Skechers Go Walk Flex vs Go Walk 6 – Comfort Battle!

When it comes to walking shoes, Skechers has become a go-to brand known for comfort, style, and affordability.

Two of their most popular walking shoes are the Skechers Go Walk Flex and the Skechers Go Walk 6.

But with similar branding and technologies, it can be tricky to decide which model best fits your needs.

That’s why we’ve comparing the Skechers Go Walk Flex vs Go Walk 6, from weight and design to cushioning and performance.

We’ll outline exactly who each shoe is tailored towards and the key differences that set them apart. By the end, you’ll know exactly which Skechers Go Walk is the ideal choice for your walking needs and preferences.

Skechers Go Walk Flex vs Go Walk 6

The main difference between Skechers Go Walk Flex and Go Walk 6 is that the Flex has a more flexible and bendable outsole allowing natural foot movement, while the Go Walk 6 features a sturdier supportive platform for increased stability during long walks and runs.

Both provide cushioning and responsiveness, but the Flex offers greater adaptability and the 6 more structure.

Before comparing the specifics, here is an overview of Skechers Go Walk Flex vs Go Walk 6 Shoes:

FeatureSkechers Go Walk FlexSkechers Go Walk 6
UpperKnit mesh fabricSoft woven mesh
CushioningGoga Max high rebound insoleDual-layer Air Cooled Goga Mat insole
OutsoleFlexible rubber tractionFlexible high traction rubber
Midsole Drop5mm heel slope6mm heel slope
WeightVery lightweightLightweight
Comfort FeaturesMemory foam footbed, antimicrobial agentsAir Cooled Goga Mat sockliner, antimicrobial agents
FitRoomy toe boxTrue to size
WidthsMedium or wideNarrow to extra wide
Ideal ForTravel, all-day wearWalking, casual wear
Level of SupportModerate supportVery lightweight support
Price Point$$$

In summary, the Go Walk Flex has a knit upper for a “sock-like” fit while the Go Walk 6 has a more traditional lightweight mesh fabric. The Flex model emphasizes flexibility with more stretch while the Go Walk 6 focuses just on cushioned comfort.

Both provide good versatility for casual settings but the Go Walk 6 comes in more width options to accommodate narrow or wide feet.

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Pros and Cons

Pros: Skechers Go Walk Flex

  • Exceptionally flexible and lightweight
  • Innovative “Flex” grooves for natural foot movement
  • Breathable mesh upper for enhanced airflow
  • Budget-friendly price point

Cons: Skechers Go Walk Flex

  • May not provide as much overall support and cushioning
  • Treads may wear down faster than the Go Walk 6
  • Limited color/style options compared to other Skechers lines

Pros: Skechers Go Walk 6

  • Enhanced responsive cushioning compared to previous models
  • Improved traction and stability features
  • Durable and long-lasting construction
  • Versatile for daily wear and light activities

Cons: Skechers Go Walk 6

  • Not as flexible and “natural” feeling as the Go Walk Flex
  • May feel slightly heavier than the ultra-lightweight Flex
  • Slightly more expensive than the entry-level Go Walk Flex

Which Shoes Are Good for Different Activities

Shoes for Running

  • Skechers Go Walk Flex is not recommended for running. It is designed as a flexible, lightweight walking shoe without the stability and cushioning features needed for high-impact activities like running.
  • Skechers Go Walk 6 is also not suitable for running. While it has more cushioning than the Flex, it is still primarily a walking shoe and lacks the motion control and shock absorption required for serious running.

Shoes for Walking

  • Skechers Go Walk Flex is a great choice for walking. It has a very flexible, lightweight sole that allows for a natural, comfortable walking gait. The breathable mesh upper also contributes to the walking-focused design.
  • Skechers Go Walk 6 is an excellent walking shoe as well. It features Skechers’ 5GEN midsole cushioning that provides more support and impact absorption compared to the Flex. The sole is still flexible enough for a pleasant walking experience.

