You Might Be Wearing the Wrong Golf Shoes

A while back, FootJoy introduced me to their FitLab service, which completely changed my perspective on golf shoes.

I’ve always been the type to talk about materials, colorways, or styling, but when it comes to comfort, most of us are focused on the wrong things.

The truth is, it’s not always the shoe, it’s you.

FootJoy builds its lineup around different throat openings, lace patterns, and platform shapes, all designed to fit specific foot types and swing profiles. That classic saddle look? It’s built with a V-throat, snug across the instep, ideal for narrower feet. The blucher construction, with eyelets stitched on top, opens wider and gives more room for higher insteps or wider feet. And the U-throat, which you’ll find in more athletic models, offers easier entry and that wrapped, supportive fit for golfers who move dynamically.

But it goes even deeper than that.

Lace your shoes too tightly, and you restrict motion. Too loose, and you lose stability.

Wear socks that are too thick, and your fit changes completely. Go too big, and your foot slides. Too small, and the shoe fights against you.

FootJoy’s research says nearly 70% of golfers wear the wrong size, and from what I’ve seen, I believe it. Because comfort isn’t just about how a shoe looks or feels out of the box, it’s about how it matches you.

RELATED: The Wait’s Over: Sugarloaf’s Fall Drop Pt. 1 Is Worth Every Round

3 Quick Fit Checks

1. Heel Lock:

Your heel should feel secure with zero lift when you walk. If it slips, you likely need a narrower fit or different lacing pattern.

2. Toe Room:

You want a thumb’s width between your longest toe and the end of the shoe. Too tight restricts motion; too roomy kills stability.

3. Midfoot Wrap:

Pay attention to how the laces pull across your instep. If they bunch or flare, the throat opening isn’t matched to your foot shape.

*Every product is independently selected by editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.