omfortAlthough disc golf has increased its popularity through the years, it is still not the same as other big-time sports where shoe manufacturers have made specially-made shoes for them. Every disc golfer needs to find the best disc golf shoes in other related sports such as hiking and running. But this issue does not stop every disc golfer, including myself, from finding the right shoe for my disc golf needs.
This review will feature 12 of the best shoes you can find to meet disc golf’s needs and demands. I personally tried and used most of the shoes, while my disc golfer friends used the others. We used and tested all of the shoes in an actual disc golf course and environment. We also include different features and benefits in this review to give every disc golfer all the information they need when looking for the correct disc golf shoes.
Best Disc Golf Shoes Reviews
1. Adidas outdoor Terrex Swift R2 GTX
When looking for disc golf’s best shoes, you need to have a pair that covers everything— durability, comfort, waterproofing properties, are my main factors that help me as a player stand out on the course. And this is what this trail hiking shoe from Adidas has. As it offers the best features needed for every disc golfer. No wonder this is one of the go-to shoes for top professional golfers, including Paul McBeth, Simon Lizotte, and many more.
Waterproof Disc Golf Shoes
I have personally used the shoe, and I can say that this is one of the best waterproof disc golf shoes on the market. I have tried and tested it in wet conditions, and it holds pretty well, protecting both of my feet and keeping them dry all day long. The manufacturer uses a unique material called GORE-TEX membrane to enhance the shoe’s waterproofing features.
Design
Another feature that stands out with this trail hiking shoe is its impressive design. I believe its overall design was tailored for athletes, including those who play disc golf. A breathable ripstop mesh upper with TPU overlays ensures the shoes’ durability and supports them from the damage of constant movement on the field.
Sole
Also, I was also impressed with the sole of the shoe. The cushioning is perfect, and it provides comfort and added support on the feet. As a bonus feature, every disc golfer will also like how easy it is to lace up the shoe and make adjustments during the game with its Bungee lace-up system. It has provided me a lot of comfort when adjusting the shoe as far as lacing is concerned and changing to another pair of shoes if I want to.
The only issue I have with this hiking shoe is the quality of the laces. They are too thin and are the first to give up. Primarily if the shoe is used extensively, these laces wear out easily. You do have the option to replace it with a more durable lace if you want to with some aftermarket laces.
- Provides waterproofing properties to keep your feet dry even in wet conditions
- Promotes comfort and durability
- Laces are easy to adjust
- Ability to grip the ground well
- Used by top professional disc golfer
- Subpar laces
2. Salomon X Ultra 3 Gore-Tex Hiking Shoes
This shoe is another hiking shoe that provides many features that fit many disc golfers’ needs. With my extensive years of playing disc golf, I have tried and tested several types of shoes for my disc golf game, and this shoe is one of them. I believe that this brand offers one of the best insoles for golf shoes that are suitable for a disc golf game. The rubberized insole imparts a significant level of durability to the shoes.
Durable
If you are playing on courses with many descents and hikes, I highly recommend this shoe. I have used this shoe on hike-esc course, and the way it handles challenging drops and similar playing conditions has helped me during my game a lot of times. It holds up well when you go up or down steep inclines. This shoe is durable enough to withstand the effect of this type of condition with its Descent Control Technology.
Waterproof
Meanwhile, I have also trusted this shoe in wet conditions, especially when it is raining continuously during the round. It offers waterproofing features that keep my feet dry all the time, even on a rainy round day. As a disc golfer, I do not like my feet soak with water as it will affect my performance during the game. This sentiment is similar to other disc golfers, as no one wants their feet soaked with water during gameplay, this shoe will keep both feet dry even in wet conditions.
Comfort
This shoe also provides comfort to both of my feet when playing my disc golf rounds. Another thing that I like about this shoe, is its molded sock liner that offers enough breathability and comfort to the feet. You can also feel the comfort in the midsole, thanks to the high-performance EVA foam that provides shock resistance features to the feet.
However, the only issue I have with this particular shoe is the size of the toe box. It is too small and is a little inconvenient if you have a bigger foot.
