Best Golf Shoes for Junior Golfers – Our Picks

Kids’ feet grow fast, but that doesn’t mean you should automatically grab a size larger. A shoe that’s too big can cause blisters and affect balance during the swing. Look for a thumbnail’s width of space at the toe, and consider models with a snug heel cup to prevent slippage. Some brands, like adidas, offer a BOA Fit System that micro-adjusts for a precision fit, which is incredibly helpful for juniors with narrow or wide feet.

Always check the brand’s sizing chart-FootJoy tends to run true to size, while adidas can vary by model. If possible, try on shoes at the end of the day when feet are slightly swollen, mimicking a round of golf.

Spiked shoes provide maximum traction, especially on wet or hilly courses. They’re great for competitive juniors who need stability during powerful swings. Modern soft spikes are replaceable, so you can refresh them when worn. On the flip side, spikeless shoes are more versatile-they’re comfortable for walking off the course and won’t damage clubhouse floors. For younger kids who might not generate a ton of torque, spikeless is often plenty grippy and easier to maintain.

Our advice: if your junior plays mostly on flat, dry courses or values all-day comfort, go spikeless. For tournament play or dewy morning rounds, spiked shoes offer that extra bit of security.

If your junior golfer ever plays early in the morning or after rain, waterproofing is essential. Wet feet are a fast track to misery-and blisters. Look for shoes with a waterproof membrane or a manufacturer’s waterproof warranty, like the one-year warranty offered by FootJoy. Keep in mind that even waterproof shoes need care; reapply a water-repellent spray every few months to maintain performance.

For kids who only play in dry conditions or on driving ranges, water-resistant materials might suffice, saving you a few bucks.

Junior golfers are tough on gear. Synthetic uppers (like the performance mesh on the FootJoy Flex Xp) are lightweight and breathable but may show wear sooner. Microfiber leather (seen on many adidas models) strikes a balance between durability and comfort, while full-grain leather offers a classic look but can be heavier and less breathable. For active kids, reinforced toe caps and robust outsoles can extend the shoe’s life.

Don’t overlook the outsole-carbon rubber holds up better than standard rubber, and some shoes feature extra traction elements in high-wear areas. A quick visual inspection after a few rounds will tell you a lot about build quality.

Traditional laces are simple and adjustable, but they can come untied mid-round, which is annoying for young golfers. The BOA closure system (found on the adidas Tour360 and CodeChaos) uses a dial to tighten a steel wire, giving a precise, even fit that stays put. It’s especially great for kids who struggle to get laces tight enough, but the mechanism can be fiddly for very small hands. For many juniors, a well-designed lace system with a secure knot is more than sufficient.

Junior shoes range from budget-friendly options under $50 to premium pairs pushing $85+. If your child is still growing rapidly, it’s wise to prioritize fit and basic performance features over top-of-the-line materials. A shoe like the adidas ZG23 offers excellent traction and comfort without a painful price tag. However, if your junior plays tournaments or has specific fit needs, investing in a premium model with a BOA system or advanced cushioning can be justified-just be prepared for them to outgrow it within a season or two.

Remember, a well-chosen affordable shoe often outperforms an ill-fitting expensive one. Focus on what matters for their current skill level and playing frequency.