I love to play golf to keep myself more active in outdoor activities. But my traditional golf shoes were stiff, and left my feet aching after just a few rounds. So, I was looking for an alternative, hoping to find a way to make my course more enjoyable. To be honest, I wasn’t ready to invest in another fancy golf shoes. That’s what led me to Golfkicks.
That was a month ago; I was looking into some forums to find a better solution. There, someone mentioned golf kicks, which can turn any sneakers into golf shoes. I wasn’t sure about the idea. But they were cheap compared to a new pair of golf shoes, so I decided to give them a shot. The next day, I ordered one and followed their simple instructions.
To my surprise, they worked perfectly. I had the comfort of my favorite sneakers, but with the traction I needed on the course. No more slipping, no sore feet, just a relaxed game. After using it regularly for a few weeks, I was thinking about writing a Golfkicks review and sharing my experience with my readers. If you’re curious to learn more about it, keep reading my whole review.
Golfkicks are screw-in cleats that let you turn your favorite sneakers into golf shoes. Instead of spending a lot on traditional golf shoes that are mostly designed for cleats, rather than feet, you can use Golfkicks to get the grip you need without giving up comfort.
- Turns any sneakers into golf shoes without hassles.
- Affordable compared to buying new golf shoes.
- Customizable cleat placement for better grip.
- Easy to attach and remove without damaging shoes.
- Doesn’t work well on foam-soled shoes
What is Golfkicks?
Golfkicks are screw-in cleats that let you turn your favorite sneakers into golf shoes. Instead of spending a lot on traditional golf shoes that are mostly designed for cleats, rather than feet, you can use Golfkicks to get the grip you need without giving up comfort. These cleats attach directly to the soles of your existing shoes, whether they’re running shoes, casual sneakers, or even slip-ons.
They made the cleats from durable materials to firmly attach to the sole and grip the grass so that you can find the traction you need while playing. Each Golfkicks set comes with a simple installation kit. You just mark the spots on your shoe’s sole where you want the cleats and screw them in using the included tool. This process takes only 10 to 15 minutes, and you can customize the cleat positions based on your preference.
Who Needs Golfkicks?
Golfkicks aren’t for everyone, but they’re a perfect fit for some. If you’re having sore feet after every round of golf, or you just don’t see the point in spending a lot on expensive golf shoes, it could be the best option. Take a look at the following list to see if you fall into any of these categories:
- Casual Golfers: If you only play once in a while and don’t want to waste money on a pricey pair of golf shoes, Golfkicks give you grip without the big expense.
- Comfort Seekers: Regular golfers who are having sore feet after a round and are looking for something better that gives comfort.
- Style Lovers: Those who prefer style and comfort and want to stand out on the course. With Golfkicks, they can turn their classic sneakers or running shoes into golf shoes.
- Parents of Young Golfers: Kids grow fast, and buying new golf shoes every year can be costly. Such parents can buy Golfkids for their kids to turn their regular shoes into golf shoes.
- Travelers: If you’re heading out for a golf trip, you don’t need to pack an extra pair of bulky golf shoes. Just bring your sneakers and use Golfkicks.
- Budget Players: If you’re on a budget but still want a good grip on the course, Golfkicks are an affordable option.
Who Invented Golfkicks?
Golfkicks was invented by three friends: Tyler Stuart, John Krosky, and Matt Mockus. It all started in Matt’s garage in Denver, where the three were chatting about how uncomfortable and boring traditional golf shoes could be. They wondered why they couldn’t just add traction to their favorite sneakers instead. That simple idea led them to experiment with screw-in cleats, turning regular shoes into golf-ready footwear.
They didn’t just keep the idea to themselves. After creating a few prototypes, they launched Golfkicks through a Kickstarter campaign, where the idea quickly gained attention. Giving golfers the comfort of their own shoes with the grip they need on the course was a simple but brilliant idea, I think.
How Golfkicks Work?
Golfkicks are not a complex thing that you need to read blogs or watch videos to understand their functionality. They’re just a set of cleats that add reliable traction to any flat shoes. I was wondering by knowing that it is not only the cleats that play the main role. Rather, it is the screw that provide the grip you need on the ground.
Cleats on sports shoes, especially for golf, are not just basic spikes. They are designed to be sharp enough to hold onto the grass but not so sharp that they damage the grass. This balance is what makes them so effective. They offer enough traction to keep you stable during your swings, but they also let you walk comfortably without feeling like you’re wearing heavy, rigid golf shoes.