- Provides a lot of comfort and durability
- Ability to deal with steeply inclined courses
- Always keeps your feet dry with its waterproofing feature
- The rubberized sole provides toughness and durability
- It gives a lot of ventilation to the feet
- Small toe box
3. Merrell Moab 2 Vent Hiking Shoes
This product is another hiking shoe that fits well for use by disc golfers during the game. I am a big fan of the brand, and I consider this shoe one of the best Merrell shoes made for disc golf. I have personally used it in some of my rounds, and I can say that its design fits well with the demands and the needs that every player requires in a disc golf round.
Durability and Toughness
What impresses me the most with this shoe is its durability and toughness. It is made with high-performance leather and a mesh upper, enabling it to withstand any damage from constant movement and gripping of the ground during gameplay. It is sturdy enough to last long, even if I have used it frequently in playing several rounds of disc golf. Also, the weight is just enough for me to do any type of shots out on the field or course.
Comfort
When it comes to comfort, this shoe is the most comfortable that I have ever used on the course and field. The air cushion found on the heel provides shock absorption and stability, while the breathable mesh lining gives some ventilation to both of my feet. Furthermore, the midsole offers additional stability and comfort to my feet, especially when dealing with steep and inclined surfaces.
This shoe also protects the toe of your feet with its protective rubber toe cap. I have worn out many shoes because the toe gets destroyed, but this one is entirely different. Due to the protected toe, this shoe lasts much longer. It provides a lot of comfort to every part of your feet as well. Meanwhile, the zonal arch and heel support make this shoe one of the best arch support golf shoes you can use.
However, one minor issue that I see on this shoe is the toe box’s narrow fit. I feel that it gives some discomfort to the toes and the foot overall. Adjustment in the measurements will make a lot of disc golfers happy.
- With breathable mesh lining
- A protective cap provides comfort and protection to the toe
- Designed to provide durability and toughness
- The synthetic sole provides extra durability
- Heel cushioning offers extra comfort
- Some discomfort on the toes
4. KEEN Targhee 3 Waterproof Hiking Shoe
When looking for the best disc golf shoes, I want something that gives me everything from above on the course. The shoe must meet the demand that every disc golfer needs comfort, durability, and waterproofing to name a few. Since there are still no shoes designed specifically for the sport, you need to find something related, and this Keen shoe stands out due to all the features it offers to the disc golfer.
Waterproof
This particular shoe is one of my go-to when dealing with wet conditions on the field. I have used this shoe as an alternate when it comes to playing on a rainy day. I have even used it when there is snow, and I can say that it survives all the difficult wet and muddy conditions in which it has been used. It has successfully kept my feet dry even under those conditions, and I was amazed at what this shoe offers.
All-Terrain
Also, this is one of the best Keen shoes for disc golf because of all the features it brings to the table. For one, this is an all-terrain shoe, which makes them perfect in mountainous and rocky disc golf courses. I was impressed by the high-traction grip it it has, I was impress on how easily it griped the ground when I used it on the course. Dealing with uneven and hilly courses means nothing with this shoe. It will help you navigate going up and down even to the steepest inclines on the field.
Comfort
I was also impressed by how this shoe provides a great fit and comfort to both of my feet. I like the padded pad and collar as it provides comfort on the upper portion of my feet. Meanwhile, the insole or footbed gives extra arch support as it stabilizes the foot’s natural form. I know it is hard to find a shoe that provides comfort, especially when playing disc golf, but Keen’s shoe is different. It gives comfort to every disc golf player’s needs, especially in extreme weather conditions and demanding courses.
The only issue I have with this Keen shoe is the narrow toe box. For the people who have a pair of wide feet, this will bring a lot of discomfort.
- Pure textile and leather
- Rubber sole provides extra durability to the shoes
- Ability to deal with different types of terrain with its all-traction grip
- Promotes excellent fitting and comfort
- The Torsion Support System gives stability to uneven surfaces
- Narrow toe box
5. New Balance 481 V3 Trail Running Shoes
The New Balance is known for its running shoes, and some of these shoes can be on the large side when used on a disc golf course. Like the model 481 V3 which takes pride in having fantastic traction perfect in navigating different disc golf courses. I am pretty familiar with the shoe because some of my friends are using it. Many of them thought this is one of the best golf shoes for flat feet.
