Gfore Gallivanter Golf Shoes Review

Gfore Gallivanter Golf Shoes Review

By Paul Liberatore

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Published:

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You'll find the G/FORE Gallivanter golf shoes deliver premium comfort and style, thanks to their full-grain leather construction and triple-density foam cushioning. These shoes, while pricey at $225-245, offer excellent waterproof protection and versatile traction through their TourFlexPro Softspikes system with ten points of contact. The athletic fit runs slightly narrow, so consider sizing up, but the customizable footbed and breathable mesh interior guarantee all-day comfort on the course. While maintenance requires regular care, especially for lighter colors, the sophisticated design and durability make them a worthy investment. There's much more to uncover about these tour-worthy performers.

Key Features

The Gfore Gallivanter combines full-grain waterproof leather with premium craftsmanship, offering both classic style and modern performance features.

Triple-density foam cushioning and padded mesh interior provide exceptional comfort, though sizing runs slightly narrow.

TourFlexPro Softspikes and ten-point contact system deliver superior traction in all weather conditions while maintaining stability.

Priced between $175-$245 depending on model, positioning them as premium golf shoes with professional endorsements.

Built-in ventilation and anti-microbial footbed ensure breathability during play, while waterproof exterior keeps feet dry.

Gfore Gallivanter Golf Shoes


G/FORE Gallivanter golf shoes deliver unmatched style with premium performance for discerning golfers.


Design and Build Quality

The G/Fore Gallivanter strikes an impressive balance between classic and modern golf shoe design. You'll notice the full grain leather exterior, which isn't just for show - it's crafted to be 100% waterproof while maintaining that traditional, sophisticated look golfers love. What's really remarkable is how they've managed to keep these leather shoes surprisingly lightweight, breaking away from the usual heft you'd expect from classic golf footwear. Many PGA Tour professionals like Bubba Watson trust these shoes for their performance on the course.


The build quality is where these shoes really shine, featuring a pebble grain leather that's soft to the touch but doesn't sacrifice durability. You won't have to deal with that dreaded break-in period either - they're comfortable right out of the box. The multi-cleat system is built to last, giving you consistent traction round after round, while the bespoke outsole adds both style and functionality. The shoes include a removable footbed lining that can be washed to maintain freshness. What you're getting is a premium piece of footwear that's clearly had attention paid to every detail, from the stitching to the sole construction. Whether you're eyeing the classic colorways or one of the bold new options, you'll find the craftsmanship is consistently excellent across the entire lineup.

Comfort and Fit Performance

Regarding comfort, G/Fore's Gallivanter excels through its state-of-the-art blend of athletic fit and premium materials. You'll find that the fully padded mesh interior, combined with a triple-density foam cushion footbed, delivers immediate comfort right out of the box. The shoe's breathable design keeps your feet cool during those long summer rounds, while the waterproof pebble full-grain leather guarantees you'll stay dry in dewy morning conditions. The innovative Comfort System Technology ensures optimal airflow to keep feet feeling fresh throughout your game. The shoes have earned a five-star rating from customers who consistently praise their performance.


When it comes to fit, you'll want to take into account sizing up if you're between sizes, as these shoes run slightly narrow. However, once you've found your perfect fit, you'll experience exceptional support that lasts throughout your entire round.


Here's what makes the Gallivanter truly stand out in comfort:

  • Anti-microbial, washable footbed with massaging nubs for continuous comfort
  • Ultra-lightweight sole that reduces fatigue during walking
  • Bespoke cleat design that provides stability without compromising ground feel

The shoe's athletic fit strikes an impressive balance between snug support and all-day wearability, while the removable footbed allows you to customize your comfort level or accommodate custom orthotics if needed.

Traction and Stability Features

Gfore Gallivanter Golf Shoes Review

Building upon its exceptional comfort features, G/Fore's Gallivanter truly shines regarding traction and stability on the course. You'll immediately notice the TourFlexPro Softspikes, which feature a clever design with a center stinger and flexible outer legs, providing grip that'll keep you firmly planted through your swing. The ten-point contact system guarantees you're getting maximum traction in both wet and dry conditions, something you won't find in those spikeless alternatives that keep tempting you at the pro shop. With 82% of tour players choosing softspikes, it's clear why G/Fore made this their preferred traction system.


The shoe's stability features are particularly impressive, with an outsole that's specifically engineered to handle those tricky lies you seem to find yourself in (we've all been there). The integrated spike system works in harmony with the premium waterproof leather upper, creating what G/Fore calls a "caging effect" that stabilizes your foot throughout your swing motion. You'll especially appreciate how the removable spikes let you customize your grip based on course conditions, while the multi-directional traction patterns provide additional security. The best part? You won't need to break these shoes in - they're ready to hit the links right out of the box. For enhanced performance in wet conditions, the shoe incorporates asymmetrical lugs similar to leading golf shoe designs.

Gfore Gallivanter Golf Shoes


G/FORE Gallivanter golf shoes deliver unmatched style with premium performance for discerning golfers.


Comparison With Other Models

Market leader G/FORE offers multiple variations of their Gallivanter line, each targeting different player preferences and price points. You'll find the premium G/LOCK model, priced at $245, which features removable Tour FlexPro spikes and classic styling, while the more affordable Gallivanter2r, at $175, delivers a spikeless experience with improved out-of-the-box comfort. The original Gallivanter, sitting at $225, strikes a sweet spot between these options with its premium leather construction and eye-catching designs like camo knit and two-tone options. The snow/twilight colorway showcases a distinctive pebbled leather in white with a greyish-blue sole.


