New Balance 997 SL Men's Golf Shoe - Waterproof Comfort

In this review the New Balance 997 SL Men's Golf Shoe is presented as a solid choice for golfers who prioritize comfort and all-weather reliability. The bottom line: these shoes are best for players who walk long rounds and need dependable waterproofing and cushioned support without the heft of a touring golf shoe. The review finds the 10mm drop Abzorb midsole and Molded CUSH+ insole deliver day-long comfort, while the NDurance spikeless outsole balances traction and natural foot movement across typical course surfaces.

Key Features

• 10mm drop Abzorb midsole: Provides responsive cushioning that reduces fatigue during long walks and helps maintain stability through the swing.
• NDurance spikeless rubber outsole: Delivers reliable traction while allowing more natural foot motion and flexibility on varied turf conditions.
• Waterproof microfiber leather upper: Keeps feet dry in wet conditions so rounds are less likely to be cut short by moisture or soggy socks.
• FastTwist 3.0 Pulsar removable cleats: Offer secure grip on softer turf and can be replaced to extend the life of the outsole.
• Molded CUSH+ insole: Adds a soft, responsive layer underfoot for comfort without sacrificing needed support during swings.

Who It's For

The 997 SL is aimed at men who walk the course regularly and want a shoe that blends cushioned comfort, waterproof protection, and a modern performance look. It suits everyday club players, seniors, and golfers who prefer a relaxed fit with good toe room and stable support.

Players who need rigid tour-style spikes or maximal lateral lockdown for aggressive swings should consider more specialized spiked models; likewise, golfers seeking ultralight or minimalist shoes may find the Abzorb cushioning heavier than their preference.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable for long rounds thanks to the Abzorb midsole and Molded CUSH+ insole.
• Waterproof upper keeps feet dry in wet conditions, matching customer reports of dry socks.
• Good grip from the NDurance outsole and FastTwist cleats provides stable footing on varied terrain.
• Modern styling that works on and off the course while offering a relaxed fit.

Cons

• The feel is mixed for some wearers; a few customers note the material and cushioning differ from more traditional golf shoes.
• Not the choice for golfers requiring aggressive, replaceable metal spikes or extremely narrow, performance-fit lasts.

Specifications

Model	997 SL Men's Golf Shoe
Midsole	10mm drop Abzorb midsole
Insole	Molded CUSH+ insole
Outsole	NDurance spikeless rubber outsole with FastTwist 3.0 Pulsar cleats
Upper	Waterproof microfiber leather
Intended use	All-weather golf play and daily walking rounds

Our Verdict

The New Balance 997 SL Men's Golf Shoe is a well-rounded choice for golfers who prioritize waterproof protection and cushioned comfort on long walks. It offers strong traction and a relaxed fit that most players reported as comfortable, making it good value for club players and recreational golfers who need reliable, all-weather footwear.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes truly waterproof?
Yes, the waterproof microfiber leather upper is designed to keep feet dry in wet conditions and customers report no issues with wet socks.

Do they provide good traction on wet turf?
The NDurance spikeless rubber outsole combined with FastTwist cleats provides dependable grip on both wet and dry course surfaces.

Are these shoes comfortable for walking 18 holes?
Most users find the 10mm Abzorb midsole and Molded CUSH+ insole comfortable for long rounds, with several reports of no discomfort after 18 holes.