Comfort
But what impresses me the most is the comfort that this shoe provides to the disc golfer. I took a closer look at the shoes’ midsole and saw an ultra-soft cushioning that offers a natural comfort for the wearer’s foot. It provides the best feeling and stability to the underfoot, while the soft insert adds additional coziness and snugness to the user. It is extremely comfortable, even when dealing with uneven surfaces.
Durability
Meanwhile, the rubberized sole gives added toughness and durability to the overall foundation of the shoe. The outsole was impressive as it holds well, giving enough traction on the ground. It is grippy even on steeply inclined surfaces, making it perfect for hilly or rocky golf courses. Based on my observation, this shoe is excellent, especially when using on dry courses, which need tough and durable disc golf shoes.
I like the comfort collar, which hugs the ankle to provide a great fit and prevent irritation. The leather and mesh upper adds extra toughness and prevents any distraction when playing a round of disc golf. It’s a shoe that provides excellent fit and protection for your feet when used on the course.
One downside I have observed with the shoes is the size and fitting issues. I feel that the brand’s sizes were too large compared to the standard shoe sizes and fittings.
- Cushioned support and insert provides comfort to the foot
- Comfort collar and durable upper adds extra comfort and secure fit
- The rubberized sole provides durability
- Made of leather and textile
- Provides traction on different types of disc golf courses
- Issues on sizes and fittings
6. Adidas outdoor Terrex Ax3 Hiking Boot
This item is another shoe from Adidas that is typically used for trail hiking or running, which can also be used for disc golfers. If you are looking for the best throwing shoes in a disc golf game, I recommend this shoe due to its rubberized outsole that provides a better grip to the ground when doing the x-step or forearm run-up. This shoe is the best option to use if the course is concentrated on a single area and not as rocky or hilly as other courses.
Toughness and Durability
What I like best about this shoe is its durability and toughness. The rubberized sole adds extra toughness and durability to the overall foundation of the shoe. It is strong enough to last long, even if I have used it frequently in playing several rounds of disc golf. I have personally witnessed how this shoe survives a lot of punishment, even on challenging courses. Also, the weight is light, which is enough for me to be comfortable doing different shots.
Comfort
As for the comfort, I can say that this shoe is one of the most comfortable that I have ever used on the disc golf course. The lightweight EVA midsole provides comfort on the underfoot while the shaft is measured approximately ankle-high from the arch to add coziness and additional tightness. Furthermore, the molded toe cap provides extra comfort to the feet, especially when having constant movement during gameplay.
Also, this shoe comes with a rubber outsole for a fantastic grip on the ground. The grip of this shoe was especially noticed in dealing with uneven surfaces. It provides a lot of comfort to every part of your foot, despite the complex surface condition. Meanwhile, the easy lace closure system helps me adjust the lace to where I am comfortable during the game. Changing the lace can be done quickly with this particular shoe.
One minor issue I see in the shoe is in the backside around the heel as it is a little bit loose. It gives some discomfort when dealing with rugged terrain in the disc golf course.
- Provides regular fitting to the feet
- The rubberized outsole adds extra durability to the shoes
- 100% synthetic shoes
- Can adjust the shoelaces quickly
- The toe cap was designed to give added comfort to the feet
- Heel a little bit loose
7. Oboz Sawtooth II Low Hiking Shoes
This product is another hiking and backpacking shoe that also works well when used on a disc golf course. I was quite pleased with the shoes I tried out on the course recently, especially their overall design. The construction and manufacturing of the shoes are ideally suited to the demands of the disc golf course. I found the insole, midsole, outsole, and several other elements of the shoe to be especially noteworthy.
Insole
For me, the insole of the shoe stands out in terms of providing comfort to my feet. It was designed so that it gives the right feel and fits both of my feet. The convenience it provides is impressive. Meanwhile, the midsole adds extra cushioning and stability, while a nylon shank provides additional support underfoot.
Outsole
Since I am also a hiker myself, the outsole is also my favorite in its design. But when it comes to the disc golf course, I like the flexibility and versatility in adjusting to different golf courses. Whether it’s a flat course or a rocky ground, the shoe can adapt without any significant issue. The outsole plays a vital role in supporting the overall durability and foundation of the shoe.
Upper Design
I was also impressed by the shoe’s upper design and how it was manufactured with durability and sturdiness. It was manufactured with abrasion-resistant textile and high-quality leather, which for me, can last longer even with the problematic conditions of the disc golf course. I am confident enough to say that this shoe can withstand any amount of punishment when used on the field.
