Are you tired of discomfort and foot fatigue ruining your golf game? Look no further! In this article, we will explore the world of best arch support golf shoes and custom moldable insoles that not only prevent fatigue and injury but also improve your swing. No matter if you're dealing with plantar fasciitis or simply seeking better arch support, we have got you covered. So, gear up and get ready to take your golf game to new heights with the ultimate golf shoes for optimum comfort and performance in 2023.
What are the best insoles for golf shoes?
The top-quality insoles for golf shoes are those that provide personalized support, a proper fit in your golf shoes, and overall comfort. In this article, we will explore how the right golf insoles can enhance your swing, why custom moldable golf insoles are the optimal choice for any golfer, and how supportive insoles can prevent fatigue and injuries on the golf course.
Custom moldable insoles prevent fatigue and injury in golfers.
A round of 18 holes in golf involves taking over 10,000 steps. As you progress through your round, your feet gradually become fatigued. Insoles with excellent arch support can reduce the strain on your feet with each step.
Once heat molded, SOLE footbeds are clinically proven to reduce arch strain by an average of 34%. This significant reduction in strain not only prevents pain and discomfort but also enables your body to perform optimally, avoiding inconsistencies in your golf swing.
By reducing fatigue and promoting neutral alignment, supportive insoles can also help prevent common golf-related injuries such as shin splints, Achilles tendonitis, and plantar fasciitis.
Click here to read reviews of SOLE footbeds for golf.
How supportive insoles can improve your golf swing.
To achieve an effective, smooth, and powerful golf swing, you need stability, balance, and alignment. The best supportive insoles can contribute to all these factors by providing a supportive arch and a deep heel cup.
A supportive arch and deep heel cup work together to offer structural support beneath your feet, distributing pressure evenly as you shift your weight during your swing. This equal distribution of pressure stabilizes your feet and provides a solid foundation for your swing, helping you maintain a consistent swing plane.
Insoles with a deep heel cup and supportive arch can also promote neutral alignment throughout your swing, correcting biomechanical imbalances such as overpronation or underpronation (supination) that can lead to inefficiencies in your movement.
Whether you have a specific imbalance or not, the right supportive insoles maximize the efficiency of energy transfer from your feet to the tip of your club throughout your body's chain of movement.
"Drive distance increased by an average of 11.25 yards when the subject was wearing SOLE Custom Footbeds." - Stude & Gullickson (2000)
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Golf Shoes For Arch Support
Before purchasing any golf shoe with arch support, there are certain factors you should take into account. These factors are:
Special Insoles
Make sure that the golf shoe includes special insoles that are genuinely comfortable to wear and offer relief for your feet. They should also aid in maintaining your balance while playing golf.
Synthetic Sole
Synthetic soles are recommended over rubber soles because they are lightweight and unaffected by rain, snow, or mud. This makes it easier to navigate various terrains.
Lightweight
Your golf shoes should feel lightweight to avoid the sensation of dragging your feet and burdening your movements.
What To Consider When Purchasing Golf Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis
Mid Sole and Heel Cushioning
Ample cushioning is crucial for golfers with plantar fasciitis. Insufficient padding can expose the soles of your feet to the shoe's outsole, providing limited protection and resulting in discomfort.
Ideally, look for shoes with cloud or memory foam that conforms to the shape of your feet. This enhances comfort and ensures secure positioning during your swing for maximum stability.
For instance, the Duca Del Cosma JL1 features a memory foam insert sole, offering a supportive and comfortable fit.
Heel Support
In addition to extra foam layers, you need shoes that protect and secure your heel with every step. Unsecured movement of the heel can lead to blisters, tension, and unbearable pain.
The G/Fore MG4 is an excellent example of golf shoes that keep your heel in place with every step. It features a 3-dimensional molded external heel cup for lateral support, ensuring your heel remains secure and preventing aggravation of plantar fasciitis.
Spikeless Golf Shoes
Spikeless golf shoes provide a softer feel underfoot, making them a preferred choice for individuals with plantar fasciitis. They also pose less risk of cleat screws digging into the midsole, which can be painful.
However, there are two downsides to spikeless shoes. They offer limited traction in wet weather compared to spiked shoes, and the rubber studs wear away over time, reducing grip on dry surfaces. Since the studs cannot be replaced, you may need a new pair of shoes.
I suggest having a pair of spikeless shoes for dry conditions and a comfortable, padded pair with spikes for wet weather. If you struggle with cleats, you can opt for high-gripping spikeless shoes like the Under Armour Hovr Drive SL.
