New Balance Men's 997 Golf Shoes - Lightweight Cushioning and Traction

Our review of the New Balance Men's 997 Golf Shoes finds them best suited to golfers who prioritize all-day comfort and reliable traction in varied conditions. The single biggest reason to buy is the combination of a 10mm drop Abzorb midsole and molded CUSH+ insole, which deliver noticeable lightweight cushioning and responsive feel across 18 holes, while the waterproof microfiber leather upper keeps feet dry when the course is damp.

Key Features

• 10mm drop Abzorb midsole: Provides responsive cushioning that helps absorb impact and reduces leg fatigue during long rounds.
• Molded CUSH+ insole: Adds a soft, supportive layer underfoot for enhanced comfort and a relaxed fit through the forefoot and heel.
• NDurance rubber outsole: Follows the natural motion of the foot for flexible durability and long-lasting wear on turf and cart paths.
• FastTwist 3.0 Pulsar cleats: Deliver dependable all-terrain traction and stability through the swing, and are removable for straightforward maintenance.
• Waterproof microfiber leather upper: Protects feet from moisture so golfers can play confidently in wet conditions without immediate concern for saturation.

Who It's For

The 997 is aimed at weekend players and walking golfers who want a balance of comfort and course-ready traction without heavy, stiff construction. Golfers who value cushioning for multiple rounds in a day or who often encounter damp turf will appreciate the Abzorb midsole and waterproof upper.

Players seeking a minimalist, ultra-light feel or a spiked-only performance shoe with aggressive turf penetration should look elsewhere; this model favors a relaxed fit and versatile cleat traction rather than maximum ground-biting rigidity for firm, tournament-only conditions.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable, responsive cushioning from the Abzorb midsole and CUSH+ insole supports long rounds.
• Solid, multi-directional traction with FastTwist 3.0 Pulsar cleats for stability during the swing.
• Waterproof microfiber leather upper keeps feet dry in wet conditions and resists wear.

Cons

• The relaxed fit may feel bulky for golfers who prefer a narrow, performance-fitting shoe.
• Cleats are removable for maintenance but may require periodic replacement over extended use.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The New Balance 997 Golf Shoes are a strong pick for golfers seeking cushioned comfort and dependable traction in wet or mixed conditions. They offer good value for players who walk rounds or need a versatile, weather-ready shoe; those wanting a narrow, race-style fit or aggressive firm-ground spikes should compare other models.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are the cleats replaceable?
Yes, the FastTwist 3.0 Pulsar cleats are removable so they can be replaced or cleaned as needed.

Will these shoes keep my feet dry?
The waterproof microfiber leather upper is designed to protect against moisture and help keep feet dry in wet conditions.

Do they run true to size?
They generally fit a relaxed, standard width; golfers who prefer a narrow fit may want to try a half size down or test in person.