Best FootJoy Golf Shoes 2024
FootJoy are arguably the biggest golf shoe brand in the world and, in this guide, we have taken a look at their best models
Best FootJoy Golf Shoes: Quick Menu
1. The list in brief
2. Spiked
3. Spikeless
4. Women's
5. How we test
6. How to choose
7. FAQs
If you were to ask a golfer their favorite manufacturer of golf shoe, it is likely they would say FootJoy, with the company involved in producing some of the most iconic models in golf for over 150 years. Purveyors of some of the best golf shoes currently available on the market, FootJoy also make some of the best spiked golf shoes and best spikeless golf shoes that money can buy. Don't just take our word for it, take a look at the number of professionals donning the footwear on the PGA, DP World and LPGA Tours.
Currently, there are a variety of styles available in the FootJoy range and, below, we have tested out the very best the company has to offer. Whether it's comfort you are after, or perhaps a certain style, there are plenty of options available.
Dan Parker takes a look at the best golf shoes currently available on the market
However, if FootJoy is not for you, we have also created guides on other brands available on the market. For example, we have scoured the current golf shoe market to create buying advice on the best Puma golf shoes, best Under Armour golf shoes and also the best Nike golf shoes.
The Quick List
A worthy improvement on an iconic shoe franchise, FootJoy has innovated nicely across this sporty, comfortable and premium shoe to make it even better than its predecessor.
One of the most well-rounded spiked golf shoes of recent memory, the FootJoy HyperFlex Carbon excels thanks to the superb stability.
The Premiere Series Wilcox shoe is a truly stunning model that will catch the eyes of your playing partners. It has a firm wear but gives your feet that locked-in feel.
The HyperFlex is an excellent spiked shoe that performs well in all conditions. You are greeted with a locked in yet comfortable feeling when slipping on this stylish pair.
The Packard shoe provides noteworthy grip and stability while being comfortable enough to go 18 holes without feeling any foot fatigue. It looks great too.
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The Tour Alpha provides the optimum blend of comfort and performance, specifically stability through excellent heel support and grip.
One of golf’s most popular shoes, FootJoy’s Pro SL 2022 design has a clean, premium aesthetic and offers superb spikeless stability.
Topped off with a proven outsole and plenty of cushioning, FootJoy has made a great golf shoe even better. The improvements come primarily in breathability, which is superb.
The FootJoy Fuel Sport has a lightweight and stable feel that should give you a huge confidence boost on the golf course. The colors stand out nicely too.
The Stratos is a classic-looking spikeless shoe that offers good traction and versatility. One of the most comfortable shoes we have tested this year!
The Women's Flex XP is a lightweight, sporty shoe that delivers on both performance and looks. The mesh upper is stylish, breathable and yet wipes clean easily
FootJoy have once again produced yet another stunning shoe, the women’s Pro SL delivers on both looks and performance making it a top notch spikeless golf shoe.
Best FootJoy Golf Shoes
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Spiked
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
Updated for 2023, the new HyperFlex range comes in three men's models - HyperFlex, HyperFlex BOA, and HyperFlex Carbon, with the Carbon version containing a carbon fiber construction which makes it incredibly lightweight.
There's a lot to like about this model and, from a performance perspective, the absolute highlight, we thought, was the Ortholite Impression Footbed. This technology has elevated the HyperFlex Carbon from a good golf shoe to a great golf shoe because, as soon as we slipped our foot inside, we could feel the technology at work.
Aesthetically, the HyperFlex Carbon has stuck to the similar blueprint of its predecessor but, this time around, FootJoy has included some new splashes of color that elevate the overall shelf appeal. It's part of a clear effort by FootJoy to go a bit bolder and brighter with some of its color options.
- Read our full FootJoy HyperFlex Carbon Golf Shoe Review
FootJoy Premiere Series Wilcox Golf Shoe
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
A shoe that will certainly catch the eyes of your playing partners, the FootJoy Wilcox is the latest addition to the brands excellent range of Premier golf shoes and cuts the balance right between being a traditionally styled golf shoe and one that just oozes class. It is certainly one of the best spiked golf shoes on the market right now thanks mostly to its visuals, which if you couldn't tell already, we loved.
