Best Golf Shoes for Bad Knees: A Simple Guide to Pain-Free Play

If you are here, there is a good chance your knees ache after a long round of golf. Trust me, I get it. I remember a stretch last summer when I could barely finish 18 holes without feeling like my knees were asking for early retirement. That was the moment I learned something important: the right golf shoes can change everything.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the best golf shoes for bad knees using simple words, real experience, and expert-backed insights. I’ll talk to you like we’re standing on the practice green together. My goal is to help you walk the course with less pain and more joy.

And yes—if you’re a beginner, don’t worry. I’ll keep everything light, easy, and friendly.

Let’s dive in.

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Why Golf Shoes Matter So Much When You Have Bad Knees

When your knees hurt, even small steps can feel heavy. Add uneven fairways, long walks, and twist-heavy swings, and your joints work much harder than you think. That’s why supportive golf shoes, especially ones with soft cushioning, stable outsoles, and steady traction, make such a big difference.

Golf shoes are not just about grip. They help your knees by:

• Reducing impact on every step
• Keeping your body stable during rotation
• Lowering joint stress on uneven ground
• Improving balance throughout the swing

And yes—sometimes even the fit system, like the BOA dial on adidas shoes, can reduce knee strain because a snug fit stops unnecessary foot movement.

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How Cushioning Supports Your Knees

When I first switched to cushioned golf shoes, I was shocked at how much softer my landings felt. Shoes like the adidas S2G Spikeless 24, with Bounce cushioning, take the hit so your joints don’t have to. Your knees feel less tired after long rounds because the shoe absorbs the force for you.

Cushioning technologies that help knee pain:

• Bounce midsole (soft and springy)
• EVA cushioning (light and shock absorbing)
• Memory foam insoles (custom comfort)
• Leather support (natural stabilization)

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Why Spikeless and Spiked Soles Feel Different on Your Knees

A spiked shoe grips deeper into the turf. This means more stability, but sometimes more foot “lock,” which can increase twist in your knees if you rotate too much.

A spikeless shoe, like the adidas S2G line, gives solid traction but more natural movement. Many golfers with knee pain (me included) find spikeless shoes easier on the joints.

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Why I Switched to Cushioned Golf Shoes (Personal Experience)

There was a round where I played in stiff, flat golf shoes. And by hole 14, my knees felt like they were grinding gears. I told myself: “This is the last round in these shoes.”
The next week, I tried a cushioned pair. For the first time in months, my knees didn’t scream at me on hole 18. That was enough proof. Shoes matter—a lot more than we think.

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What to Look for in the Best Golf Shoes for Bad Knees

Here’s a quick checklist:

✔ Lightweight feel

Less weight = less strain on your knees.

✔ Soft cushioning

Bounce, EVA, memory foam—these reduce shock.

✔ Good stability

Stops your knees from wobbling.

✔ Waterproof protection

Wet feet cause sloppy steps, which strain joints.

✔ Comfortable fit

A snug, secure shoe reduces lateral movement.

✔ Supportive traction

Not too aggressive, not too weak—just right.

Now let’s look at the top picks that deliver all of this.

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Best Golf Shoes for Bad Knees — Top Picks Reviewed

Below are the shoes I recommend the most, along with insights from real experience, golfer feedback, and the product entities we analyzed earlier (like Bounce cushioning, DuraMax outsole, BOA Fit System, and more).

adidas Men’s S2G Spikeless 24 — Best Spikeless Golf Shoe for Knee Pain

Key Features

• Bounce midsole for knee-friendly cushioning

• V-Traxion outsole for steady traction

• Lightweight build for long walks

• Soft upper for easy foot flex

• Spikeless sole for smooth movement

Short Overview

The adidas S2G Spikeless 24 is the pair that changed my game. The Bounce midsole is the star here—soft, springy, and amazing for reducing pressure on your knees. The V-Traxion outsole grips the grass without forcing your knees into a locked position, which I love. The shoe also feels secure without feeling tight. And because it’s spikeless, it works well both on and off the course.

Pros

• Soft cushioning reduces knee impact

• Spikeless sole feels natural

• Great traction on dry and moist turf

• Lightweight and very comfortable

Cons

• Not the best traction in rain

• Limited color choices

Recommendation

If knee pain hits you late in your rounds, start here. It feels soft, light, and forgiving.

To check latest price, click here. 

adidas Men’s S2G Spikeless Leather 24 — Best Leather Option for Support

Key Features

• Leather upper for natural stability

• Spikeless outsole for smooth stride

• Adiwear outsole for durability

• Premium look and feel

• Cushioned midsole for comfort

Short Overview

The Leather 24 version is perfect for golfers who want extra support. Leather shoes give natural structure, which helps keep your foot steady. When your foot moves less, your knee rotates less—and that means less pain. The spikeless sole still gives good traction, and the Adiwear construction helps the shoe last longer.

Pros

• Durable leather upper

• Great support for weaker knees

• Stylish and classic look

• Good traction without spikes

Cons

• Leather needs care

• Not ideal for hot summer days

Recommendation

Choose this if you like classic shoes with extra stability. A great pick for golfers who walk long rounds.

