adidas Men's S2G Spikeless Golf Shoe – A Complete Review
Golf shoes have come a long way from the days of stiff leather and clunky spikes. Today’s golfer demands comfort, performance, and style — not just during the swing, but from the parking lot to the final putt. The adidas Men's S2G Spikeless Golf Shoe is designed with these expectations in mind, offering a sneaker-like feel combined with the functionality required on the course. In this in-depth review, we’ll take a close look at what makes the S2G stand out, where it shines, and where it might come up short.
First Impressions: Modern and Versatile
Right out of the box, the S2G looks like a modern athletic sneaker — and that’s intentional. The design blends sporty aesthetics with subtle golf styling. With the iconic three-stripe branding, breathable mesh upper, and casual contours, it doesn’t scream “golf shoe,” and that’s a good thing for golfers who want a versatile look.
The shoe is available in several colorways, including classic white/grey tones and darker, more stain-resistant options. The overall build feels lightweight and well-constructed, suggesting comfort and flexibility right from the get-go.
Comfort: A Strong Suit
One of the key selling points of the S2G is comfort, and it delivers it primarily. The shoe uses Adidas Lightstrike cushioning, a foam-based midsole that is both lightweight and responsive. It provides ample padding without being overly soft — an essential balance for walking the course over several hours.
The footbed offers a supportive yet forgiving feel, making it ideal for golfers who walk. Many users report being able to wear the S2G for 18 holes right out of the box, with no break-in period required. The upper is breathable and lightweight, making it an excellent choice for warm-weather rounds.
That said, golfers with wide feet should be cautious. Some reviewers have mentioned that the S2G runs a bit narrow, especially in the toe box. Sizing up by half a size can help, but trying them on or purchasing from a retailer with a good return policy is advisable.
Performance on the Course: Stability Without Spikes
As a spikeless golf shoe, the S2G relies on Adiwear outsole technology with V-Traxion lugs to provide grip. While it won’t dig in like a fully spiked shoe, the traction is surprisingly good for most conditions. On dry or slightly damp grass, it performs admirably, helping maintain stability during your swing.
Where the spikeless design shines is off the course. You can walk straight from the 18th hole to the clubhouse or even out for lunch without needing to change shoes. The outsole doesn't feel awkward or stiff on hard surfaces, such as asphalt or concrete.
However, in wet or muddy conditions, you may notice a bit of slippage. This is a trade-off all spikeless models face. For serious tournament play or rainy-day rounds, some golfers may prefer the added grip of spiked alternatives.
Durability: Solid With a Few Caveats
In terms of durability, the S2G holds up nicely for the average golfer. The mesh upper, while lightweight and breathable, is prone to dirt and staining, especially in lighter color options. This is a common issue with white athletic shoes and is not unique to Adidas.
The sole shows minor wear after several rounds but remains intact and functional. Casual golfers who play a few times a month should expect a year or more of solid performance. More frequent players may begin to notice signs of wear on the upper or sole sooner, especially if they wear their shoes off the course regularly.
Water Resistance: Light Protection Only
Adidas advertises the S2G as having waterproof capabilities, but this claim warrants a closer examination. In light dew or early morning rounds, the shoe holds up well. The water-resistant coating helps prevent soaking from light grass moisture or a brief drizzle.
However, during prolonged exposure to rain or after stepping in puddles, moisture can seep in, primarily through the mesh upper. This makes the shoe better suited to dry or mildly wet conditions rather than full-on downpours.
If waterproofing is a top priority, especially for winter golf or wet climates, a full leather or Gore-Tex model might be a better investment.
Pros and Cons Summary
✅ Pros
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Sneaker-like comfort: Lightweight, breathable, and cushioned for all-day wear.
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Stylish design: Looks great on and off the course; versatile enough for everyday use.
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Responsive Lightstrike midsole: Offers good energy return and impact protection.
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Spikeless convenience: Stable grip in most dry conditions and more practical off the course.
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Affordable pricing: Generally costs less than premium models while still offering great value.
❌ Cons
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Limited waterproofing: Not ideal for heavy rain or wet turf.
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Runs slightly narrow: Not the best choice for golfers with wide feet unless sized up.
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White colorways stain easily: The mesh upper can be difficult to clean after muddy rounds.
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Traction limitations in wet conditions: May lose grip on soaked grass or uneven terrain.
FAQs About the Adidas S2G
Q: Are these good for walking 18 holes?
A: Yes. The S2G is built with comfort in mind and features a cushioned, responsive midsole. Most golfers find them very comfortable for complete rounds, even on foot-heavy courses.
Q: Are they waterproof?
A: They are water-resistant but not fully waterproof. They’ll handle morning dew and light rain, but extended exposure to wet conditions may result in soggy socks.
Q: Can I wear them casually?
A: Absolutely. Their casual, sneaker-like appearance and spikeless sole make them a solid option for wear off the course — whether that’s to the store, around town, or to lunch after a round.
Q: Do they work well for all swing types?
A: Generally, yes. The grip is adequate for most amateur swing speeds and styles. However, players with very aggressive swings or who play in wet climates may prefer a spiked model for maximum traction.
Q: How do they compare to other Adidas golf shoes?
A: The S2G is a more affordable, lightweight model compared to Adidas' premium lines like the Tour360. It sacrifices some features (like premium leather or full waterproofing) for a lower price and increased comfort. For many players, this tradeoff is well worth it.
Final Verdict: A Great Choice for Most Golfers
The adidas Men's S2G Spikeless Golf Shoe hits a sweet spot that many golfers are looking for — comfort, style, performance, and value. It’s not the most rugged or waterproof option out there, but for dry to moderately damp rounds, it performs exceptionally well.
Golfers who walk the course, appreciate a stylish shoe they can wear anywhere, and don’t want to spend top dollar, will find the S2G to be an excellent investment. While it may not check every box for the hardcore, all-weather player, it more than delivers for the weekend golfer and style-conscious athlete.