Arch Support
Lastly, consider the arch support provided by the golf shoes to ensure stability while walking and swinging. If your feet move around inside the shoes, it can lead to tension, blisters, and intense pain.
I find that boot-style golf shoes offer the most support to stabilize the heel and midsole. The Puma PWRCAGE Saddle is an excellent example of a boot fit that provides a secure hold. Puma integrates nylon straps into the lacing system to fasten the cage around your foot and keep it in place during your round.
How We Test These Products
At Golfspan, we remain independent and don't feel pressured by manufacturers to recommend products. We were not paid for the golf shoe reviews in this article. Our team comprises experienced golfers with over 100 years of collective playing experience and extensive product reviewing hours. When you make a purchase through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission at no additional cost to you.
The Top Golf Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis in 2023
1. Ecco Biom Hybrid 4 – The Ultimate Plantar Fasciitis Golf Shoes
Advantages:
- Incredible comfort
- Made with durable leather
- Waterproof protection
- Removable and washable Ortholite inlay sole
- Secures your feet
Disadvantages:
- Expensive
- No wide sizes available
The top spot on my list of golf shoes for plantar fasciitis goes to the Ecco Biom Hybrid 4. These shoes are not only waterproof and offer exceptional stability, but they also provide cloud-like cushioning for a comfortable walk. They come in four traditional colors that match any outfit you choose to wear on the golf course.
What impressed me the most about these shoes is how comfortable they feel underfoot. The PU midsole and removable Ortholite inlay sole provide excellent cushioning and remove pressure from your arch and heel.
The PU Midsole and TPU side insert also ensure that your feet are secure and offer extra padding around the sides.
In addition to their performance, these shoes are made with durable and waterproof leather. The presence of Gore-Tex technology keeps your feet warm and dry in any conditions. However, the traction struggles in heavy rain.
Another great feature of the Biom Hybrid 4 is that it lowers your center of gravity, providing stability during your swing. The Ecco MTN Grip further enhances balance and durability while offering rotational assistance in three zones.
Rating: 4.5
2. FootJoy Flex XP – Affordable Golf Shoes with Excellent Arch Support
Advantages:
- Highly affordable
- Breathable
- Enhanced underfoot cushioning
- Impressive traction in dry conditions
- Promotes optimal toe spring during your swing
Disadvantages:
- Sizes are slightly larger
- The traction is not ideal for wet turf
You don't need to spend a fortune on golf shoes if you're on a budget. The FootJoy Flex XP offers affordable yet comfortable and breathable shoes that come in four standard colors. These shoes pair well with any outfit you choose.
What stands out the most about these shoes is the Soft EVA Midsole and Laser Sport Fit. The Soft EVA Midsole provides extra padding directly under your soles, absorbing the impact of each step and reducing pressure on your feet during your golf round.
The Laser Sport Fit creates a full rounded toe character, maximizing toe spring during your swing. Additionally, the narrow heel construction secures the back of your feet.
The performance mesh upper encourages airflow, keeping your feet dry and fresh on warm days. The Versa-Trax Outsole provides exceptional traction on high-impact points during your swing, keeping you stable in dry conditions.
Rating: 4
3. New Balance Fresh Foam – The Most Comfortable Golf Shoes with Arch Support
Advantages:
- Optimal comfort
- Waterproof microfiber leather
- Ultra-underfoot cushioning
- Smart rubber spikeless sole
- 2-year waterproof warranty
Disadvantages:
- Dull color options
- Less traction in wet conditions
I had been wearing New Balance running shoes for 15 years before I tried their golf shoes. New Balance is known for producing comfortable and cushioned footwear, and the Fresh Foam golf shoes are no exception. They come in five traditional colors and offer an affordable price for the average golfer.
My favorite feature of these shoes is the 10 mm drop Fresh Foam midsole, which provides multiple layers of padding under your sole. Walking in these shoes feels like walking on a cloud, even after spending hours on your feet chasing a golf ball.
The Molded Cush insole keeps your foot secure and prevents sliding and pounding. This feature mitigates the risk of blisters.
The Fresh Foam shoes also come with a breathable upper mesh, generating airflow to keep your feet dry.
Rating: 4.5
4. Callaway Solana TRX V2 – The Best Spiked Golf Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
Advantages:
- Breathable upper and sides
- Waterproof protection
- Optimal stability
- Elevated traction in all conditions
- Cushioned insole and midsole
Disadvantages:
- Moderately expensive
- The color options may not suit fashion-forward golfers
Most golf shoes for plantar fasciitis are known for their comfort and padding. However, the Callaway Solana stands out with its combination of comfort and protection, making it the best option for a pain-free walk on the course.
