7 Best New Balance Golf Shoes of 2026

The New Balance 574 Greens v2 delivers a knockout punch in the budget golf shoe category, blending retro flair with modern performance tech. With its 10mm DynaSoft midsole, plush CUSH+ insole, and NDurance spikeless outsole, it offers impressive cushioning and grip without breaking the bank—perfect for weekend warriors who want comfort without compromise. It tackles one of golf’s biggest pain points: foot fatigue over 18 holes, and does so with surprising finesse for its price point.

On the course, these shoes shine in dry to moderate conditions, providing reliable traction on fairways and greens thanks to the flexible rubber outsole that mimics natural foot motion. The waterproof microfiber upper keeps feet dry during early morning dew or light rain, though prolonged submersion will eventually seep in—no surprise at this tier. While not the lightest option, the balanced weight distribution makes walking effortless, though aggressive swingers may notice slightly less stability than cleated models.

Compared to the pricier Fresh Foam X Defender, the 574 Greens v2 lacks advanced waterproofing construction and cleat-based grip, but it holds its own against mid-range spikeless competitors like the 997 SL. It’s ideal for casual golfers, seniors, or those seeking a versatile, stylish shoe that transitions from cart rides to clubhouse drinks seamlessly. For a fraction of the cost, it delivers remarkable value—nearly matching premium comfort features while staying firmly rooted in affordability.

The New Balance 997 SL strikes a masterful balance between heritage style and modern golf functionality, making it a standout in the mid-tier market. Built with an Abzorb midsole and 10mm heel drop, it delivers a smooth, energy-returning stride that eases pressure on joints during long rounds. The NDurance spikeless outsole grips tenaciously on dry turf, while the waterproof microfiber upper ensures confidence when walking through damp grass or light puddles. This is a shoe that bridges the gap between fashion-forward design and serious on-course performance.

In real-world use, the 997 SL proves exceptionally comfortable for walking 18 holes, with a plush CUSH+ insole that molds slightly to the foot over time. The breathable upper prevents overheating in warm weather, though airflow isn’t quite as dynamic as mesh-heavy models like the Breeze v2. It handles pavement and clubhouse floors with ease, making it a great on-and-off-course performer, but like most spikeless shoes, it can slip during forceful swings on wet grass—something aggressive players should note.

When stacked against the 574 Greens v2, the 997 SL offers refined materials and a more responsive ride, justifying its mid-range status. It doesn’t have the cleats of the Brighton v2 or the welded waterproofing of the Fresh Foam X Defender, but it excels as a daily driver for consistent, comfort-focused golfers. It’s the sweet spot between premium features and practical pricing—offering near-top-tier comfort without the elite price tag.

The New Balance Heritage Golf Shoe is a quiet achiever, leveraging timeless design and a 2-year waterproof warranty to deliver unmatched peace of mind for frequent players. Its DynaSoft midsole offers a soft, springy underfoot feel, while the NDurance rubber outsole ensures reliable grip on flat terrain and cart paths. The waterproof microfiber and mesh upper keeps feet dry in wet conditions, and the warranty backs it up—something few competitors at any price can claim. This is a shoe built for golfers who play rain or shine and demand long-term reliability.

On the course, it performs best in moderate weather and firm footing, where its spikeless design stays stable during standard swings and walks. The CUSH+ insole adds a welcome layer of comfort, though it doesn’t match the plushness of Fresh Foam models. Breathability is decent but not exceptional—feet stay dry from the outside, but internal moisture can build up during hot rounds. It’s not the most agile option for power hitters, but for steady, controlled players, it offers consistent, no-fuss performance.

Compared to the Fresh Foam ROAV v2, the Heritage trades some cushioning softness for greater durability assurance thanks to its warranty. It lacks the cleats of the Brighton v2 but wins on simplicity and low maintenance. Ideal for retirees, casual players, or northern-region golfers battling spring showers, it’s a long-term investment in dry, dependable play—backed by a brand standing behind its build.

The New Balance Fresh Foam ROAV Golf v2 is a cloud-walker’s dream, engineered for golfers who prioritize all-day comfort over aggressive performance. Its Fresh Foam midsole delivers an ultra-cushioned, pillow-soft ride that absorbs impact with every step, making it perfect for players with foot or joint sensitivity. The perimeter stability frame and medial arch support keep your foot aligned during the swing, while the skeletal FantomFit upper keeps weight minimal without sacrificing structure. This is a shoe that turns long walks into effortless glides.