However, one downside I noticed, is the poor arch support. It gives some discomfort to the foot, especially the first time you wear it. It needs improvement as far as the manufacturer is concerned.
- Constructed and shaped to provide the best fitting to the feet
- Upper designed made with high-quality materials to add durability
- The midsole adds extra cushioning and stability for additional comfort
- The outsole promotes versatility and flexibility
- An asymmetrical collar provides additional support to the ankle
- Poor arch support
8. ALTRA AL0A4PE5 Lone Peak 4.5 Trail Shoes
When looking for a disc golf shoe, you need to find something that offers durability and sturdiness. Using disc golf on the course generates a high demand, and this challenge tests the strength and quality of the shoe’s manufacturing. However, when it comes to being sturdy, trail running shoes provide the sturdiness and durability the disc golfer is looking for. The quality is the reason I recommend this shoe from Altra to all disc golfers in their disc golf activities.
Comfort
Comfort-wise, this shoe offers the same level as the previous shoes that I’ve reviewed. I have personally used it on a disc golf course, and overall, the feel was excellent. I like the trimmed down layer and the Eva midsole that provides cushioning to the foot. The balanced cushioning between the heel and the forefoot regarding the ground encourages a low-impact effect to the shoes.
On the course, I found that this shoe impressively clings to the ground, regardless of the type of surface. The designers crafted the outsole to deliver a solid grip and traction on the ground, allowing easy navigation across various terrains on the disc golf course. Whether you are playing on a naturally flat surface or dealing with a rocky or mountainous course, this shoe can handle the challenge with ease.
Insole
I also like the insole design, especially on how it was designed to fit the foot inside. The shape allows both of the toes to relax while spreading out naturally. This will bring a lot of comfort when it comes to the movement of the feet inside. Meanwhile, this shoe is also easy to lace up, adding convenience when changing to another pair of shoes between disc golf rounds when needed.
The only issue I see in the product is the narrow toe box. I will not recommend this shoe to big-footed individuals as it might bring inconvenience when being used.
- The rubberized sole provides durability and sturdiness
- The outsole design provides traction and grip to the ground
- The insole and midsole were designed to give comfort to the feet
- Easy to lace up
- Made in the USA
- Narrow toe box
9. Columbia Crestwood Hiking Shoes
Columbia makes the Crestwood, another hiking shoe that fits nicely for use by disc golfers. I am a big fan of the shoe brand because of its advance design and technology to improve the shoe’s performance while providing convenience to the disc golfer. I have used it in some of my disc golf rounds, and the way it is designed fits well with what every player needs in a disc golf game.
Versatility and Style
What I like the most about this shoe brand is its versatility and style. Using it on the disc golf course has given me many advantages in navigating different types of terrain. The high-quality exterior leather and soft mesh provide durability and sturdiness to the shoe. This shoe was strong enough to last longer than other shoes, even though I frequently used it on the field.
Comfort
Comfort-wise, this shoe is one of the best that I have ever used on the disc golf course. I was impressed with the midsole regarding its durability and comfort. It provides superior cushioning, perfect tightness, and significant energy returns. Furthermore, the durable mesh tongue increases the shoe’s breathability for added comfort.
Also, this shoe provides the best grip into the ground regardless of the type of topographical feature on the course. I have worn other shoes, and it holds up well in dealing with different kinds of terrains. A dual-zone winter tread pattern makes sure that the shoe fits well and has a firm footing on other kind of surfaces.
However, I have some issues with its size and fittings. I feel that its size preference is smaller compared to the standard shoe sizes and fit.
- Uses advanced technology to provide durability, comfort, and sturdiness to the shoe
- Rubberized sole enhances durability
- Promotes versatility and style
- Provides traction and grip to any type of surface
- It comes with an easy adjustment lacing system that promotes convenience
- Size and fitting issue
10. Fila Midland Trail Running Shoes
The Fila brand was a household name when it comes to making basketball shoes several years ago. A few years ago, one of my friends wore this Fila hiking shoe, and it immediately intrigued me. I acquired it to test on the disc golf course, and the shoe’s performance impressed me right from the outset.
