Product Description
Play with confidence from tee to green in shoes that feel like running shoes—but grip like golf cleats. The New Balance Fresh Foam X Defender fuses the brand’s performance cushioning with course-worthy traction, making it ideal for golfers who want comfort, flexibility, and dependable cleated grip.
Key Technical Features
100% Welded Waterproof FantomFit Upper — The upper is built from ultralight welded material that provides support, structure, and waterproof protection (backed by a 2-year waterproof warranty in many markets).
Fresh Foam X Midsole Cushioning — New Balance’s premium foam offers a soft, responsive, lightweight underfoot feel, smoothing out walking fatigue while maintaining responsiveness.
Exoskeleton Spiked TPU Outsole + FastTwist 3.0 Cleats — A structured TPU exoskeleton design that flexes with your foot’s motion, combined with removable FastTwist/Pulsar cleats for strong grip in wet or firm turf.
Molded CUSH+ Insole — Adds supplemental comfort, helping reduce pressure on footrest points over an 18-hole walk.
Welded, Form-Fitting Tongue — Helps to cradle the foot while reducing movement or slipping inside the shoe.
Lightweight Build — Weighs about 11.1 oz (per shoe in a standard men’s size), making it competitive in the performance/golf footwear space.
Performance Profile & Buyer Fit
Skill & Identity
This shoe targets golfers who value walking comfort, soft feel, and modern styling—but still need cleated traction. It suits mid- to low-handicap players, walking golfers, and those upgrading from spikeless models seeking better turf grip.
Desire & Benefit
Delivers a “running-shoe comfort” walking experience while ensuring solid bite through cleats. You don’t sacrifice cushioning for traction. The waterproof upper keeps feet dry, letting you focus on your swing.
Situational / Problem Solved
For those who feel spiked shoes are too stiff or heavy, the Defender softens steps.
When you walk entire rounds, the Fresh Foam X helps reduce vibration fatigue in joints and muscles.
On soggy or damp courses, the cleats provide better hold compared to many spikeless shoes.
Feel Preference
Expect a softer, more responsive underfoot feel (rather than rigid). The cushioning is prominent—but supported by structural outsole elements to maintain stability.
Trust & Quality
New Balance brings decades of footwear R&D to its golf line. The Fresh Foam X Defender is part of its push to combine athletic comfort and golf traction. Many independent reviews rate its comfort and technology positively.
