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

Our review of the New Balance 997 SL Men's Golf Shoe finds it best suited to golfers who prioritize long-round comfort and all-weather protection. The single biggest reason to consider these shoes is the combination of a 10mm drop Abzorb midsole and a Molded CUSH+ insole that together deliver soft but responsive cushioning, so walking 18 holes rarely feels punishing. The shoes balance performance-driven details with a relaxed fit, making them a practical choice for everyday play rather than a narrow, tournament-only specialist.

Key Features

• 10mm drop Abzorb midsole: Provides responsive cushioning and energy return to reduce fatigue during long rounds.
• NDurance spikeless rubber outsole: Delivers durable traction while allowing natural foot motion across wet and dry conditions.
• Waterproof microfiber leather upper: Keeps feet dry on damp courses and resists wear from regular use in wet weather.
• FastTwist 3.0 Pulsar removable cleats: Offer secure grip on varied terrain and can be replaced for long-term traction maintenance.
• Molded CUSH+ insole: Adds a soft, responsive layer underfoot for an immediate comfort boost out of the box.

Who It's For

The 997 SL is aimed at recreational and avid men golfers who walk rounds and want reliable cushioning, waterproof protection, and a flexible spikeless outsole for natural movement. Players who value comfort over a tight, performance-biased fit will appreciate the relaxed toe room and supportive midsole.

Those seeking a very lightweight tournament shoe with a racing-style fit or golfers who prefer traditional metal spikes for maximum grip in thick rough may want to consider other models. If you need a narrow, performance-fit option, the 997 SL's more relaxed silhouette might not be ideal.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Exceptional underfoot comfort from the Abzorb midsole and Molded CUSH+ insole for long walks.
• Reliable all-weather protection thanks to the waterproof microfiber leather upper.
• Good on-course traction with NDurance spikeless outsole and replaceable FastTwist 3.0 cleats.

Cons

• The feel of the upper material is mixed for some wearers and may break in differently than premium leather.
• Golfers wanting a very tight, performance-oriented fit may find the relaxed fit less suited to aggressive swings.

Specifications

Brand	New Balance
Model	997 SL
Midsole	10mm drop Abzorb midsole
Insole	Molded CUSH+ insole
Outsole	NDurance spikeless rubber with FastTwist 3.0 Pulsar cleats
Upper	Waterproof microfiber leather

Our Verdict

The New Balance 997 SL Men's Golf Shoe is a solid value for golfers who walk and play frequently and need dependable cushioning plus waterproof protection. It delivers a comfortable, stable platform with durable traction, making it a smart everyday golf shoe for players who prefer a relaxed fit and reliable all-weather performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes waterproof?
Yes, the shoes use a waterproof microfiber leather upper designed to keep feet dry on wet courses.

Can I replace the cleats?
Yes, the FastTwist 3.0 Pulsar cleats are removable and replaceable to maintain traction.

Are they comfortable for walking 18 holes?
Many customers report strong comfort for full rounds due to the Abzorb midsole and Molded CUSH+ insole, though feel can be subjective.