Moving away from the looks and onto the grip on offer. FootJoy have created a Versatrax Outsole that boasts nine stable cleats which raise you above mud and wet grass and helps to deliver plenty of traction. In testing, the outsole gave us plenty of confidence to commit 100% to our shots.
Admittedly, these aren't the most comfortable golf shoes in the FootJoy range, as they offer a firmer feel, but they still have that 'locked-in' feeling when out on the golf course. Featuring a one-year waterproof warranty, you could argue that these are amongst some of the best waterproof golf shoes available.
- Read our full FootJoy Premiere Series Wilcox Golf Shoe Review
FootJoy HyperFlex 2023 Golf Shoe
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
FootJoy claims this shoe is designed for the ‘modern golfer athlete’ and, in testing, it certainly performed well. There's a lot of aspects that stand out with the HyperFlex, but it's the comfort and stability that we really liked, with the thermoplastic side wrap and saddle keeping our foot snug when walking and playing our shot.
Looks-wise, it is certainly sporty, and one of things that we particularly enjoyed about the HyperFlex was the sock-like design around the tongue and heel - being able to pull the tab forward made the shoe easier to get on, with what is a fairly narrow entrance. It is worth noting that the HyperFlex did come up slightly narrow, so we would recommend ordering the wide fit for people who have had previous struggles with narrow fitting shoes.
- Read our full FootJoy HyperFlex 2023 Golf Shoe Review
FootJoy Premiere Series Packard Golf Shoes
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
This model is inspired by Frederick Packard, FootJoy’s founder and a shoe pioneer who drove the adoption of many modern manufacturing and design innovations that are still used today. Another stunning-looking shoe, the Packard features premium detailing like the pebble grain leather as well as the calfskin croc print in the saddle area.
If you need proof of the quality of the Packard, then it is worth noting that these shoes have been previously worn by the likes of 15-time Major winner, Tiger Woods, with the American donning them when he returned to competitive action in April 2022.
It is a cleated shoe, so the VersaTrax+ pattern combines with nine Pulsar low profile cleats to provide impressive grip. Even when testing on a damp morning, at no point did our feet slide laterally or give way. In fact, stability is a key performance attribute of the Packard, as it provides a firm and locked in feel, which helps forge the strong connection with the ground that is so crucial to the golf swing and in generating speed.
- Read our full FootJoy Premiere Series Packard Shoe Review
FootJoy Premiere Series Tarlow Golf Shoe
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
Featuring in three colors, the Tarlow series is also fully customisable, with the design being FootJoy's modern interpretation of the timeless cap toe. Constructed with a natural grain leather in the vamp (the middle part of the upper above the foot) and the quarter (the back part of the upper), the aesthetic will garner a mixed response, with some loving it and some hating it. However, this is something which you could probably says about many of the best golf shoes on the market.
Like the Flint and Packard models listed in this guide, it's not just the looks that are impressive, as the soft, supple sheepskin linings provided immense comfort out on the golf course and, rather importantly, it didn't cause any uncomfortable rubbing or blisters either in testing, which is something that can often occur when we have taken shoes right out of the box and onto the golf course.
For grip, the Tarlow has nine Pulsar low profile cleats, which also provide an immense amount of stability throughout the swing. The last thing of note is the waterproof leather construction, which performed very well when we got caught in a couple of downpours. In testing, our feet felt nicely cocooned against the elements.
- Read our full FootJoy Premiere Series Tarlow Golf Shoe Review
FootJoy Tour Alpha Golf Shoe
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
If you're looking for comfort and stability in your golf shoes, then you should definitely consider trying out the FootJoy Tour Alpha. Firstly, they're packed to the brim with golfing technology and, while they may look slightly big, they are surprisingly light.
This shoe stands out as one of the best on the market because of the confidence and control you get from it. Like other models listed, we see the nine cleats across the shoe and this enhanced grip helped us create a better connection to the ground.
The stand-out feature is arguably the padding around the ankle and underfoot. In testing, we thought it was excellent, with the fit helping you keep fully locked into the shoe. This gave us greater control with our golf swing.
