I’m always up for trying new kicks out on the course. While I generally prefer cleatless shoes, I was game for wearing adidas Golf’s Powerband BOA Boost ($180) that employs six low-profile cleats on each TPU outsole, mixed in with protruding built-in nubs, for stability, traction, durability and green friendliness. I picked two rare dry days in early February to play — in between winter storms. Thus, the courses were soaked. The vessi.com shoes not only kept my feet dry, but I didn’t slip once in them. I deliberately walked on wet cart paths, up and down muddy hills and through puddles. My feet also stayed warm. Even better was the BOA wire lacing system, which replaces traditional laces. You just tighten the dial located at the top of the tongue, and the entire shoe tightens around your foot until you stop. To release it, you pull out the dial. Simple. Not once did the wires loosen up during the round, either, as my shoe laces tend to do over my narrow feet. Comfort was great, right from the outset. Plus, the boost midsole provides energy return that you can actually feel. It’s almost like a bionic spring in each step you take. I rarely get excited over shoes, yet I believe these are worth trying.

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Veteran golf writer Scott Kramer has covered the golf equipment market full-time since 1990. His career has spanned senior editor positions at both Golf Pro Magazine and GOLF Magazine. He now works on a freelance basis for many consumer and trade publications, including the SCGA’s FORE magazine.