Do I really need golf shoes?

What are the benefits of spikes? How important are they?
Thanks

you can still play good golf with runners, but they come in handy when the ground gets greesy, either from due or rain.

kinda like tires on a car. it's good traction on the grass in difficult conditions :P

I say yes. My swing feels much better in golf shoes than it does in sneakers. Makes it a lot easier to keep your feet planted properly during your takeaway.

I have spike less golf shoes, so I am unsure of the benefits of spikes, although I bet you get better grip.

I was golfing early in the morning, with runners and the grass was still wet. I came very close to injuring my knee badly as I lost traction. I immediately bought golf shoes and I would be hard pressed to golf without them.

James

I like to practice in running shoes - undone. You really have to be balanced to swing in undone shoes.

When I actually golf, I wear spikes. I've seen too many guys slip out of their swings, due to worn cleats.

hi
also getting in and out sloping bunkers on a wet day can be hard with spikes and downright scary in trainers, also golf shoes do keep your feet dry most of time trainers dont.
bill

Golf shoes give better grip but they are also better for the greens, trainers can slip and damage the surface. Most clubs in the UK insist you must wear golf shoes on the course.

Ever pulled a muscle in your groin?

That can very easily happen if you slip during a swing.

Try playing in normal shoes on a soaking wet course. When you finish and a small river flows out of your shoes, you will then know why golf shoes are a necessity

I think without a doubt. In fact I believe it important to make sure that your spikes are not worn. When they wear down, change them immediately. If your feet slip, your shot is not going to go where intended.

random post to get rid of the please post message

I've been wearing golf shoes for about a month, Footjoys with soft spikes. They're great, feet are planted when palying shots and with the autumn/winter coming, I wont be slipping on my backside on the wet slopes!!!