Check Latest Price, click here.

THESTRON Men Professional 9 Spikes — Best Spiked Shoe for Maximum Grip

Key Features

• 9-spike outsole

• Waterproof build

• Stable platform for swings

• Supportive upper with foot hold

• Tough traction for uneven ground

Short Overview

If your course is hilly or wet, the THESTRON 9 Spikes shoe gives amazing traction. This deep grip reduces slipping, which reduces the sudden knee twists that cause pain. The waterproof design also helps because wet feet lead to awkward steps. While the shoe is firm, it offers enough comfort for long rounds.

Pros

• Strong traction for safety

• Great for wet conditions

• Waterproof protection

• Affordable price point

Cons

• White gets dirty fast

• Needs a short break-in period

Recommendation

Pick this if you want strong grip and waterproofing. Amazing for wet or uneven courses.

Check Latest Price, click here.

adidas S2G Spikeless BOA 24 — Best Shoe for Easy Custom Fit

Key Features

• BOA Fit System for fast adjustments

• Lightweight design

• Bounce cushioning

• V-Traxion spikeless outsole

• Snug and stable feel

Short Overview

The BOA Fit System might be my favorite thing about this shoe. With a simple twist, the shoe hugs your foot evenly. This removes pressure points and keeps your stride stable. For golfers with knee pain, better fit means better alignment—and less strain. Add Bounce cushioning, and you get a shoe that makes walking feel smooth and balanced.

Pros

• BOA gives perfect fit

• Very light

• Super easy to adjust mid-round

• Soft cushioning

Cons

• Not ideal in heavy rain

• More expensive

Recommendation

Perfect for players who want a custom fit that reduces foot movement and knee stress.

Check Latest Price, click here.

FootJoy FJ Originals — Best Classic Supportive Spiked Shoe

Key Features

• DuraMax outsole for grip

• Leather upper for support

• Classic spiked design

• Stable foundation for swings

• Comfortable all-round feel

Short Overview

FootJoy has always been known for stable, reliable shoes. The FJ Originals use the DuraMax outsole, which grips the turf well and helps you stay secure during your swing. The leather upper supports your foot so it doesn’t roll, which protects your knees from twisting. It’s a little heavier, but the support is fantastic.

Pros

• Strong traction

• Classic look

• Reliable and durable

• Great stability

Cons

• Heavier than modern shoes

• Limited color choices

Recommendation

Great for golfers who want classic support with dependable traction on every surface.

Check Latest Price, click here.

Side-by-Side Comparison Table: Best Golf Shoes for Bad Knees

Shoe	Cushioning	Stability	Waterproof	Weight	Sole Type	Best For
adidas S2G Spikeless 24	Bounce	Medium	Light	Light	Spikeless	Walking comfort
adidas Leather 24	Cushioned leather	High	Medium	Medium	Spikeless	Classic support
THESTRON 9 Spikes	Firm EVA	High	Yes	Medium	Spiked	Wet/hilly courses
adidas S2G BOA 24	Bounce	Medium	Light	Very light	Spikeless	Perfect fit
FootJoy FJ Originals	Firm	High	Medium	Heavy	Spiked	Maximum stability

How These Golf Shoes Help Reduce Knee Pain (Simple Biomechanics Explained)

When we talk about the best golf shoes for bad knees, we’re really talking about reducing the stress your joints feel with every step and every swing. You don’t need to understand complex anatomy to get this—just a few simple ideas.

Let’s break down how the right shoes help your knees feel better, last longer, and move easier.

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Cushioning Reduces Shock on Each Step

Every step you take on the golf course sends shock up through your feet, ankles, and knees. Soft midsoles like Bounce, EVA, or memory foam spread out that force so your joints take less damage.

Imagine jumping off a curb barefoot vs. jumping with a soft pair of running shoes. You’d feel the difference instantly. Golf shoes work the same way.

This is why models like the adidas S2G Spikeless 24 and the adidas S2G BOA 24 shine. They use Bounce foam to soften every step, especially during long rounds.

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Stability Reduces Twist Force on Your Knees

Your knees love simple movements. They hate sudden twists.
During a golf swing, especially the downswing, your knee absorbs a rotational load. If your shoes lack stability, your foot may slip or slide. That movement causes torque—and that torque causes pain.

Shoes like the FootJoy FJ Originals and the THESTRON 9-Spike design offer strong platforms that keep your foot steady. When your foot stays planted, your knee stays safe.

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Traction Improves Balance and Saves Your Joints

When you swing, your balance shifts from side to side. If the ground is wet or uneven, you need extra grip to stay steady. When you lose grip, your muscles tense up to compensate, which strains your joints.

This is why traction entities like:

• DuraMax outsole (FootJoy)
• V-Traxion lugs (adidas)
• 9-spike layouts (THESTRON)

…make a real difference.

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Fit Improves Alignment From the Ground Up

If your shoe is too loose, your foot moves more than it should. That movement travels upward and hits your knees.