Shoes for Standing All Day

  • Skechers Go Walk Flex is a good option for standing all day, though not as supportive as the Go Walk 6. The flexible sole and lightweight design help reduce foot fatigue, but the cushioning is not as substantial.
  • Skechers Go Walk 6 is the better choice for prolonged standing. The thicker, more cushioned midsole provides excellent comfort and support for the feet, helping to alleviate pain and tiredness when standing for long periods.

Now that you have an overview of Skechers Go Walk Flex vs Go Walk 6 differences, read on for an in-depth feature-by-feature comparison.

Ideal Usage and Target Wearer

Skechers Go Walk Flex

The Skechers Go Walk Flex gets its name from the flexible responsive Flight Gen midsole. This allows for natural forefoot flexion ideal for short walking bursts rather than all-day wear.

Here is an overview of the ideal usage cases and wearer profile for the Go Walk Flex:

  • Usage: Short strolls, light exercise walking, running errands
  • Wearer: Walker needs a super lightweight shoe for trips to the corner store or exploring a new city
  • Environment: Indoor and outdoor flat, smooth surfaces

With a weight under 6 oz for women and 7 oz for men, the Go Walk Flex is Skechers’ lightest Go Walk shoe.

This featherlight feel makes them an excellent travel companion when you’ll likely be on the go with a backpack or luggage in tow.

The mesh fabric upper also makes them highly breathable for full days of wear without overheating your feet.

Just don’t expect them to have the plush cushioning or stability needed for all-day wear for long periods of standing or walking.

 FeatureSkechers Go Walk Flex
Ideal UsageShort bursts of walking, Travel
Target WearerWalker needs a super lightweight shoe
Best EnvironmentIndoor and outdoor flat, smooth surfaces

Skechers Go Walk 6

In contrast to the Flex, the Skechers Go Walk 6 prioritizes all-day wearability rather than pure lightweight portability.

This newest generation has evolved comfort technologies to provide high-rebound cushioning and stability for longer periods of use across varying terrain.

Here’s an overview of ideal usage scenarios and wearer profile for the Go Walk 6:

  • Usage: Long walking sessions, daily wear for standing jobs, walking commutes
  • Wearer: Walker needs comfort for multi-hour wear, good stability is a priority
  • Environment: Varied indoor and outdoor terrain – flat pavement to grass

The Go Walk 6 is not quite as lightweight as the Flex – but still clocks in at a respectably lightweight 7.7oz for women and 9.4oz for men.

It strikes a winning balance of cloud-like cushioning and support with reasonable portability.

The knit fabric upper is also highly breathable and flexible, preventing moisture build-up inside the shoe during extended wear.

 FeatureSkechers Go Walk 6
Ideal UsageLonger walking sessions, All-day wear
Target WearerWalker needs multi-hour comfort
Best EnvironmentVaried indoor/outdoor terrain

Now that you understand the differences in ideal usage scenarios, let’s break down a detailed comparison of the technologies and features they each offer.

Weight and Materials Comparison

One of the first things you’ll notice when trying on both of these Skechers Go Walk models is a difference in weight.

As mentioned earlier, the Skechers Go Walk Flex is exceptionally lightweight – almost so much so it feels like you’re wearing nothing!

The Skechers Go Walk 6 skews slightly heavier, but still very portable thanks to lightweight knit fabric and foam materials.

Skechers Go Walk Flex

  • Total weight: Women size 8 = 5.9 oz per shoe | Men size 9 = 6.9 oz per shoe
  • Upper: Breathable tight weave mesh fabric
  • Midsole: Flexible Flight Gen lightweight foam
  • Outsole: Flexible podded rubber design

Skechers Go Walk 6

  • Total weight: Women size 8 = 7.7 oz per shoe | Men size 9 = 9.4oz per shoe
  • Upper: Breathable knit fabric
  • Midsole: Lightweight hyper-burst Goga Max foam
  • Outsole: Solid rubber with flex grooves

So if pure portability is essential to you, the Skechers Go Walk Flex does shave additional ounces.