Comfort
But what I like most about the shoe is the comfort that it provides to the disc golfer. The midsole amazed me with its ability to provide comfort and a snug fit to both of my feet. It provides the best feeling and stability to the underfoot while the padded footbed provides additional comfort to the user.
Durability
Meanwhile, the rubberized outsole gives added toughness and durability to the overall foundation of the shoe. This feature was the most impressive part of the shoe as it holds well and provides traction and grip. It is grippy even on steeply inclined surfaces, making it perfect for hilly or rocky golf courses. I strongly feel that this shoe is excellent, especially when used on dry courses, which needs durable and sturdy shoes.
I also like the contrast stitching and the fabric mesh that enhances the overall appearance of the shoe. After all, this was the brand’s trademark when it was still prevalent in the basketball industry. The leather and mesh upper provide additional toughness to the player when playing rounds of disc golf. It’s a shoe that offers a great fit while also providing protection to both feet when used on the disc golf course.
However, the only problem I had is the sole’s quality, especially on the toe area. This part was the first one to peel off. It needs improvement as far as the quality is a concern.
- Made of 100% fabric
- Lace-up closure provides a secure fitting
- Padded foot bed gives extra comfort
- Provides sturdiness and durability to last long on the disc golf course
- Made in the USA
- Subpar sole quality
11. CAMEL CROWN Hiking Trailing Disc Golf Shoes
This shoe from Camel Crown is another hiking shoe that also provides the excellent performance when used on the disc golf course. I was impressed when I used the shoes on the field and they handled the adversities on the course. Whether it’s the difficult surface or the constant movement and navigation on steeply inclined surfaces, this shoe takes the different challenges with ease. I feel that the way the shoes were constructed and their design, this shoe is perfect for the disc golf course’s demand.
Insole
For me, the insole of the shoe stands out when providing a snug and comfortable fit to my feet. It makes me feel like was manufactured to give the best feeling and a great fit to my feet. The term is ortholite stretchy insole provides the most comfortable insole, even to the toes and heels. An added shock-absorbing material offers extra comfort, while the toe cap provides the fitting to be snug around the toe.
Outsole
This shoe also has the most impressive outsole in terms of its design. When it comes to the disc golf course, I like the anti-slipping feature that helps the shoe hold on to the ground even in cold temperatures. The outsole was manufactured to improve cushioning and wear resistance and for the shoe to withstand possible damage while in use. In my wearing the shoe, the outsole plays an essential role in supporting this shoe brand’s overall durability and foundation.
Mesh
The large area mesh and the inner moisture-wicking mesh feature that enable efficient airflow circulation also impressed me. The circulation is both from the inside and outside portion of the shoes. The rugged and anti-slip laces also help in securing your feet even with constant movement on the field. I am confident enough that this shoe can withstand and prevent damage when used on the field.
However, the only issue I have with the shoe is the lack of cushioning. Although it offers comfort to the foot, the cushioning is still lesser than the other shoes reviewed. There is room for improvement on the part of the manufacturer.
- Promotes efficient airflow in and out of the shoe
- The robust outsole provides sturdiness and durability to the structure of the shoe
- Enables non-slip and shockproof features
- Provides a snug and comfortable fit
- It gives strong traction and grip to the ground
- Lack of cushion
12. Skechers Outline-SOLEGO Trail Oxford Disc Golf Shoes
Disc golfers can also use this product, which is typically intended for trail hiking. Skechers is a brand popular among shoe lovers and little did I know that they are also making this type of shoe that can conquer the challenges of a disc golf course. Upon learning about it, I immediately became interested and purchased one to test it on the field. The performance impressed me right from the get-go. The waterproofing feature makes this shoe one of the best spikeless and waterproofed golf shoe that a disc golfer can buy.
Sturdiness and Durability
What impresses me the most about this shoe is its sturdiness and durability. The synthetic sole gives additional toughness and power to the overall structure of the shoe. It is strong enough to last longer even if I wore them multiple times on the course without any rest. The shoe’s resilience amazed me as it endured a significant amount of wear and tear during constant movement on the course. Additionally, I appreciate the shoe’s lightweight design, providing me with the necessary comfort to move around the course effortlessly. It didn’t make me feel as though I had heavy weights dragging my feet as I moved.