Callaway offers three standard colors that may not be appealing to fashion-forward golfers. But these neutral colors will match any outfit you wear on the course. The microfiber leather upper provides durability and breathability and comes with Opti-Dri waterproof protection, backed by a 2-year limited warranty.
The 5 Spike Dura-Rubber outsole offers advanced stability and traction in all conditions, preventing slipping and ensuring optimal rotation during your swing for consistent distance and accuracy.
The combination of a Forged DX midsole and a 5mm insole provides ample cushioning and a comfortable underfoot feel, leaving you refreshed after completing 18 holes.
Rating: 4
5. G/Fore MG4 – The Best Spikeless Golf Shoes with Arch Support
Advantages:
- Available in seven colors
- Keeps your heel locked during your swing
- Wider toe box for a comfortable fit
- The footed nubs massage your feet
- Responsive EVA midsole boosts spring during your swing
Disadvantages:
- Expensive
- Less traction in heavy rain
The G/Fore MG4 shoes are premium golf shoes that offer superb comfort, sleek looks, and enhanced traction in various conditions. These spikeless golf shoes are ideal for wearing in light rain and dry weather.
The MG4 range comes in seven colors to appeal to a wider audience, from traditionalists to fashionistas. My personal favorite is the white and royal blue combination, which adds a touch of style to the standard white golf shoe.
The shoes feature a premium synthetic waterproof upper that ensures consistent airflow, keeping your feet cool and dry on warm days.
The 3-dimensional molded external heel cup keeps the back of your feet locked during your swing for optimal stability. The removable and washable insoles provide support and comfort, while the G/Fore Comfort System Technology Footed Nubs promote underfoot airflow and tension release by massaging the bottom of your feet.
The 2-piece rubber non-slip outsole offers optimal traction in light rain and dry conditions.
Rating: 4
6. Nike Roshe – The Most Breathable Golf Shoes
Advantages:
- Optimal breathability
- Excellent grip in drier conditions
- Soft, responsive midsole cushioning
- Padded midfoot
- Ideal for warm days
Disadvantages:
- Limited grip on wet turf
- Slight moisture penetration on the surface
On warm days, it's crucial to have breathable golf shoes to prevent sweat build-up and keep your feet dry and comfortable. The Nike Roshe offers the most internal airflow compared to other golf shoes, making it the most breathable option for golfers with plantar fasciitis.
The breathable upper and sides of the Roshe allow for exceptional airflow, combating moisture accumulation and keeping your feet refreshed.
In terms of comfort, the Lunarlon midsole provides soft and responsive cushioning, boosting spring and shock absorption. The padded midfoot delivers excellent padding and support to keep your feet stable during each swing.
The Articulated Integrated Traction on the outsole provides substantial grip and stability in drier conditions. Nike offers the Roshe range in eleven colors at a moderately affordable price, catering to a wide range of golfers.
Rating: 4
7. Puma Ignite PWRADAPT – Golf Shoes with Exceptional Arch Support
Advantages:
- 360-degree support
- Tightens the cage around your foot for maximum support
- Locks your heel in place for increased stability
- Excellent traction in wet and dry conditions
- Soft Ignite midsole foam
Disadvantages:
- Tight fit
- Wide sizes are narrower than other shoes
If you need added support for balance, the Puma Ignite PWRADAPT is worth considering. These boots offer exceptional arch support to keep your feet in place during your swing.
The Ignite range comes in six colors, including traditional palettes and trendy options. The white and silver peacoat with a red outsole adds character to your outfit.
The Adaptive Fit System provides 360-degree support through an internal bootie, and the PWRFRAME and PWRCAGE Saddle offer protection and stability. The Heel Lock Window Cup comfortably keeps your heel in place during your swing.
The Ignite Foam midsole enhances energy return and cushions each step, while the 3-dimensional traction helps you maximize rotation and remain anchored to the ground.
Rating: 4
8. Skechers Pivot Spikeless – The Best Golf Shoes for Light Rain
Advantages:
- Water-resistant upper
- Ample traction in dry conditions and light rain
- Extremely comfortable Ultra Go foam
- Responsive insole for a soft, rebound
- Breathable sides
Disadvantages:
- Questionable durability of the leather
- Not fully waterproof
If you're playing in warm conditions with light rain, you'll want breathable golf shoes with ample traction. The Skechers Pivot Spikeless shoes keep your feet dry and cool while providing satisfactory traction on soft turf.
