New golf shoes for 2024 were in order. I loved my older golf shoes, but they were no longer a great fit and looked a little worn around the edges. I bumped it up a notch with 2 pair. Let’s take a look.
It was hard to decide what to get for new shoes. I’m pretty picky when it comes to fit and look.
Then throw in that I wear a wide shoe and finding an “in stock” pair of 12 wide can be a challenge.
I really spent a lot of time looking around online and at several local or area stores.
So, my thoughts were to find a stable shoe that would give me good heel and arch support.
Finally, I went to the Golf Galaxy Performance Center in Middleton, WI. They may have every golf shoe brand available.
If not, it’s darn close.
They did not have 12 wide in many brands. So, I ordered some online.
I settled on FootJoy. That was my first preference.
After I got them, I ordered a second pair from New Balance. I will explain below.
Note: Both pair have identical Fast Twist 3.0 Pulsar replaceable cleats and both pair have formed studs on the sole in addition to the cleats.
New Golf Shoes – FootJoy $$$
I initially wanted to get a of pair dress shoes. The FootJoy Tour Alpha was my first choice.
It was a toss up between the lace up version or the BOA fit system.
From Google: BOA stands for Boa Fit System, a patented lacing system that’s used in some golf shoes to provide a custom, secure, and precise fit. The system uses stainless steel wires and a turning knob to tighten and loosen laces, and the knob can also repel dirt. Once locked into place, the laces stay that way and offer a smooth, even closure without pressure points. BOA laces can also be micro-adjusted for seemingly infinite degrees of fine tuning.
If you have big feet, the BOA system is not Ideal.
I bought the lace up version. They are just easier to put on.
From FootJoy: Tour Alpha performance golf shoes feature the proprietary Optimized Performance Stabilizer system (OPS) that works to lock you in, allowing you to swing away with full force. This is the most advanced stability system we’ve ever created. FJ, The #1 Shoe in Golf.
These shoes are really stout. By that I mean really stable. The 9 cleats provide a very wide base as they stick out beyond the sole of the shoe.
They are leather and extremely well made. Also, expensive.
New Golf Shoes – New Balance $$
After I got the FootJoy Tour Alpha shoes, I thought I needed something a little more casual.
I had my eye on the New Balance 997 shoes when I visited the golf store.
They are sharp looking, they fit well, are lightweight, and are more like tennis shoes.
They have 6 cleats and a bunch of studs.
From New Balance: Inspired by our next-generation 997H, the Men’s 997 Golf is a progressive golf shoe that is set to be a modern favorite. A waterproof microfiber leather upper helps you stay dry and fresh during your round. An Abzorb midsole gives premium responsiveness and lightweight cushioning step after step. The Ndurance rubber outsole is designed to move naturally with your foot. Featuring Fast Twist 3.0 Pulsar® replaceable cleats.
These are the right choice if you want a good looking. lightweight, and comfortable golf shoe. It’s a good value for the money.
Conclusion
I almost sent the FootJoy shoes back. Why?
Not because they aren’t awesome…they are.
I wasn’t sure I needed dress shoes and they aren’t a cheap purchase.
They look great with pants for example. I don’t wear dress golf pants that often.
If you are going to dress up a little or are looking for pro level shoes these are the ticket.
They are not my first choice with jeans or shorts.
Hence, the New Balance purchase.
I really liked both and decided to keep both. Why?
I just bought new clubs, new accessories and thought what the heck. Why not a couple pairs of golf shoes.
The FootJoys are a little stiff. By that I mean it’s going to take awhile to break them in.
The New Balance shoes were ready to go right away. They are more like tennis shoes.
I would recommend both. ★★★★★ Excellent