Do you know a fellow golf enthusiast who isn’t as enthusiastic about investing in golf shoes as they are about the sport itself? Have they ever mentioned that the average golf shoe lacks flavor, style, or, in the rare case, comfort?
If yes, a trio of founders felt similarly about their golf shoes, wondering why they couldn’t just add spikes to their own sneakers, which they’ve had ample time to wear, feel comfortable in, and fall in love with. Fortunately, they didn’t leave the table with an unanswered question and instead challenged themselves to design such an add-on.
Today, golfers —whether professional or amateur, adult or kid—can finally play the sport in the sneakers they choose without any disadvantages of wearing spikeless shoes. Without any further delay, here’s a comprehensive review of Golfkicks.
What are Golfkicks?
Golfkicks are do-it-yourself (DIY) golf spikes designed to be screwed into any sneaker, transforming them into golf shoes. For those unfamiliar with “golf spikes,” these are sharp cleats (or spikes) on the outsole of a shoe. According to Google, these spikes are imperative for golfers, as they provide lateral stability, depending on the course itself; more traction is a variety of playing conditions (i.e., soft, wet, hard, dry, etc.), enhance grip (thereby helping with their swing), and provide practical comfort.
The purpose of Golfkicks is to help individuals save money that would otherwise be spent on a separate pair of shoes designated for golfing. Moreover, it might be difficult to find golf shoes that fit the extra requirements of people who require specific shoe designs for orthopedic needs, making Golfkicks a viable option. Other factors that might have people leaning toward Golfkicks over existing golf shoes are style, convenience, and comfort.
However, many questions remain. Two of particular interest to our editorial team are: Once a shoe is converted into a golf shoe, can it be reversed without damage? Will these add-on golf spikes truly appeal to golfers? Before getting to these, let’s take this moment to navigate GolfKicks listed features.
Transform your sneakers into golf shoes with Golfkicks today!
What features do Golfkicks have?
Golfkicks are predominantly liked for the following features:
Easy to Mount
Each Golfkicks purchase will include a traction kick, providing individuals with the essentials to execute mounting. This consists of 20 spikes, one Shoe Goo, one hex bit, one hex hand tool, and one marker. The creators affirm that this DIY product was designed with most skill levels in mind, ensuring it is as user-friendly as possible. The Golfkicks team advises taking the time to understand the instructions and watch tutorial videos before starting.
The mounting process can become slightly complicated depending on the shoe type. For instance, if individuals are planning to mount the Golfkicks into Jordan 11s, Foamposites, or shoes with carbon fiber or plastic underneath the rubber, a 5/32-bit 6 mm-deep pilot hole must be drilled before mounting.
Multi-Shoe Compatibility
Golfkicks appear compatible with most shoe types, but there seem to be some limitations. For instance, the shoes’ soles need to be flat rubber (not foam) and have at least a thickness of ⅓ inch. So, for shoes like Vans, Chucks, Dunks, or skate shoes, individuals will feel the cleats underfoot, which is probably undesirable.
Next, if an existing pair already has good traction, Golfkicks is an unnecessary purchase unless you are playing a sloping course. Finally, softer, spongier sole materials are deemed unsuitable for Golfkicks. As our editorial team read over the dos and don’ts, we got an answer to our first question.
It turns out that Golfkicks has been designed to be permanent; therefore, the Golfkick team does not encourage repeatedly removing and installing these spikes. Doing so might weaken the sole material, making it less supportive. Ultimately, the short answer is yes, they can be reverted, but the long answer is yes, but at the expense of losing out on a pair of sneakers.
TPU Green-Friendly Cleat
Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) indicates that the product is sustainable and ESG-friendly (or Environmental, Social, and Governance friendly). What does this mean in the context of Golfkicks? These cleats are:
- Made using a recyclable material that can be reprocessed with minimal environmental effects.
- It needs fewer chemicals than other plastics, significantly reducing negative environmental impacts.
- Durable, withstanding abrasion, chemicals, and UV radiation.
Can Be Worn Daily
Since Golfkicks are considered 5th-generation soft spikes, the creators see no reason they need to be removed. They insist that the softness will only add a nice, comfortable, and bouncy feel, whether walking on greenery or going to the grocery store. Undoubtedly, there is a disclaimer in place that everyone should be mindful of. In particular, “some surfaces can be extremely slippery for Golfkicks. ” Hence, individuals need to be careful—whether it is on the golf course or going on a grocery haul.
As much as these spikes are designed to provide extra traction on the golf course, “they do not eliminate the inherent dangers of playing golf or using tools for installation.” In any such case, Golfkicks will not be “liable for any injury, loss, or consequential damage resulting from the installation, wearing, or other use of [their] products.”
