Last Updated on March 2, 2020 by Jake
While you can play disc golf in your regular shoes, this is not advisable. A game of disc golf requires a lot of movement ( including toe dragging, rotation, and planting) and is best played with comfortable durable shoes.
Also, disc golf is often played on rugged and uneven terrain. Expect this game to quickly eat away at the soles, sides, and fabric of regular shoes. It is not only about durability though when it comes to choosing the best shoes for disc golf. The shoes reviewed are extremely comfortable and provide the needed cushioning support.
Table of Contents
In a Rush? Here’s Our Top Picks:
| Image | Title | Price |
|---|---|---|
Top | Salomon Men's Speedcross 5 Trail Running Shoes | Check Price on Amazon |
Top | HOKA ONE ONE Mens Speedgoat 3 Blue/Gold Trail Runner | Check Price on Amazon |
Top | ASICS Men's Gel-Fujitrabuco Running Shoes | Check Price on Amazon |
Top | Nike Air Zoom Terra Kiger 5 Men's Running Shoe | Check Price on Amazon |
Top | adidas outdoor Terrex Swift R2 GTX Hiking Shoe | Check Price on Amazon |
Best Shoes for Disc Golf – Reviews
So you’ve already bought your disc golf bag and maybe a few portable disc golf baskets, and now it’s time to round out your set of equipment. Here are the best shoes for disc golf currents on the market.
Salomon Speedcross 5 Trail Running Shoes
- Trail Running Shoes: Featuring an aggressive grip, precise foothold, and protection, the Salomon Speedcross 5 is the ideal shoe for runners who want to conquer soft, technical trails
- Get Rough: Redesigned with deep, sharp lugs for an improved grip and a more dynamic upper for better fit and stability, the Speedcross 5 is the perfect shoe for trail runners who aren't afraid of wet, dirty terrain
- Go The Distance: Whether you love road running in your neighborhood, an escape to a local trail, or something more rugged, Salomon makes shoes that ensure you have a smooth ride on any and all terrain
- Time To Play: Whether you are into trail running, hiking, backpacking, or mountaineering, Salomon has shoes and gear for kids, men and women to help you conquer a new distance, personal record, or event
- Since 1947 Salomon has created innovative outdoor sports gear; From running and hiking to backpacking, skiing and more, our shoes, boots, bags, apparel and accessories help make any path your own
Overview
Grip: Excellent
Cushioning: Moderate
Flexibility: High
Stability: High
Water resistance: Moderate
Heel-To-Toe Drop: ~10mm
Other Features: Breathable
The Salomon Speedcross 5 is an excellent all-round pair of shoes at a reasonable price. This update on Speedcross 4 is a needed one, as the Salomon Speedcross 5 is more durable and comfortable regardless of the terrains. The new multi-directional Chevron lugs on the outsoles are cut deeper and thus allows for better traction on soft trails, dirt and even mud.
The Salomon Speedcross 5 is extremely comfortable. Thanks to the built-in orthotics ‘OrthoLite®’, the cushioning is topnotch and breathable. The shoes also feature anti-debris mesh which ensures that debris isn’t caught between the foot and the footbed. Also, the Quicklace™ one-pull lacing system coupled with the SensiFit™ provides a snug comfortable fit.
Pros
- The Speedcross 5’s Quicklace™ one-pull lacing system provides a snug tight fit.
- It offers an excellent grip even on wet surfaces.
- It is very comfortable
Cons
- It has a high drop which can be problematic on rugged terrain and requires getting used to.
Check Price and Reviews on Amazon - Mens
Check Price and Reviews on Amazon - Womens
HOKA ONE ONE Speedgoat 3 & 4
Overview
Grip: Excellent
Cushioning: High
Flexibility: Moderate
Stability: High
Water resistance: High
Heel-To-Toe Drop: ~4mm
Other Features: Water-resistant, breathable
The Hoka One One Speedgoat is one of the best running shoes for uneven terrain and as such perfect for disc golf. There are several series of Speedgoat shoes currently on the market.
