Men's New Balance 997 Golf Shoe - Waterproof Comfort and Grip

Our review of the New Balance 997 Golf Shoe finds it best suited for golfers who want a reliable, comfortable all-weather shoe without unnecessary fuss. The single biggest reason to buy is the combination of a waterproof microfiber leather upper and a responsive Abzorb 10mm drop midsole, which together keep feet dry while providing long-round comfort. Reviewers consistently note comfort, fit, and waterproof performance, so this shoe is a practical choice for regular golfers seeking dependable traction and cushioning rather than flashy tech or minimalist design.

Key Features

• Waterproof microfiber leather upper: keeps feet dry in wet conditions while maintaining a clean, durable finish that resists moisture over long rounds.
• Abzorb 10mm drop midsole: provides lightweight cushioning and premium responsiveness to reduce fatigue during extended play.
• NDurance rubber outsole: is engineered to move with the natural motion of your foot for flexible, long-lasting traction on varied terrain.
• FastTwist 3.0 Pulsar removable cleats: deliver secure grip and stability through the swing and allow easy replacement when studs wear.
• CUSH+ insole: enhances underfoot comfort, making walking 18 holes noticeably more comfortable for many wearers.
• 2 year waterproof warranty: offers added confidence that the waterproofing will hold up with normal use on the course.

Who It's For

The New Balance 997 is designed for recreational and avid male golfers who play in mixed weather and prioritize comfort and waterproof protection. It suits players who walk rounds and want durable cushioning and reliable traction without sacrificing toe room or day-long comfort.

Players seeking a minimalist shoe with a barefoot feel, or golfers who want a fashion-forward street-to-course hybrid, may want to look elsewhere; this model focuses on practical performance features like waterproofing, cushioning, and replaceable cleats rather than trendy styling or ultra-light race-level weight.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable cushioning from the Abzorb 10mm drop midsole and CUSH+ insole supports long rounds.
• Waterproof microfiber leather upper and a 2 year waterproof warranty keep feet dry in wet conditions.
• NDurance rubber outsole and FastTwist removable cleats provide reliable grip and natural foot motion.
• Well-fitting design with reported good toe room and a quality build for everyday use.

Cons

• The shoe prioritizes comfort and waterproofing over minimal weight, so it is not the lightest option on the market.
• Some users report mixed impressions of the overall feel of the upper material compared with premium leather alternatives.

Specifications

Brand	New Balance
Model	997 Golf Shoe
Upper	Waterproof microfiber leather
Midsole	Abzorb 10mm drop
Insole	CUSH+
Outsole	NDurance rubber with FastTwist 3.0 Pulsar cleats
Warranty	2 year waterproof warranty

Our Verdict

The New Balance 997 Golf Shoe is a solid value for men who want dependable waterproof protection, comfortable cushioning, and good traction for walking the course. It is particularly appealing for regular golfers who prioritize fit, durability, and a stable platform over ultralight weight or fashion-forward styling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes truly waterproof?
Yes, the waterproof microfiber leather upper is backed by a 2 year waterproof warranty and customers report staying dry during wet rounds.

Do they provide enough traction on wet turf?
The NDurance rubber outsole combined with FastTwist removable cleats gives solid grip and stability across varied course conditions.

Are they comfortable for walking 18 holes?
Many customers note long-round comfort thanks to the Abzorb 10mm drop midsole and CUSH+ insole, with at least one report of no discomfort after walking 18 holes.