Comfort
When it comes to comfort, I feel that this shoe is one of the coziest and snuggest fits that I have ever used on the disc golf course. Air-cooled memory foam provides the much-needed coolness and comfort when use used. Meanwhile, the midsole provides comfort on the underfoot, while the rounded toe designed gives enough breathing space for the toe to relax.
Also, this shoe provides a reinforced bumper, padded tongue, and collar that contributes to the shoe’s toughness outside. The lace-up design promotes a secure fit and enables the shoes to fit well on both of my feet. I wore the shoe on courses that were very uneven and that provided a lot of different terrain types. It provides a lot of comfort to every part of your feet despite the complex surface condition.
However, one downside of this shoe is the absence of arch support. As a disc golfer, this missing feature gives some discomfort to my feet when used on the course. For me, this is an opportunity for the manufacturer to enhance the design moving forward.
- Provides waterproofing properties
- It comes with breathable fabric lining
- The rubberized outsole gives better grip on the ground
- Shock-absorbing midsole provides additional comfort
- The lace-up design offers a secure fit
- Absence of arch support
How to Choose Disc Golf Shoes
Type of Disc Golf Shoes
Honestly speaking, finding shoes that are specifically made for the disc golf sport is challenging. With all the disc golf movements, including the force you put in and the momentum on the shoe’s side when pivoting quickly or grinding the heel or toe, there are not many types of footwear that I know of which can handle this.
Shoe manufacturers cannot solely produce shoes for that purpose because disc golf represents a smaller market compared to other sports. Maybe we should wait until the sport grows in popularity, similar to regular golf, and who knows, in the future, we may have a particular shoe design made specifically for disc golf.
What’re the Ideal Shoes for Disc Golf?
With my years of experience playing the sport, hiking shoes and trail running shoes are the most common and highly recommended. These two types of shoes can find utility in any kind of terrain, rendering them ideal for the sport. Furthermore, the course design or the composition of the tee pads does not significantly influence the choice of shoe.
Hiking shoes are more sturdy compared to trail running shoes which means they will last longer. Generally, hiking shoes do not breathe, and trail running shoes are much lighter. If you are only playing once or twice a week, trail running shoes will work out just fine for you.
Depending on the type of course and climate, a regular pair of running shoes may work out just fine for you. The shoe must be durable and robust enough not to roll over the sole when planting the foot laterally on the ground. Also, ultra-lightweight running shoes are uncomfortable. I feel that they lack sturdiness, causing the foot to slide sideways when planted on the ground, resulting in the foot jamming into the laces.
What about Flat Shoes?
I am not recommending regular flat street shoes because the grip is terrible, especially in the non-urban terrain type of a disc golf course. Plus, those types of shoes break down quickly from the different throwing motions.
Durability is also a big issue when choosing the type of shoes used in playing disc golf. Some shoes will just break down quickly with the uppers failing apart somewhere, or the outsole will just wear out.
Design of Disc Golf Shoes
When it comes to shoe design, shoe width is more critical in disc golf than any other sport. The foot must not move left or right inside the shoe when it is firmly and comfortably laced up. Also, your heel must not lift from the bottom of the cup at any time.
The heel cup is another important factor in disc golf when it comes to design. When doing lateral movements, the shoe’s stability is essential and should not flop from left to right. The shoe must provide a smoother transition of weight from the inside of the plant foot to the outside. The player should not feel like he is rolling over on top of something.
The Thread and Outer Edge Design
A disc golfer need not have a super aggressive tread design for a pair of shoes in disc golf. It would be preferable to choose a tread pattern designed for lateral traction instead of those designed for forwarding movement. Please take note that the more aggressive the tread, the less material there is in the shoes. It will be better to have a light tread so there is as much material as possible for better durability.
Meanwhile, the outer edge should be reinforced to facilitate a firm plant without your foot rolling over the sole. There are many shoes that are trying so hard to be lightweight but suffer from having no lateral support.
There are plenty of shoes with a woeful amount of mid-foot tread pattern than the outer lugs’ depth and size. Small internal lugs will quickly wear while leaving the player with bad traction in non-heel-spinning drives.
The Outsole
The outsole must mold around the side of the shoe. Constant movement and twisting will eventually cause the sole to separate from the shoe’s edge if it is only glued to the base of the EVA outsole.