- Read our full FootJoy Tour Alpha Golf Shoe Review
Spikeless
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
It's now been eight years since FootJoy introduced the first Pro/SL golf shoe to the market and, throughout that time, the iconic look has stayed and aged very well. In the Pro/SLX Carbon, that remains a similar story, as some new flashes of tech and color provide a fresh, modern and premium look which we love.
The main standout is the comfort, as FootJoy have utilised the superb Ortholite Impressions FitBed that we saw on the HyperFlex Carbon from last year. We think it's one of the most comfortable golf shoes money can buy, with the Impressions FitBed moulding to the foot overtime and providing a worn-in feel that is extremely comfortable.
A lot of the reliable technology has stayed but, one aspect which FootJoy have worked on is the spikeless outsoles. We now see a moulded 3D X-Wing on the outsole, with the carbon fiber construction redistributing energy to the perimeter of the golf shoe to engage grip where golfers need it most. It's very different to most of the best spikeless golf shoes, but we felt it worked superbly in testing.
- Read our full FootJoy Pro/SLX Carbon Golf Shoe Review
FootJoy Pro/SLX Golf Shoe
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
The FootJoy Pro/SLX is the next evolution of the brand’s Pro/SL franchise and, aesthetically, the company have delivered once again with what it is a really good looking golf shoe. Screaming premium, the first thing we noticed is the exposed heel stabiliser and sidewall TPU wrap heel, which is there to help lateral and upper movement.
In terms of performance, FootJoy have introduced a new traction design called the PWR TRAX System. Featuring a molded 3D X-Wing that uses swing forces to redistribute energy to the perimeter of the shoe, we found them to perform excellently in a range of weather and course conditions.
- Read our full FootJoy Pro/SLX Golf Shoe Review
FootJoy Pro SL 2022 Shoes
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
We have been fans of the Pro SL range since it was released back in 2016 and, with its fourth generation, we see the iconic model take some of the comfort from the FootJoy Stratos golf shoe and the brand’s Hyperflex design added to the midsole of the new 2022 Pro SL.
In testing, this provided comfort whilst also returning energy to our feet as we stepped, with the Pro SL providing comfort straight out of the box and an on-course performance that we've gotten to know and love.
Certainly the sole design alone puts this as one of the best spikeless golf shoes we have worn on the course, as it also provides all the traction you need, even in wet, wintery conditions. Because there are multiple versions of the Pro SL, there should be something for everyone's tastes.
- Read our full FootJoy Pro SL 2022 Shoe Review
FootJoy Pro SL Sport Golf Shoe
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
The Pro SL Sport keeps the good-looking silhouette that we know and love, with the new upper refining the look over its predecessor. Available in multiple colorways, there should be a look for everyone.
Performance-wise, the Sport model is lighter than the standard Pro SL, with FootJoy introducing an all-new performance material upper, utilising mesh and using an ultra thin TPU hotmelt top layer that is significantly lighter. In testing, we felt the lightweight nature of the shoe led to less foot fatigue and also made the walk a lot less strenuous on our legs.
Grip-wise, the Pro SL Sport has an Infinity Spikeless Outsole and, in our testing, we found it performed excellently in summer conditions. We are yet to test in wet conditions, but we have faith in the fact that the outsole will do its job when winter strikes.
- Read our full FootJoy Pro SL Sport Golf Shoe Review
FootJoy Fuel Sport 2023 Golf Shoe
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
The main standout of the FootJoy Fuel Sport is the grip. Although it isn't as strong as the best spiked golf shoes, it's as good as, with a Performance Infinity Outsole and Stability Bridge working wonders over an array of lies and conditions.
In our testing, we used these on a day where there was heavy rainfall just prior to going out on the course and, despite being very wet underfoot, we didn't experience any slips at any point during the round.
There is a lot to like about the Fuel, with the overall comfort and stability something which will provide confidence. This is because our foot remained firmly locked in place throughout 18 holes, with the lightweight cushioning from the Stratolite Foam working its magic when hitting full shots and walking between them.
- Read our full FootJoy Fuel Sport 2023 Golf Shoe Review
FootJoy Stratos 2022 Golf Shoe
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
The strapline for the FootJoy Stratos 2022 shoe boasts of offering the golfer ‘luxurious comfort’. This is in no small part down to the use of Pittards NappaLuxe leather for the upper, and the brand’s StratoFoam under the foot.
