The shoes of the Masters

There’s nothing quite like stepping foot on the hallowed grounds of Augusta National. The pine-scented air, the perfect fairways, the perfectly manicured azaleas—it’s where every golf lover (and sports fan) dreams of walking one day. But as any seasoned patron knows, attending the Masters isn’t just about witnessing history, it’s also about what to wear and what shoes are appropriate for surviving the terrain.

Make no mistake, Augusta National may be the most beautiful place on earth—but it’s also a brutal walk. The course is far from flat, with steep inclines, hidden valleys, and enough undulation to make your smartwatch ask if you’ve started hiking. By the time you’ve walked the front nine, you’ve walked thousands of steps.

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So, what kind of footwear do patrons choose to show off at the Masters? Well … it’s complicated.

Let’s start with what not to wear. First off (and I can’t believe I’m even writing this), heels of any kind: platform, wedge, stiletto or otherwise are a disaster waiting to happen. Navigating the slippery pine straw or letting your heels sink into the grass of Augusta National with every step—a true recipe for disaster.

Heavy-duty boots (looking at you, Bean Boot Nation) might feel like a safe, durable option. And we appreciate the New England practicality. But after Hour 3 in 80-degree Georgia heat, those rubber soles turn into personal saunas. Hello, blister city.

JD Cuban

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And then there’s my personal favorite, the golf shoes. Yes, people wear actual golf shoes to watch a golf tournament. Soft spikes, saddle shoes, even old FootJoys that probably last saw action 10 years ago. Are they supportive? Sure. Unless you’ve got a tee time, you’re just walking around like you’re waiting for your 10:12 group.

JD Cuban

So what should you wear? Sneakers, sneakers, sneakers. Ideally, something broken in, with enough cushion to handle those undulating hills between Amen Corner and the concessions line. Breathable fabrics are key, especially on those humid afternoons.

JD Cuban

JD Cuban

And remember: check the weather. Muddy fairways after morning rain? Skip the white. Forecast calls for heat? That doesn’t mean you need to wear open-toed sandals.

JD Cuban

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The Masters is a sacred tradition. But no tradition is more entertaining—or confounding—than watching someone try to climb the hill up from the 16th in a pair of designer slip-ons. Augusta doesn’t care how fashionable your footwear is. It cares how much traction you have when it’s 87 degrees and you’re juggling a folding chair, binoculars and a peach ice cream sandwich.

JD Cuban

So dress wisely. Walk softly. And for the love of the game, leave the golf shoes to the guys inside the ropes.