Here's how the models stack up against each other:

  • The G/LOCK offers the most versatility with its removable spike system and traditional pebbled leather feel
  • The Gallivanter2r provides the best value proposition, though you'll sacrifice some of the premium materials
  • The original Gallivanter delivers the perfect blend of style and performance for purists

When comparing fit profiles, you'll notice the G/LOCK and original Gallivanter share a narrower last, while the Gallivanter2r offers a slightly more relaxed fit. Each model includes thoughtful extras like spare laces and removable footbed linings, though you'll only find the massaging nub insole design in the original and G/LOCK versions.

Gfore Gallivanter Golf Shoes Review

Standout Characteristics and Drawbacks

The Gallivanter's distinctive features set it apart in a crowded golf shoe market. You'll immediately notice the unique blend of design elements from G/FORE's popular models, featuring a textured, cushioned insole that actually massages your feet while you walk. The 3D molded heel cup and TPU upper work together to keep your feet stable and dry, while the wider platform gives you confidence during your swing. The striking neon pink sole design adds an eye-catching element to the shoe's aesthetic appeal. Many golfers have been consistently satisfied buyers, leading them to purchase multiple pairs over time.


What's particularly impressive is that you won't need any break-in period, as these shoes offer immediate comfort right out of the box. The G/POD cleats provide reliable traction without tearing up the greens, though you might find them slightly less grippy than traditional spikes. While the shoes perform admirably in most conditions, you'll want to watch for debris getting caught in the cleats, and they'll need occasional cleaning, especially if you opt for lighter colorways. One thing to keep in mind: G/FORE shoes typically run a bit small, so you might want to size up for the perfect fit. Despite the higher price point, you're getting a premium shoe that balances style, comfort, and performance.

Is the G/FORE's Gallivanter golf shoe Worth It?

Absolutely, while the G/FORE's Gallivanter golf shoes are a great product, there are a few pros and cons that you need to be aware of:


Pros:

  • Premium Comfort : The shoes offer exceptional comfort with a triple-density foam cushion footbed and breathable mesh interior.

  • Style and Design : They combine classic style with modern performance features, making them visually appealing.

  • Waterproof Protection : The full-grain leather upper provides 100% waterproof protection.

Cons: 

  • Higher Price Point : The shoes are priced between $175-$245, making them a premium investment.

  • Maintenance Required : Regular care is needed, especially for lighter colors.

  • No Resoling Option : The shoes cannot be resoled once the sole wears out.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Do G/Fore Gallivanter Golf Shoes Typically Last With Regular Use?

You'll typically get 1-2 seasons of regular play from your G/FORE Gallivanters, assuming you're golfing 2-3 times per week. With their waterproof full-grain leather upper and durable spikeless design, they're built to withstand frequent use. While your mileage may vary based on your playing style and course conditions, proper maintenance, like regular cleaning and avoiding excessive moisture exposure, can help extend their lifespan considerably.

Can the G/Fore Gallivanter Golf Shoes Be Resoled When Worn Out?

You can't resole your G/Fore Gallivanter golf shoes, as they aren't constructed with traditional resoling methods like Goodyear welt or Blake stitch. The ultra-lightweight sole design, which prioritizes performance over repairability, is permanently bonded to the upper. While you can replace the laces and maintain the leather upper, once the sole wears out, you'll need to invest in a new pair.

Are G/Fore Gallivanter Golf Shoes Suitable for Playing in Extreme Heat?

Visualize yourself on a scorching fairway where the heat waves dance across the grass. You'll find that G/Fore Gallivanter golf shoes are well-equipped for extreme heat, thanks to their advanced Comfort System Technology and breathable mesh lining. The triple-density foam footbed, with its cooling ventilation design, keeps your feet remarkably comfortable, while the premium waterproof leather remains durable despite intense temperatures. You'll especially appreciate the anti-microbial properties that maintain freshness during those sweltering rounds.

Do G/Fore Gallivanter Golf Shoes Require a Break-In Period?

Yes, you'll definitely need to break in your G/Fore Gallivanters, as they're originally quite stiff, especially around the ankle area. While they may feel rigid at the outset, you'll notice a significant improvement in comfort after about three rounds of golf. The premium leather construction requires this adjustment period, but once broken in, they'll mold to your feet and provide the superior comfort they're known for.

Can Replacement Cleats Be Purchased Separately for the G/Fore Gallivanter?

Yes, you can easily purchase replacement cleats for your G/LOCK Gallivanter golf shoes. The shoes feature Softspikes Tour Flex Pro cleats. You'll love that these replaceable cleats come in multiple colorways for full color coordination with your shoes. With 94 of the last 100 major championships won by players wearing Softspike cleats, you're getting proven performance and reliability.

Conclusion

You'll find the G/FORE Gallivanter strikes a fascinating balance between luxury and functionality, offering premium comfort that you'd expect from dress shoes while providing the performance you need on the course. While they're pricier than standard golf footwear, and you'll want to be careful with sizing, their blend of style, stability, and durability makes them worth considering for golfers who won't compromise on either fashion or function.

Paul Liberatore

Paul Liberatore

As the Founder of Golfers Authority Paul Liberatore Esq. has spent the last 7+ years writing about the best golf equipment or instruction from the top golf instructors in the world. He has been a contributing writer for Sports Illustrated Golf and GolfWRX. After graduating with honors from Purdue University, he realized that he had a passion for the golf business and the law. When he's not practicing law, or creating golf content on YouTube, he can be found on his syndicated Behind the Golf Brand podcast talking with the most prolific leaders in the golf industry.