Are Golf Shoes Fashion Or Essential? - By: Andre Niemand

Golf shoes have evolved over the decades, but have constantly kept pace with the modern fashions of the day. Until the 1950's, golf shoes were similar in make and design, with differences only noticeable by shoe manufacturers. However, today golfers have many different styles to choose from with various price ranges to suit their budgets. Although many knock-off manufacturers have jumped into the lucrative business of golf shoes in the past few years, some of the more reputable shoemakers are Foot Joy, Nike, Adidas and Etonic.

In the past, most golf shoes were some sort of leather wingtip or saddle shoe, with steel spikes on the soles to help the golfer with traction. The classic shoe styles are still available, and actually preferable when golfing at a country club or formal event, but there are also casual shoes, tennis shoes, and even sandals available to the golfer. Also, rubber or plastic soft spikes have essentially replaced the steel spikes. The change came about to save on damage to the greens by players dragging their feet across the grass.

High-end leather shoes can cost the most discriminating golfer up to $400. These shoes will usually be made of the highest quality water resistant leather. On the inside of the shoe will contain a waterproof lining that stretches to conform to the golfer's foot, and will likely offer a fine arch support. Additionally, the soles of the shoes will likely be made of one of the more durable types of rubber to protect against some of the normal wear seen through seasons of golf play.

Many weekend duffers that take a more casual approach to the game have opted for comfort and affordability with a tennis-styled golf shoe. These shoes are normally produced with a water resistant leather or synthetic material on the outside and a waterproof liner on the inside. Arch supports can be great in a more expensive pair of casual shoes, but most come with just a small rise that you find in the common tennis shoe. Prices on casual golf shoes range from $20 up to $100.

Finally, the golf sandal has becoming increasingly popular in the last few years. Of course, these are the most casual of any golf shoes, but they can be surprisingly comfortable a durable. The sandal is, more often than not, a modification of the many outdoor hiking sandals seen on the market, just with soft spikes added to the soles. The cost of a pair of golf sandals will normally run between $30 and $70.

About the Author

Andre Niemand is a dentist,with a love for sport and keen follower of the top golfers.Find out how you can easily stay on top of the game at The Ultimate Golf Guide at http://www.golfdrivechipnputt.com/asgolf and at http://www.golfworldadvice.com/ultgolfcombo

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