New Balance has a long-standing reputation for producing high-quality athletic footwear that blends performance, comfort and classic style. As a relative newcomer to the golf shoe game, the brand partnered with golf equipment company Klone Lab in 2014 to launch its first line of golf footwear.
Since then, New Balance has rolled out a variety of golf shoe models, offering both spiked and spikeless options. With so many choices available, I’ll break down the current men’s lineup to help you find the perfect pair for your game.
New Balance Spiked vs. Spikeless: Which Is Right for You?
When choosing between spiked and spikeless golf shoes from New Balance, it’s important to think about your playing environment and performance needs. Spiked golf shoes offer superior traction and stability, especially on wet courses or uneven terrain. This makes them ideal for players prioritizing grip and grounded power during their swing. These shoes typically feature replaceable cleats that dig into the turf for maximum control.
On the other hand, spikeless golf shoes prioritize versatility and comfort. They often feature lighter construction and flexible rubber outsoles that transition easily from the course to the clubhouse. They’re a great choice for players who walk the course or prefer a more casual, sneaker-like feel. When deciding between the two, think about your typical course conditions, comfort preferences and style to find the best fit for your game.
Spiked New Balance Men’s Golf Shoe Models
New Balance 997 Golf: New Balance combines the classic aesthetics of the iconic 997 sneaker with modern golf-specific features. The 997 Golf blends heritage style with Fast Twist 3.0 cleats and a waterproof leather upper. The one is perfect for traditionalists who want modern stability and comfort.
Brighton V2: The New Balance Brighton V2 is a spiked golf shoe designed for golfers seeking a blend of comfort, stability and all-weather performance. The Brighton V2 uses DynaSoft cushioning and Fast Twist Pulsar cleats for a plush, grounded feel. The waterproof construction ensures you’re ready for any weather.
Heritage Golf Shoe: This premium spiked model offers classic looks with modern support, including Fast Twist cleats, DynaSoft midsole, waterproof construction and a soft CUSH+ insole. The Heritage Golf Shoe is ideal for golfers who appreciate a fusion of traditional style and modern performance.
Spikeless New Balance Men’s Golf Shoe Models
New Balance 997 SL: As a spikeless twist on the classic New Balance 997, this shoe pairs streetwear-inspired style with a waterproof microfiber upper. The NDurance rubber outsole provides lightweight grip and flexibility throughout your round. Overall, the New Balance 997 SL is an excellent choice for golfers seeking a stylish, comfortable and versatile shoe that performs well on the course and looks great off it.
Fresh Foam X Defender SL: This sleek, athletic-style shoe features a lightweight FantomFit upper and Fresh Foam X midsole for ultra-plush underfoot comfort. The TPU outsole offers multi-directional traction without traditional cleats. Since its introduction in 2022, it has catered to golfers seeking comfort, stability and style on the course.
Breeze V2: Designed for warm-weather play, the Breeze V2 uses breathable mesh and REVlite cushioning to keep you light on your feet. Its NDurance rubber outsole gives you grip without sacrificing off-course wearability. The athletic design and versatile features make it suitable for both on-course performance and off-course wear.
574 Greens V2: As a modern golf update to the retro NB 574, this shoe features a waterproof upper and DynaSoft midsole for responsive cushioning. The spikeless rubber outsole delivers traction with a vintage sneaker look, making it a stylish yet functional option on the course.
550 SL: Inspired by the iconic NB 550 basketball shoe, this version offers a waterproof upper, soft EVA cushioning and a spikeless outsole that keeps your footing stable and smooth. The 550 SL is for golfers seeking a stylish, spikeless shoe that captures the essence of a classic sneaker while providing features for casual play.
480 SL: The 480 SL reimagines the classic 480 sneaker for the golf course, offering a blend of retro style and modern performance. It features a waterproof microfiber leather upper, a flexible NDurance spikeless rubber cupsole for reliable traction and an extra-thick PU sockliner for enhanced comfort. The New Balance 480 SL offers a great option for golfers looking for a comfortable, spikeless shoe that combines classic sneaker style with the practical features of everyday play.
Fresh Foam Contend V2: This ultra-cushioned spikeless shoe prioritizes comfort with Fresh Foam midsole tech and a waterproof microfiber upper. It’s ideal for walking rounds thanks to its soft ride and versatile tread pattern for traction. It offers a well-rounded, spikeless golf shoe option that delivers both comfort and performance.
Choosing the Right New Balance Golf Shoe for Your Game
New Balance may be a relative newcomer to the golf footwear scene, but the lineup reinforces the brand’s reputation for comfort, performance and style. With thoughtfully engineered options ranging from traditional spiked shoes to modern spikeless options, there’s something here to suit every type of golfer.
Whether you’re prioritizing all-weather traction, lightweight comfort for walking rounds or a design that seamlessly transitions off the course, New Balance delivers several solutions that don’t compromise on function or looks. Choosing the right pair comes down to your playing conditions and personal preferences. With this lineup, you’re sure to find something that works.
| New Balance Golf Shoe Model | Type | Key Features | Best For |
| 997 Golf | Spiked | Classic sneaker design, waterproof leather, SoftSpikes cleats | Golfers who want traditional looks with modern stability |
| Brighton V2 | Spiked | DynaSoft cushioning, Pulsar cleats, waterproof | Players needing comfort and traction in any weather |
| Heritage | Spiked | Premium style, CUSH+ insole, waterproof, Fast Twist cleats | Traditionalists who value comfort and craftsmanship |
| 997 SL | Spikeless | Streetwear-inspired style, NDurance rubber outsole, waterproof | Golfers wanting off-course style with on-course grip |
| Fresh Foam X Defender SL | Spikeless | Fresh Foam X midsole, FantomFit upper, TPU outsole | Golfers seeking plush comfort and athletic performance |
| Breeze V2 | Spikeless | Breathable mesh, REVlite cushioning, lightweight design | Warm-weather players who value airflow and comfort |
| 574 Greens V2 | Spikeless | Retro NB 574 look, DynaSoft midsole, waterproof | Style-conscious golfers who like sneaker vibes on the course |
| 550 SL | Spikeless | Based on iconic NB 550, waterproof, EVA cushioning | Casual golfers who want modern style and comfort |
| 480 SL | Spikeless | Retro sneaker styling, waterproof microfiber, cushioned insole | Players wanting understated design and all-day wearability |
| Fresh Foam Contend V2 | Spikeless | Fresh Foam cushioning, waterproof upper, all-day support | Walkers and comfort-first players needing soft, responsive ride |
Many New Balance golf shoes, especially spikeless models like the Fresh Foam Contend V2 and Breeze V2, offer lightweight cushioning and breathable materials. This makes them ideal for walking 18 holes in comfort.
Generally, New Balance golf shoes run true to size, but some models offer wide sizing for a better fit. If you’re between sizes or have wider feet, consider trying a half size up or choosing a model with extra width options.