Starting with the grip on the Stratos, with lots of contact points with the ground providing an impressive amount of traction throughout. What really stood out though was the comfort, these are easily one of the most comfortable golf shoes on the market.
What's more, the design and look is a very classic look, with there being no flashes of color or or overly aggressive spikeless designs. We think it will appeal to a number of players, as the look is very simple and understated.
- Read our full FootJoy Stratos 2022 Golf Shoe Review
Women's Golf Shoes
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
A sporty, high-performance golf shoe, the Flex XP delivers excellent comfort over 18 holes of golf, with it proving to be a fantastic summer golf shoe that will add an extra spring to your step.
In testing, we felt they were almost like running trainers rather than golf shoes, but they still offered the same levels of traction as some of the very best women's golf shoes. They are also lightweight, yet waterproof, and offer great breathability. This is thanks to the specially designed mesh that aligns the shoe's upper. While you might think that this mesh is not the best for rainy or dusty conditions, we were impressed with how easy it was to brush mud and sand off them.
The main standout is the comfort, which comes from an EVA midsole that helps to stabilize the foot and give more support as you swing the club. Even in wet conditions, we thought these shoes held their own. They can also be worn off the course and have a one-year waterproof warranty.
- Read our full FootJoy Womens Flex XP 2022 Shoe Review
FootJoy Women's 2022 Pro/SL Shoe
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
The FootJoy Women's 2022 Pro/SL Shoe is definitely worth considering if you're looking for a shoe that will provide you with greater stability. In testing, we thought that, overall, they are a comfy and spongy spikeless option that can be worn almost all year round thanks to their waterproof leather upper.
These shoes provide excellent grip on the turf and, thanks to the shoe's new Infinity Outsole, it provides 30% more points of traction than its predecessor. It also has a bouncy Stratofoam midsole cushioning sole that gives excellent support as you traverse the fairways and comes in an array of widths and sizes that make it perfect for golfers with all foot shapes.
It's the weight of the shoe that really impressed us though and, while it may look slightly big compared to some of the lighter sneakers on offer in the best women's spikeless shoe category, the Women's Pro/SLs are so light that it felt like we weren't wearing anything on our feet.
- Read our full FootJoy Women's 2022 Pro/SL Shoe Review
How we test golf shoes
Our golf shoe testing methodology revolves around putting models to the test over a number of rounds and in different conditions. This is so we can gain a better idea of overall performance in terms of factors like grip comfort, grip, stability, waterproofing and how they actually look on the golf course. Each of the shoes listed above has been personally used by a member of the Golf Monthly team and golf shoe testing is headed up by Golf Monthly Staff Writer Dan Parker.
This is the best way of testing a golf shoe as using it in the real world over a number of weeks allows us to see how they perform when variables change like weather, ground conditions, different stances and lies, and so on. We think this also gives us information on the little details as well like which brands come up small or large, which models start to rub a bit too much after 36 holes, which designs can be used off the golf course and for the drive home? We are very comprehensive in our tests to the point where we will regularly attend product launches and meet with the manufacturer’s R&D experts to understand the new technology. That isn't to say manufacturers can buy a good review though, as all our reviews are made by golfers, for golfers.
How to choose golf shoes
There are a number of factors to consider when picking out your next pair of golf shoes so to help you narrow down your search and inform your buying decision, below we have put together some key points.
1. Spiked or spikeless?
The models above are split into spiked (or cleated) and spikeless designs and there are pros and cons of each. Spiked golf shoes offer better grip and stability but don't sit as low to the ground as spikeless models. They are perhaps better suited to wet weather and colder climates where the terrain may be slightly slippery under foot.
Spikeless golf shoes offer off-course versatility. They are perfect for driving in the car to the golf course, playing a round, and then driving home again because they are usually light and comfortable, but most won't offer as much traction as a spiked shoe. Spikeless shoes are perhaps better for warmer climates where the ground is a lot harder. While they don't provide as much grip as a spiked shoe, on firmer ground you will get a lot of traction off the floor with spikeless golf shoes.
2. Waterproofing
If you live somewhere that gets a lot of rain then a waterproof shoe is a must. The best designs will keep your feet bone dry however if you play golf in glorious sunshine most of the time, then you may view other factors as more significant.