Patented Metallicore® Traction
Golfkicks’ Metallicore® traction and sole-tapping screw have officially been patented. The patent suggests that these cleats have undergone tour- and battle-testing (on PGA and LPGA tours), demonstrating that Golfkicks offer more grip than spikeless shoes.
Add spikes to your favorite sneakers—get Golfkicks now!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q. What are Golfkicks made of?
A. Golfkicks are made of metal and rubber (TPE). This material supposedly adds the same level of flexibility as soft spikes.
Q. How do I get started with Golfkicks?
A. The beginner-friendly mounting process consists of the following four steps:
- First, the 8-spike pattern must be mapped out upside down using the spike. The positions should be selected on the flat parts of the sole. If the shoe is small, then a 6-spike pattern is enough.
- Second, once a pattern has been selected, the spikes must be removed and the placements must be marked with the included marker for mounting.
- Then, individuals are advised to add Shoe Goo to the metal threads.
- Finally, the spikes can either be screwed in by hand or drill.
- After mounting them, individuals are asked to allow the glue to dry overnight before use.
Q. Will Golfkicks ruin my shoes or make them leak?
A. No. However, if individuals decide to remove them, the spikes will leave a tiny incision into the rubber. As mentioned earlier in this review, Golfkicks most likely aren’t meant for all shoes. Therefore, individuals should review the limitations of these spikes before placing an order, however, the official website states they can be applied to:
“Flat, rubber-soled shoes including casual sneakers, basketball shoes, running shoes, sandals, and even Crocs.”
Q. Do I need to drill pilot holes?
A. Once again, pilot holes must only be drilled for Jordan 11s, Foamposites, or other models with carbon fiber or hard plastic underneath the rubber. For instructions on these advanced installations, visit the official GolfKicks website.
Q. Does the glue help?
A. According to the Golfkick team, adding glue on the threads before screwing the spikes is far superior to superglue.
Q. Are Golfkicks suitable for use by kids and teens?
A. Yes, Golfkicks are just as suitable for kids and teens as they are for adults. Of course, parents need to assess the shoe requirements before mounting the spikes.
Q. Do Golf enthusiasts trust GolfKicks?
A. Yes, GolfKicks are trusted by PGA and LPGA pros. From the looks of it, even Stephen Curry wears them while golfing. As for the average golf enthusiast, most users were generally pleased by the installation, the secure attachment, improvements in grip and stability, traction during swings, and comfort levels.
Those who’ve had a slightly meek experience seem to have had issues during installation, as they reported either spikes coming out sooner than expected or feeling the spikes. Some complaints have been disclosed either in the disclaimer or possible limitations. From a broader perspective, though, Golfkicks have been well received, answering our second question.
Q. What colors do Golfkicks come in?
A. Golfkicks are available in red, gray, ice, or a mix of the three colors. These options are available at checkout.
Q. How long will it take for Golfkicks shipments to arrive?
A. Golfkicks orders are typically processed within the first 2 business days of receipt. Once shipped, shipments could take 3 to 5 business days to reach American destinations. For now, a timeframe has not been provided for international countries.
Q. Are Golfkick purchases protected by a money-back guarantee?
A. A 90-day money-back guarantee protects GolfKicks purchases, but this only applies to U.S. customers. If, within the first 90 days, individuals have a change of heart, customer support can be contacted for a full purchase price refund. Golfkicks must be returned in the same condition they arrived in, “unworn or unused in original packaging with proof of purchase.” Listed below is some contact information to have handy:
- Email: info@golfkicks.com
- Phone: 1 (303) 218-3705
- Mailing address: 621 Kalamath St., Ste. 175, Denver, Colorado 80204, United States.
Golfkicks Customer Reviews
As shown on the official website, many customers found the Golfkicks a perfect alternative to buying expensive golf shoes:
Edmund Bellino Verified Buyer: Easy install and works
I have a pair of really comfortable cleatless golf shoes however, they lost traction. I ordered the GolfKicks kit to try and am very happy. I was worried that the spikes might make the walking shoes uncomfortable…that didn’t happen. Really good traction and look pretty good. I will do it again this summer on my white shoes. If you’re thinking about trying this kit I would recommend it.
Sean Sullivan Verified Buyer: Worth the money
So far I've done 3 rounds of golf and hit the driving range 4 times and they are still holding strong. Love how they gave my old favorite shoes new life. Great grip too, better than my old golf shoes. Update: a year later and none have fallen out after 15+ trips to golf course and dozens to the range. These are definitely the way to go.
