This is the first of many MyGolfSpy golf shoe-related buyer’s guides we will be bringing you in the coming months. Today we take a look at a variety of golf shoes that have a suggested retail price under $100.
The sub-$100 market is a tough one for golf shoes. We’re seeing more and more shoes come in at higher price points while also seeing an increase in the quality of the shoes. Buying a budget-level golf shoe can be tough and we’re here to help you find a pair of golf shoes that are worthy of their price and will perform well.
The Reviews
All of the shoes have been judged on the same scale for (Comfort, Performance, Durability, and Style). In addition to the individual scales, a final letter grade is given for an overall score for each shoe.
The individual scales for the characteristics of the shoes are judged on a qualitative scale and are based on observations of putting the shoes to multiple rounds of golf and range sessions. While the bars show relative performance between an arbitrary minimum and maximum range, the letter grade is an overall score independent of the individual scales.
The Contenders
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Adidas |
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Nike |
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TRUE Linkswear |
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Oakley |
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Travis Mathew |
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Kikkor |
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Callaway |
TRUE Linkswear Sensei
TRUE Linkswear has put out some great shoes in the past few years and the Sensei is one of the best all-around values of their line-up.
The zero-drop nature of these shoes makes them perfect if you frequently walk the course and it’s hard to imagine any shoe being much more comfortable. The mesh uppers won’t mix well with cold temperatures or rain, but these shoes perform great in normal conditions and are a pleasure to wear on the course.
The Sensei is a great choice for the fair-weather golfer.
Adidas Adicross III
The Adicross III has respectable all-around performance for an entry-level shoe.
While the shoe initially felt narrow and stiff, it became much more comfortable after a short break-in period that took less than a full round of golf. The styling is great for a progressive golf shoe and it looks great during play as well as on your way to and from the course.
The Adicross has become a great alternative to traditional golf shoes. This is a great looking shoe with good all-around performance.
Oakley Ripcord
Oakley has recently stepped up to a full line of golf shoes and the company has a variety of shoes to meet a variety of budgets.
The Oakley Ripcords were surprisingly comfortable. These shoes are great for grinding it out on the range for hours or spending time walking the course. While the grip on these shoes is good enough, the bottoms of the shoes wear quickly – especially when they’re worn to and from the course or worn heavily on concrete. The Ripcords come with two-year waterproof warranty – which is a welcome addition to a budget-level shoe.
The Ripcords scored well, but the lack of traction on the shoes might send you back to purchase a new pair after only moderate play.
Callaway Chev Aero
Callaway has a nice line of new shoes this year and regardless of what you’re looking for, there’s likely a Callaway shoe that meets your needs.
The Callaway Chev Aeros stood out as the biggest surprise of the shoes tested. The Chev Aeros had solid grounding with their traditional spike system and the shoes were very comfortable. The mesh in these shoes very flexible and allowed for excellent freedom of movement. The added padding to the insole results in a noticeable amount of cushioning that makes these shoes easy to wear for extended periods.
While these weren’t the most stylish shoes of the bunch, the performance characteristics were solid.
Nike Air Rival 2.5
The Nike Air Rival 2.5 is a nice looking shoe with a low-budget feel.
The base of the Air Rival is solid and the shoe has a traditional spike system. The uppers of the shoe are mostly uncomfortable and they tended to crease at the toes while walking – resulting in a low comfort score. The shoes look and perform well, but chances are that they’re not going to be the shoes that bring a smile every time you slide them on.
Although Nike has introduced some great golf shoes, this one doesn’t measure up as a true contender.
Travis Mathew Druskin
Travis Mathew continues to bring us great looking shoes that blur the lines between casual wear and the golf course.
The Travis Mathew Druskin is best suited as a low-key casual shoe that you can use while golfing. The shoes perform ok on the golf course, but they’re not likely to be a full-time golf shoe. These shoes look great and serve their purpose well as a shoe that you can have as an everyday shoe that won’t let you down when you happen to head to the range or fit in a round at the last second.
These shoes look great, but they’re not likely to keep you happy as a full-time shoe for the course.
Kikkor Slyder Premium
Kikkor has done a commendable job over the past few years by releasing some great alternative shoes at reasonable prices.
The Slyders are the easy-on / easy-off offering from Kikkor for those that are looking for a laid-back and informal golf shoe. The premium version of the Slyders offers a synthetic leather that is quite a bit more durable than the canvas models and provides a nice alternative if you’re looking for a relaxed golf shoe.
The Slyders are an interesting concept, but just didn’t match up to the higher-performing shoes on the list.
Summary
Although the sub-$100 market is a tough one, there are a variety of golf shoes that can keep you happy on the course and not put a dent in your wallet.
All of the manufacturers reviewed offer shoes in a variety of styles and prices, but it’s clear that you don’t have to settle for budget quality on a low-dollar budget.
Do you have other shoes that you would recommend that come in under $100? If so, we’d love to hear your feedback in the comments.
Allison
9 years ago
Just found your site through a web search as I am looking for new golf shoes. Although your titles are about the best golf shoes, and best under $100, you seem to forget that women also play golf and would like this information as well. I thought I missed a possibility and looked through the rest of your buyer’s guide, and alas no women’s. I am quite disappointed, a little dumbfounded and very irritated. I must go now, to watch Jordan Speith, and Justin Rose at the Masters.