The Pivot Spikeless range comes in seven colors, primarily traditional palettes. The gray and lime combination stands out with its unique finish, although it may not conceal dirt well.
The spikeless design adds to the underfoot comfort, and the rubber traction pads hold up well in damp conditions. However, they may not provide sufficient traction in heavy downpours.
The Ultra Go Foam offers extremely comfortable and responsive cushioning, boosting the spring in your step. The Goga Max technology insole provides a soft rebound.
The shoes feature breathable sides and a water-resistant upper, ensuring improved airflow and keeping your feet dry.
Rating: 4
9. True Linkswear All Day Knit II – The Best Hybrid Golf Shoes
Advantages:
- Available in 11 colors
- All-terrain grip for use on and off the golf course
- Comfortable and high rebound midsole
- 6mm transitional drop
- Exceptional breathability
Disadvantages:
- Expensive
- Not suitable for wet weather
The True Linkswear All Day Knit II golf shoes are suitable for both on and off the golf course. These trendy shoes offer all-terrain grip, enhanced comfort, breathability, and cushioning.
The All Day Knit II range comes in 11 colors, giving you plenty of options to choose from. The burgundy or green shoes add a pop of color to your outfit, while the white, gray, and black variations cater to traditionalists.
Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the All-Terrain grip, inspired by mountaineering boots. The Trueknit breathable one-piece upper allows for airflow, reducing sweat accumulation. The Open Cell Footbed enhances breathability from underneath, keeping your feet dry.
The shoes provide superior stability and traction, with the Wanderlux Midsole offering increased padding. Your feet will remain stable, protected, and blister-free.
Rating: 4
10. Under Armour HOVR Drive SL – The Best Golf Shoes for Wet Weather
Advantages:
- Soft cushioning
- Rotational Resistance Traction enables optimal hip turn in your swing
- Waterproof
- Breathable
- Keeps your feet secure during your swing
Disadvantages:
- The rubber spikes wear out quickly
- The wide fit may be narrower than other shoes
Growing up in a subtropical climate, I understand the struggle of playing in the rain without proper grip and waterproof shoes. The Under Armour HOVR Drive SL offers enhanced grip, waterproofing, and comfort for wet conditions.
These shoes come in a white and gray combination, ideal for traditionalists. The clean and slick finish pairs well with any color of shirt, cap, or belt.
The Hovr Cushioning provides a soft and padded step, boosting energy return after each step. The Rotational Resistance Traction in the outsole helps with optimal coil in your swing.
The Molded Heel and Molded EVA footbed combination offers superior support to the back and midsole area, ensuring stability and protection.
Rating: 4
11. Duca Del Cosma JL1 – The Best Quality Golf Shoes
Advantages:
- Exceptional quality
- Fashionable finish
- Enhanced grip and stability
- Breathable
- Memory foam insert sole provides superb comfort
Disadvantages:
- Expensive
- Only two colors available
Duca Del Cosma is known for producing high-quality spikeless golf shoes, and the JL1 is no exception. These shoes offer exceptional grip, stability, breathability, and comfort.
The JL1 range comes in six colors, including white and green camouflage Italian Nappa leather with an orange rim, which adds character to your outfit.
The shoes feature an elevated heel, providing support and impact protection. The Arneflex Insert Sole memory foam molds around the shape of your foot for a comfortable step.
The Airplay XI spineless outsole with 5mm square-shaped nibs enhances stability and traction. The recyclable microfibre material and cork-crafted heel support offer unmatched comfort and support.
Rating: 4
12. Adidas Women's Codechaos – The Best Women's Golf Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
Advantages:
- Casual look
- Four stylish designs
The Adidas Women's Codechaos golf shoes offer a casual look while providing exceptional comfort and style. These shoes come in four stylish designs for women.
Rating: 4
Why Do You Need Better Arch Support?
The human feet were naturally designed for walking on forgiving surfaces such as sand and dirt. Hard surfaces do not offer the necessary contour for the feet, leading to a lot of stress and pain.
The arch of the foot bears the brunt of this pressure. It carries the body weight and absorbs the shock with every step, providing flexibility, balance, and stability on different terrains.
Therefore, it is crucial to provide proper support to the arch of your feet.
