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

Our review of the New Balance 997 SL Golf Shoe finds it best suited for golfers who want a comfortable, weather-ready shoe that still looks like a modern athletic sneaker. The single biggest reason to buy is the combination of a 10mm drop Abzorb midsole and a Molded CUSH+ insole that deliver lasting cushioning and responsiveness through an 18-hole round, making these shoes appealing for walkers and players who prioritize comfort without sacrificing traction.

Key Features

• Abzorb midsole: The 10mm drop Abzorb midsole provides responsive cushioning that soaks up impact and keeps the foot comfortable during long walks on the course.
• NDurance outsole: A spikeless NDurance rubber outsole lets the foot move naturally while offering durable traction on wet and dry turf.
• Waterproof upper: The microfiber leather upper is waterproof to protect feet from moisture and keep socks dry in damp conditions.
• FastTwist 3.0 cleats: Removable FastTwist 3.0 Pulsar cleats supply reliable grip and allow quick maintenance or replacement when needed.
• Molded CUSH+ insole: The soft, responsive insole adds another layer of comfort and reduces fatigue across long rounds.
• Modern styling: The 997 SL pairs performance-driven features with a relaxed fit and clean athletic look suitable for on- and off-course wear.

Who It's For

The 997 SL is aimed at golfers who walk the course, players who need reliable waterproofing, and anyone who values a soft, cushioned feel from tee to green. Its stable NDurance outsole and removable cleats also make it a good choice for golfers who play in varied conditions and want the option to replace traction elements.

Players seeking a minimalist competition shoe with ultra-low weight or aggressive spiked traction for soft, muddy courses may prefer a different model; likewise, golfers who need an extremely narrow or highly structured medial support system should look elsewhere.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable cushioning from the Abzorb midsole and Molded CUSH+ insole reduces fatigue during long rounds.
• Waterproof microfiber leather upper keeps feet dry on wet courses for consistent performance.
• Spikeless NDurance outsole and FastTwist 3.0 cleats deliver dependable grip and natural foot movement.

Cons

• The shoe's relaxed fit and cushioning can feel bulky to players who prefer a firmer, performance-tuned tour shoe.
• Some users described the overall feel of the upper material as mixed compared with traditional leather, though durability and waterproofing are solid.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The New Balance 997 SL is a solid value for golfers who want plush cushioning, waterproof protection, and versatile traction in a relaxed, modern shoe. It excels for walkers and everyday players who need comfort and reliability through multiple rounds, though players seeking a very low-profile or highly rigid performance shoe may prefer other options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes waterproof?
Yes, the microfiber leather upper is designed to be waterproof and protect feet from moisture on wet courses.

Do they provide good traction?
Yes, the NDurance spikeless outsole combined with FastTwist 3.0 Pulsar cleats offers reliable grip on a variety of surfaces.

Are they comfortable for walking 18 holes?
Customers report strong comfort thanks to the 10mm Abzorb midsole and Molded CUSH+ insole, with several noting no discomfort after a full round.