Golfkicks Review: What I’ve Found About It
Before writing this Golfkicks review, I’ve tested this product for a month. From attaching it to my shoes to playing on the ground with it, I wanted to see if it was just another gimmick or something that actually works. I tried it on different shoes, including my old running shoes and casual sneakers, to see the difference. Let’s break down everything about it:
Easy to Install, But Need to Be Careful
The first thing I noticed was how simple it was to attach the cleats. Golfkicks came with a guide, and all I needed to do was mark the spots, drill pilot holes, and screw in the cleats. But I quickly learned that placement matters. The first time, I put them too close to the edges, and they felt awkward. I had to reposition them for the right balance, so take your time when installing them.
Comfort Depends on Your Choice of Shoes
Golfkicks themselves don’t add any discomfort, they’re just cleats. But your experience depends a lot on the shoes you choose. When I used them on my old running shoes, they were soft, flexible, and felt great. But when I tried them on a pair of stiff sneakers, the cleats felt a bit awkward. So, it’s better to choose shoes that you already find comfortable.
Surprisingly Good Grip on the Course
I wasn’t sure if these small screw-in cleats would actually provide enough traction, but they did. On dry grass, I felt strong and secure, and even on slightly wet grounds, I didn’t slip. During my swings, I didn’t feel like I was losing balance. To be honest, they may not dig in as much as expensive golf shoes, but for the price, you won’t find anything better
No Damage to the Shoes
Like everyone, i also thought that screwing cleats into my shoes would damage them. But that wasn’t the case, no guessing thing, I’m talking from the real experience. Throughout the game, the cleats stayed secure, and when I removed them, the shoes were still in good condition. Let me share you a tips, do not overtight the screws, it will weeaken the sole over time. Just make sure they’re tight enough to stay in place.
Works Best on Flat-Soled Shoes
From my experience, Golfkicks work well on flat-soled shoes with a bit of thickness. First, I tried them on a pair of old sneakers with a worn-out sole, and they didn’t hold up as well. Then I used them on my running shoes with a thick, flat sole, and they surprisingly stayed secure, which gave me a better grip.
Easy to Remove
Another thing I like is that golf kicks are not fully permanent. I wanted to see how it can adapt to different shoes. So, I unscrewed the cleats from the shoes after a couple of rounds and put them into another pair. Besides, I didn’t have to keep separate shoes in my car since I could turn my golf shoes back to normal. To be honest, I didn’t find such flexibility with my previous golf shoes.
My Experience on the Course
I’m not a professional golfer, but I’ve spent quality time on the course. When I first tried Golfkicks on the course, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I just screwed them into my old running shoes to see how it works. As I stepped onto the grass, I was so focused on the game that I forgot I was playing golf, wearing old running shoes. They didn’t cause any discomfort; it all depended on my choice of shoes.
The following day, I tried them with my sneakers to see the difference. These were my everyday casual shoes; nothing special, just something I wore around town. After attaching, my sneakers felt even better than the running shoes. It was like playing in shoes I already knew, but now with the added traction I needed. I walked across the fairways and didn’t feel any weird pressure points. Even on the hills and wet patches, the grip held up. I didn’t have to worry about sliding, and it felt natural.
Quality and Durability of the Cleats
I wasn’t sure how long the Golfkicks cleats would last at first. They’re just tiny screw-in pieces, and don’t seem to be durable from the images. However, as soon as I had them in real, I realized they were tougher than they looked. It’s not like cheap plastic that cracks or metal spikes that wear out quickly. Each piece is made from Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE), which ensures a perfect mix of strength and flexibility.
After trying them on the course, they still looked solid. No sign of splitting or flattening, and they didn’t feel shaky under my feet. I was expecting them to lose their grip or start bending after a while, but they didn’t. Even when I stepped onto paved paths around the course, the cleats didn’t get damaged.
Another thing I noticed is, they didn’t tear up the greens. The TPE cleats go gentle on the turf but tough where they need to be. So, I didn’t have to worry about leaving marks on the course. That was a relief for me as I could focus on playing without feeling like I was causing any damage.
Pros and Cons
Without highlighting key advantages and drawbacks, my Golfkicks review wouldn't be complete. After using them for several weeks, I've found where they stand out and where they might not. Here is my honest opinion:
What’s Included?
When you open the Golfkicks kit, you get everything you need to turn your favorite sneakers into golf shoes. It’s a complete kit that’s easy to use, even if you’ve never done this before.
Here’s a quick look at what’s inside:
- 20 Soft Spikes: Enough for a full pair of adult shoes.
- Sharpie: A simple marker to map traction on the shoes.
- HEX Hand Tool: To screw the cleats into your shoe soles.
- HEX Bit: If you prefer speed, this bit fits into any standard drill.
- SHOE GOO: Adhesive to dab on the cleat threads before installation.
What Makes it Different From Traditional Golf Shoes?