Having proper arch support in your golf shoes offers the following benefits:
- Provides comfort for foot conditions or chronic pain
- Prevents foot issues or chronic pain from developing
- Improves body alignment by distributing pressure evenly across the feet
- Prevents arch collapse
- Protects your feet
- Prevents excessive wear and tear on your shoes
Spiked Models
(Image credit: Future)
An upgraded version of the Adidas ZG21 golf shoe, the ZG23 features a stunning design that appeals to golfers looking for relief from plantar fasciitis. The standout feature of this shoe is adidas' new Lightstrike and Lightstrike Pro technology in the revamped midsole. Compared to other top adidas golf shoes that use a Boost midsole for comfort, this new technology proves to be a winner.
During testing, we found the overall comfort of the ZG23 impressive, especially the softness of the midsole and cushioning underfoot. Combined with the softness of the shoe's upper, both inside and out, it stands out as one of the most comfortable options on the market. The Stability Fin adds extra comfort and stability, ensuring your feet remain stable during weight shifts in your golf swing. Additionally, the shoe's lightweight nature minimizes foot fatigue after walking 18 holes.
- Read our full Adidas ZG23 Golf Shoe Review (opens in new tab)
(Image credit: Golf Monthly)
The Gel-Ace Pro M Standard, worn by Hideki Matsuyama on Tour, is an impressive collaboration between Asics and Srixon. Right out of the box, it offers incredible comfort and proves to be one of the most comfortable golf shoes we've tested this year.
During testing, we found it to be stable and supportive both during the swing and while walking between shots. It boasts a traditional, premium look that many golfers find appealing. The shoe is also waterproof and breathable, making it suitable for various weather conditions. It maintains its durability even after extensive use. The only downside is the limited color options.
(Image credit: Future)
The Ecco Biom G5 combines the best elements of two previous Biom shoes. It features the cleated outsole of the Biom G3 and the athletic look of the Biom H4, resulting in a feature-packed model. The addition of the BOA lacing system enhances its appeal.
One noticeable feature of the Biom G5 is its lightweight nature, weighing 18 grams less than the Biom H4 despite the added cleats on the outsole. With only six cleats positioned at the edge of the outsole, the shoe provides stability and excellent grip. It also offers Ecco's Gore-Tex protection and easy-to-clean leather upper, making it a reliable winter shoe option. Additionally, its modern and athletic design appeals to a wide range of ages with five different colorways available.
- Read our full Ecco Biom G5 Shoe Review (opens in new tab)
(Image credit: Future)
Skechers' flagship model, the Pro Golf 5 Hyper shoe, takes comfort to the next level. It incorporates Skechers Arch Fit technology, providing certified support and cushioning across the midsole. This technology distributes weight over a wider area, reducing pressure on the foot and minimizing foot fatigue.
Although it may feel strange initially, with the arches of your feet pushed up, you quickly become accustomed to and enjoy the sensation. The shoe also features Skechers Hyper Burst and Resamax cushioning, offering excellent rebound with each step. Additional features include breathable mesh for cooling and Softspikes for superior grip.
- Read our full Skechers Pro 5 Hyper Golf Shoe Review (opens in new tab)
(Image credit: Golf Monthly)
The Legend by Cuater is one of the most traditional golf shoes released in 2021. It offers golfers a classic, technology-packed shoe suitable for year-round wear. With a simple and clean design, it provides a refreshing alternative to the constant pursuit of new looks in golf shoes. Alongside the FootJoy Premiere Series line of shoes, The Legend stands out as one of the most classic-looking brogues available.
The Legend uses premium materials, evident in its quality both in and out of the box. It features Cuater's Sweet Spot Technology Cushioning System in the midsole, providing exceptional comfort during on-course testing. This makes it one of the best spiked golf shoes for walking on the golf course.
- Read our full Cuater The Legend Golf Shoe Review (opens in new tab)
In conclusion, choosing the best arch support golf shoes is crucial for both professional and amateur golfers looking to enhance their performance and prevent foot fatigue and injury. Whether you opt for custom moldable insoles or supportive insoles, the right choice can significantly improve your golf swing and overall game. When selecting the perfect golf shoes for arch support, it's essential to consider factors such as comfort, stability, and durability. Furthermore, if you are one of the many golfers suffering from plantar fasciitis, investing in specialized golf shoes designed to alleviate the condition is a wise decision. With the options available in 2023, you can find the best golf shoes for plantar fasciitis that provide the right amount of arch support and alleviate pain. Remember, better arch support means happier feet and better performance on the green. So, why compromise when you can give your feet the support they deserve with the best arch support golf shoes?
