I think very little about my golf shoes when I go to play a round of golf. I’m usually running very close to tee time and am putting on my shoes very hurriedly. Then, there are the socks that must be selected. Will it be the short, medium or high tops? That depends on the shoes and what I am wearing: shorts or pants.

Purchasing the right shoes for you can make a smoother transition to a round of golf from whatever else is going on in your life.

Most importantly, though, comfortable golf shoes is just as important as those you wear off-course. Remember, during the next 4-6 hours you will be walking, and using your feet during your swing. Shoes are part of the equipment needed for a good golf game.

Women played for many years before the first women’s golf shoe was launched by FootJoy in the 1940s. Until the past several years, they were simply smaller men’s shoes. Now, more manufacturers are designing molds that are proportioned according to a woman’s foot.

Feet are the foundation for a good golf swing. Shoes that have the right traction to the ground while also being flexible during your swing is important for a good foundation. Be sure they give you support and are not going to slip. The grip is important for your feet and shoes as it is for your hands and club.

Socks are the cushion between your feet and your shoes so the right thickness is important. Socks that are too thin will leave you with tired feet at the end of the day. Ones that are too thick will make your shoes too tight.

Waterproofed or dry shoes are integral components for comfortable shoes. Waterproof shoes keep the water from getting inside the shoe when playing on a rainy day or in the early morning dew. Shoes with ventilation or moisture wicking technology will stay dry from the foot perspiring. The shoe manufacturer gives instructions on how to care for its shoes and the best ways to waterproof them.

Most golf courses require golfers wear "soft spikes." There are many different kinds of cleats that offer the stability and flexibility golfers need. Their replacement cleats can found at the pro shop or golf stores. Or, if preferred there are shoes that are cleatless.

When shopping for golf shoes, take the same care to select ones that are appropriate. Try them on, preferably in the afternoon, wear the socks you will be wearing, and walk around the pro shop for a few minutes to test the fit.

If the pro shops or golf stores in your area don’t have what you are looking for, shoes are available on-line.

Foot Fashion Women’s golf shoes, once difficult to find and with few options in style, are available in simple white, in various materials, or in a stylish print. Then, there are choices of closures from the traditional string to buckle, Velcro or slip-on. With more trendy styles and affordable shoes, women can now have more than one pair of golf shoes: a pair to go with each outfit, time of day, or type of golf course. In the early morning dew, a traditional shoe might be preferred while in the afternoon heat, a sandal might be more comfortable. Leading the sleek and chic fashion is ECCO  (see LGJ article). "ECCO loves women. And women seem to love them right back," reports Golf World Business. It is one of the most popular on private courses and on the LPGA Tour. Other popular brands include: Tehama (see LGJ article), Adidas, Lady Fairway, Dexter, Bite, and Etonic.

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