Golf is a sport that requires a specific type of footwear to provide traction and support on grassy and uneven terrain. Many golfers wonder if their golf shoes can also be used for general fitness walking or daily wear, rather than only being used on the golf course.
This article will explain the differences in design and purpose between golf shoes and standard walking shoes, and advise whether golf shoes can provide the right functionality for regular walks.
Golf Shoes Designed Specifically for Golf Courses
Golf shoes are engineered for the unique demands of the golf swing and course conditions. The main considerations in their design are:
- Traction on grass – The soles provide grip to prevent slipping during the golf swing, especially when twisting the body and striking the ball. spikeless or soft spike soles dig into grass better than sneaker soles.
- Lateral support – Shoes stabilise the feet during the lateral motion of swinging golf clubs. They prevent injury from twisting or overextension.
- Torsional support – Rotating the body and swinging puts torque on feet. Golf shoes counteract that force.
- Comfort on uneven lies – Golfers need to swing from awkward stances and uneven terrain. Golf shoes provide stability and shock absorption.
- Waterproof yet breathable – Leather/synthetic uppers are waterproof for morning dew but allow ventilation during play.
- Spiked for slippery surfaces – Replaceable spikes grip even when grass gets wet or soil muddy later in day.
- Easy to clean – Mud and grass can be rinsed off leather/synthetic material.
Overall, golf shoes provide the specific traction, support, and flexibility golfers need to swing safely and powerfully on natural grass and uneven terrain.
Where Golf Shoes Can Be Used for Walking
While designed for golf, golf shoes could be used for some types of walking, especially:
- Walking short distances on grass or trails
- As a temporary replacement for walking shoes
- On golf course between holes or to the first tee
The waterproofing and being comfortable on uneven ground makes them suitable for trail walks. In a pinch, they can get you through a short walk if needed.
Golf shoes generally have a casual style so they don’t look out of place for quick errands or trips.
However, for regular or extended walking, especially on paved surfaces, golf shoes are not ideal and will wear down faster, as explained next.
Where Golf Shoes Wouldn’t Work Well for Walking
Using golf shoes for walking on concrete or asphalt can be problematic:
- Lack traction and grip – Golf soles are soft for grass. Hard surfaces cause slipping.
- Wear down faster – Soft spikes and materials erode quicker on pavement.
- Less shock absorption – Hard surfaces transmit more force to feet and joints.
- Insufficient arch support – Golf shoes are flatter than walking shoe arches.
- Reduced flexibility – Bending shoes frequently can crack leather.
- Get dirty easily – Concrete and asphalt stain lighter shoe materials.
- Lack ankle support – Twisting and turning risks injury without support.
- Traction issues when wet – Golf shoes don’t grip wet sidewalks like sneakers.
For fitness walking, running shoes would be more suitable to provide bounce, flexibility and a smoother stride.
Better to Use Proper Shoes for Each Activity
The ideal solution is to use golf shoes for playing golf and have separate walking or running shoes for regular walks, exercise, or running errands.
This allows each type of footwear to function optimally:
- Preserve golf shoes – Keep traction and support for swinging and terrain.
- Optimal walking shoes – Proper flexibility, cushioning and grip.
- Avoid slips on the course – Don’t wear down golf spikes on pavement.
- Prevent injury – Get needed motion control and stability from right shoes.
- Fashion flexibility – Can have athletic or leather shoes for different settings.
Having the proper footwear also means shoes last longer since they are only used for their intended activity. Rotate between different pairs to increase longevity.
Conclusion
Golf shoes are engineered specifically to provide traction, torsional support and stability during the golf swing on natural grass and uneven lies. While they can be used as a temporary walking shoe, they are not ideal for regular street walking, running errands, or fitness walking.
It is best to use golf shoes only for golf and have separate walking or running shoes optimized for those activities. This avoids premature wear and provides the correct motion control, cushioning and flexibility needed to stay comfortable and prevent injury. Investing in proper golf and walking shoes extends their longevity so you get the most value from each pair.