Influence of golf shoes on performance compared to barefoot golfing

Abstract

The golf swing is heavily influenced by the feet, being the points of ground contact. How the foot/shoe units interact with the ground is crucial, resembling the platform for golfers to perform a successful swing (Worsfold, 2011). Research examined the kinetics and kinematics of the golf swing and how they relate to club head speed as a marker for golf performance. Golf shoes research examined the kinetic performance of different outsoles. Traction differed between golf shoes with spikes, alternative spikes and a smooth outsole (Worsfold et al., 2009). Barefoot research has been applied to understand footwear functionality in running (Sinclair et al., 2013), and also soccer, assisting shoe design to maximize kicking velocity (Sterzing & Hennig, 2008). Understanding the impact of golf shoes on golf performance and biomechanics, may assist golf shoe design.