one golf shoe of a pair of golf shoes worn by a golfer is designed to aid the golfer to take a strong , braced stance with his right foot if he is a right - handed golfer or with his left foot if he is a left - handed golfer . this is accomplished by making the spikes on the outer edge or periphery of the shoe longer than the other spikes on the same shoe and on the other shoe . the spikes may also or alternatively be thicker for resistance to penetration into the ground or for added strength . the spikes may also be broader on the bottom or elsewhere to prevent too much penetration into the grass or dirt .