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

Our review of the New Balance 997 SL Men's Golf Shoes finds them best suited for golfers who prioritize long-round comfort and reliable traction in mixed weather. The single biggest reason to buy is the plush, responsive cushioning built around a 10mm drop Abzorb midsole that keeps feet comfortable through 18 holes and beyond, while the waterproof microfiber leather upper protects against wet conditions. This pair balances a relaxed fit with golf-specific stability features, making them a strong everyday golf shoe rather than a tournament-only specialist.

Key Features

• Abzorb midsole: The 10mm drop Abzorb midsole provides responsive shock absorption and underfoot comfort for long walks on the course.
• NDurance outsole: A spikeless NDurance rubber outsole delivers durable, natural-feel traction for stable swings on wet and dry turf.
• Waterproof upper: The microfiber leather upper is designed to resist moisture so feet stay drier during rainy rounds.
• Molded CUSH+ insole: The soft, responsive molded insole adds another layer of cushioning for improved comfort and support.
• FastTwist 3.0 cleats: Removable Pulsar cleats let the shoe offer upgraded traction where needed and easy replacement when worn.
• Relaxed fit: A roomier toe and overall relaxed fit suit players who prefer extra toe space without sacrificing stability.

Who It's For

The New Balance 997 SL is ideal for men who walk the course regularly and want a cushioned, all-weather shoe that still feels sporty and modern. If you value underfoot comfort and waterproof protection for everyday play or practice rounds, this shoe delivers dependable performance and a relaxed fit.

Players seeking a minimalist, ultra-lightweight trainer or a highly tour-oriented spiked shoe for maximum lateral support and firmer turf engagement may want to consider other models. Also, those who prefer an extremely narrow, race-style fit should try a different New Balance line.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable cushioning from the 10mm drop Abzorb midsole and Molded CUSH+ insole supports long rounds.
• Reliable traction from the NDurance spikeless outsole and FastTwist 3.0 cleats handles varied course conditions.
• Waterproof microfiber leather upper keeps feet dry and shields against moisture.
• Attractive, modern styling that works on and off the course.

Cons

• The relaxed fit may feel too roomy for golfers who need a snug, performance lockdown.
• Some users report a mixed feel with upper materials, indicating break-in may vary by foot shape.

Specifications

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

Our Verdict

The New Balance 997 SL is a solid choice for men wanting a comfortable, waterproof golf shoe that performs well in everyday play. With responsive cushioning, durable spikeless traction and a relaxed fit, it offers good value for golfers who walk the course and need dependable all-weather protection.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Do they provide good grip on wet turf?
Yes, the NDurance outsole combined with FastTwist 3.0 cleats gives reliable traction on both wet and dry turf.

How do they fit?
They offer a relaxed fit with roomy toe space; golfers who prefer a snug, race-style fit may want a different model.