New Balance 997 Men's Golf Shoe - Lightweight Cushioning & Grip

In this review of the New Balance 997 Men's Golf Shoe the bottom line is simple: these are for golfers who want lightweight cushioning and reliable traction in wet conditions. The shoe balances comfort and course-ready performance with a 10mm drop Abzorb midsole and a waterproof microfiber leather upper, so walking 18 holes feels less taxing and wet weather play is less worrying. The review focuses on fit, feel, and real use on the course rather than marketing claims, and highlights why the combination of NDurance outsole and FastTwist 3.0 Pulsar cleats matters for stability.

Key Features

• 10mm drop Abzorb midsole: delivers responsive, lightweight cushioning that helps reduce fatigue during long rounds.
• NDurance rubber outsole: follows the natural motion of the foot for durable flexibility and sustained comfort over many rounds.
• FastTwist 3.0 Pulsar cleats: provide all-terrain traction and stable footing during the swing, and are removable for easy maintenance.
• Waterproof microfiber leather upper: keeps feet dry on wet courses so players can keep their focus without worrying about damp socks.
• Molded CUSH+ insole: offers soft, responsive underfoot cushioning for immediate comfort from the first wear.

Who It's For

These shoes are aimed at weekend players and walking golfers who value cushioning and weather protection without a heavy performance shoe feel. The responsive Abzorb midsole and molded CUSH+ insole suit players who walk multiple holes or play in mixed conditions and need consistent comfort and shock absorption.

Golfers seeking a minimalist, narrow performance shoe or spikeless trainers for casual wear should look elsewhere; the 997 leans to a relaxed fit with removable cleats and a construction focused on golf-specific traction and weather resistance rather than runway styling.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable cushioning that holds up over an 18-hole walk without feeling flat.
• Reliable grip from FastTwist 3.0 Pulsar cleats gives confidence through the swing.
• Waterproof upper keeps feet dry and performs well on wet courses.

Cons

• The feel is mixed for some buyers; the upper material and fit may take a break-in period for certain foot shapes.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The New Balance 997 Men's Golf Shoe is a strong value for golfers who walk and play in varied weather, offering a comfortable, responsive midsole and dependable traction from removable cleats. It is worth buying if you prioritize long-round cushioning and waterproof protection; those wanting an ultra-narrow fit or spikeless street styling should consider other options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes waterproof?
Yes, the upper is waterproof microfiber leather designed to keep feet dry in wet conditions.

Can I replace the cleats?
Yes, the FastTwist 3.0 Pulsar cleats are removable for replacement and easy cleaning.

Do they feel comfortable for walking 18 holes?
Many customers report good comfort for 18-hole walks thanks to the Abzorb midsole and Molded CUSH+ insole, though the feel may vary by foot shape.