Week 14: Finding the right golf shoes

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How the shoe fits does not only apply to your foot size.

Normally, when we buy a pair of shoes, we are most concerned with how they look. But an ill-fitting pair of shoes can either cause an injury or aggravate a previous health condition. More importantly, it can mess with your swing. Keep these factors in mind when you are selecting your next pair.

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Materials

Golf is generally a warm weather sport, so you will want a pair of shoes that give your feet good ventilation. Mesh shoes provide an affordable option for players whose feet tend to overheat on the course. But keep in mind, some courses use pesticides to keep the fairways free of insects. If you're allergic to pesticides, you will be much better off with a sealed shoe versus a mesh version. In that case, you may want to invest in a good pair of leather shoes. The leather will allow your feet to breath comfortably. Leather shoes are also come pre-waterproofed by the shoe manufacturer. That will make a huge difference when the course is wet. You can also waterproof your shoes by rubbing the proper cream on the surface of the shoe.

Weight

If you plan to walk the course, an easy way to shed some extra pounds is to go with a lighter weight shoe. Opt for softer spikes as well. Most courses do not want you to wear steel spikes anyway. Soft spikes will cut down on the stress you're placing on your legs and feet when you swing, and will allow you to move more freely and easily. They will also eliminate most of the divots on the green, so your fellow golfers will thank you as well.

Fit

How the shoe fits does not only apply to your foot size. Most people tend to over-pronate their feet in one direction or another. You can tell this by looking at the bottom of your everyday sneakers. Are they worn more on one side of the sole? That means you're likely favoring that side when you walk. Consider consulting a good podiatrist who can fit you with insoles that will help compensate for the over-pronation and prevent you from suffering an injury. Also, be sure to try on your new shoes with the socks you are likely to wear on the course. Go with a pair of socks that are not too small or too bulky. Comfort and fit are key. The wrong socks are the quickest way to get friction blisters during a round.

Aftercare

Now that you have a pair of shoes that are stylish, comfortable and lightweight, take good care of them. Investing in some cedar shoetrees will be as wise as selecting the best shoes. By using the shoetrees, you will eliminate the moisture that accumulates inside your shoes and help them maintain their shape. The shoetrees may even prevent the shoes from creasing, which will help them keep their look for many rounds to come.

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IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

ORTHOVISC® is for patients who do not get adequate pain relief from simple pain relievers like acetaminophen or from exercise and physical therapy. ORTHOVISC® is not for use in people with known allergy to hyaluronate preparations, to gram bacterial proteins, with infections or skin diseases in the area of the injection site or joint. Common side effects include joint pain, back pain, headaches and pain or redness at the injection site.

This is a paid placement by DePuy Mitek, Inc. The opinions expressed above are those of DePuy Mitek, Inc. and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the PGA TOUR.