The Skechers Go Walk series has become a favorite for comfort seekers who want supportive athletic shoes for walking and casual daily wear.
With the launch of the Go Walk 5, fans of the line wondered how it stacks up against its popular predecessor, the Go Walk 4.
Both styles provide exceptional cushioning and responsiveness to keep you comfortable when you’re on your feet.
But with updated features in the new version, is the Go Walk 5 a worthwhile upgrade? Or does the tried-and-true Go Walk 4 still reign supreme in delivering customizable comfort?
This comparative guide examines the critical differences in fit, feel and performance between the Skechers Go Walk 4 vs 5 shoes.
Read on to determine which model wins out in rewarding your feet with pure walking comfort!
Skechers Go Walk 4 vs 5
The main difference between the Skechers Go Walk 4 and Skechers Go Walk 5 is that the Go Walk 5 has a more advanced and lightweight midsole design. The Go Walk 5 uses a high-rebound cushioning called Flight Gen for increased responsiveness and shock absorption. It also has a slip-on design with no shoelaces compared to the lace-up design of the Go Walk 4.
Both walking shoes promote comfort and natural foot movement, but the Go Walk 5 is engineered to be lighter weight while providing optimal cushioning.
Before comparing the specifics, here is an overview of Skechers Go Walk 4 vs 5 Shoes:
| Feature | Skechers Go Walk 4 | Skechers Go Walk 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | Lightweight mesh and fabric upper | Lightweight mesh and synthetic upper |
| Cushioning | Goga Max insole for high-rebound cushioning | Goga Max insole for high-rebound cushioning |
| Outsole | Flexible rubber traction sole | Durable rubber traction sole |
| Fit | Roomy toe box, lace up closure | Roomy toe box, adjustable lace-up closure |
| Technology | V-Stride technology for stability | Hyper Pillar technology for stability |
| Durability | Durable rubber sole | Reinforced rubber sole for improved durability |
| Traction | Multi-directional traction pattern | Enhanced multi-directional traction over Go Walk 4 |
| Arch Support | Designed with arch contouring | Similar contoured arch support as Go Walk 4 |
| Ideal Use | Walking, travel, fitness | Walking, travel, fitness |
| Sizing | Runs small, order 1/2 size up | True to size |
| Colors | Fewer color options | Multiple color options |
| Price | $$ | $$ |
In summary, the Skechers Go Walk 5 builds on the success of the 4 with improved traction and durability while keeping the lightweight feel and responsive cushioning.
The contoured arch support and roomy toe box make both models ideal for extended walks and fitness use.
The Go Walk 5 edges out over the 4 with its reinforced outsole and enhanced traction as a top walking shoe choice.
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Pros and Cons
Pros: Skechers Go Walk 4
- Lightweight and flexible design
- Responsive 5GEN cushioning
- Breathable mesh upper
- Affordable price point
Cons: Skechers Go Walk 4
- May not provide as much cushioning as the Go Walk 5
- Treads may wear down faster than the updated model
- Limited color/style options compared to the Go Walk 5
Pros: Skechers Go Walk 5
- Refined and updated 5GEN cushioning system
- Improved traction and stability features
- Durable and long-lasting construction
- Versatile for daily wear and light activities
Cons: Skechers Go Walk 5
- Slightly heavier and less flexible than the Go Walk 4
- May feel a bit more “structured” compared to the softer 4
- Typically costs a bit more than the previous generation
Which Shoes Are Good for Different Activities
Shoes for Running
- Skechers Go Walk 4 is not recommended for running. It is designed as a walking and everyday shoe, without the stability and shock absorption features needed for high-impact activities like running.
- Skechers Go Walk 5 is also not suitable for running. While it has some improvements over the Go Walk 4, it is still primarily a walking shoe and lacks the specific performance characteristics required for serious running.
Shoes for Walking
- Skechers Go Walk 4 is an excellent walking shoe. It features Skechers’ comfortable 5GEN midsole cushioning and a flexible, responsive sole that promotes a natural stride.
- Skechers Go Walk 5 is an even better walking shoe. It builds upon the success of the Go Walk 4 with enhanced cushioning, a more breathable upper, and improved traction on the sole. The walking comfort and support are improved.
Shoes for Standing All Day
- Skechers Go Walk 4 is a great option for all-day standing and light work activities. The cushioned insole and flexible sole help reduce foot fatigue when standing for extended periods.
- Skechers Go Walk 5 is an even better choice for standing all day. The midsole cushioning has been further improved, providing superior comfort and support for the feet when standing for long hours.
Now that you have an overview of Skechers Go Walk 4 vs 5 differences, read on for an in-depth feature-by-feature comparison.
Skechers Go Walk 4 Comparison
When Skechers launched the Go Walk 4 walking shoe in 2018, it quickly became a fan favorite for its generous cushioning and secure comfort.
