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My flat feet suffered on the course for 14 years before I eventually found the best golf shoes for the job. In 2023, the Skechers Max 2 Arch Fit is my go-to footwear to improve my comfort and support on the links.
In this article, I will help you alleviate the inflammation and pain experienced as a flat-footed golfer by revealing my best golf shoes for flat feet in 2023.
You will notice that shoes for flat-footed golfers carry additional padding and a responsive midsole. These features combine to protect your feet and minimize vibrations on each step for improved comfort.
Overall Best Golf Shoes for Flat Feet
🏆 Overall Best
The Skechers Max 2 Arch Fit cushioned my flat feet, enhanced my traction, and kept my feet dry in the wet. Its all-around performance sets it apart from the field, making it a no-brainer for the best golf shoes for flat feet. I also enjoyed the lightweight materials, which make walking 18 holes a lot more manageable.
I often develop cramps and shooting pains in my feet if I wear uncomfortable shoes on the course. Luckily, the Max 2 Arch Fit combatted these issues with the incredible Ultra Flight cushioning. It softened every step I took and absorbed vibrations to reduce pressure on my soles.
The TPU Outsole punched above its weight, enhancing my traction in wet conditions. I often find spikeless golf shoes lose grip on damp turf and cause me to slip. However, the Skechers dug into the ground and kept me stable during the rotation of my swing. Finally, I noticed that the sizes run small. I usually wear a 10.5 shoe, but I had to use an 11 for my toes to fit.
PROS
- Super comfortable cushioning
- Impressive grip
- Waterproof
CONS
- Moderately expensive
- The sizes run a little small
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Best Flat Feet Golf Shoes for Summer
Warm Weather ☀️
The FootJoy FJ Flex shoes broke down sweat inside my kicks to keep my feet cool and dry. I endure Hyperhidrosis occasionally, which causes my feet to sweat profusely. However, the breathable mesh in these shoes keeps air flowing through the interior in 93-degree heat.
If you are looking for fashionable shoes, these are not it. The colors are plain, and the design simple, but the FJ Flex performs well in hot and dry conditions. I thought the Versatile Traction sole provided ample traction on a clear day. However, I am not sure it would hold on super moist ground.
The midsole was soft and supportive, and I did not experience much vibration on each step. I also appreciated the secure design of the narrow heel and round-toe front. Since I have an abnormally large toe, the round construction offers more space to keep it comfortable up front.
👟 Tip: We recommend either the Flex, or the Traditions for anyone searching for a more forgiving FootJoy golf shoe.
PROS
- Incredibly breathable
- Reasonable-priced golf shoe
- Spacious rounded toe area
CONS
- Boring colors
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Most Comfortable Golf Shoes for Flat Feet
Super Comfy
Every step taken in the Ecco Biom C4 Gore-Tex reminds me of walking barefoot on a shaggy rug. It is that soft. My playing partner Martin offered feedback on the shoes, and since he is Danish and patriotic, I disqualified his opinion. But, admittedly, his compatriots at Ecco have produced an incredibly comfortable shoe.
The Ecco Fluidform is responsible for delivering that soft feel thanks to its padding, shock absorption, and rebound. I thought the traction was fantastic in dry conditions, but I know you would want the comfort of the Biom G5 spikes in rainy conditions.
Speaking of rain, the Gore-Tex finish does well to shed moisture off the surface. I tested these shoes on a warm day with no rain. So, to determine its waterproofing, I resorted to drizzling water onto the material to see how it kept water out. It was effective, and I think it can withstand a heavier downpour than I was exposed to.
PROS
- Outstanding cushioning
- Waterproof finish
- Durable leather
CONS
- Not the most breathable shoes
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Best Wide Golf Shoes for Flat Feet
Wide Feet
If you have wide feet like me and have previously endured blisters from narrow shoes, let me introduce you to the New Balance 574 Greens. Before I tested them, I read reviews suggesting that the shoes are a narrow fit, but I found the opposite.
My plump feet fit seamlessly into the size 10.5 shoes without purchasing an extra wide construction. I thought the midsole cushioning was soft but nothing like the Ecco Biom C4. However, I felt the thick sock line was a nice bonus, as it cushioned my ankles throughout my round.
I tried the 574 Greens in light rain and was impressed with how the material kept moisture out. Although my feet were dry, these New Balance kicks offered limited airflow, which caused my feet to sweat more.
PROS
- Wider fit – regular, wide, or extra wide shoe sizes
- Waterproof
- Protective sock liner
CONS
- Moderately expensive
- Limited colors on offer
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Best Cheap Golf Shoes
Best for Walking
Golf shoes are not cheap items, but the Puma Ignite Fasten 8 bucks the trend to offer an affordable, soft, and supportive pair. Every step was cushioned, and the vibrations absorbed efficiently as the footwear protected my flat feet on every step.
Besides comfort, I thought the Ignite Fasten 8 stabilized and secured my feet effectively, preventing them from sliding up and down. When this happens, my toes develop blisters, and I struggle to walk for days after. Fortunately, the support of the TPU Saddle kept them in place at all times.
The top of the shoes provided space for air to filter through, which I was grateful for on the humid day I wore them. However, I did not find them as breathable as the FootJoy FJ Flex shoes, which were better at keeping my feet cool.