Many players choose to have one pair for winter and another, lighter pair for summer to keep them fresh and suit different requirements.
You may also want to think about how easy to clean your waterproof shoes are. Some shoes can be made of a waterproof fabric that can sometimes get dirty with mud and be hard to clean. But if you play a lot in the summer months, then a lighter more breathable pair of shoes might be for you.
3. Getting the right fit
When picking out golf shoes getting the right fit is important because otherwise blisters can build up, or your feet may slide around inside, which limits your stability.
When trying a pair on for the first time, listen for the 'whoosh' sound when you slide your feet in - that's the sound of all the air leaving the shoe to confirm it is the correct size, but do a walking test to be sure. They shouldn't pinch anywhere, nor should your feet be moving around inside.
When it comes to the right fit it is also worth considering different laces. Normal laces are good for most but for some golfers, BOA laced shoes provide more convenient fastening and shouldn’t loosen during the course of a round, but are usually a tad more expensive.
The better fit, the more control you'll have in your swing and that means you'll be more confident when it comes to putting more power on your golf shots.
4. Styling
Thankfully modern golf shoe design has seen many brands not just create traditional, classic-looking shoes, but also modern styles that can be used off the golf course too. Therefore it is important to think about what your shoes look like and what style suits you. Whatever you like or dislike, there is something for everyone these days.
5. Support
Over a round of 18 holes, an average golfer will walk approximately five miles and burn up to 2,000 calories. That is a lot of time spent on your feet, so as it goes without saying, you're going to always want to have something on your feet that is comfortable.
If you do get sore feet or knees during your round, it's best to get a shoe that has a spongey yet supple sole that can cushion your feet while you walk. That being said some shoes can often sacrifice performance for comfort, so it's best to always try your shoes on and have a little walk around your club shop before you buy.
You may also want to think about the support you get around the ankles as many golfers traversing the undulating terrains of their local club will know that it is often very easy to turn over on one of your ankles if you misplace your step. For that reason, if you can get a pair of shoes with good support around their opening, your ankles will be much better off for it.
If you enjoyed this guide on the best FootJoy golf shoes, be sure to check out the Golf Monthly website for more reviews and guides, such as the best Nike golf shoes, or best adidas golf shoes.
FAQs
Is FootJoy a good brand?
FootJoy are highly regarded as being one of the premium footwear brands in golf, with PGA Tour professionals, like Tiger Woods, Justin Thomas, Patrick Cantlay, Louis Oosthuizen and Adam Scott all choosing to use FootJoy.
Does Tiger Woods wear FootJoy golf shoes?
While Tiger Woods has previously played in Nike golf shoes, in recent years, the 15-time major winner has been seen wearing a pair of FootJoy's Premiere Series Packard golf shoes.
Is it better to wear spiked or spikeless golf shoes?
That depends on your preferences as a golfer. Spiked golf shoes offer more grip on the ground and help players perform on softer surfaces, where the turf might be slippy. Spikeless golf shoes are better for summer conditions when the ground may be a little harder and are regularly seen being used by professional PGA Tour players in America.
From clubs, balls and tees, to essential sportswear and fitness products, keep it affordable with a little help from our promo and coupon codes.
These FootJoy coupon codes will help you save on golf shoes, gloves and apparel.
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Dan has been with Golf Monthly team since 2021. He graduated with a Masters degree in International Journalism from the University of Sussex and looks after equipment reviews and buyer's guides, specializing in golf shoe, golf bag and golf cart reviews. Dan has now tested and reviewed over 30 pairs of golf shoes and is an expert in the field. A left-handed golfer, his handicap index is currently 6.5 and he plays at Fulford Heath Golf Club in the West Midlands.
Dan is currently playing:
Driver: TaylorMade Stealth 2
Fairway: TaylorMade Stealth 2 15°, Ping G425 Max 21°
Hybrid: Ping G425
Irons: Cobra King Tec Utility, Ping i230 (5-PW)
Wedges: Ping Glide Forged Pro
Putter: TaylorMade Spider Tour X
Ball: TaylorMade TP5x
- Matt CradockStaff Writer
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