This golf shoe is for Jordan lovers… But does it perform?
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At a glance
- TG Rating
- Owner Rating
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Pros
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Iconic Jordan style
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Comfortable for casual golf and walking
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Improved grip over past Jordan golf shoes
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Great for summer and dry conditions
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Cons
- Low profile may not suit everyone
What we say...
The Jordan NU Retro 1 G blends iconic sneaker style with real on-course grip. It’s more fashion than function, but still a surprisingly solid golf shoe.
Let’s be honest, most Jordan golf shoes look incredible but haven’t exactly been known for their on-course performance. They’re usually more of a vibe than a viable option for serious play. But the Nike Jordan NU Retro 1 G might just change that.
No, it’s not going to win the best golf shoes of the year, but it doesn’t need to. This is a golf shoe for sneakerheads, casual players, and anyone who values style but still wants solid performance. I’ve got the University Blue colorway and I absolutely love how they look. They’ve quickly become my go-to for evening rounds, casual 9s, and even the odd trip to the range or clubhouse.
The big surprise? They actually perform pretty well. Nike has improved the grip without sacrificing that trainer feel. You get soft cushioning, solid support, and a profile that looks and feels low-key. If you’ve worn Jordan golf shoes before and been let down by comfort or traction, these are a step forward.
Pros
- Iconic Jordan style
- Super Comfortable
- Improved grip over past Jordan golf shoes
- Great for summer and dry conditions
Cons
- Low profile may not suit everyone
Comfort: 4/5
Comfort was a genuine highlight for me. The Jordan Retro 1 G feels much more supportive than previous Jordan golf models. There’s plush cushioning around the heel, firm ankle support, and a well-balanced fit that keeps you stable without squeezing the life out of your foot.
Even though the shoe is built low to the ground, it doesn’t feel flat. There’s enough underfoot padding to keep things comfortable through a casual round or extended range session. It’s not as soft as something like a Nike Free golf shoe, but it’s miles better than some of the older Jordan efforts that felt more like retro trainers with spikes glued on.
Breathability is decent, too. The upper leather feels premium but doesn’t suffocate your foot on warm days. Overall, it’s one of the more comfortable fashion-led golf shoes I’ve worn.

Performance: 4/5
Here’s where things usually fall apart for Jordan golf shoes, but not this time. The Retro 1 G isn’t just for show; it actually grips. The outsole has been upgraded with a proper golf-specific traction pattern that performs surprisingly well, especially on firm turf.
The spikes aren’t overly prominent, which I actually like. It gives you that trainer-like feel underfoot while still delivering reliable grip during your swing. You get the best of both worlds performance without the clunky, cleated feel. I’ve even worn them for driving and walking around off course, and they don’t feel awkward at all.
No, they’re not tour-ready shoes, and they’re probably not what you’d wear in wet, muddy conditions. But for dry courses, range sessions, or casual summer rounds, they get the job done without compromising on looks.

Durability: 4/5
These feel like they’ll last. The upper is made from quality leather that holds its shape well, and the overall construction is sturdy without being bulky. They don’t feel fragile or purely fashion-focused like some other crossover shoes.
The outsole also seems built to go the distance. The spike pattern doesn’t wear down quickly, and the grip remains consistent after multiple rounds. You probably wouldn’t use these as your everyday pair if you’re playing competitively, but as a stylish, go-to option a few times a week? They’ll absolutely hold up.

Style and design: 5/5
This is where the shoe absolutely dominates. The University Blue colorway I’ve been wearing is stunning. It’s clean, it’s bold, and it screams Jordan without being over-the-top. Sneakerheads will love it, and even golfers who aren’t into Jordans will appreciate the low-profile, lifestyle-friendly look.
They pair perfectly with shorts and don’t look out of place off the course. Honestly, I’d wear these casually even if I wasn’t playing. They don’t look like a typical golf shoe at all, and that’s a huge part of the appeal.
For people who love Jordans, this shoe is basically a no-brainer. It delivers the aesthetic and brand heritage with enough performance to actually use them on the course. That’s a rare combo.

Technology and features: 3/5
The Jordan Retro 1 G doesn’t try to pack in every bit of Nike tech, and that’s fine. The magic here is in restraint. Instead of chasing innovation, it focuses on delivering a balanced, functional golf shoe that retains its streetwear soul.
The cushioning around the heel and collar is plush and supportive. The outsole is low-profile, but the integrated traction pattern adds surprising grip. The leather upper is soft but holds its shape well, and while it’s not waterproof, it handles summer golf without any issues.
There’s no Zoom Air or BOA lacing here, but that’s not the point. It’s a clean, solidly built shoe for golfers who want a Jordan that finally feels ready for golf.

Final verdict: 20/25
The Nike Jordan NU Retro 1 G won’t top any “best golf shoe” lists on performance alone, but it doesn’t need to. This is a shoe for a specific kind of golfer: someone who loves Jordans, values style, and still wants a shoe that can get them through a round without foot fatigue or traction issues.
I went into this expecting a cool-looking trainer with limited grip. What I got was a stylish, surprisingly capable golf shoe that I’ve genuinely enjoyed wearing. If you’re a Jordan fan, sneakerhead, or like me, just want something different from the usual tour silhouettes, this is an easy win.