The Differences Between Golf Shoes and Running Shoes
Have you ever looked at both golf shoes and running shoes and thought that they were basically the same thing? You might have even considered buying just one pair and using both for running and for golf.
Golf shoes offer greater traction, more rigidity, and superior lateral support for a golfer’s swing. They’re also designed to resist elements like rain. In contrast, running shoes are lighter, more flexible, and designed to cushion and support forward motion on various terrains
As it happens, there are some key differences that one should be aware of. In today’s article, we will explore what those similarities and differences are, and more.
What Are the Differences Between Golf Shoes and Running Shoes?
While the two kinds of shoes do seem to share some aesthetic similarities, there are several important areas in which they differ. First of all, the traction in golf shoes is far stronger, and the shoes are more rigid overall than running shoes. Beyond that, golf shoes have better lateral support, and typically are made to be more resistant to the elements.
If you were to look at golf shoes of the past, you might wonder how some of these things were possible. More old-fashioned golf shoes look like smart leather shoes with spikes put on the bottom. They looked nothing like the way most people picture running shoes.
As times have moved forward, however, golf shoes have become more in-line with their fellow sports footwear items, offering greater function and support rather than just suiting an old idea of a dress code.
We have a table for quick reference below if needed.
Table 1: Differences between Running shoes / Sneakers and Golf Shoes.
| Features | Golf Shoes | Running Shoes |
|---|---|---|
| Traction | Designed with strong traction to firmly anchor the golfer during swings. Typically have spikes or cleats. | Designed with adequate traction for various terrains, often featuring grooves or treads. |
| Rigidity | More rigid to provide stability and enhance torque during the golf swing. | More flexible to facilitate the natural bending and flexing of the foot during running. |
| Support | Offer enhanced lateral support for the side-to-side movement in golf swings. | Support is more focused on forward motion, with features to correct overpronation or underpronation. |
| Materials | Made with leather or synthetic materials, often waterproof to withstand weather on the golf course. | Lightweight, breathable materials for comfort and ventilation during intense activity. |
| Weight | Weight contributes to stability but can strain feet during long golf rounds. | Lighter weight improves speed and energy efficiency, but a balance must be struck to ensure cushioning and durability. |
| Weather Resistance | Typically weather-resistant to protect against elements like rain. | Some models offer weather resistance, but the focus is more on breathability. |
Golf Shoes Have Stronger Traction
Traction is perhaps the most definitive difference between golf shoes and running shoes, and when you think about the different ways in which they are used, this starts to make sense.
Running shoes only make brief contact with any section of the ground, which is typically a hard surface like a running track or concrete pavement, or perhaps a dirt track or path. In this situation, the shoe only has to have enough traction to prevent the runner from slipping and falling.
Golf shoes, on the other hand, have a lot more to do.
Golf shoes have to lock the player in place firmly enough to withstand the significant lateral force of a high-level golf swing.
The player will stand in place for a relatively long period of time as they prepare themselves, and then swing, and their feet must be kept firmly and securely in place during that time. For this, one requires superior traction, and that’s what golf shoes deliver where running shoes don’t.
Golf Shoes Have More Rigid Construction
Where running shoes are invariably built to be more flexible than golf shoes, the latter is instead more rigid, while still having the right amount of flex when needed.
Golf shoes need to be made this way in order to provide better torque, a critical ingredient to an excellent golf swing. Extra torque means extra power, and when you’re facing a particularly long par-5 hole, a bit more power in the drive can make all the difference.
One example of modern innovation in the golf shoe can be seen in the use of special bridging between front and rear-foot sections of the shoe.
Some manufacturers use TPU in X shapes to create raised arch support for the feet. This feature makes it easier for golfers to more effectively (and without discomfort) shift their weight from the front to the rear during their downswing.
Golf Shoes Offer Superior Lateral Support
Readers shouldn’t misunderstand this point, because we are by no means saying that running shoes offer lesser support. Of course running shoes are supportive, but the main difference with golf shoes is how that support is channeled.
While running shoes support from front to back, golf shoes have a more lateral-focused support. Therefore, both types of shoes are tailored to their end user.