I find a big rocker in a shoe to help because it makes planting toe-first then the ball and heel a lot easier. It then moves the ball’s weight off the foot more quickly, but then again, it may not be everybody’s liking.
Waterproof and Breath
So, what if it is raining outside during the game day? When it is wet outside and temperatures are low, the waterproof shoe serves as the answer and functions effectively. This type of shoe is ideal when it is a cold rainy day or snow on the ground. The more humid it is, the more effective they are during the game.
If you consider waterproof and breath as two factors when looking for disc golf shoes, the truth is they are at odds against each other. The more waterproof a shoe is, the less it is breathable or the other way around. Waterproof and breathable are not doable at all when it comes to the shoe manufacturer’s perspective.
Wearing Waterproof Shoes in Dry Conditions
Wearing waterproof shoes in dry conditions will make them very wet inside from your feet sweating because of the lack of air flow. Making your toes feel like they’re sitting in a bath. Always remember that sweat is an enemy of the shoes because it wrecks and damages them. Similar to wearing them when damp and not allowing them to dry naturally and entirely between usage.
The ideal situation is to own two pairs of shoes for a disc golf player. To use them in wet or cold weather rounds, make one shoe water-resistant and non-breathable, while the other should be a breathable shoe for summer or dry conditions.
There is no need to own a waterproof shoe if you do not play in the rain or mud at all. But if you do not mind playing in those conditions, you can always wear them when playing disc golf rounds.
The Sole
When looking for a pair of shoes for disc golf, do not forget the insoles. It is annoying to own expensive shoes worth $100 and the insoles only cost 5 cents each. Besides, the sole needs to be as durable as possible using the most durable rubber you can find.
I would prefer to see an exclusive design with multiple materials. Insert a patch of extra durable materials where it needs the most while making the surrounding areas more grippy. I prefer using a one-mold sole for construction since two-mold soles or more can quickly tear apart.
The Disc Golf Course
The type of disc golf course you are playing can also play a significant role in choosing your disc golf shoes. It will all depend on the disc golf course’s condition and how rugged it is to play. If the course terrain is not as intensive, a pair of vans may be the best type of shoes that you can use. If the course is rocky or mountainous, I would suggest using trail or hiking shoes.
How to Choose the Right Socks for your Disc Golf Shoes
Apart from the shoes, you need a good pair of socks to make your feet more comfortable on the course. The shoes are just half of the equation, and you need good socks to be more pleased. I have been using cotton socks when playing the sport. All of which are cheap and comes from bulk order purchases.
Meanwhile, wool socks are better for keeping your feet warm as they are good at absorbing moisture as well. Sweating a little bit will not be a problem with a good pair of wool socks. It is suitable for absorbing sweat and helping it evaporate by spreading it out into the wool fibers. As for me, I wear wool socks during wintertime where I need extra warmth on my feet.
I also tried synthetic socks, and can say that they surprised me a little bit. Manufacturers typically make them using a combination of rubber, lycra, rayon, and other materials. They do not absorb the moisture well as they wicked it away from your foot, based on experience. The sensation is that the foot feels wet, but it doesn’t actually become wet. At least, not as soggy wet compared to when wearing cotton socks.
Durability Tips for Disc Golf Shoes
- Depending on how you wear your disc golf shoe will have a significant impact on its longevity.
- Wearing a disc golf shoe when not playing will result in the shoe to self-destruct very quickly.
- Wearing the identical shoe two days in a row and failing to let them dry appropriately between them will drastically reduce the shoe life.
- If you can, please do not wear them for other activities aside from disc golf rounds. Avoid wearing them casually at all costs.
- Wearing the same shoes for two rounds means you must at least change your socks. Let them completely dry out before wearing them again for additional rounds. Believe it or not, this will make the shoes last twice as long compared to not doing it.
Conclusion
Apart from having the right disc golf disc and improving the skill sets, a disc golfer also needs the best disc golf shoes when playing the game. It brings many advantages when you are comfortable with your footwear because it gives a lot of confidence when navigating the course and meeting the disc golf game’s demands. I can say that a disc golf shoe will play an essential role in the performance and the overall result of every disc golfer. For this reason, choosing the correct disc golf shoe is crucial before a disc golfer goes to the battle and starts throwing the disc.