Running in Skechers: Performance Models, Technologies, and Choosing the Right Pair

Can you run in Skechers?

Yes, you absolutely can run in Skechers, but the suitability largely depends on the specific Skechers model you choose, your individual running mechanics, and your training goals. Skechers offers a diverse range of footwear, including a dedicated performance line designed for running.

Understanding Skechers Footwear

Skechers, a global footwear brand, is widely recognized for its comfortable and stylish lifestyle shoes. However, over the past decade, Skechers has significantly expanded its offerings into the performance athletic market with its Skechers Performance division. This line is specifically engineered for activities like running, walking, and golf, incorporating advanced technologies and designs to meet the demands of athletes.

Key Technologies in Skechers Performance Running Shoes:

• Hyper Burst®: An ultra-lightweight, resilient, and durable foam cushioning system, often compared to some of the most advanced foams from other leading running brands.
• Goga Mat® Technology: Provides responsive cushioning and energy return, enhancing comfort and stride efficiency.
• M-Strike® Technology: Promotes a midfoot strike, which many biomechanists consider more efficient and less impactful than a traditional heel strike. This design encourages a smoother transition through the gait cycle.
• Goodyear® Performance Outsoles: In some models, these outsoles offer enhanced traction, stability, and durability.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Running Shoes

Selecting the right running shoe, regardless of brand, is crucial for performance, comfort, and injury prevention. Consider these essential factors:

• Foot Type and Arch Support:
  • Neutral Pronation: Foot rolls inward slightly.
  • Overpronation: Foot rolls inward excessively. May require stability or motion control shoes.
  • Supination (Underpronation): Foot rolls outward. Often benefits from more cushioning and flexibility.
• Running Gait and Style: Are you a heel striker, midfoot striker, or forefoot striker? Different shoes can support different strike patterns.
• Mileage and Intensity: Casual walks and short runs have different demands than high-mileage training or competitive racing.
• Terrain: Road running, trail running, or track work each require specific outsole designs and levels of protection.
• Fit and Comfort: The shoe should feel comfortable from the moment you try it on, with adequate room in the toe box and a secure heel fit.
• Heel-to-Toe Drop (Offset): The difference in height between the heel and the forefoot. Lower drops (0-6mm) can encourage a midfoot strike, while higher drops (8-12mm+) are common in traditional trainers.
• Cushioning and Responsiveness: The amount of shock absorption and energy return the shoe provides.

Skechers Performance Line: A Closer Look

Skechers Performance has garnered significant attention and respect in the running community, even sponsoring elite athletes. Their GOrun series is specifically designed for running, offering a range of models tailored to different needs:

• Speed Models (e.g., GOrun Speed Elite, GOrun Razor+): Lightweight, highly responsive, often with carbon-fiber plates, designed for tempo runs, racing, and speed work.
• Training Models (e.g., GOrun Ride, GOrun MaxRoad): Offer more cushioning and durability for daily training, longer runs, and recovery miles.
• Trail Models (e.g., GOrun Trail): Feature aggressive outsoles and protective uppers for off-road running.

It's important to distinguish these performance models from the general GOwalk or casual lifestyle Skechers shoes, which are not designed to withstand the impact forces and biomechanical demands of running.

Pros and Cons of Running in Skechers

Like any brand, Skechers running shoes come with their own set of advantages and considerations.

Pros of Running in Skechers:

• Lightweight Design: Many Skechers running shoes are exceptionally light, contributing to a feeling of speed and reducing fatigue over distance.
• Responsive Cushioning: Technologies like Hyper Burst provide excellent energy return and shock absorption, making for a lively ride.
• Midfoot Strike Promotion: M-Strike technology can encourage a more natural and potentially more efficient running gait.
• Comfort: Skechers maintains its reputation for comfort even in its performance line, which is crucial for enjoyable runs.
• Value: Often, Skechers performance shoes offer competitive features at a more accessible price point compared to some other premium running brands.
• Innovation: The brand consistently introduces new technologies and designs, pushing the boundaries of running shoe performance.

Cons of Running in Skechers:

• Durability Concerns (Varies by Model): While improving, some models may not offer the same outsole durability as certain competitors, especially for high-mileage runners.
• Limited Stability Options: While they offer neutral and some moderately stable options, Skechers may have fewer robust stability shoes for severe overpronators compared to brands specializing in motion control.
• Brand Perception: Some serious runners, due to Skechers' lifestyle origins, may initially overlook their high-performance offerings.
• Fit Variability: As with any brand, fit can vary significantly between models, necessitating careful selection.

Who Might Benefit from Running in Skechers?

Skechers running shoes can be an excellent choice for a variety of runners:

• Neutral Runners: Individuals with a biomechanically efficient gait will often find the cushioning and responsiveness highly appealing.
• Midfoot Strikers: The M-Strike technology naturally aligns with this running style.
• Runners Seeking Lightweight Shoes: Ideal for those who prioritize a fast, unencumbered feel.
• Athletes Looking for Responsive Cushioning: Hyper Burst foam delivers a lively and protective ride.
• Everyday Trainers: Many models are well-suited for daily mileage and recovery runs.
• Budget-Conscious Runners: They offer strong performance value.
• Runners Transitioning to Lower Drop: Many Skechers models feature a moderate to low heel-to-toe drop.

How to Choose the Right Skechers Running Shoe

To ensure you select the best Skechers model for your needs, follow these steps:

• Identify Your Running Profile: Understand your foot type, pronation, typical mileage, preferred terrain, and running goals.
• Research Specific Models: Focus on the Skechers Performance GOrun series. Read reviews from reputable running publications and user experiences.
• Visit a Specialty Running Store: If possible, go to a store where staff can perform a gait analysis and recommend appropriate models. This is the best way to get personalized advice.
• Try Them On: Always try shoes on, preferably at the end of the day when your feet are slightly swollen. Wear your typical running socks.
• Test Run: Most specialty stores allow you to take a short jog on a treadmill or around the store to assess comfort and feel.
• Prioritize Comfort: The most important factor is how the shoe feels on your feet. Discomfort is a precursor to injury.

Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision

Yes, you can run in Skechers, and for many, it's an excellent choice. The Skechers Performance division has proven its capability to produce high-quality, technically advanced running shoes that compete with the best in the industry. However, the key lies in understanding that not all Skechers shoes are created equal for running. By focusing on their dedicated performance lines, considering your individual biomechanics, and prioritizing fit and comfort, you can confidently integrate Skechers into your running footwear rotation. Always make an informed decision based on your personal needs, not just brand loyalty or perception.