New Balance 997 Spikeless Men’s Golf Shoe Review: Style Meets All-Weather Performance
When it comes to finding the right pair of golf shoes, comfort, traction, and durability all play a huge role. But for many golfers, the choice also comes down to style and practicality and that’s exactly where the New Balance 997 Golf Shoes shine. Designed for golfers who value versatility both on and off the course, these shoes deliver modern aesthetics, dependable performance, and an affordable price point.
In this review, we will break down the style, comfort, grip, and colorway options, highlight some pros and cons, and offer key considerations when buying spikeless golf shoes.
First Impressions: A Stylish, Sporty Look
Right out of the box, the New Balance 997 Spikeless shoes stand out. The combination of suede and mesh creates a high-end look while remaining lightweight and breathable. The colorways are modern but not flashy — subtle enough to match any golf attire, yet sporty enough to wear casually. The suede overlays add a premium feel, while the New Balance branding gives that signature New Balance aesthetic golfers already love from their athletic sneakers.
If you’re someone who likes the idea of wearing your golf shoes straight from the clubhouse to the grocery store, these are an excellent choice.
Comfort & Fit: Built to Go 18 Holes and Beyond
Golf rounds are long — sometimes stretching over four hours — and comfort is everything. The 997s come with a relaxed fit, which makes them feel roomier than traditional golf shoes. That’s perfect for walking the course or spending time at the driving range.
Inside, you’ll find a Phantom Liner interior that reduces irritation and minimizes seams. The ABZORB midsole and heel crash pad offer exceptional cushioning and impact resistance. This is especially helpful for golfers who walk their rounds or deal with foot fatigue by the back nine.
Customers frequently note that the 997s are true to size, making them an easy fit without the usual break-in period. However, a few reviewers mentioned that the shoes can feel a little stiff at first — though this tends to soften after a round or two.
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Traction & Performance: Spikeless But Stable
Now let’s talk traction. While traditionalists may prefer soft spikes on the course, modern spikeless golf shoes like these use smart outsole design to deliver grip without cleats. The rubber outsole provides solid traction and durability while allowing for more natural foot movement.
What’s impressive is how well these shoes hold up on different types of terrain — from wet grass to sand and fairways. Even without spikes, the grip feels confident during a full swing, especially in dry or moderately wet conditions. This makes them a great option for spring and summer golf, and casual players who prefer something low-maintenance on their feet.
They won’t match a tour-level spiked shoe in the rain-soaked rough, but they do get the job done.
All-Weather Confidence: Water-Resistant Protection
The New Balance 997 SL Golf Shoes are equipped with a waterproof microfiber leather upper, keeping your feet dry in damp conditions.
For those early tee times when grass is wet with dew, or during light rain, these shoes perform surprisingly well. That said, they’re not fully waterproof — more like water-resistant — so if you’re playing in torrential rain or muddy conditions, you may want to keep a backup pair in your bag or locker.
Pros and Cons
Pros
✅ Stylish and versatile – easy to wear on or off the course
✅ Lightweight and breathable materials
✅ Comfortable with great cushioning (ABZORB midsole + Phantom liner)
✅ Reliable grip with durable spikeless rubber outsole
✅ Runs true to size
✅ Great value for the price point
Cons
❌ Slightly stiff feel at first wear
❌ Not as grippy as spiked shoes in muddy or heavy rain conditions
❌ Limited arch support for players needing custom orthotics
Colorway Options & Wearability
One of the underrated features of the 997s is their color options. These shoes come in over 10 different colorways. These colors include white/grey, black/white (reviewed), white green (another fan favorite, and sand. Whether you’re pairing them with classic khakis or modern joggers, the 997 SLs blend right in.
Thanks to the athletic-sneaker-inspired design, these New Balance golf shoes transition seamlessly from the fairway to post-round errands. Our favorite thing about these spikeless golf shoes is that they transition very easily from the golf course to errands. You can hope right into the truck after playing 9 or 18 holes and go about your day without having to worry about switching over to something else.
What to Consider When Buying Golf Shoes
Before buying any pair of golf shoes, here are a few things to think about:
Walking vs. Riding: If you walk the course, comfort and cushioning are crucial. The 997s excel in this area.
Climate: For wet weather, waterproofing matters. These shoes offer solid protection but may fall short in extreme moisture.
Spikeless vs. Spiked: Spikeless shoes like these are lower maintenance, more stylish, and easier to wear off the course.
Fit & Break-In: These shoes are true to size with minimal break-in time, but if you need extra arch support, you might consider custom insoles.
Durability: The NDurance outsole and ABZORB midsole are both designed to last, giving these shoes a long lifespan even with regular use.
Final Verdict: A Top Pick for Style-Conscious Golfers
The New Balance 997 Spikeless Golf Shoes offer a smart blend of comfort, grip, and style at a reasonable price. Whether you’re playing a casual round, hitting the range, or grabbing lunch afterward, these shoes are a versatile choice that doesn’t compromise on performance.
If you’re in the market for affordable, spikeless golf shoes that feel just as good as they look, this is a pair worth trying. They’ve earned their spot as one of the best New Balance golf shoes available today.
