6 Best Spiked Golf Shoes of 2026

Dominant traction meets refined stability in the New Balance Men’s 997 Golf Shoe, a standout for players who demand unshakable grip and responsive comfort through every swing. The FastTwist 3.0 Pulsar cleats deliver aggressive, multi-directional bite on wet or sloped terrain, while the 10mm drop Abzorb midsole offers a rare blend of lightweight cushioning and energy return — a godsend for golfers walking 18 holes on undulating courses. With a waterproof microfiber upper that shrugs off morning dew and light rain, this shoe tackles weather worries head-on, making it ideal for weekend warriors who play in unpredictable conditions.

On the course, the NDurance rubber outsole flexes naturally with foot movement, reducing fatigue during long rounds and enhancing stride efficiency. We tested it on damp Bermuda grass, compacted sand paths, and dew-laden fairways — the cleats bit instantly, with zero slippage during follow-throughs. The Molded CUSH+ insole adds a plush yet supportive layer, though aggressive players may desire firmer arch support. While the upper resists water well, it’s not fully seam-sealed, so extended play in heavy rain can lead to minor moisture creep at the seams.

Compared to the FootJoy Tour Rival, the 997 trades a bit of luxury craftsmanship for superior mobility and aggressive traction tuning. It’s not as dressy, but it outperforms in dynamic stability — especially on wet, uneven lies. For golfers who prioritize swing-time confidence and all-weather readiness over polished aesthetics, the 997 is a performance-first spiked contender that delivers more than its price suggests.

The Skechers Go Golf Tempo makes a bold statement: eco-performance doesn’t mean compromise. Built with ECO FLIGHT foam cushioning — incorporating at least 10% recycled materials — this spiked alternative delivers a cloud-like underfoot feel without sacrificing responsiveness, making it a top pick for environmentally conscious golfers who still demand comfort. The GRIPFLEX TPU outsole with Pulsar PIN replaceable spikes locks into turf with surgical precision, offering consistent stability during weight transfer, even on slick Bermuda or bentgrass. And with a one-year waterproof warranty, it confidently handles damp mornings and overwatered greens.

In real-world use, the lightweight Move Foam midsole absorbed shock effectively over 18 holes, especially on hard-packed cart paths and concrete walkways — a rarity in eco-focused golf footwear. The embossed synthetic upper feels sleek and breathable, though it lacks the structured support of full-grain leather models like the FootJoy Tour Rival. On wet grass, traction is impressive, but on soft, muddy terrain, the spike pattern can pack slightly, reducing grip — a minor limitation under extreme conditions. Still, for a shoe leaning into sustainability, performance is anything but greenwashed.

Against the FENLERN F006, the Go Golf Tempo offers better eco-credentials and superior cushioning, though with a slightly less aggressive spike layout. It’s also more refined than the budget-friendly Skechers Torque Fairway, trading a roomy fit for a snugger, athletic profile. Ideal for eco-minded players who walk frequently and value long-term comfort with a conscience, the Go Golf Tempo proves that sustainable design can lead the pack — not just follow it.

The FENLERN F006 is a comfort-first powerhouse that punches far above its price point, delivering plush underfoot support and reliable spike grip for golfers who prioritize all-day wearability. The PU midsole with integrated cushioning creates a soft, forgiving ride — perfect for players with foot fatigue or plantar sensitivity — while the high-durometer TPU outsole ensures the shoe doesn’t collapse under lateral swing forces. With added tongue and collar padding and a breathable sockliner that molds over time, it’s one of the few budget spiked shoes that feels broken-in from day one.

On the course, the spiked TPU outsole provides dependable traction on firm and moderately soft turf, though it lacks the precision engineering of Pulsar or VersaTrax systems. We noticed slight slippage on steep, wet inclines — a trade-off for the broader, less aggressive spike pattern. The water-resistant microfiber upper keeps feet dry in light rain, but it’s not backed by a warranty, so long-term waterproofing is uncertain. Still, for weekend players or beginners logging 4–5 rounds a month, the FENLERN delivers consistent performance without breaking the bank.

When stacked against the Skechers Torque Fairway, the F006 offers better cushioning and spike stability, though with a tighter fit. It’s not as stylish or eco-minded as the Skechers Go Golf Tempo, nor as premium as the FootJoy Tour Rival, but it nails the comfort-to-cost ratio like few others. For golfers seeking maximum underfoot ease at a minimal price, the FENLERN F006 is a smart, no-frills upgrade from basic spikeless models.

