I always heard the old metal spikes were good because they kept the greens aerated. When plastic spikes came along, they were said to be better for greens. What’s the story?

Whatever benefits accrued from holes punched by metal spikes were more than offset by the damage done by foot-dragging golfers. In the metal-spike days, it was common to see tracks of six inches or longer scratched into the putting surface – invariably near the hole. Remember, the rules of golf forbid tapping down spike marks in one’s putting line, so they’re a real nuisance. (Especially when you’ve got a 3-footer to win a Nassau.)

Since plastic spikes don’t protrude as far as metal spikes, and aren’t as sharply pointed, you see far fewer scuffs and scrapes etched into greens these days. That means fewer missed putts and fewer headaches for greenskeepers.

How many spikes should my shoes have?

Most feature between seven and nine, but there’s no accepted optimal number. Rather, it’s the placement of spikes that’s most important. Since stability is key to a proper swing, spikes are strategically placed along the outer edge of each foot, at the balls of the feet, and in the heel.

Are there shoes made for super-casual golfers?

You bet. Start with models made to look like ordinary athletic shoes, of which there are many. If those aren’t casual enough for you, there’s a movement toward so called “street shoes” that resemble those worn by skateboarders. If those aren’t your cup of tea, it doesn’t get any more casual than sandals or flip-flops. Several companies make open-toed models with spikes and all, so you don’t have to sacrifice traction while indulging your laid-back side.

Do any golf shoes have Velcro instead of laces?

Yes, although it’s never become an especially popular style. Perhaps because Velcro’s convenience is cancelled out by the grating noise it makes when pulled apart. It’s not the sort of thing you want to hear mid-swing.

Are there any slip-ons with no bindings at all?

There are some, but not many. In fact, women will have better luck finding slip-ons than men. Hard to say why laceless shoes haven’t caught on in golf, but it may have to do with the need for a snug fit that’s difficult to achieve without bindings that can be adjusted based on one’s foot size.

Are golf shoe sizes the same as regular shoe sizes, or is there a special sizing chart?

They follow standard charts in the U.S., Europe and elsewhere. In other words, if you wear a men’s size 10 in sneakers or dress shoes, a size 10 for golf should fit as well.

Does anyone make shoes for golfers with flat feet (aka fallen arches)?

The major manufacturers do not, though you may find a custom shoemaker who can build you a pair. The best solution is to invest in custom-made orthotics that can be placed inside most any pair of shoes, golf or otherwise.

Author Bio: At Comfortable Golf Shoes, we’re committed to helping you find the best golf shoes on the market by giving you a wide range to choose from. We offer high-quality, stylish, waterproof, turf-gripping and, most of all, comfortable golf shoes from the best brands in the business, including FootJoy, Nike, ECCO and adidas. Take a look at the golf shoes we have on offer.

Category: Sports
Keywords: golf shoes, plastic spikes, metal spikes.