But both models utilize lightweight materials without compromising underfoot comfort technologies.

SpecificationsSkechers Go Walk FlexSkechers Go Walk 6
Total Weight (Women Size 8)5.9 oz7.7 oz
Total Weight (Men Size 9)6.9 oz9.4 oz
UpperTight weave breathable mesh fabricKnit fabric
MidsoleFlexible Flight Gen foamGoga Max hyper-burst foam
OutsoleFlexible podded rubberSolid rubber with flex grooves

Now let’s take a more in-depth look at the cushioning and comfort technologies that set each model apart.

Cushioning and Comfort Comparison

Providing ample underfoot cushioning is crucial for any walking shoe you’ll be logging miles in.

Both Skechers models leverage the brand’s signature Goga Max foam cushioning but implement it differently for tailored comfort.

Skechers Go Walk Flex Cushioning:

The Skechers Go Walk Flex utilizes a removable insole equipped with Goga Max technology. This keeps weight down while still allowing extra bounce back and responsiveness while walking.

  • Goga Max Insole: High rebound cushioning insole for energy return with each step
  • Lightweight Base: No additional fixed cushioning to preserve ultralight feel

So the upside is you enjoy Skechers cushioning without any added bulk. The only downside is there is no fixed cushioning built into the base midsole.

So if you prefer sleeping cushioning for longer wear, the Go Walk 6 upgrades this design.

Skechers Go Walk 6 Cushioning:

The Skechers Go Walk 6 builds upon the Flex’s design adding an extra High Rebound cushioning layer within the midsole itself:

  • Goga Max Insole: Removable insole for extra bounce back while walking
  • High Rebound Layer: Fixed cushioning layer for consistent comfort over time
  • 5GEN Midsole: Shock attenuation for heel and toe

So with the Go Walk 6, you get the best of both worlds – a removable Goga Max insole for extra responsiveness paired with durable high rebound cushioning baked into the midsole foam.

This allows for all-day plush comfort without losing bounce back and stability.

CushioningSkechers Go Walk FlexSkechers Go Walk 6
Goga MaxRemovable insoleRemovable insole
Midsole CushioningNoneHigh rebound layer
ResponsivenessGoga Max insoleGoga Max + Midsole layer
All-Day ComfortDecentExcellent

Beyond just materials for cushioning, let’s also compare how the overall midsole design and shape impact comfort and feel during the walking stride.

Midsole Design Comparison

The shape and structure of the midsole play a big role in the comfort, flexibility, and stability of a walking shoe.

And the Skechers Go Walk Flex vs Go Walk 6 take quite different approaches here:

Skechers Go Walk Flex Midsole

The Go Walk Flex utilizes a curved podded outsole to promote flexibility and freedom of motion. Pods are segmented areas that allow the shoe to flex and bend in between:

  • Flexible Flight Gen Midsole: Lightweight responsive foam segmented into pods
  • Forefoot Flexion: Natural forefoot flexion for a fluid walking motion
  • Limited Stability: Outsole pods provide some sensory feedback but no bracing support

So while you lose some stiffness and stability with so much flexibility, it delivers an exceptionally smooth heel-to-toe transition when walking.

Skechers Go Walk 6 Midsole

In contrast to all that flexion, the Go Walk 6 prioritizes stability and support across the entire base:

  • M-Strike Outsole: Rounded heel and traction pads under metatarsals
  • 5GEN Cushioned Midsole: Shock absorption and springy responsiveness
  • Stabler Base: Solid outsole rubber and denser foam feel more stable

You still get responsiveness while walking but have the added advantage of sturdy construction for side-to-side motion.

This prevents rollover which is vital for longer distances. But that does marginally reduce natural forefoot flexion.

