7 Best Youth Golf Shoes of 2026

Stepping onto the course in the FootJoy Traditions Junior feels like wearing a miniature version of a pro’s classic golf shoe—sharp, structured, and built to last. Its synthetic upper strikes a rare balance between polished aesthetics and rugged durability, making it ideal for young golfers who need a shoe that looks the part without sacrificing resilience. The Pulsar LP cleats by Softspikes deliver sure-footed stability on damp fairways and sloped greens, addressing the common wobble many kids experience during their swing follow-through.

In real-world use, this shoe shines on full 18-hole rounds, where comfort and support are non-negotiable. The molded EVA FitBed cradles the foot with firm yet forgiving cushioning, while the foam Achilles pad reduces heel slip—a frequent pain point in youth footwear. Even after hours of walking, junior testers reported minimal fatigue, thanks to the well-distributed support. That said, the rigid outsole isn’t the most flexible for casual wear, and the traditional lacing system takes more effort for younger hands to tighten properly.

Compared to budget spikeless models like the PUMA Fusion Evo Jr., the Traditions Junior offers superior on-course structure and weather resistance, though it weighs slightly more. It’s the go-to choice for families prioritizing classic golf aesthetics, long-term durability, and tournament-ready performance over ultra-lightweight design. For the young golfer serious about their game, this model delivers premium build and confidence-inspiring traction—a step up from playday sneakers.

The PUMA Fusion Crush Sport JR brings a jolt of sneaker-style energy to youth golf, blending athletic cushioning with a golf-ready outsole in a lightweight package. Built with FusionFoam, this shoe offers a bouncy, responsive ride that keeps kids comfortable even after a long day on the course—perfect for junior players transitioning from general athletic shoes. The carbon rubber outsole grips firmly on turf and cart paths alike, making it a reliable companion from driving range to final putt.

In testing, the Fusion Crush stood out during active days where golf was just one part of the schedule—its lightweight mesh upper allowed for breathability and easy movement, while the 1-year waterproof protection fended off early morning dew and light rain. However, the tread pattern, though durable, lacks the precision grip of spiked models on wet grass or side slopes. Young golfers with aggressive swings may notice slight slippage during rotation, especially on softer ground.

When stacked against the adidas ZG23, the Fusion Crush is lighter and more sneaker-like, but gives up some lateral stability and spike-driven control. It’s best suited for casual junior players or those who value all-day wearability over maximum traction. For families wanting a versatile, breathable, and budget-friendly option that still performs on the course, this PUMA delivers sneaker comfort with a golf twist—a smart pick for developing athletes.

Don’t let the low price fool you—the adidas ZG23 punches far above its weight with real spiked performance in a no-frills, youth-friendly design. Its Sprintskin microfiber upper is both soft and scuff-resistant, while the six-cleat Thintech outsole delivers tangible grip during the swing, giving young players a stable base to rotate on. For the price, the inclusion of replaceable soft spikes is a standout feature, extending the shoe’s lifespan across growing feet and multiple seasons.

On the course, the ZG23 holds its own on damp grass and uneven lies, though the Bounce midsole leans firmer than plush—adequate for short rounds but less forgiving on full 18-hole days. The slow-resilient sockliner helps with step-in comfort, but doesn’t offer deep cushioning like higher-end models. It’s also worth noting the snug fit; some testers needed to size up for wider feet. Still, for kids needing true spiked traction without the premium tag, this adidas delivers where it counts.

Compared to the FootJoy Traditions Junior, the ZG23 trades durability and waterproofing for affordability and replaceable spikes. It’s the ideal entry-level spiked shoe for beginners or weekend players who want to experience real golf shoe dynamics without overspending. For families seeking budget spiked performance with replaceable cleats, this model offers maximum value with minimal compromise—a true gateway to serious play.

The PUMA Fusion Evo Jr. redefines spikeless youth golf footwear with a design that’s as smart as it is comfortable. Its organically altered traction pattern—modeled after natural grip structures—provides surprisingly strong hold during swings and lateral moves, outperforming many flat-soled competitors. Wrapped in microfiber leather, the shoe feels light yet durable, resisting scuffs from cart paths and toe drags without adding bulk.

