonus.

Also for ladies from Nike: Air Summer Lite III, Air Brassie II, Nike Ace, Apres 18 Slide (an after-golf flip-flop)

FootJoy Lo Pro Collection

This shoe made our list by virtue of its zebra print model alone. (Wouldn't surprise us if Poulter slipped on a pair of these, either.) The Lo Pro is available in more conservative styles, like white with a cool cloud stroke and black snake print. Full-grain leather uppers and a waterproof warranty aren't too shabby.

Also for ladies from FootJoy: FJ Summer Series, Dry Joys, Green Joys (including golf sandals)

Golf Shoe Trends Promote Feel Fashion

If you think there's nothing new under the golf shoe sun, that the category begins and ends with leather-bound saddle oxfords, then you might want to tune in. Manufacturers have made major strides, if you'll pardon the pun, toward more lightweight, casual, even streetwise styles.

That's right, streetwise golf shoes.

At least two major brands have introduced golf shoes that double as off-course kicks. That means no spikes, of course. (Can't go tromping around the kitchen or tavern with those, can we?) It also means these models look nothing like golf shoes.

At least, not your grandfather's golf shoes. Not your dad's, either. In fact, not even your big brother's.

Let's run through a few of the trends currently moving golf footwear forward.

Dual-use versatility

Until recently, one could wear his athletic or casual shoes for golf, but not the other way around. But once metal spikes gave way to plastic, it was only a matter of time before pointy protrusions were deemed unnecessary altogether.

ECCO and Ashworth now offer shoes suitable for an 18-hole round and the happy hour that follows. Naturally, the street-inspired style appeals to younger - perhaps less committed - golfers. But these models promise good traction with flat, well-nubbed soles, so slippage isn't an issue.

Skeptics should note that forever youthful Fred Couples plays in just such a pair, and he had no problems en route to four Champions Tour victories and a sub-68 scoring average in 2010. (Of course, Freddie's swing is so smooth he could stay balanced in roller skates.)

Go low and feel the course

Traditional golf shoes, with their thick soles and spikes, hoist the golfer off the ground while nailing him to it. A new movement puts players more in touch with turf.

By dispensing with spikes and softening shoe bottoms, innovative companies are encouraging golfers to feel the course through their feet. These low-profile models are said to promote more natural footwork for better balance and rhythm. They're super-light too, weighing in at as little as 11 ounces per shoe.

Shoemakers have also discovered that pinching the toes into a tight, pointed space is no way to treat these precious digits. Wider toe boxes have come into vogue, further enhancing feel along with comfort.

Some traditionalists sniff that these shoes are better suited to the bowling alley. (Or worse yet, the circus.) Wearers swear by them, crediting lower scores to the unequalled feel.

Boot camp

It may be a while before you see a tour pro sporting golf boots. Then again, don't put it past Ian Poulter.

Yes, high-tops have made their way from the basketball court to the golf course. While they've yet to catch on with a broad audience, golf boots are out there for those seeking something truly different. Aside from their conversation-starting looks, boots are a good choice when conditions are especially wet, muddy or cold. They also appeal to golfers who need added support for troublesome ankles.

Far from a revolutionary idea, golf boots actually recall the original golf footwear patented by William Park in 1917. As they say, everything old is new again.

Golf Shoes: Make Sure Yours Fit Properly

You've probably never heard the term "Brannock Device," but chances are you've used one. When shopping for a pair of golf shoes, a Brannock Device is an essential tool to getting a proper fit.

In 1927, Syracuse University student Charles Brannock invented the contraption that would bear his name and become a staple in shoe departments worldwide. The Brannock Device measures the length of one's foot from heel to toe as well as arch length (heel to ball) and the foot's width. Made of metal, it features various rulers and sliding pieces to gather info that practically guarantees a correct fitting.

That's a good thing, because golf shoe shopping is no place for guesswork. This is one pair of togs that must fit snugly and securely without tightness or pinching.

If your on-course kicks are too tight, they will naturally be uncomfortable. Considering a round of golf lasts anywhere from three to five hours and involves lots of walking - even if you ride a cart - that's a recipe for misery.

If, on the other hand, your shoes are too loose, they'll cause friction that can lead to blisters. And nobody likes blisters.

Here are a few basic rules to follow when sizing up a new pair of golf shoes:

Lacing - When fully laced and tied, the topmost eyelets should be about 5/8" apart. If they're wider than that, the shoes are probably too narrow for your foot. Top eyelets closer than 5/8" together likely mean the shoes aren't wide enough.

Leather or material on forefoot - With your shoes on and tied, look at the top of your foot between the toe and laces (the forefoot). If this section shows a rippled or bunched effect, the shoe has too much volume - space inside - for your foot. Point this out to the salesperson, who should be able to accommodate your need for less volume.

Fit around the heel and forefoot - There should be no slippage in these areas when walking. Not only will slipping cause blisters, it will sap the stability from your swing. Take a lap or two around the shop to test this factor.

Fit around the mid-foot - Should be slightly tighter than in regular shoes to account for the movement of the swing.

Toe fit - As with any shoes, you should be able to wiggle your toes. A half inch between the big toe and shoe's end is the standard guideline.

A fine point to consider is the shoes' "last," defined as the form of the foot which the shoe is shaped around. In the old days, everyone had their own, custom-built last made of wood. Modern mass production made that unnecessary and ushered in lasts made of plastic.

