If you're looking to save money on golf shoes, we've got some ideas to keep your feet firmly on the turf:
The trouble with soft spikes. It's generally thought that golf shoes with replaceable spikes give you better grip and less slippage, especially when it's wet out. The problem, of course, is that the soft spikes on modern golf shoes wear down quickly. So you can stay on top of the issue and frequently replace worn-down spikes – but that's going to eat away at your shoe budget, and it's an annoying chore. If you don't replace the spikes as they wear down, the traction you'll get will be worse than a pair of good spikeless shoes.
So go spikeless. If you want to save money, it's better to use spikeless golf shoes, and save spending $15-$20 for each set of replacement spikes. The trick is to get a model that's got a grippy sole; they're not hard to find.
(I recently retired a pair of Asics spikeless golf shoes, and replaced them with a New Balance spikeless shoe. On wet days, the Asics tended to slip during my swing. The New Balances have a better sole pattern, so problem solved.)
Don't wear golf shoes. On a recent round I played with a guy who wore his hiking shoes. I wouldn't recommend that, but the soles have plenty of grip, so they work fine. It's something to consider if you really want to save money. Personally, I'm not going there.
Where to find golf shoes at a discount
You have options if you don't want to pay full price at a sporting goods store or your course's pro shop:
Ross or Marshall's discount stores. You never know what you'll find at these retailers, but they often have golf shoes. They buy overstock inventory and previous-generation products from big-name brands, then sell them at a significant discount. Other stores to check out include:
eBay. You can often find great deals on new golf shoes at eBay retailers. Some small online eBay shops buy overstock and sell at below retail prices. Some physical sporting goods stores use eBay to get rid of excess inventory. If the store is not one you recognize, remember to look at user reviews. You'll also find people selling used golf shoes on eBay.
The price of a pair of golf shoes on eBay may be negotiable. If the shoes have a Buy It Now price, offer the seller less; it can't hurt to ask. If the shoes are listed for Auction, you might be able to snag a bargain if there's not much competition in the bidding.
Poshmark. The giant used-apparel website can be a great place to score deals on golf attire, including shoes. You'll find gently used as well as "New With Tags" shoes.
Check discount golf retailers; many carry golf shoes. I'll point you to our Retailers page.
Finally, don't forget about Amazon. The sheer volume of golf-shoe offerings is overwhelming. You may be able to find previous-generation golf shoes for a great price.
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