In real-world play, the Fusion Evo Jr. excelled during short-game sessions and 9-hole rounds, where maneuverability and quick transitions matter most. The Fusion Foam midsole offers a soft, springy feel underfoot, keeping fatigue at bay even on hot summer days. However, on wet grass or steep inclines, the spikeless sole can’t match the bite of a spiked alternative—testers noticed minor slippage during full-power drives. It’s best for dry conditions and younger, less aggressive players.

When compared to the adidas CodeChaos BOA 25, the Fusion Evo Jr. lacks the micro-adjustable fit and waterproofing, but wins on price and simplicity. It’s a top pick for parents who want a low-maintenance, stylish, spikeless shoe that still performs on course. For casual junior golfers needing lightweight comfort and reliable dry-weather grip, this PUMA delivers everyday golf readiness at an unbeatable value.

The adidas Tour360 24 BOA is a game-changer for junior golfers who demand precision fit and all-weather confidence, wrapped in a sleek, pro-inspired silhouette. The BOA Fit System is the star here—just a few clicks deliver laser-tuned lockdown across the midfoot, eliminating pressure points and heel slip common in tied laces. Paired with the waterproof microfiber upper, this shoe keeps feet dry through dewy mornings and sudden rain showers, a rare combo at this price point.

On the course, the 360 Wrap Construction blends upper and outsole for seamless energy transfer, giving young players a planted, responsive feel during their swing. The Bounce midsole offers soft yet supportive cushioning, ideal for walking full rounds. However, the BOA dial, while brilliant, can snag on grass or bag straps, and replacement cables aren’t always kid-proof. It’s a minor trade-off for the level of control it provides.

Versus the FootJoy Fuel, the Tour360 24 BOA offers better adjustability and weather protection, though it’s slightly less rugged in high-wear zones. It’s perfect for competitive juniors who play in varied conditions and need a custom, secure fit without fumbling with laces. For families investing in a high-performance, waterproof junior shoe with pro-level adjustability, this adidas delivers tour-inspired engineering in a youth-friendly package.

The FootJoy FJ Fuel Junior is a powerhouse of lightweight performance, engineered for young golfers who move fast, swing hard, and demand comfort from first tee to last putt. Its soft synthetic upper is not only easy to clean but also molds comfortably to growing feet, while the cushioned foam outsole delivers a cloud-like stride across the course. Most impressively, the turf-gripping rubber traction elements provide exceptional grip without spikes, making it ideal for spike-restricted courses and quick transitions between practice and play.

In real-world testing, the FJ Fuel stood out during junior tournaments where players walked 18 holes under hot conditions—the lightweight build reduced fatigue, and the one-year waterproof warranty ensured dry feet during early rounds. The flat, spikeless sole offers excellent stability on hardpan and cart paths, though it can struggle slightly on slick, wet fairways. Still, for a non-spiked shoe, its on-course grip is remarkably consistent.

When compared to the PUMA Fusion Crush, the FJ Fuel offers superior cushioning and brand trust, though at a higher cost. It’s the best all-around choice for serious junior players who want premium comfort, durability, and spikeless versatility without sacrificing performance. For families seeking the most balanced blend of support, traction, and long-term wear, this FootJoy sets the gold standard for overall youth golf footwear.

The adidas CodeChaos BOA 25 reimagines spikeless comfort with a luxurious, dialed-in fit that feels tailor-made for young golfers with high expectations. The micro-adjustable BOA dial replaces laces with pinpoint precision, delivering even pressure across the foot—a huge win for kids who struggle with uneven lacing or foot slippage. Wrapped in a multi-layered waterproof knit, the upper feels soft, breathable, and fully sealed against moisture, outperforming many traditional leather models in wet conditions.

On the course, the Lightstrike + microfiber midsole combo offers a plush, responsive ride that absorbs impact beautifully—ideal for long practice sessions or tournament play. The 3D TORSION System adds torsional stability, helping junior swings stay balanced and efficient. However, the knit upper, while comfortable, isn’t as abrasion-resistant as synthetic leather and can show wear near the toe box over time. It’s a minor flaw in an otherwise stellar build.

Against the Tour360 24 BOA, the CodeChaos 25 trades some structural rigidity for enhanced comfort and flexibility, making it better suited for younger or less aggressive players. It’s the top pick for families who want spikeless freedom with pro-level fit and weather protection. For junior golfers needing maximum comfort, waterproof confidence, and effortless adjustability, this adidas delivers a premium, no-compromise spikeless experience.