There's a nearly infinite variety of lasts based on combinations of foot measurements and activity requirements. For instance, some golf shoes feature a square-toed last, others a rounded toe. Some are narrower across the heel and/or shallower around the instep. The forefoot fit is also considered, while the last's bottom may be specially contoured to match specific movements.

Most major manufacturers offer an array of different lasts designed for men and women.

Golf Shoes FAQ - Part II

Turns out our last installment left a few unanswered questions. This Q&A covers a bit more ground...

What are golf shoes made of?

A whole host of natural and synthetic materials make up an ordinary golf shoe. Aside from leather - real or faux - the short list includes thermoplastic urethane (TPU), ethyl vinyl acetate (EVA), and silicone. These space-age products are used to form soles, heels, liners, tongues, collars and other parts and pieces.

I'm a casual kind of guy. Are there golf shoes made to match my personality?

Are sandals casual enough for you? How about flip-flops?

Some golf sandals don't include spikes, but most do. And yes, they strap on tight enough to provide ample stability. Golf flip-flops could prove a little trickier, but hey, if you're that laid-back then surely you have an easy-going swing.

Gals who'd rather not dress to the nines for a quick nine can opt for golf sandals, too. A simple web search will turn up dozens of styles.

Is it a hassle to break in new golf shoes?

Generally, not at all. Depending on how well they fit, many are comfortable right out of the box. For those that feel a little stiff, the best way to break them in is simply to wear them. Unfortunately, spikes make golf shoes less than ideal indoors, but if you're not embarrassed wearing them in the yard, that's one easy trick.

Are golf shoes high-maintenance?

If you want to keep any nice pair of shoes looking sharp, a little extra care is always a good idea.

For starters, put them on using a shoe horn to protect the heel counter and avoid blistering. After the round, wipe down leather or synthetic uppers with a shoe cleaner or mild soap and water. If your shoes are white, use an appropriately colored cleaner to remove blemishes like scuff marks. Polish white or dark shoes after cleaning.

Treat nubuck leather - the kind with a soft, fibrous texture - with a specially made cleaner and brush. By all means, follow the instructions.

For soaked shoes, stuff some newspaper inside to absorb the moisture. Using a hair dryer or sticking your shoes next to a heat source are strongly discouraged. Shoe trees are highly recommended.

How often should I change my spikes?

Every three months, or 3,000 miles.

Make that every 10-15 rounds of golf, according to the spike manufacturers. Depending on your gait, spikes on different areas of your soles may wear out faster. Check them every so often and swap out any spikes that have lost more than a quarter or so of length.

Is replacing spikes a difficult process?

It's a lot easier than changing your oil. In fact, replacing plastic cleats is a snap compared with the old metal ones. All it takes is a ratchet-like tool made specifically for the job, a couple of twists to pop out the old, a couple more to screw in the new, and voila - your traction is back.

FAQs About Today's Golf Shoes

Everything you always wanted to know about golf footwear, but were afraid to ask...

Q: Aren't golf shoes for old fuddy-duddies?

A: If you consider guys likes Jason Day, Camilo Villegas, Anthony Kim and Rickie Fowler old fuddy-duddies, then yes. True, for them golf shoes are technically work shoes, but there's a dazzling array of fashionable - yes, fashionable - styles to choose from.

You don't have to wear traditional or even semi-conventional golf shoes, either. Popular templates include the athletic shoe, skater-inspired street models, even sandals - spikes and all.

Q: Are there shoes made for women who want to look good on the course?

A: Seriously, do you think today's gals would tee it up looking like somebody's great grandmother? You want vibrant colors, there's a palette full of choices. Up-to-date styles -- check. Intricate, eye-catching designs -- everywhere you look.

Women's golf shoes don't sacrifice comfort for couture. Many are made with high-tech microfibers, form-fitting foam, waterproof outer materials and moisture-wicking fabrics.

Q: I'm getting back into golf after several years away from the game. My old shoes have metal spikes, which I know are banned by most courses. Can I replace them with plastic cleats, or do I need to buy a whole new pair of shoes?

A: Plastic cleats come in a variety of different thread sizes, so odds are there's one that will fit your outdated soles. You can remove one of your metal spikes and check the size, then find its plastic match. Or, take your shoes to a local golf course or retailer and ask them to help.

Of course, given the advanced age of your steel-studded shoes, investing in a new pair might be a better idea - especially if your old-school kicks have tassels.

Q: Do professionals still prefer metal spikes over plastic?

A: Some do, but most have switched to soft spikes. If there's one thing pros hate more than an early tee time, it's bumpy greens, and metal spikes are notorious for damaging tender surfaces.

A few years back, Vijay Singh and Phil Mickelson had a minor dust-up at the Masters over the issue of metal-inflicted spike marks, which by rule can't be repaired when they're in one's own putting line. Fortunately, no one was kicked.

Q: I'm a lousy golfer and usually play in sneakers - will golf shoes help my game?

A: You betcha.

For all the advice about keeping your head down and your left arm straight, balance and stability are every bit as important. Golf shoes' primary advantage over standard athletic shoes is those spikes, which anchor you to the turf. No more sneaker spinouts for you, mate.

Q: Can I get a decent pair of golf shoes for less than $100?

A: Does Tiger Woods like beautiful... trophies?

Nearly every major manufacturer offers a "value" brand in the $50-80 range. These models have most of the lightweight, foot-cradling, performance-enhancing features of their costlier siblings, without expensive extras like calfskin uppers. Even better, you can often find pairs that retail for $150-plus offered at huge discounts in clearance sales.