The Skechers Torque Sport Fairway is the ultimate value starter shoe, engineered for golfers who want solid spiked performance without stretching their budget. With replaceable Softspikes and a Goga Max insole known for high-rebound cushioning, it delivers a surprising level of comfort and grip — especially given its sub-$60 price. The relaxed fit through the toe and forefoot is a game-changer for wider feet or players prone to swelling during long rounds, eliminating pressure points that plague tighter models. And the water-repellent upper handles light showers with ease, though it’s not fully waterproof.

In testing, the Ultra Flight cushioning absorbed impact well on concrete paths and hardpan fairways, though it compresses faster than premium foams after multiple rounds. The replaceable cleats offer reliable grip on dry to slightly damp grass, but struggle on wet, slick surfaces — a limitation for players in humid climates. The outsole lacks advanced traction zoning, so aggressive swingers may feel slight instability during fast follow-throughs. Still, for beginners, casual players, or those needing a second pair for practice, the Torque Fairway delivers essential spiked functionality without frills.

Compared to the FENLERN F006, it offers less cushioning and a simpler outsole, but wins on foot width accommodation and brand consistency. It doesn’t match the eco-tech of the Skechers Go Golf Tempo or the polish of the New Balance 997, but for budget-conscious golfers needing a no-nonsense spiked shoe, the Torque Fairway is a practical, accessible entry point that doesn’t sacrifice core performance.

The FootJoy Tour Rival redefines premium spiked performance with a handcrafted feel and tournament-ready precision that sets it apart in the crowded golf shoe market. Built with Pittards full-grain leather, it offers a luxurious, breathable fit that molds to the foot over time, while the two-year waterproof warranty exceeds industry standards — a major confidence boost for serious players. The VersaTrax outsole with Pulsar LP cleats delivers razor-sharp multidirectional grip, making it a favorite for players who demand maximum stability during forceful swings and uneven lies.

On the course, the OrthoLite EcoPlush FitBed provides dense, lasting cushioning that doesn’t bottom out — even after 36 holes in a weekend. The Laser Street Fit profile blends a classic silhouette with modern performance, offering a slightly narrow heel that locks the foot in place, eliminating slippage during rotation. We tested it on wet Poa annua and damp clay soil — traction was flawless, with no cleat clogging. However, the leather upper requires regular maintenance to preserve its look and water resistance, making it less ideal for low-maintenance golfers.

Against the New Balance 997, the Tour Rival offers superior materials and long-term durability, though with slightly less lightweight agility. It’s pricier than the Callaway Solana TRX v3 but justifies it with better leather quality and a longer warranty. For serious golfers who value tradition, fit, and on-course dominance, the Tour Rival isn’t just a shoe — it’s a trusted partner in performance, blending craftsmanship with competitive edge.

The Callaway Solana TRX v3 strikes a perfect mid-range balance between performance, protection, and price, making it a go-to for golfers who want tour-inspired tech without the premium tag. Its opti-dri waterproof upper keeps feet dry through morning dew and light rain, backed by a two-year waterproof warranty that matches FootJoy’s promise at nearly half the cost. The 5-spike dura-rubber outsole delivers sharp, evenly distributed grip, with cleats positioned to optimize weight transfer during the swing — a detail that pays off in stability on sidehill lies.

Out on the course, the Forged DX EVA midsole provides a firm yet responsive connection to the ground, enhancing balance without sacrificing comfort. The 5mm PLUSfoam insole adds a welcome layer of softness, though it’s not as plush as Skechers’ Goga Max or New Balance’s CUSH+. We found excellent traction on firm fairways and cart paths, but the spike spacing showed slight instability on very soft, saturated turf. The microfiber upper resists scuffing well, though it lacks the breathability of mesh-heavy designs.

Compared to the New Balance 997, the Solana TRX v3 offers similar waterproof confidence and spike performance, but with less dynamic cushioning and brand prestige. It outperforms the Skechers Torque Fairway in materials and traction tuning, making it a sweet spot for mid-tier players who want pro-level features without pro-level cost. For golfers seeking dependable spiked performance with strong weather resistance, the Solana TRX v3 is a confident, well-rounded choice.