If you can afford expensive golf shoes that add value, that’s perfectly fine. But, compared with the price, Golfkicks offer better outcomes. The truth is, you can’t measure the comfort while buying golf shoes until you test them on the course. But with Golfkicks, you’re free to choose the shoes you actually like wearing. Here is a quick comparison for your understanding:
| Features | Golfkicks | Traditional Golf Shoes |
| Comfort | Focus on both cleats and shoes to ensure comfort | Focus more on cleats rather than feet |
| Customization | Adjust cleat positions for personalized grip | Fixed cleats with no option for customization |
| Flexibility | Can be used on different shoes, switched anytime | Only work as dedicated golf shoes |
| Style Options | Any shoes you like, sneakers, runners, casual shoes | Limited to traditional golf shoe designs |
| Cost | Affordable and can be used with any shoes you own | Expensive, especially for high-quality pairs |
| Grip Control | You can add or remove cleats as needed | Pre-set grip, cannot be adjusted |
| Maintenance | Replace or remove cleats anytime | Need a complete shoe replacement |
How Do You Attach Golfkicks to Your Shoes?
Marking on your shoes and screwing Golfkicks might seem a complex process at first. But it actually quite simple, if you follow the right steps. Just follow the steps I’m going to cover below, and you’ll end up with turning your favorite shoes into a nice golf shoes.
Step 1: Plan the Cleat Placement
Begin by turning the shoes upside down to find out where the cleats should go. For most shoes, placing around eight cleats per shoe provides a solid grip. For smaller shoes, six cleats should be enough. Always place the cleats on flat, solid areas of the sole. Do not use any foam surfaces, as they don’t hold cleats securely.
Step 2: Marking the Spots
After planning the placement, you know what to do next. Take the Sharpie from the package and mark each spot. To ensure the right mark, use the Sharpie right after taking out the cleats that you’ve positioned to plan the placement. Use dots to ensure the cleats are evenly placed and provide balanced traction.
Step 3: Applying SHOE GOO
Next, apply a small dab of SHOE GOO to the metal threads of each cleat. This adhesive helps secure the cleats and prevent them from loosening over time. It’s an extra layer of security that keeps the cleats locked in place, even during active play.
Step 4: Screwing in the Cleats
Now it’s time to attach the cleats. Start by placing each cleat on the marked spots. Use the HEX hand tool from the kit. Position the tool over the cleat, and begin turning it clockwise. Apply steady, even pressure as you twist. To speed up the process, you can use a drill by attaching the HEX bit to it. Just make sure you do not over-tighten them.
Step 5: Letting It Set
After installing the cleats, allow the SHOE GOO to dry overnight. This setting time ensures the cleats are firmly attached and provide a reliable grip during use. Once dried, the shoes are ready for the golf course.
What Should You Be Aware of?
You should avoid using Golfkicks on foam soles as they work best on flat rubber soles. The soles need to be at least 1/3 inch thick. Do not use them on the shoes that already have a lot of built-in traction. Always attach the cleats to the flat area of the soles to ensure full contact for support.
Another thing is, they are designed for semi-permanent use. So, I don’t recommend attaching and removing them frequently without any major causes. It can weaken the shoe’s sole, especially on softer and spongy materials. I just did it as part of my experiment to see how they perform on different shoes. You do not have to do it, as you already know from my Golfkicks review about that.
Should You Invest in the Golfkicks?
I won’t say you should toss your old golf shoes and buy Golfkicks right now without thinking twice. Rather, it depends on your needs. If you’re someone who loves playing golf but does not want to spend big on a separate pair of golf shoes, or lose comfort on your old ones, and needs to buy a new pair, then you should definitely invest in Golfkicks.
For casual golfers or those who don’t play often, it could be a smart investment. However, if you’re a professional golfer playing on challenging, wet, or slippery courses often, traditional golf shoes may be the right choice for you. Golfkicks are a great choice for a casual golfer who loves to play on flat, dry courses.
From Where Should You Buy Golfkicks?
I didn’t want to take any chances with fakes or outdated products, so I went straight to the Golfkicks official website. It was the safest choice because I knew I would get the real product, complete with the latest version and all the included tools. The website made it easy to choose the right kit, and I also found helpful guides on installation and maintenance.
Another benefit of buying directly from the official site was that I got access to any ongoing discounts and promotions, which made the purchase even more worthwhile. If you’re thinking about getting Golfkicks, the official website is your best bet for quality, support, and peace of mind.
Golfkicks Pricing
After checking the official page, I was surprised by how affordable they were. The basic kit costs $35 USD, which was already a good deal compared to buying a new pair of golf shoes. I got a kit with 20 cleats, a HEX hand tool, a drill bit, and SHOE GOO for secure installation at this price.
But what really caught my eye were the bundle deals. There’s a “Buy 2, Get 1 Free” option for $86 USD, which made a lot of sense if you have a couple of pairs you want to convert. It also comes with free shipping, which saved me a bit more. And then there’s the biggest deal—“Buy 3, Get 2 Free” for USD 129. That’s five full kits for the price of three, which is perfect if you’re sharing with friends or family.
