With an increasing number of players getting into the game, it’s no surprise that many are looking to improve their game by getting new equipment. While some golfers focus on the actual club and ball, others prefer to invest in golf shoes to help walk the course more comfortably and provide added support when striking the ball. Golf shoes are more than just comfortable shoes to wear on the course. They’re also your primary tool to ensure you get maximum distance out of every golf shot you take. With so many different shoe models on the market, finding the right pair can be tricky, and mistakes made when picking them can easily hurt your game. To help you avoid this problem, here are five mistakes to avoid when buying golf shoes, with helpful tips on what to look for in each case.

1. Buying from an unreliable seller

Golf is a very expensive sport, and it’s easy to get caught up in trying to save a little money. Unfortunately, people often find they have bought an unreliable product that doesn’t work properly or falls apart after just a few rounds of play. Avoiding these types of products can be tough because there are so many different brands claiming to sell great products. Make sure you research your seller before making any purchases, check out reviews online, and ask friends they trust with their equipment purchases.

2. Not doing proper research

The best golf shoes aren’t necessarily always easy to find. You can get your hands on a $99 pair of new shoes at almost any sporting goods store, but they won’t last most often and won’t perform well. If you plan on playing more than once or twice a year, it might be worth doing some research and investing in a high-quality pair that will fit your foot properly and provide cushioning for each step.

3. Sacrificing Quality for Price

For something you’ll wear every time you step on a course, sacrifice comfort for cheapness at your own risk. Low-quality ones may mean blisters, knee pain, and even stress fractures. A well-made pair of golf shoes will also last longer than cheaper ones; if you play regularly, it makes sense to invest in higher quality footwear that will last for years rather than skimping on a pair that might need replacing after just one season.

4. Not Choosing the Right Shoe Based on Your Feet

Whether you have a narrow, normal, or wide foot, it’s important to choose the right golf shoes. First, determine your foot type based on the width of your forefoot, and then find the best golf shoe for that particular foot type. The right pair will provide comfort and stability while protecting your feet during play.

5. Not Knowing If You Need Custom or Over-The-Counter Fitting

Getting fitted for a pair of over-the-counter golf shoes is a simple process that you can do in just a few minutes. If you’re looking for custom fitting, however, there are some things you should know before your appointment. First and foremost, custom-fitting is great if your foot or ankle is either abnormally large or small; it’s also ideal if you have especially wide or flat feet. Over-the-counter fits are fantastic if neither of these situations applies to you.