This review covers Speedgoat 3 and Speedgoat 4. The soles of the Speedgoat are durable and will last for ages. The Speedgoat performs wonderfully on rocky surfaces, muddy areas, snowy terrains, and moderate trails.
When it comes to grip, the Speedgoat provides the much-needed traction. There is none better. The cushioning is comfortable although some may find it too pillowy. The shoes are made with waterproof materials. Overall, the Speedgoat series of shoes offer superior protection, comfort, and functionality.
Pros
- The Speedgoat handles a wide range of terrains.
- It offers an excellent grip.
- It is well-balanced and excellently cushioned/
- The shoes have superior toe bumpers.
Cons
- Some may find the shoe bulky.
Check Price and Reviews on Amazon - Mens
Check Price and Reviews on Amazon - Womens
Asics Gel FujiTrabuco 7 Trail Running Shoes
- FlyteFoam Lyte Technology - ASICS lightest weight midsole formulation that provides continuous cushion thanks to organic nano fibers.
- Rearfoot GEL technology cushioning system - Attenuates shock during impact phase and allows for a smooth transition to midstance.
- DuoMax Support System - A dual density midsole system positioned to enhance support and stability, positioned sport specifically.
- ASICSGRIP Technology - ASICS proprietary outsole rubber provides high grip on various terrain, without compromising durability.
- Rock Protection Plate - Provides protection against stone bruises.
Overview
Grip: Excellent
Cushioning: Medium
Flexibility: Rigid
Stability: High
Water resistance: Moderate
Heel-To-Toe Drop: ~8mm
Other Features: Breathable
The Asics Gel FujiTrabuco 7 offers quality at an affordable price. They are built to offer protection and traction, making them excellent disc golf shoes.
The Asics Gel FujiTrabuco 7 is designed to perform wonderfully in all types of terrains from rocky, to grassy, to even muddy. The midsole provides comfortable cushioning and supports the heels very well. The Asics Gel FujiTrabuco 7 also has a rock protection plate that ensures you don’t feel the roots and rocks underneath your feet.
Thanks to the DUOMAX® support system, which provides a dual-density midsole, you are guaranteed enhanced stability and support. The Asics Gel FujiTrabuco 7 features multi-directional 4-6mm lugs that ensure traction is optimal. You need not worry about losing your footing or rolling over your foot.
While water resistance is not poor, it isn’t the best you can get. This is a tiny tradeoff which by no means diminishes the performance of the Asics Gel FujiTrabuco 7.
Pros
- The Asics Gel FujiTrabuco 7 is one of the most comfortable shoes on the market.
- It offers great traction even on wet surfaces thanks to its multi-directional 4-6mm lugs.
- The shoes fit snugly
Cons
- The Asics Gel FujiTrabuco 7 lacks the flexibility of other shoes reviewed.
Check Price and Reviews on Amazon - Mens
Check Price and Reviews on Amazon - Womens
Nike Zoom Terra Kiger 5 Trail Running Shoes
Overview
Grip: Good
Cushioning: Medium
Flexibility: Moderate
Stability: Moderate
Water resistance: High
Weight: ~ 9.75 oz (276 g)
Heel-To-Toe Drop: ~4mm
Other Features: Breathable
Although the is designed for trail running, it works wonderfully with the activity-filled nature of disc golf. Regardless of how much you pivot and rotate, the Zoom Terra Kiger 5 will provide the stability and comfort you need. Not only is the Zoom Terra Kiger 5 breathable, but it is also water-resistant. It is great for all terrains.
Features that ensure the Nike Zoom Terra Kiger 5 stand out include the Nike React foam which is designed to be comfortable and reactive regardless of the activity, a midfoot with a sticky rubber pod for excellent traction, and a mesh outer layer, that is open, light, yet strong and durable.
While the Zoom Terra Kiger 5 may not perform best in mud, it handles wonderfully on soft (such as grass) and hard surfaces (including paved surfaces).
Pros
- The Nike Zoom Terra Kiger 5 is a comfortable pair of shoes. They also fit securely.
- The Zoom Terra Kiger 5 shoes are well-designed and are made to last.