Ryan Rodriguez Verified Buyer: Easy way to create custom golf shoes
The spikes were really easy to install. I did all of them by hand with the supplied allen wrench. I’m a beefy guy and the spikes have held up well so far when walking on a mix of grass, rocks and cement. These are now my comfiest golf shoes.
Corkydesigner Verified Buyer: Stylin' Cheetah golf shoes under $50, yes please!
Couldn't find any ladies golf shoes that were reasonably priced, fit me and I liked! Then remembered I had bought hubby these GolfKicks a few years ago when he was having problems with his flat feet. These are a perfect solution for me: – I'm just getting back into golf and didn't want to spend a fortune on shoes – I'm a bit of a fashionista, especially when it comes to shoes! So these gave me unlimited possibilities ;D – I'm fussy about fit, have a high instep and my feet are on the wider side…I also broke my ankle recently and need to fit an ankle support in the shoe – Took me under 20 minutes to do, including watching the video.
These are a perfect solution, if you want golf shoes that are customized to your own style and/or fit. I was very lucky and found these very comfy, memory foam, black and white cheetah walking shoes at a local JobLot for $10. I added silver GolfKicks and I'm ready to go! If you want golf shoes that match your style, buy them!”
John Broadis Verified Buyer: Easy. Turns your favorite most comfortable shoe into golf shoes.
As previously reviewed by others, they are easy to install. I added a small amount of ShooGoo to the threads. After 3 rounds in the Mexican desert, Rocks, paved cart paths and in/out of carts and I didn't lose one. I went with 6 spikes instead of the traditional 8 as I didn't feel I needed as much on the heel.
Upgrade your shoes for better grip—shop Golfkicks now!
How much do Golfkicks cost?
Golfkicks pricing varies based on the number of kits selected at checkout. Here is a quick rundown of the options at the time of writing, with each kit containing 20 Spikes, One Shoe Goo, One Hex Bit, One Hex Hand Tool, and One Marker:
- One Golfkicks Kit: USD$35 each + shipping
- Buy Two Golfkicks Kits, Get One Free: USD$28.67 + free shipping
- Buy Three Golfkicks Kits, Get Two Free: USD$25.80 + free shipping
Meet the Team Behind Golfkicks
Golfkicks was founded by friends and entrepreneurs Tyler Stuart, John Krosky, and Matt Mockus. This endeavor supposedly started in a Denver garage where the trio tested different products suitable for the golf source. At the time, they all felt their golf shoes were boring, wondering why they couldn’t add the necessary traction to Chucks, Jordans, Crocs, or whatever they wanted.
After several failed prototypes, the successful one led them to a Kickstarter campaign, eventually converting into a shop.
The trio admits that their first version of the Golfkicks was brutal, but with time and feedback, they launched the Golfkicks 5th-gen traction, which is now worn on the PGA and LPGA tours by celebrities, pro athletes and kids alike and are worn in 200,000+ sneakers.
Did we mention that they appeared in season 11 of Shark Tank and accepted Mark Cuban’s deal? Since then, the Golfkicks company is 1) still in business and has made an annual revenue of around 4 million dollars.
Want comfort & style? Try Golfkicks for your golf shoes today!
Final Verdict
Ultimately, Golfkicks are add-on (or screw-in) cleats that create the infamous golf spikes on most sneakers. The goal is to allow individuals with orthopedic needs and style preferences to customize their preferred sneakers into golf sneakers.
As mentioned earlier, golf shoes have the added benefit of grip (and, therefore, a better golf swing) and lateral stability, regardless of weather conditions or unbalanced texture, giving golfers an advantage over those who rely on spikeless shoes. The founders were initially displeased by the appearance of golf shoes, as many would agree that they kill one’s style. This led to the creation of Golfkicks, which started on Kickstarter and eventually landed in a partnership with Mark Cuban.
The features list is impressive, as these spikes are ESG-friendly, user-friendly, easy to mount, deemed long-lasting, trusted by pros and celebrities alike, and have been rigorously tested and patented. Our editorial team especially liked that the creators were honest about the first-ever versions and how far they’ve come since the release of the Golfkicks 5th generation.
Most of all, they have clearly invested a lot of time in jotting down the pros and limitations, giving people a heads-up on what to expect, and ensuring their expectations are realistic.
Yes, these spikes can be added to sneakers of most types, but not all. Yes, these spikes can be removed, but at the risk of damage. These shoes can be worn anywhere outside the golf course, but individuals must be careful of possible external risks. Breakdowns of this nature are rarely provided and must be applauded.
Overall, a positive experience with Golfkicks requires individuals to thoroughly read the instructions beforehand.