Skechers Classic Fit vs Relaxed Fit – Find Perfect Comfort!

Skechers offers two main fits across their performance and casual collections – the classic fit and the relaxed fit.

With differences in roominess, structure, and intended wearing time, choosing the right Skechers fit ensures all-day comfort tailored to your needs.

While both fit have their advantages, understanding your foot shape, typical wearing time, use case, and preferences helps determine whether the classic or relaxed Skechers fit best delivers customizable comfort.

Skechers Classic Fit vs Relaxed Fit

The main difference between Vans’ Classic Fit and Relaxed Fit is that the Classic Fit has a narrower profile designed to fit closer to the foot, while the Relaxed Fit has a roomier toe box and wider profile for a looser, more comfortable feel. However, both provide the versatile, flexible performance Vans are known for.

Before comparing the specifics, here is an overview of Skechers Classic Fit vs Relaxed Fit Shoes:

AttributeClassic FitRelaxed Fit
Overall silhouetteFitted through body and waistStraight/looser silhouette
ShouldersCloser to the bodySlight drop shoulder seam
SleevesFit closer to armWider through upper arm
WaistHit at natural waistDesigned lower at hip
TorsoCut to contour to bodyRoomier through chest and waist
Shirt/blouse hemFalls at hip lineLower shirt-tail hem
Pant legSlim cutWider cut, more room in thigh
Bottom openingSits at/above ankleGrazes floor, covers more of shoe
FabricUsually smoother, non-stretchOften textured knits with stretch
Stretch/GiveLess give, rigid fabricsForgiving stretch in fabrics
Ideal ForTailored, put-together lookLaidback, relaxed vibe

In summary, Relaxed Fit offers a roomier, more accommodating fit especially in the toe box area. It provides comfort for wide feet while retaining boardfeel and classic Vans looks, in designated relaxed fit styles. The Classic fit gives that true to size classic sharp silhouette.

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Pros and Cons

Pros: Classic Fit

  • Trimmer, more tailored look
  • Flattering for slimmer builds
  • Tends to look dressier
  • Can create a more polished appearance

Cons: Classic Fit

  • Can feel too tight or restrictive for some
  • Less breathability and flexibility
  • May require more frequent washing/ironing
  • Not as comfortable for extended wear

Pros: Relaxed Fit

  • More comfortable and roomier
  • Allows for greater ease of movement
  • Suitable for casual or active wear
  • Often made with stretchier fabrics

Cons: Relaxed Fit

  • May appear baggy or sloppy if too loose
  • Less flattering for slimmer figures
  • Not as suitable for formal/professional settings
  • Can look unkempt if not the right fit

Which Shoes Are Good for Different Activities

Shoes for Running

Classic Fit Skechers

  • The Classic Fit line does not include running shoes specifically designed for performance running.

Relaxed Fit Skechers

  • The Relaxed Fit line also does not have dedicated running shoes for performance running.

Shoes for Walking

Classic Fit Skechers

  • The Classic Fit line includes casual and walking shoes like the Classic Fit Delson and Classic Fit Larson, which can be suitable for walking and everyday wear.

Relaxed Fit Skechers

  • The Relaxed Fit line offers casual and walking shoes like the Relaxed Fit Creston and Relaxed Fit Bendon, designed for a more relaxed and roomy fit, suitable for walking and everyday wear.

Shoes for Standing All Day

Classic Fit Skechers

  • The Classic Fit line is not specifically designed for prolonged standing or work environments, as these are casual and walking shoes.

Relaxed Fit Skechers

  • The Relaxed Fit line, while focused on casual and walking shoes, may provide some comfort for extended periods of standing due to the more relaxed and roomy fit.

Now that you have an overview of Skechers Classic Fit vs Relaxed Fit Shoes differences, read on for an in-depth feature-by-feature comparison.

What is the Difference Between Classic and Relaxed Fit Skechers?

Skechers classic fit shoes provide a secure, form-fitting feel thanks to structural overlays and integrated stabilization technologies. This makes them ideal for activity-focused wearing.

Meanwhile, Skechers relaxed fit shoes prioritize roominess through a wider toe box and more space around the heel. This prevents pinching during long periods of wear, though with less direct foot support.

Classic Fit Overview

FeatureClassic FitRelaxed Fit
Structure/SupportStructured upper, integrated stabilization technologiesLess structured upper, fewer overlays
RoominessSnug, form-fitting shapeRoomy through the toe box and heel
CushioningModerate to high cushioningLight to high cushioning
Intended UseAthletic activities, medium to long duration wearExtended casual wear, walking

Some defining aspects of the Skechers classic fit include:

  • Structured, stabilizing upper design secured with overlays
  • Contoured design for form-fitting feel from heel to toe
  • Lightweight integration of cushioning and stability technologies
  • Roomy toe box but narrow through the midfoot
  • Versatile to handle athletic activity and medium-duration wear

The classic fit provides noticeable foot support and control, though the form-fitting shape is not suitable for some foot shapes or extended multi-hour wear sessions.