The 5th generation Go Walk 5 released in 2020 retains what fans loved while fine-tuning key elements like responsiveness, breathability, and stability.
Cushioning Technology
The Go Walk 4 implements Skechers’ 5GEN super soft and responsive foam midsole to absorb shock and propel the walker forward with a lively bounce.
This pairs with a high rebound Goga Mat insole integrating proprietary materials to both cushion landings and spring back with efficiency.
Together these offer all-day comfort thanks to ample shock absorption. A fixed cushioned heel pad provides additional stability at the rear.
In the Go Walk 5, Skechers upgrades to its advanced Hyper Pillar midsole incorporating thousands of supportive pillars throughout the full-length platform for dynamic flexibility and feel.
An improved Air Cooled Goga Mat insole regulates temperature and prevents overheating inside the shoe while still providing responsive bounce.
Reviewers praised the Go Walk 5’s ultra springy and cool sensation underfoot as a true comfort upgrade from an already well-loved predecessor.
Material and Design
Constructing the Go Walk 4 using a two-part Resalyte midsole achieves just the right firmness for impact absorption while enabling natural movement.
The durable rubber traction pillars of the grippy Go Walk outsole reinforce key high-wear areas for miles of dependability across various walking surfaces.
A roomy rounded-toe box supplies ample interior room.
Skechers Go Walk 5 Comparison
Skechers removed an ounce of weight per shoe in the Go Walk 5 by utilizing more advanced materials like Resalyte rubber in the redesigned outsole.
This full-ground contact sole incorporates deeper flex grooves between traction pillars for smoother transitions.
The upper adapts an aligned toe profile improving the secure feel lacking in earlier generous editions according to some wearers.
Support and Stability
A contoured comfort footbed supplies essential arch support in the Go Walk 4 while integrated stability frames on both sides keep feet properly aligned.
The firm heel counter and padded opening prevent sliding for a personalized fit that moves naturally with the motion of walking without sloppiness.
User Reviews and Feedback
Taking feedback on potential heel instability to heart, Skechers implemented a more supportive heel design in the Go Walk 5.
This includes not only improved interior padding but also exterior overlays wrapping the heel for a securely anchored feel backed up by a wide base for balance across the sole.
Shoe Type Comparison
As newer and older models in the same Go Walk lifestyle athletic shoe line, the Go Walk 4 and Go Walk 5 share fundamental design objectives:
| Category | Skechers Go Walk 4 | Skechers Go Walk 5 |
| Use Cases | Walking, Travel, Fitness | Walking, Travel, Working Out |
| Versatility | Casual/Athletic Hybrid | Athletic/Casual Hybrid |
| Ideal Surfaces | Sidewalks, Trails, Roads | Roads, Gym Floors, Trails |
Both Gow Walk models work well for low-impact walking, travel that involves lots of steps, and casual everyday activities.
The Gow Walk 4 perhaps leans more casual while the 5 has a slightly more athletic edge.
But essentially, they target the same hybrid of fitness walking and lifestyle wear.
Cushioning System Comparison
Let’s drill into the all-important underfoot cushioning technologies that provide the foundation of daylong comfort.
| Cushioning | Skechers Go Walk 4 | Skechers Go Walk 5 |
| Midsole | 5GEN cushioning | Hyper Pillar midsole |
| Insole | Goga Mat insole | Air Cooled Goga Mat insole |
| Responsiveness | Highly responsive | Ultra Responsive |
| Heel Config | Fixed cushion heel pad | Cushioned heel pillar |
While earlier Go Walk editions featured a Resalyte or standard foam midsole, the 4th generation upgraded to the next level 5GEN platform for lively flexibility and feel.
The newest edition steps up cushioning with its Hyper Pillar system integrating responsive pillars into the full-length midsole.
Testers found the Go Walk 5 to feel even springier and bouncier during the walking motion.
Both editions include a Goga Mat insole infused with proprietary materials to absorb shock and return energy with every step. But the Go Walk 5 implements an improved air-cooled design to regulate temperature and prevent overheating.
And its newly engineered heel pillar aims to provide smoother impact disbursement.
Traction Comparison
Durability in key high-wear areas also affects how consistently supportive these walking shoes will feel underfoot over their lifespan.
| Traction | Skechers Go Walk 4 | Skechers Go Walk 5 |
| Outsole Material | Durable rubber | Resalyte rubber |
| Outsole Design | Pillars for flexibility | Segmented for flexibility |
| High-Wear Areas | Reinforced rubber Go Pillars | Recommended usage: 300-500 miles |
The Skechers Go platform is designed to meet the demand of walking thanks to a full ground contact design fusing reinforced traction pads in key zones.
Both versions incorporate their signature flexible “Go Pillar” outsole with strategically placed rubber grips.
However, the newer model uses more advanced Resalyte compound rubber for improved durability and incorporates deeper flex grooves between traction pillars.
