It’s only natural for us to want to go barefoot rather than wearing modern footwear. You certainly want to feel comfortable walking and playing golf without the consistent problems that your current footwear is causing you. The best thing you can do is to transition to barefoot or minimalist type shoes.
The pick for the best barefoot shoes for golfers is the TRUE Men’s Original. However, if you are looking for a budget-friendly alternative, you might consider the WHITIN Men’s Minimalist Trail Runner. Still, if you are looking for a unique foot-glove, then Vibram Men’s KSO EVO is a good choice.
In this article, we will go more in-depth about all of the benefits that these barefoot shoes have to offer.
Our Favorite: TRUE Men’s Original
You can’t go wrong with the True Linkswear brand. It is the best option for golfers looking to get as close to barefoot as possible. True Original offers just that.
What makes this shoe different? Everything!
Okay, in all seriousness, this shoe has many great features. What makes it stand out is it’s almost a natural platform for golfers to walk on. It’s like you are actually walking barefoot, but with a little extra skin.
Not only that, but with the True Original’s sturdy, cross-like tread and zero-drop outsole (aka no thick heel footwear), you’ll notice yourself having more stability, better performance, and a steady gait while playing golf. It can’t get much better than that, can it?
Actually, it can!
The True Original is also waterproof. That means you don’t have to deal with morning dew coming through your shoes, and you can confidently wear them in almost any type of inclement weather. This is practically a must when on the course.
Linkswear stands by their shoe. This is why you’ll notice that True Original shoes come with a 2-year guarantee warranty that they will stay waterproof. If not – no need to worry because you are covered.
You can feel confident, comfortable, and stylish on and off the course. It’s hard not to fall in love with all the features that True Original has to offer.
Budget-Friendly Pick: WHITIN Men’s Minimalist Trail Runner
Linkswear’s True Original might be a bit more pricey than you prefer, but no worries. Whitin Men’s Minimalist Trail Runner shoes are a great alternative.
Yes, you read that right. It is technically called a trail running shoe; however, they don’t have to just be for running. These shoes would be perfect for the course.
Just like Linkswear, Whitin’s shoes are inspired by barefoot walking. They are wider than the average shoe so that your feet are able to stretch. Much like when you are actually walking barefoot. They also feature a nice rubber sole for your protection. But, you are still able to feel the ground in a more natural way.
One of Whitin’s trail running shoes unique features is the removable insole liner. You can take it on and off as you please. When they’re off, you can count on a better “barefoot” feeling. But, when the liners are in, they are still light enough to allow your foot a bit more cushioning while still giving you the barefoot effect. This is perfect for those long courses.
Plus, there is a neat fact for all of the animal lovers out there – Whitin’s design was processed with animal-free products!
So, you get sturdy, comfortable, barefoot-like footwear, all for a wonderful price. What more could you ask for?
The Unique Pick: Vibram Men’s KSO EVO
How many of you prefer gloves over mittens in the winter? Probably most of you, right? It’s because you can still pick things up (like snowballs, because who doesn’t love a good snowball fight?). Well, then wouldn’t it be great if there were gloves for your feet?
We have good news—Vibram’s KSO EVO is practically a foot-glove!
Vibram has gone above and beyond in creating a unique style of shoes that are engineered for comfort and stability and offer that ground-like feel you are looking for.
What’s more is that this style is made of a polyester mesh, which provides the utmost flexibility, a secure grip for traction, and a lighter, simpler design that glides right onto your feet. Due to the polyester material being used, you are also able to get these shoes cleaned in the washer.
Vibram notes that these minimalist shoes are perfect for practicing functional fitness.
Wouldn’t it be nice to walk onto the course, just as if you were truly barefoot? There is no box-like structure at the tip of your toes to get in your way, just a thin, mesh-like film to protect your toes and the rest of your foot.
It should be mentioned, however, that these shoes do run small. So, you will want to make sure that you order the next size up if planning to purchase one.
What to Look for When Purchasing Barefoot Shoes
There are many factors to keep in mind when looking to purchase barefoot or minimalist shoes. Below we mention some tips for what to look for when purchasing barefoot shoes.
- Flexibility – This is probably the most important factor to consider when purchasing barefoot shoes. That is because the main reason for barefoot shoes is to provide you with a more natural gait. You want to be able to walk just as if you are barefoot. In terms of looking for flexibility, it’s best to consider the width of the sole of the shoe. You want it to be thin!
- Zero-drop – The term “zero-drop” means that the shoe has no heel on it. There isn’t that extra cushioning for your heel. Just like when you walk barefoot, your foot is supposed to be flat, not arched. So, zero-drop is necessary for leveling your foot to a natural state.
- Lightweight – You should look for barefoot shoes that are lightweight. You don’t want to be clogging down the course with the extra shoe weight. You don’t want to feel weighed down. Plus, lightweight means breathable.
- Price – Barefoot shoes can be on the pricier side, but they don’t have to be out of your budget range! This is why checking prices is essential. Some of your less expensive shoes are just as durable, flexible, and comfortable as the ones that are more expensive. Keep in mind what you are willing to spend and look in that range. There is plenty to offer.
- Traction – Traction is important in barefoot shoes. The best barefoot shoes have the support and natural grip-like function on their outsoles. It also means better performance out on the course because you will be able to maintain balance, stability, and feel as though your feet are “gripping” the ground, just as you would naturally being barefoot.
- Durability – Durability is a must! You want to have shoes that can withstand time and outside elements. But, mostly, you want to find a pair that will hold up on the course for longer periods of time.
Final Thoughts
There is no doubt that we feel Linkswear’s True Original shoe brand is the best option. But, we can’t deny that Whitin’s Minimalist Trail Running shoes are a terrific budget-friendly alternative. Not to mention, if you are interested in a unique, foot-glove brand, then Vibram’s KSO EVO shoe would be a good investment.
Of course, it is best to keep in mind that there are many factors to consider when looking to purchase barefoot shoes for golfing. With the information in this article, you will have a better chance of finding success with the best barefoot shoes for golf.