Review: adidas Men's Tech Response 2.0 Golf Shoe

If you're a golfer who values comfort, functionality, and affordability, you've probably come across the adidas Tech Response 2.0 Golf Shoe. Designed to balance performance with practicality, this shoe has gained popularity among beginner and intermediate golfers looking for a dependable option without spending a fortune.

This review delves deeply into Tech Response 2.0, highlighting what makes it stand out, areas for improvement, and whether it's the right shoe for your golf game.

1. First Impressions & Design

The Tech Response 2.0 looks clean and athletic right out of the box. It features a sporty silhouette more akin to a lightweight running shoe than a traditional golf shoe, making it appealing to players who value a modern look on the course.

The upper is made of synthetic leather and mesh fabric. This mix contributes to its lightweight build and excellent breathability. The design comes in several classic colorways, often blending black, white, and grey tones, keeping it stylish without being flashy.

This isn't a show-off shoe—it's designed to do the job and keep you comfortable doing it.

2. Comfort and Fit

Comfort is where the Tech Response 2.0 shines. It features a soft Cloudfoam insole and midsole, which gives a cushioned and responsive feel from tee to green. For golfers who walk most of their rounds, this is a huge plus. The shoe is lightweight, reducing foot fatigue and allowing you to focus more easily on your swing.

However, sizing can be somewhat challenging. Many wearers report that the shoe runs slightly small or narrow. If you're in between sizes or have wider feet, consider sizing up by a half size. While the shoe breaks in fairly quickly, it's essential to get the right fit from the start to avoid blisters or discomfort.

3. Traction and Stability

The outsole features a combination of six soft spikes (cleats) and additional lugs, providing traction across a variety of surfaces and conditions. The shoe offers a solid grip during full swings, even on uneven or slightly wet terrain.

While the traction system isn't as aggressive as those found on high-end tour models, it performs admirably for its price point. You won't be slipping around, and the low profile helps keep your stance grounded.

Stability is reinforced with a slightly wider base, which adds confidence when you're making a powerful drive or navigating sloped greens.

4. Breathability and Temperature Control

Thanks to the mesh fabric integrated into the upper, airflow is excellent. On hot summer days, your feet will stay noticeably cooler than they would in all-leather golf shoes. This breathability also helps prevent odor buildup, a common issue for golf shoes worn across many rounds.

The trade-off, of course, is that breathability comes at the expense of water resistance. More on that below.

5. Weather Protection

The Tech Response 2.0 isn't fully waterproof. The synthetic leather offers some resistance to light dew or very short exposure to wet conditions, but the mesh areas are vulnerable to soaking through. This means it's best used on fair weather days.

If you're frequently playing early morning rounds with damp grass or you find yourself caught in sudden showers, you'll likely want a waterproof shoe. For occasional golfers or those who primarily play in dry conditions, though, this shouldn't be a dealbreaker.

6. Durability

As a budget-friendly shoe, the Tech Response 2.0 is not constructed with premium leather. That said, its construction is solid for the price. The mesh and synthetic upper can begin to show signs of wear after extended use—especially if frequently exposed to moisture or heavy terrain—but many users get a solid season or two out of the shoe without issue.

The cleats (spikes) are replaceable, which adds to the lifespan, and the outsole materials are designed to resist flattening and wear.

7. Weight and Flexibility

This is one of the lightest golf shoes on the market in its class. The mesh-and-synthetic design makes it feel more like a cross-trainer than a stiff golf shoe. This flexibility is excellent for walking and comfort, but it does sacrifice some structural support. Golfers who prefer a very rigid, locked-in feel may find the Tech Response 2.0 too soft.

However, for casual rounds or players who prioritize comfort, the lighter build is often seen as a huge plus.

8. Style and Versatility

In terms of aesthetics, the shoe is subtle but stylish. It won't draw attention on the course, but that's not a bad thing. The clean lines, minimal branding, and neutral color options make it easy to pair with most golf outfits.

Due to its sneaker-like feel, some players even wear it for casual activities off the course, although it's best suited for golf due to the spikes.

9. Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Comfortable Cloudfoam insole – great for walking rounds

• Lightweight and breathable – ideal for hot days

• Affordable – exceptional value for money

• Decent grip and stability – works well on most golf course conditions

• Modern styling – looks clean and athletic

Cons:

• Not waterproof – limited protection in wet weather

• Runs narrow – may not be ideal for wide feet without sizing up

• Durability of mesh – upper may show wear faster than premium shoes

• Less structure – may lack the firmness some players prefer

10. Common Questions

Q: Are the spikes replaceable?
Yes. The Tech Response 2.0 uses standard soft spikes that can be removed and replaced as needed. This extends the shoe's life and maintains traction over time.

Q: Is this shoe suitable for walking 18 holes?
Absolutely. Its lightweight feel, breathable design, and cushioned insole make it one of the better walking shoes among budget golf footwear.

Q: Can you wear these off the course?
You could, but the soft spikes are meant for turf. Walking extensively on pavement or hard surfaces can quickly wear down the cleats and make them feel awkward underfoot.

Q: How long do they last?
With moderate use, many golfers report these shoes lasting one to two full golf seasons. Heavier or more frequent use, especially in wet conditions, may reduce lifespan.

Q: Are they suitable for beginners?
Definitely. They're a great entry-level shoe that offers real performance benefits without the premium price tag.

Final Verdict: Who Is It For?

The adidas Men's Tech Response 2.0 Golf Shoe is ideal for golfers who:

• Prioritize comfort and breathability

• Mostly play in dry conditions

• Want an affordable but functional shoe

• Walk the course and need a lightweight option

It's not the best pick for:

• Players looking for all-weather waterproofing

• Golfers with wide feet who need a roomier toe box

• Those seeking maximum foot support and stiffness

For the price, though, it's tough to beat. Whether you're just getting into golf or want a spare pair that's easy on the feet and wallet, the Tech Response 2.0 delivers reliable performance where it counts.

Final Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)

This shoe is a strong performer in the budget category. It offers impressive comfort, solid traction, and a sleek, modern look. It falls a bit short in wet-weather play and long-term durability, but those trade-offs are acceptable at this price point. All in all, it's one of the best values in golf footwear today.