Overall, the Go Walk 5 outsole surpasses its predecessor in bounce, flexibility, and tested mileage lifespan.
Fit Comparison
Delivering individualized comfort relies not just on cushioning but dialed-in fit adapting to each unique foot.
| Fit Comfort | Skechers Go Walk 4 | Skechers Go Walk 5 |
| Toe Box Shape | Rounded roomy toe box | Aligned toe box |
| Heel Design | Tapered heel | Straight cup heel |
| Sizing | Runs large | Runs small |
| Width | Medium, wide | Medium, wide, extra wide |
The roomier rounded toe box on the Go Walk 4 provides ample interior space but some testers noticed a sloppy feel.
The updated edition implements a more aligned toe shape for a secure grip augmented with an external heel counter for improved stability.
The newer model also adds an extra wide option to fit more foot shapes.
In terms of sizing, the rule of thumb is to order 1⁄2 size up for Go Walk 4 but order your regular size or 1⁄2 larger for Go Walk 5.
Trying both models in-store allows selecting that “just right” Goldilocks fit.
Weight Comparison
Ounces make a major difference when one foot lifts from the other thousands of times over miles of walking.
Heft taxes feet, so cutting weight plays into cushioning comfort.
| Weight | Skechers Go Walk 4 | Skechers Go Walk 5 |
| Weight (women’s size 7) | 5.7oz | 5.1oz |
| Weight (men’s size 9) | 8.2oz | 7.2oz |
Leveraging newer materials removes about an ounce of weight per shoe with the Go Walk 5, keeping feet fresher for longer.
That difference adds up to greater endurance and less fatigue throughout a lengthy trek.
Style Comparison
Even comfort seekers appreciate options! When used as an everyday lifestyle shoe, aesthetic versatility allows matching more outfits.
| Style | Skechers Go Walk 4 | Skechers Go Walk 5 |
| Prints | Solid neutrals/basics | Basics plus limited prints |
| Colors | 10+ core colorways | 10+ colors |
| Accents | Color pops on soles/logos | Colorblock/patterned logos |
| Styling | Classic walking shoe | Contemporary athleisure |
The Go Walk 5 newly incorporates graphic prints and patterns for seasonal flare in colors like camo, floral, and graffiti iterations while keeping classic black, white, and grey neutrals.
Updated contour lines, sculpted outsoles, and color-blocked logos nod to a sleeker sport-inspired aesthetic. But comfort-focused walkers will appreciate both model’s functionality.
User Reviews and Rating
| Skechers Go Walk 4 | Skechers Go Walk 5 | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| “Extremely comfortable right out of the box! Great arch support and cushioning.” | “Love these shoes! The cushioning is amazing, and they are so lightweight.” | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| “Durable and well-made. I’ve had my Go Walk 4s for over a year, and they’re still going strong.” | “The Go Walk 5s are a game-changer. They provide excellent stability and support for my plantar fasciitis.” | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| “Highly recommend for travel or any activity involving a lot of walking. They’re lightweight and don’t require breaking in.” | “The new knit design is breathable and stylish. I get compliments on these shoes all the time.” | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Price Comparison
| Model | Price Range |
| Skechers Go Walk 4 | $50 – $65 |
| Skechers Go Walk 5 | $65 – $80 |
The Skechers Go Walk 5 is the newer model and typically costs $15-$20 more than the Go Walk 4. However, both models are highly rated for their comfort, cushioning, and lightweight design, making them popular choices for walking, traveling, and everyday wear.
Conclusion
In assessing the critical comfort technologies and performance metrics between the Skechers Go Walk 4 versus the new Go Walk 5, the newest generation model pulls ahead as the superior choice for pure cushioning comfort.
By fine-tuning the supportive midsole and insole with more breathable, responsive materials, improving stability engineering, shaving weight, and updating traction durability, the Go Walk 5 delivers noticeable comfort upgrades over its already beloved predecessor. The styling refresh in offering trendy limited edition looks widens versatility too.
For those in need of unrelenting comfort for their walking, working out, or everyday active lifestyle pursuits, we recommend the Skechers Go Walk 5 over earlier editions. Count on these shoes to keep your feet feeling great mile after mile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do the Go Walk 4 and 5 fit wide feet?
Both models accommodate wide feet, but the Go Walk 5 adds even wider XW options.
Which has more arch support?
With their contoured comfort insoles, both provide ample arch support, but the 5 may feel slightly more supportive.
Can I use either for jogging or hiking?
We don’t recommend either for intense running or off-road hiking. Focus on walking and lightweight activity instead.
Is the sizing the same for men’s and women’s models?
No, it’s recommended women order 1⁄2 size smaller than men for the equivalent fit in that same size number.
Which Go Walk shoes are best for plantar fasciitis?
With ample cushioning and pronounced pronation support, the Go Walk 5 makes an excellent plantar fasciitis walking shoe.
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