In real-world testing, the ROAV v2 excels on flat courses and cart-based play, where its spikeless NDurance outsole provides smooth transitions from turf to pavement. The lightweight, breathable upper keeps feet cool, though it’s not fully waterproof—meaning damp conditions will eventually penetrate. It’s not built for power hitters needing maximum grip, but for seniors, walkers, or those recovering from injury, it offers unmatched underfoot luxury. The seamless heel design eliminates chafing, a small but critical win for comfort.

Against the Breeze v2, the ROAV v2 offers superior cushioning and support, trading a bit of breathability for plushness. It doesn’t have cleats like the Brighton v2, but it dominates in comfort-first scenarios. Best suited for golfers valuing relief over rigidity, it delivers a luxurious experience that feels more premium than its price suggests—beating heavier models in comfort by a mile.

The New Balance Brighton v2 is a game-changer for golfers who demand grip, combining spike-driven traction with the brand’s signature comfort in one aggressive package. Fitted with FastTwist 3.0 Pulsar cleats, it bites into soft turf and wet grass with confidence, giving power players the lateral stability needed for explosive swings. The DynaSoft midsole cushions landings smoothly, while the waterproof microfiber upper keeps feet dry through rainy rounds. This is a shoe built for wet weather, soft courses, and serious players who won’t let conditions dictate performance.

On soggy fairways or hilly terrain, the cleats make a dramatic difference—zero slippage, even during forceful downswings. The NDurance outsole flexes naturally, allowing smooth weight transfer from backswing to follow-through. However, the added weight from cleats and structure makes it less ideal for all-day walking compared to spikeless models. The removable cleats are a huge plus for maintenance and course compliance, but they do require occasional tightening.

Versus the Fresh Foam X Defender, the Brighton v2 offers similar cleat performance but lacks the welded waterproof upper and Fresh Foam X cushioning. It’s heavier than the 574 Greens v2, but that’s the trade-off for unshakable grip. Perfect for competitive amateurs and wet-climate golfers, it delivers tournament-ready traction at a reasonable cost—out-gripping most spikeless rivals without sacrificing core comfort.

The New Balance Breeze v2 lives up to its name—featherlight, airy, and built for speed—making it the ultimate choice for golfers who want to move freely without shoe weight holding them back. With a REVlite midsole and performance mesh upper, it delivers responsive cushioning with minimal bulk, perfect for hot weather or fast-paced rounds. The welded forefoot water-guard adds protection from dew and light rain, while the NDurance spikeless outsole ensures grip on firm surfaces. This is a shoe that prioritizes mobility and breathability above all.

On the course, it shines in dry, warm conditions, where its lightweight construction and ventilated upper keep feet cool and dry. The flexible outsole allows natural foot movement, making it great for walking, though it can feel a bit thin on rocky or uneven terrain. Traction is adequate on dry grass, but it struggles in wet or soft conditions, where cleats would be preferable. It’s not the most cushioned option, but the REVlite foam still offers a snappy, energetic feel underfoot.

Compared to the Fresh Foam ROAV v2, the Breeze v2 is lighter and more breathable, but less plush. It’s a direct competitor to the 574 Greens v2, but wins in weight savings and airflow. Ideal for summer players, walkers, or those sensitive to shoe bulk, it’s the most agile spikeless option in the lineup—offering nimble performance that feels almost athletic-shoe-like on the course.

The New Balance Fresh Foam X Defender is the undisputed champion of golf footwear, merging elite cushioning, cleat-driven grip, and military-grade waterproofing into one uncompromising package. With a 100% welded FantomFit upper, it’s completely sealed against moisture, while the Fresh Foam X midsole delivers a luxuriously soft yet responsive ride that lasts all 18 holes. The FTS 3.0 Pulsar cleats on an Exoskeleton TPU outsole provide aggressive, multi-directional traction that locks you in during the most powerful swings. This is the shoe for golfers who refuse to settle.

In real-world use, it dominates in wet, muddy, or uneven conditions, where its sealed construction and cleats outperform nearly every spikeless rival. The Molded CUSH+ insole adds a plush layer of comfort, while the precision-engineered midsole returns energy with every step. It’s heavier than spikeless models, but the trade-off is worth it for stability and durability. Breathability is solid, though not as airy as mesh-dominant shoes like the Breeze v2.

Stacked against the Brighton v2, the Defender offers superior waterproofing, better cushioning, and a stiffer, more supportive outsole. It’s more expensive than the Heritage model, but justifies it with next-level materials and performance. For serious golfers, tournament players, or all-weather enthusiasts, it’s the complete package—delivering top-tier features that outclass even premium competitors in both protection and comfort.