A secure fit system changes that.

For example, the BOA Fit System on the adidas S2G BOA 24 lets you tighten the shoe evenly with a dial. Better alignment means smoother steps and less force on your knees.

I didn’t appreciate good fit until I wore a BOA shoe. It felt like the shoe wrapped around my foot just right. Walking felt easier. Swinging felt more grounded.

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My Personal Journey With Knee Pain on the Golf Course

I want this guide to feel real, so here are two short stories from my own journey learning why golf shoes matter. They’re simple moments, but they taught me important lessons.

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The Round Where My Knees Almost Gave Out

About two years ago, I played 18 holes in shoes that were way too stiff. I knew they weren’t ideal, but I figured, “How bad can it be?”

By hole 10, every downhill step felt like a punch in the knee.

By hole 14, I was swinging slower because I was afraid my left knee would buckle.

By hole 16, I started using my wedge as a cane.

When I finally got to the clubhouse, I sat down, took off my shoes, and realized how beat up my feet felt. That pressure traveled all the way to my knees.

That day changed how I look at golf shoes.

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How Changing Shoes Reduced My Knee Pain by 80%

A week later, I bought my first cushioned pair—one with soft foam, a stable heel, and a wide base. The difference was instant. By hole 18, I still had energy, and most importantly, my knees didn’t hurt.

It was the moment I realized:

“Golf shoes are not just footwear. They’re joint protection.”

Now, whenever someone tells me golf hurts their knees, I always ask them what shoe they’re wearing. More often than not, the shoe is the real problem.

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Tips to Reduce Knee Pain While Playing Golf

Yes, the best golf shoes for bad knees will help you a lot—but they’re just one tool. Here are simple, beginner-friendly tips you can pair with good shoes for even better comfort.

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Warm Up for 3 Minutes Before the First Swing

Many golfers skip warm-ups and pay the price later.
Do simple moves like:

• March in place
• Light squats
• Hip rotations
• Gentle knee bends

These warm your joints and reduce shock.

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Walk on Softer Ground When You Can

Fairways and rough are softer than cart paths.
Hard ground equals harder impact.
Choose soft ground when possible to protect your knees.

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Keep Your Stride Short and Easy

Long strides create more impact. Slow, short steps give your joints a break.

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Stretch After Every Round

Even 30 seconds of stretching helps.
Focus on:

• hamstrings
• calves
• quads
• hip flexors

When these muscles are tight, your knees work harder.

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Frequently Asked Questions (Each Answer 20+ Words)

1. Are spikeless golf shoes good for bad knees?

Yes, spikeless golf shoes are great for bad knees because they offer smoother movement, softer cushioning, and reduced rotational force. They feel more natural when walking, especially during long rounds, and they often weigh less, which also helps reduce knee fatigue.

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2. Are waterproof golf shoes better for knee pain?

Waterproof golf shoes can help with knee pain because dry feet promote steady steps. When your feet get wet, your stride changes, your balance shifts, and that can lead to more joint strain over time.

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3. Do BOA golf shoes actually help with knee pain?

BOA golf shoes help by giving a snug and even fit, which keeps your foot from sliding inside the shoe. This reduces unwanted movement, which reduces the stress placed on your knee during both walking and swinging.

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4. Are leather golf shoes good for players with knee issues?

Leather golf shoes are great for knee issues when you want more structure and support. Leather holds your foot in place, keeping your steps consistent and stable, which is ideal for reducing rotational knee pressure.

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5. Which golf shoes are the most comfortable for walking 18 holes?

Shoes like the adidas S2G Spikeless 24 or the adidas S2G BOA 24 are excellent for walking because their Bounce cushioning absorbs shock and reduces joint impact, especially during long rounds.

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6. Should older golfers with knee pain wear spiked or spikeless shoes?

Older golfers often find spikeless shoes easier on the knees because they allow smoother movement. However, spiked shoes are helpful on wet or uneven courses where strong traction reduces slips and joint strain.

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7. Can the wrong golf shoes make knee pain worse?

Yes, the wrong shoes can increase knee pain by causing poor alignment, uneven foot pressure, and excess movement inside the shoe. Over time, this leads to joint fatigue, discomfort, and higher injury risk.

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8. Are cushioned golf shoes better for knee arthritis?

Cushioned golf shoes are an excellent choice for arthritis because they reduce impact with every step. Soft midsoles spread out pressure, which makes walking and swinging much easier on sensitive joints.

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Conclusion: Golf Should Feel Good—And the Right Shoes Make That Possible

If you take only one thing from this guide, let it be this:

“Your golf shoes are the foundation of your game—and your knee comfort.”

Choosing the best golf shoes for bad knees is one of the easiest ways to enjoy the course again. Whether you prefer the soft feel of the adidas S2G Spikeless 24, the snug fit of the BOA system, or the grounded stability of FootJoy FJ Originals, there’s a perfect choice waiting for you.

Your knees deserve comfort.
Your game deserves confidence.
And you deserve to enjoy every round without pain slowing you down.