Classic Nike Free technology has found its way to Nike golf on the Nike Free Golf NN. Of course we had to review it. Let’s find out how this beloved tech translates to golf.
Nike Free Golf NN
Price: $130 (some colorways at $78)
Sizing: True to size
Nike Free Golf NN Testing Process
The Nike Free Golf NN was the only time I’ve put over 20 miles on a golf shoe…and I intend to keep it that way (I’ve never been more tired).
I decided to do my testing while spending the week covering the Black Desert Championship in Saint George, Utah.
An article posted by Glenmuir claims the average golfer walks roughly five miles per round. I put five miles on the Nike Free Golf on day one, and somewhere close to fifteen more throughout the rest of the week.
I experienced all types of terrain and slopes, so I can confidently tell you how the Nike Free Golf felt and whether or not they’re worth your hard-earned cash.
At first glance, the Nike Free Golf NN might make you think you’re preparing for a quick run under the city lights. It brought me back to my junior high days with its simple design, reminiscent of the Nike Free Run models.
Enough reminiscing, though—let’s dive in.
Traction
The Nike Free Golf NN is spikeless and was built specifically to perform well in wet climates.
The traction is a mix of different rubberized shapes, with the heel having the most consistent ridge-like structure. As I mentioned earlier, I put twenty miles on the Nike Free Golf NN and never experienced slippage.
On top of the intense walking at Black Desert, I also made sure to get a quick round in while the weather was nice. The Nike Free Golf NN performed great on the course—even though I shot a below-average round.
I noticed the best traction on the fairway and felt no struggle with more powerful shots on the tee box.
I wouldn’t go as far as to say this is the best spikeless traction on the market, but I would recommend the Nike Free Golf NN to any casual golfer looking for a solid starter shoe.
Fit
I went all in by wearing the Nike Free Golf NN to the Black Desert Championship. It was pretty risky to show up to a tournament in a shoe I hadn’t worn yet.
How did it turn out for me? Just fine.
I wear an 11.5, and the 11.5 Nike Free Golf fit perfectly. No slippage, blisters, or need to re-tighten throughout the day. The Nike Free Golf NN felt great and ran true to size.
I’ve mentioned this in previous articles, but if you’re new here, I’ll say it again: My feet are somewhere between narrow and wide. I wouldn’t consider myself to have wide feet, but they’re definitely not narrow either.
That being said, the fit was nice and roomy for me. Honestly, they could’ve given me even less room around the toes, and it would have been fine.
My recommendation to our wide-footed readers is to look for the “wide” option on Nike’s website. When a direct wide option is available, go with your normal size but in wide.
Cushion
Nike Free Run shoes were created to give athletes a shoe that mimics the feeling of being barefoot as Nike struggled to keep up with the ultimately doomed barefoot running craze that was happening at the time.
Honestly, the midsole was great considering what I put it through during week one. My feet were tired, but I was impressed by how good they felt overall. It was a little bit stiffer than I would’ve liked, but this helped on the different types of terrain I encountered on the course.
This was the first time I’ve ever worn a shoe designed to mimic barefoot movement, and I took note of the slight increase in flexibility and natural feel.
The only downside was slight soreness on my heels. The Nike Free Golf NN felt a little tall at the heels, which led to mild soreness from the heel to the midfoot.
It’s a trivial issue and not a major concern, but it’s worth noting if you’re someone with sensitive heels.
Support
If you can put twenty miles on a golf shoe in seven days without major blisters or pain, it’s safe to say the support is solid.
Nike added a bulky plastic clip around the heel, extending up to the start of the midsole, which contributes to excellent support.
On top of that, Nike reinforced the upper to securely attach it to the outsole, adding extra stability.
This is a great shoe with multiple elements contributing to strong support.
Style
The Nike Free Golf NN is an adaptation of the Nike Free Run line, making it recognizable right off the bat.
The original Nike Free Run was released in the early 2000s, and the most recent Free Run model came out several years ago.
Some may find it odd that Nike decided to release a Nike Free Golf model in 2024, but as I mentioned, the Nike Free Golf NN is both recognizable and familiar. I remember a TED Talk by Derek Thompson in which he discusses the importance of creating something new while still maintaining a sense of familiarity.
That’s exactly what Nike did with the Nike Free Golf NN.
Price
The Nike Free Golf NN is currently on sale on Nike’s website. At $78 and $92 (at the time of publication) for some colorways, it ranks among the top five budget options for Nike golf shoes. When comparing price to performance, I feel the Nike Free Golf NN is priced appropriately, and you’ll definitely get your money’s worth.
It’s not the flashiest golf shoe of all time, but it gets the job done for the golfer focused on casual performance.
Considering its similarities to the Nike Free Run shoes, the price is in line. The biggest difference is the golf-specific traction, which justifies the slightly higher price compared to the regular Nike Free Run shoes. Nike gets an A+ on this one.
Nike Free Golf NN Summary
For anyone who plays golf casually, the Nike Free Golf NN will suit your game well. If you’re an aspiring tournament golfer, I’d opt for a spiked shoe.
The Nike Free Golf is the perfect shoe for new golfers, but it’s also a safe and comfortable choice for seasoned players. I’m currently a 14.4 handicap, and I felt the Nike Free Golf suited my game just fine.
For its performance, the Nike Free Golf would make a great addition to your golf closet, especially if you’re just getting into golf and looking for your first pair.
How the Author Golfs
Tyler Allred (19 handicap): Golfs 2-3 times a week spending the bulk of his time playing actual rounds. Mostly pushes himself to improve every part of his game, but also enjoys a casual round of golf every now and then.
Disclosure
While Nike did send a pair of the Free Golf NN to facilitate this review, the company had no involvement in this review, didn’t receive an advance look at it, and has not attempted to influence it.