If you think about how you stand and move during any golf game, your most critical movements are when you’re standing sideways, and essentially moving from side to side — during your swing.
While you’re moving the golf ball forward towards the green and ultimately the hole, you yourself spend the majority of your time standing side on, and that’s why lateral support matters most.
Golf Shoes Protect Against the Elements
The inherent rigidity of golf shoes makes them more protective against rain and other weather elements. The enhanced water resistance will help to keep your feet dry during a match, and thus more comfortable.
Many might make the connection that more comfortable and well-supported feet help to make for a better round of golf overall.
Materials Used in Golf Shoes vs Running Shoes
Golf shoes are commonly made of leather or synthetic materials, with a waterproof lining to withstand varying weather conditions on the course. The soles are generally thicker and equipped with plastic or metal spikes for added traction.
In contrast, running shoes often feature lightweight, breathable materials for improved ventilation during intense activity. They typically have a rubber outsole with grooves or treads for grip on various terrains, and cushioned midsoles for shock absorption.
The Role of Shoe Weight in Golf and Running
Golf shoe weight affects stability during the swing, with heavier shoes generally providing more balance. However, excess weight may strain the golfer’s feet over extended periods. In running, shoe weight significantly impacts speed and energy efficiency.
Lighter shoes reduce the energy required to lift the foot off the ground, potentially enhancing performance. But it’s a balancing act, as too-light shoes may compromise cushioning and durability.
Foot and Ankle Support: Golf Shoes vs Running Shoes
Foot and ankle support differ between golf and running shoes due to distinct movement patterns. Golf shoes have a broader base and increased lateral support to accommodate the sideways motion during the golf swing, helping prevent ankle rolls.
Running shoes prioritize forward motion support, with cushioning primarily concentrated in the heel and forefoot areas. They may also incorporate stability features for overpronation or underpronation.
Choosing the Right Shoe: Tips for Golfers and Runners
For golfers, a good fit is paramount to avoid discomfort during long rounds. Consider factors like waterproofing, style (traditional or athletic), spike or spikeless, and comfort technologies offered by various brands.
For runners, consider your running style, foot shape, and the type of terrain you run on. Always try on running shoes with the socks you’ll wear during workouts, and do a small run if possible. Remember, the best shoe is one that feels comfortable and suits your specific needs.
Do I Need Golf Shoes to Be a Better Golfer?
It would be wrong to say that you absolutely need golf shoes to be the best golfer you can be, because the fact is that many people do show great skill without the fancy footwear.
Having said that, investing in a pair of decent golf shoes can be beneficial for one’s game, as we’ve discussed further above. It’s quite likely that golf courses and clubs will require proper footwear for those heading out for a round.
We have an articles listed below on if you do need golf shoes or not and reasons why this may be the case.
In this case, it’s perhaps best to compare the shoes to the golf glove. The glove has a function that is helpful for golfers, offering protection against blisters, and generally greater comfort when handling golf clubs over a long 18-hole round.
Do you strictly need it to play the game? No, but it helps a great deal. Golf shoes can be looked at in the same way. You don’t need them to ensure a good game, but the support and comfort they provide your feet, as well as added traction on the course, and greater stability when taking your swing all point to a great deal of beneficial function.
It’s therefore a good idea to invest in a pair for that functionality, rather than thinking an expensive pair of shoes will make you a better golfer overnight.
Running shoes didn’t make Usain Bolt faster, and golf shoes didn’t turn Tiger Woods into one of the greatest golfers who ever lived.
Conclusion
In summary, while both golf and running shoes share similarities as sports footwear, their distinct features are specifically designed to enhance performance in their respective sports.
- Golf shoes provide strong traction, rigidity, and lateral support for the complex demands of a golf swing, and they’re built to withstand outdoor elements.
- Conversely, running shoes emphasize flexibility, forward-motion support, breathability, and lightness, addressing the needs of runners on diverse terrains.
Therefore, while one could use running shoes for a casual golf game or golf shoes for a short jog, to truly benefit from each sport’s specific demands, using the appropriate footwear, as in all sports, is recommended.