- The midfoot features a sticky rubber pod and as such provides excellent traction,
Cons
- The Nike Zoom Terra Kiger 5 doesn’t perform well on mud surfaces when compared to the Hoka One One Speedgoat and the Salomon Speedcross 5.
Check Price and Reviews on Amazon - Womens
Adidas Terrex Swift R2 GTX
- adidas Adult Walking Shoe
Overview
Grip: Excellent
Cushioning: Medium
Flexibility: Moderate
Stability: High
Water resistance: High
Heel-To-Toe Drop: ~12mm
Made with synthetic and mesh material, the Adidas Terrex Swift R2 GTX is one of the most durable shoes on the market. The Terrex Swift R2 GTX is the perfect compromise between hiking and sports. This wonderful mix makes it one of the best shoes for disc golf.
In terms of grip, there is none better, the Traxion rubber used for the outsole ensures that grip is excellent regardless of the surface. It performs just as well on a wet surface as it does a dry surface. It is also entirely waterproof. If you play disc golf in the morning when the grass is heavy with dew or during the rainy season, you know the importance of a water-resistant pair of shoes.
While not as light as some of the other shoes on this, the Terrex Swift R2 GTX is light enough for disc golf, and the weight should be no problem at all. The only issue I could find with this pair is that it took a while to break in.
Pros
- The Adidas Terrex Swift R2 GTX is comfortable and lightweight.
- The Terrex Swift R2 GTX shoes offer excellent traction regardless of the terrain or weather.
Cons
- It takes a while to break in a pair of Terrex Swift R2 GTX shoes.
Check Price and Reviews on Amazon - Mens
Check Price and Reviews on Amazon - Womens
Factors to Consider
Unlike regular golf, which is played on a mowed and well-kept course, disc golf is played on uneven terrain. Additionally, the techniques used during a disc golf game are very different from those used in a golf game. The footwear requirements of both sports vary wildly. When getting a pair of disc golf shoes, here are some key features to consider.
Grip
Treaded shoes offer more grip essentially on uneven terrains including concrete tee-boxes, mud, snow, dirt, fairways, wet grass, and many more. With a superior grip, you can be confident in your control and ability to pivot.
Breathability/Water Resistance
The pair of shoes you get can be water-resistant or/and breathable. This depends on where you play as well as the climate/weather. Elements such as dew, rain, and mud can soak into the shoes and make the game very uncomfortable. However, some waterproof shoes aren’ breathable. Breathable footwears are great for outdoor games. Especially one that requires a lot of movement. Breathable shoes are comfortable especially on dry, summer days, or an afternoon game.
I recommend breathable shoes as disc golf games are generally played when the weather is dry. You will be hard-pressed to find a game ongoing through a rainstorm. However, it is important to consider your local and the climate of the area before deciding whether to get a pair of waterproof shoes, a breathable pair, or a pair that is breathable and water-resistant.
Comfort
Disc golf can be rough on the foot when compared to regular golf. As such, get a shoe with adequate cushioning, and grip. Another feature to consider is arch support and the weight of the shoes. Light shoes are not only comfortable, but they also allow you to be more flexible. The flexibility afforded you improves your shots and allows you to better use your momentum during throws. Arch support helps to lessen foot pain and makes landing and walking more comfortable. It helps distribute pressure across your feet and provides stability and balance.
Durability
The soles and sides of a well-made durable pair of shoes are less likely to rip out. With a solid and well-designed shoe, you need not worry about rolling over your ankle. Rolling over your ankle is not only uncomfortable, but it can also lead to serious injuries.
Best Shoes for Disc Golf – Wrap Up
There are countless choices out there if you want a quality pair of shoes to play disc golf in. While the best shoes for disc golf are sports shoes, not every sports footwear is ideal for the demanding nature of disc golf. For instance, golf shoes won’t do. Similarly, not all types of hiking shoes will do.
You need shoes that offer excellent grip while being comfortable, and durable. You don’t necessarily need a $300 pair of sports shoes. There are many affordable yet excellent disc golf shoes on the market. In this article, we have the very best on display. These shoes are breathable and yet waterproof, cushiony, and offer excellent grip.
Last update on 2021-09-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