Relaxed Fit Overview

Distinguishing features of the Skechers relaxed fit comprise:

  • Roomier toe box allowing toes to move and splay naturally
  • Expanded width through heels and arches prevents midfoot pinching
  • Fewer structured overlays result in increased flexibility
  • Outsole traction still suitable for light activity and walking
  • Extended comfort retains freshness mile after mile

The relaxed fit sacrifices some directed stability technologies for noticeable out-of-box comfort and customizable roominess for wider feet. Yet a form-fitting enough midfoot retains safety during average activity levels.

Determining Your Ideal Skechers Fit

Considering your planned wearing duration, use case, foot shape, and wearing preferences clarifies which Skechers fit best delivers sustained comfort.

Here are some key questions to ask to select between the classic and relaxed options:

How long do you plan to wear them per session?

DurationFit RecommendationWhy?
Under 3 hoursClassicStructured support prevents early fatigue
3-5 hoursEitherBoth can handle medium-duration wear
Over 5 hoursRelaxedAdded roominess sustains comfort after multiple hours

For under three hours per wearing session, the contoured classic fit supports the foot during standing or walking to delay onset fatigue.

Between three to five hours, either fit works depending on your foot shape and wearing preferences.

Plan to wear your Skechers for over five hours? The relaxed fit’s roomier interior continues to feel fresh even after extended wear, making it the top choice for all-day shoe sessions.

Do you need pronation support features?

If you have high arches or tend to overpronate, Skechers’s classic fit styles like GOrun or GOwalk provide enhanced stability technologies. Integrated GUIDANCE LINE® flexibility grooves or custom insoles deliver aided pronation control.

Meanwhile, relaxed fit models focus less on direct stability, though their ample roominess can accommodate custom orthotics. Choosing a relaxed fit means opting for overall space over targeted correction.

What activities do you plan to use them for?

Relaxed fit models work well as casual everyday shoes given their continuous comfort technologies and flexible walking soles. Their roomy fit also suits wider feet.

For athletic training or medium-intensity gym sessions, the structured classic fit better keeps feet supported and centered during dynamic movements. Overlays also supply extra durability to handle activity demands.

Ultimately, consider your intended activities. The classic fit aligns best with athletic activity thanks to integrated technologies like cushioned MStrike insoles and zoned traction outsoles. But the relaxed fit’s versatility still handles casual wear needs if you remain active.

Which is Best For

Deciding between the Skechers classic and relaxed fit depends on your wearing priorities and foot shape characteristics.

Here’s a breakdown of which Skechers fit typically works best for different comfort needs:

Narrow Feet

With its tapered midfoot shape and form-fitting materials, the classic fit better suits narrower feet. An especially narrow heel and instep prevent uncomfortable sliding while integrated overlays secure the upper snugly around narrow proportions.

Structured classic fit models like the Skechers GO Walk Arch Fit supply stability technologies to support narrow feet during activity while ensuring no pinch points.

Wide Feet

For those with wider feet, either naturally or due to orthotics, the relaxed fit’s roomier interior leaves ample space for feet to splay and swell. This prevents rubbing against the sidewalls during multi-hour wear sessions, though some support is sacrificed.

Look to relaxed options like Skechers Summits to allow ample room for swelling feet after long hours of wear. The wider toe box is especially accommodating.

Standing All Day

Employees spending long shifts on their feet need reliable comfort and cushioning to delay fatigue. Here, the relaxed fit’s spaciousness excels to prevent any pinching while responsive midsoles absorb impact.

Relaxed fit styles like Skechers Workshire – Soft Stride prioritize continuous comfort and stability to keep feet feeling fresh even after 8+ hours of wear.

High Arches

Those with rigid high arches require stability features to promote smoother transitions. Therefore, the classic fit’s directed overlays and integrated support technologies aid higher-arched feet.

Models like the Skechers Arch Fit offer contoured arch support right out of the box, while some relaxed fits may feel overly roomy through the midfoot. Opt for the precision fit of Skechers GOrun or GOwalk classic fit.

