Lorraine Kelly
Summer has glorious blue skies that make a day on the course more enjoyable, but the sunshine brings a set of challenges for golfers to navigate.
Aiming that drive when the sun’s in your eyes requires lots of practice, and harder greens demand a quicker pace of play with a greater risk of ball bounce.
Traversing the course can be more demanding physically too. Drier ground is harder on the joints and can’t absorb the water from downpours, creating slick surfaces underfoot when classic British showers appear. This is why having the right shoes can make or break your golf game in the summer.
Discover the important features to consider beyond style for confident rounds this season. While footwear can’t help you with your shots, wearing appropriate shoes will keep you cool and comfortable so you can enjoy the course for longer.
Consider the climate
British summers are famously unpredictable, with heatwaves, humidity and thunderstorms and cooler, clear days sprinkled with showers. Your shoes need to suit rain or shine so you can continue playing without putting a foot wrong.
Look for golf shoes with great traction like the G/FORE summer collection for support in all weathers. Designs with spikes will give you the best grip when it’s wet underfoot, improving your stability so you can maintain power in your swing.
Prioritise comfort
Staying on your feet all day is difficult at any time of year, especially when much of the time is spent standing still. Your shoes should be as comfortable as possible to ensure you feel as good at the first hole as at the last.
Prioritise cushioning around your foot and within the sole. Extra padding helps to minimise soreness from staying on your feet all day.
Shoes should feel relatively bouncy without interrupting your connection to the ground. Remember to consider breathability as well to avoid the discomfort of hot, damp feet.
Think beyond the course
The best golf shoes ensure a seamless transition from course to clubhouse or into town, so you don’t have to waste time getting changed after a round. Opt for a multifunctional pair with a chic design that’s formal enough for the dining area but doesn’t detract from your game.
Currently trending are saddle shoe designs complete with a raised, smooth sole. These perfectly blend elegance with the support of a sports shoe. Similar styles have the appearance of brogues with springy cushioning underneath and subtle holes for breathability.
Invest in accessories
Make the most of the benefits of quality golf shoes by investing in special accessories. Pair them with socks made from quality cotton or fabric with special cooling properties and featuring subtle padding around the heel and toes. Proper socks will help prevent blisters and ensure dry feet all day long.
A shoe bag is another valuable contribution to your kit. You can wrap up muddy footwear after a game in the rain and effortlessly keep your car and the clubhouse clean.
