Not too Big, Not Too Small: Should Golf Shoes be Snug?

Golf shoes are a very important part of the game.

Should golf shoes be snug or loose? Allow your feet to move since there is so many lower body movements in the golf swing.

We’ll address those questions and a lot more in this article to help you understand the perfect shoe size for golf. You will not perform well on the golf course if you wear shoes that are too small or too tight.

Golf Shoe Sizing

Ill fitting golf shoes are the enemy of good golf; here’s how to buy the right fitting golf shoes.

Key Takeaways

• Always wear socks while playing golf.
• Golf shoes are different from dress or running shoes in terms the fit.
• To avoid blisters, it is important to choose the right size and width of golf shoes.
• Shoes that are too large or small can affect performance and make it difficult to walk 18 holes.
• Golf shoes need to be snug, but still allow for your feet to breathe. This will help you play your best.

In the end, your golf shoes shouldn’t feel tight but they should not feel like you are crammed in. To ensure a proper fit, you need to leave enough room in the toebox.

If your shoes are too small it’s going to lead to a lot of issues including blisters and sore feet after the round. There’s nothing worse than feeling your toes scrunched in your shoes and easily worrying more about them than your golf swing.

While shoes that are too large may cause other problems.

When your golf shoe is too big, your feet can slide around when you swing the clubs. This can occur with driver and fairway woods swings because you have a wider stance and a quicker swing.

Shoes that are too large can also cause blisters and other foot issues. You want to make sure that the shoes are tied and have a fully secured heel and forefoot.

Wider Shoes 

Some brands have a narrower fit, even though golf shoes should be snug. This can also lead to discomfort while you are walking or swinging the golf club. 

Getting the right size is important, don’t forget about width too. Some companies make golf shoes that are extra wide or even 2X wide to ensure that they fit perfectly. Always check the size. Before you begin, let’s take a look at the following: buying shoes.

Here are our top golf shoes for wide-footed people. 

Tips for Finding the Right Fit Golf Shoes

A new pair of golf shoes aren’t like normal shoes! When you play golf, you want shoes:

• The size and width of the shoe is the most important factor to consider when purchasing golf shoes.
• Comfortable: You want to make sure the arch and mid-section of the shoe’s interior support your feet throughout the round.
• Stable: This is especially important if you play in conditions that are wet or if your lower body moves a lot.

FAQs about Buying Golf Shoes 

Check out the most frequently asked questions and answers about golf shoes. 

Should golf shoes come in a larger size?

If I had to pick between smaller or bigger golf shoes, I’d opt for slightly bigger.

There’s nothing worse than feeling your feet cramped in a shoe, especially if it’s warm weather and hot outside. If you’re walking it’s likely better to have them slightly bigger as well. 

Are golf shoes of the same size and regular shoes?

Each golf shoe manufacturer is unique. With so many brands making golf shoes – FootJoy, Callaway, Adidas, Under Armour, etc. – it’s hard to say if one brand runs big or small.

Some golf shoe sites will discuss sizing so that you can find the right pair. If you are planning to buy your golf shoe on Amazon, check the company’s website for any sizing issues or width issues. 

Can you wear golf sneakers for walking and jogging?

You can walk in them during the round but the shoe design isn’t meant for long runs. Avoid injuries by choosing shoes with more space.

Does FootJoy shoe size fit true to size?

Yes, I’ve had no issues when buying FootJoy golf shoes. I’m a size 10 in other brands – like Nike or Under Armour – and the same is true with FootJoy. Plus, I’ve bought different pairs (like the FootJoy Pro SL) and wear the same size for each type of shoe. 

Click here to read about our best spikeless golf shoes. 

Why are golf shoe stiff? 

Golf shoes are stiffer compared to your everyday pair of athletic or casual shoes. Why? 

They provide you with a lot of stability when you walk and swing the club. Shoes that are stable are necessary because the golf club swing is usually around 100mph. You could lose your balance or your footing, and as a result make a bad golf swing. 

Most golf shoes have a rigid middle and center that allows for proper lower body rotation. Some golf shoes include arch support, extra comfort and other features. 

Do golf shoes stretch?

When ordering new shoes online, always measure your feet to ensure the shoes you purchase fit correctly. Most won’t stretch much so it’s essential to buy the right shoes from the start and they’ll last longer too.

Should I purchase spiked or spikeless shoes for golf?

Now that metal spikes are essentially banned from golf courses, it’s time to decide spiked vs. spikeless. There isn’t one size fits all answer though and depends on the type of golfer.  (See our article about the best spikeless shoes for golf.)

Spiked golf shoes are best for playing in wet conditions or on hills. They also work well if your swing involves a lot lower body movement. Spikeless shoes are best for warm weather and casual rounds of golf. 

My Experience (Tips to Find the Right Golf Shoes)

The right size golf shoe is essential to play your best and have a snug fit.

There’s nothing worse than wearing shoes that cramp your toes or ones that allow your feet to move around too much. I’ve developed some nasty golf blisters before and can make for a long week if you have multiple rounds back to back. 

Buy shoes that fit snugly but not too tightly. If you can’t walk 18 holes in your golf shoes there’s a problem and you need to address it asap. While it’s normal for your feet to be tired after that long of a walk, they shouldn’t be aching from the incorrect shoe size. 

Try New Golf Shoes: What to Look for

When buying shoes don’t forget to think about comfort, arch support, color, deep toe boxes, width, and spiked vs. spikeless golf shoes. 

Final Thoughts on the Right Shoes for the Golf Course

The right pair of shoes can make a big difference in your game and swing. 

Don’t wear shoes that are too small as it can hurt your feet and lead to some nasty problems (like blisters or athlete’s foot). Shoes that are too big or too wide may cause you to slip as you swing your club back, which can negatively impact your golf swing. 

Golf shoes should fit snugly but not too tightly. Plus, always wear golf socks too.

Click here to read about our favorite men’s golf shoes or click here to read about our favorite women’s golf shoes.