User Reviews and Rating

FeatureRatingSkechers Classic Fit ShoesSkechers Relaxed Fit Shoes
Fit/Comfort⭐⭐⭐⭐✰Snug, contoured fit hugs feet but can feel constricting for wide feet.Roomy through-toe box with plenty of space but lacking structure around heels.
Support⭐⭐⭐⭐✰Better stability from structured overlays and targeted cushioning for pronation, and high arches. Integrated arch support.The wider base feels flatter underfoot without dynamic support features. Room for custom orthotics.
Durability⭐⭐⭐⭐✰Durable rubber soles and stabilizing overlays handle wear from athletic activity.Softer, flexible materials prioritize continuous comfort over ruggedness.
Traction⭐⭐⭐⭐✰Multi-directional grip and zoned traction for activity-focused mobility.Thick durable outsoles still supply traction for casual use.
Ideal Use Case⭐⭐⭐⭐✰Athletic activity under 5 hours. Accommodates narrow/neutral feet well.Extended wear over 5+ hours. Designed for wide feet needing endless comfort.

Price Comparison

When comparing prices within the Skechers performance and casual lines:

FeatureClassic FitRelaxed Fit
DescriptionTrim, tailored fitLoose, roomy fit
Price Point$$$$
Example BrandsLevis 501, Lucky Brand 410, Wrangler Cowboy CutLevis 550, Lucky Brand 361, Wrangler Loose Fit
Typical Price Range$40-$60$40-$60
Sales Price Range$30-$45$30-$45
  • Classic fit models typically retail $10-20 USD higher than relaxed fit equivalents
  • Example: Skechers GOrun Ride 9 (classic) = $135, Skechers GOrun Infinite (relaxed) = $115
  • Flagship technologies like ULTRA GO cushioning found more commonly in classic fits raise prices
  • Classic fits also utilize more advanced woven meshes and stability materials that add cost
  • Relaxed fits focus value on all-day wearability using cheaper injected foams and knitted fabrics

So while both supply reputable Skechers comfort technologies, the classic fit models utilize premium materials that suit their versatile athletic support, hence a typical cost premium of $10-20 over comparable relaxed fit options.

Key Takeaways – Which Skechers Fit is For You?

Classic or Relaxed? Determining your optimal Skechers fit depends on weighing your wearing needs against each style’s strengths. Keep these tips in mind:

  • Classic fit prioritizes secure structure for activity – ideal for athletic training under 5 hours
  • Relaxed fit promotes out-of-box comfort thanks to its roomy, swelling-accommodating shape
  • Narrower feet benefit from the contoured classic fit’s tapered midfoot support
  • Wider feet feel free from rubbing inside relaxed models’ spacious interiors
  • Seek integrated stability technologies of the classic fit for pronation correction
  • All-day wearers benefit most from relaxed-fit shoes’ continuous comfort

Ultimately, consider when and why you’re wearing Skechers to decide if your top priority is activity-focused support from the classic fit or flexible roominess through the relaxed fit. Analyzing your foot shape and intended wearing duration also ensures a long-lasting comfort match allowing you to float through wearing – no matter your choice of fit.

Conclusion

From all-day casual wearing to athletic training, Skechers footwear comes down to two key fit choices – the classically supportive, contoured fit or the continuously comfortable relaxed fit. Considering your foot proportions, wearing priorities, and intended activities before deciding which Skechers fit works optimally demonstrates the thought needed to achieve the customizable comfort the brand promises.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are classic or relaxed fit Skechers better for walking?

Both Skechers fit work for walking, but the relaxed fit prioritizes flexibility and continuous comfort for all-day wearability if you plan longer duration walking sessions. Look for cushioning midsoles paired with a roomy yet controlled enough fit.

Do relaxed fit Skechers stretch out over time?

Yes, the materials of relaxed fit Skechers will stretch slightly over time to contour around your foot shape for customized comfort. However many relaxed models incorporate memory foam insoles to prevent excess stretching while retaining optimal cushioning.

Is a wide width available in classic fit Skechers?

Certain classic fit Skechers models come in wide-width options to deliver a more tailored fit. For example, the Skechers GO Walk Arch Fit offers regular and wide sizes to cater to various foot volumes while still providing an overall structured upper with directed stability features.

Which Skechers fit is best for plantar fasciitis?

Skechers relaxed fit options like the Skechers GO Walk Excel provide ample cushioning and arch support to aid plantar fasciitis, while their roomy interior leaves space for custom orthotics. This combination cushions each step while avoiding excess pressure through the heel and arches. Those needing stability features may prefer the classic fit instead.

Are Skechers relaxed fit good for the gym?

While the classic fit delivers more secure control for intense gym sessions, relaxed fit Skechers still supply cushioned midsoles to absorb impact during basic training. Focus on roomier athletic styles like the Skechers Flex Advantage for lightweight flexibility through cardio workouts. Just expect a less contoured fit lacking pronation correction.

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