When you step on the course to play a round of golf, there certain pieces of equipment you would never consider leaving behind. Golf clubs, obviously, are crucial to any golfers game. Golf balls and tees are key components as well. There is one piece of equipment, however, that often gets disregarded. A good pair of golf shoes is often that missing piece.
There is no quicker and easier way to improve your golf swing than to invest in a good pair of golf shoes. Golf shoes are much more that just a fashion accessory on the course. They can vastly improve your swing. The primary function of the golf shoe is to maintain your traction on the course and keep your feet from slipping or sliding during the course of your swing. This is important for a couple of reasons. First, if you slip during your swing, you will most likely not make good contact with the ball. It is rare to see a golfer make a good solid swing with his or her feet slipping out from under them. Second, golf is very much a game of concentration and focus. If your mind wanders to the thought of your feet potentially slipping during your swing, that lack of focus will cause you to execute an inferior swing.
The most important thing when considering the comfort of a golf shoe, as with any pair of shoes, is a proper fit. You want a shoe that fits well with a little bit of room for your toes to wiggle but not excess room that will allow your feet to slide around inside the shoe. Proper arch support in a shoe is also very important, especially if you typically walk the golf course as opposed to riding in a golf cart.
One option you will find if you research golf online, is the option of removable cleats. Cleats are the metal, plastic or rubber spikes on the bottom of the golf shoe. It is the cleats that dig into the ground and grip the turf, preventing slipping during your swing. Some golf shoes feature cleats that are removable, allowing you to replace them when they get worn down, rather than having to replace the entire pair of shoes. If you opt for removable cleats, your golf shoes should last two to three years before needing to be replaced.
No matter what options you choose, if you are serious about improving your golf game, take the first step by investing in a good pair of golf shoes.