Honestly, I went for the single because I didn’t know how it would perform. It felt like a safe choice, and it turned out to be a good one for testing the waters. If you’re curious but not sure, starting with one kit is fine. But if you’re confident or have friends who golf, the bundles are the smarter choice.
Reviews From the Real Users
Before I decided to try Golfkicks myself, I wanted to know if they actually worked. So, I did what most of us do; I checked out what other people were saying. Getting their honest feedback helped me make up my mind, and I figured it might help you too. Here’s what real users have shared about Golfkicks.
“I have a pair of really comfortable cleatless golf shoes; however, they lost traction. I ordered the GolfKicks kit to try and am very happy. I was worried that the spikes might make the walking shoes uncomfortable…that didn’t happen. Really good traction and look pretty good. I will do it again this summer on my white shoes. If you’re thinking about trying this kit, I would recommend it.”
– Edmund Bellino
“So far, I've done 3 rounds of golf and hit the driving range 4 times, and they are still holding strong. Love how they gave my old favorite shoes new life. Great grip too, better than my old golf shoes. Update: a year later, and none have fallen out after 15+ trips to the golf course and dozens to the range. These are definitely the way to go.”
– Sean Sullivan
“The spikes were really easy to install. I did all of them by hand with the supplied allen wrench. I’m a beefy guy, and the spikes have held up well so far when walking on a mix of grass, rock, and cement. These are now my comfiest golf shoes.”
– Ryan Rodriguez
“As previously reviewed by others, they are easy to install. I added a small amount of ShooGoo to the threads. After 3 rounds in the Mexican desert, Rocks, paved cart paths, and in/out of carts, and I didn't lose one. I went with 6 spikes instead of the traditional 8 as I didn't feel I needed as much on the heel.”
– John Broadis
Frequently Asked Questions
I was confused whether I should give it a try or not, and had a ton of questions before buying the Golfkicks. Hopefully, I found some questions repetitively asked by others when they’re in a purchasing mode. So, I decided to put together some of the most frequently asked questions I came across. Let’s take a look at them:
What Types of Shoes Work Best With Golfkicks?
Golfkicks work best with flat, rubber-soled shoes, including sneakers, running shoes, and even sandals. These provide a secure base for the cleats to grip. Avoid foam soles or heavily textured shoes, as the cleats may not attach properly or stay secure.
How Long Will Golfkicks Last on My Shoes?
Its longevity depends on how often you use it and the type of surface you play on.
The spikes are made from durable materials like Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) to be durable and can last for regular rounds of golf. So, you can play on all kinds of terrain without worrying about wearing down the cleats.
Can I Use Golfkicks on Different Pairs of Shoes?
Yes, you can use Golfkicks on different pairs of shoes. Simply unscrew the cleats from one pair and reattach them to another. This gives you the flexibility to turn multiple sneakers into golf shoes whenever you want.
Are Golfkicks a Good Option for Kids or Teens?
Yes, Golfkicks are perfect for kids or teens who are still growing. Instead of buying new golf shoes every year, you can turn their comfortable sneakers into golf shoes, saving money and giving them shoes they love wearing.
Can I Keep Wearing My Sneakers Off the Course With Golfkicks?
Yes, you can keep wearing your sneakers off the course with Golfkicks. Just remove the cleats from the shoes whenever you’re done golfing, and your sneakers will be back to their original feel.
When Can I Expect My Order?
You can expect your order to ship within 24-48 hours after placing it. If you’re in the United States, delivery usually takes 3-5 business days. For international orders, delivery times may vary depending on your country’s customs process.
Final Verdict
Overall, Golfkicks turned out to be a solid addition to my golf setup. They gave me the comfort of my favorite sneakers with the grip I needed on the course, without spending on a pair of fancy golf shoes. While they may not replace high-end golf shoes for professionals, they’re perfect for casual golfers, travelers, or anyone who wants a flexible, budget-friendly option.
After reading my Golfkicks review, you’ve got all the information to come up with the best decision. Should you go for it right now? Well, it totally depends on your needs. If you’re looking for a simple way to upgrade your shoes for the course, Golfkicks are definitely worth considering.
Golfkicks are screw-in cleats that let you turn your favorite sneakers into golf shoes. Instead of spending a lot on traditional golf shoes that are mostly designed for cleats, rather than feet, you can use Golfkicks to get the grip you need without giving up comfort.
- Turns any sneakers into golf shoes without hassles.
- Affordable compared to buying new golf shoes.
- Customizable cleat placement for better grip.
- Easy to attach and remove without damaging shoes.
- Doesn’t work well on foam-soled shoes