PROS
- Entry level price
- Supportive design
- Cushioned midsole
CONS
- The fit is a little narrow
- Not available in any bold colors
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Best Flat Foot Golf Shoes For Grip
👟 Great Grip
If you often play in the rain or on a hilly golf course, you will appreciate the outstanding grip of the New Balance Striker V3 shoes. The cleats were excellent at keeping my feet stable while I rotated during my swing.
I wore these shoes during two different rounds. One was a clear day, and the cleats had no issue. Their biggest challenge came in the second round, where I experienced a constant drizzle and the odd downpour. Despite the damp ground, I never felt like I would slip.
The padding on the Striker V3 shoes exceeded my expectations. It felt soft when I was stationary but was incredibly responsive with every step. The additional padding drowned vibrations from the impact of my step, sheltering my soles from the force.
PROS
- Excellent traction
- Soft feeling
- Waterproofing seems to work, and they are comfortable out of the box
CONS
- Tend to run slightly smaller than other Skechers golf shoes
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Buying Guide For Best Golf Shoes For Flat Feet
Traction
When selecting golf shoes for flat feet, traction is one of the first things you should ponder. Traction helps keep your feet firmly planted on the ground as you swing your club or walk around the course.
Good traction keeps you from slipping or sliding on wet or dry surfaces. Look for shoes that have a good grip on different types of terrain, from grass to dirt and sand. Also, make sure that the sole of the shoe has plenty of cushioning to absorb any shock from walking or swinging a club.
Stability
Another factor to consider when opting for golf shoes for flat feet is stability. Stability helps prevent injuries such as sprains and strains by keeping your foot in place throughout your swing and follow-through motions.
Shoes with wide-toe boxes will also help provide extra stability while playing because they allow more room inside the shoe for your foot to move without shifting around too much during swings or follow-throughs.
Sole Support
Most podiatrists tend to agree that the best shoes for flat feet involve having a supportive sole. You should ideally be looking for a firm but cushioned inner sole. It should mold with your foot and give you adequate support.
Arch Support
Arch support is an essential factor when choosing golf shoes for flat feet because it helps prevent pain in your arches after walking long distances or playing multiple rounds of golf over several days in a row.
It’s also vital to ensure the golf shoe fits well and isn’t too tight on your foot since this can cause uncomfortable pressure points around your arch area while playing golf.
Raised Heel
Golf shoes with a slightly raised heel can provide additional relief when playing golf. Look for a thicker sole to assist with taking pressure off your midsole. From my experience, golfers with flat feet notice an improvement.
Lace Up Golf Shoes
While you may find golf shoes with slip-on backs, they are not ideal for golfers with flat feet. Laces offer the ability to customize the fit to keep the shoe sole in place.
⛳️ Related Content: Best Golf Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
Other Considerations for Golfers with Flat Feet
When it comes to foot pain or related issues, it’s best to consult with your doctor. They may need to recommend custom orthotic inserts or physical therapy. The Foot & Ankle Center of Washington recommends The Foot-Chair orthotic inserts as a home-based remedy.
This is often needed, for example, if you have had a foot or ankle injury. A physical therapist can provide helpful instruction for exercises to improve muscle strength in your feet or legs.
Spiked or Spikeless Shoes: Which is Best for Flat Feet?
Spikeless shoes are better for flat feet in warm conditions because they are comfortable, padded, and lightweight. Spiked shoes are better in wet conditions because the spikes provide extra traction to keep you grounded during your swing.
Spikeless Golf Shoes
Spikeless golf shoes provide an excellent option for golfers with flat feet because they offer more flexibility and freedom of movement than their spiked counterparts. They also tend to be lighter in weight, making them a great choice if you plan on walking the course rather than taking a cart. In addition, spikeless shoes generally have softer soles that cushion the foot and absorb shock better than spiked shoes can.
This makes them perfect for long days spent out on the green. However, these benefits come at a cost—spikeless shoes don’t provide as much traction as spiked ones do, so you may find yourself slipping or sliding more often if you opt for this type of shoe.
Spiked Golf Shoes
Spiked shoes are designed to provide maximum stability on all types of terrain. This classic golf shoe design is an ideal choice if you’re looking for superior traction while playing your round of golf.
One of the downsides to spiked golf shoes is they are not as versatile if you decide to wear them off the golf course. They also tend not to be as lightweight.
Final Thoughts
My review revealed that the best golf shoes for flat feet are the Skechers Max 2 Arch Fit for their cushioning, traction, and style. They offer the support and containment needed by flat-footed golfers to enjoy a pain-free walk around the golf course.
The biggest downside of the Max 2 Arch Fit is its lack of breathability, which can create sweat build-up and discomfort. Alternatively, I would suggest considering the FootJoy FJ Flex shoes if airflow is a priority for your feet like they are for mine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I play golf with flat feet?
Yes, many golfers with flat feet enjoy golf without pain by investing in proper golf shoes.
Should you golf in flat shoes?
While some public golf courses may overlook improper footwear like tennis shoes, it is not recommended. Proper golf shoes are critical to maintaining stability and traction and avoiding injury on the golf course.
Do PGA pros wear spikeless shoes?
The PGA pros do wear spikeless golf shoes. However, the majority of professional golfers tend to prefer spiked golf shoes for traction and performance benefits.