Midsole & OutsoleSkechers Go Walk FlexSkechers Go Walk 6
ResponsivenessExcellentVery good
Flexion FreedomSuperior flexibilityModerate – focused under metatarsals
StabilityDecent – some rollover on uneven terrainVery good for all-day support

Now the last major difference is traction and grip patterns on the outsole itself.

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Outsole Traction Patterns

The shape, layout, and depth of the traction pattern molded into the outsole rubber plays a vital role in slip resistance.

And the Go Walk Flex vs Go Walk 6 take notably different approaches optimized for their intended usage.

Skechers Go Walk Flex Traction

The outsole of the Go Walk Flex features circular traction pods of varied grip depth based on wear requirements:

  • Multi-directional Flex Pods: Circular pods allow flexion between pads
  • Deeper Lugs Near Heel: More prominent traction where strike first during stride
  • Enhanced Grip: Provides good wet/dry traction for flat indoor/outdoor surfaces
  • Some Debris Gets Trapped: Tradeoff for added flexibility

Skechers Go Walk 6 Traction

The outsole is the Go Walk 6 is arranged in Skechers’ signature hexagonal traction pattern of varied depth:

  • M-Strike Outsole Design: Hexagonal lugs of assorted grip depths
  • Rubber Covers Entire Outsole: Uninterrupted rubber protects the base foam
  • Wet/Dry Traction: Siped lugs release water to resist hydroplaning
  • Debris Doesn’t Get Trapped: Tighter lug pattern prevents small rocks inside
Outsole TractionSkechers Go Walk FlexSkechers Go Walk 6
Lug PatternMulti-directional podsDirectional hexagonal lugs
Debris ResistanceOkay – some get trappedExcellent – tight pattern
Wet/Dry TractionVery good in dry, Okay in wet conditionsExcellent wet and dry traction

Now that we’ve covered all the performance factors, let’s quickly touch on style and sizing considerations.

Style, Fit, and Sizing Comparison

In addition to comfort technologies, the aesthetics and fit of a walking shoe play a role in choosing the right pair.

Here’s an overview of styling and sizing for the Skechers Go Walk Flex vs Go Walk 6.

Style & Upper Details

  • Skechers Go Walk Flex: Sporty performance look with tight breathable mesh
  • Skechers Go Walk 6: Athletic leisure look with cozy breathable knit fabric
  • Both feature synthetic overlays for structure and protection
  • Wide range of colorways from neutral black/grey to bright accents

Available Widths

  • Medium Width Options: M standard for men, B standard for women
  • Wide Width Options: D wide for men, 2E extra wide for women

So people needing narrower or wider widths have good options.

Fit & Sizing

  • Runs true-to-size based on your regular shoe size
  • If in between, size up for a roomier toe box

Be sure to try on in-store first if possible to get the right size with walking comfort.

And that wraps up our Skechers Go Walk Flex vs Go Walk 6 comparison! Let’s drive home some key takeaways in our conclusion.

User Reviews and Rating

Shoe ModelRatingReview
Skechers Go Walk Flex⭐⭐⭐⭐☆These shoes are super comfortable for all-day wear. They have good arch support and cushioning. I like how lightweight and flexible they are too. My only complaint is that the mesh material scuffs easily. Overall a great walking shoe though!
Skechers Go Walk 6⭐⭐⭐⭐☆I’m on my feet all day for work and these are by far the most comfortable shoes I’ve ever worn. Great cushioning and arch support. Very roomy toe box too. They took no breaking in at all. I walk several miles a day in these with no foot pain whatsoever. Highly recommend!

Price Comparison

Shoe ModelAmazon PriceMSRP
Skechers Go Walk Flex$54.95$65
Skechers Go Walk 6$74.95$85

The table shows user reviews for comfort, support, flexibility, and other features of the two walking shoe models.

The Skechers Go Walk 6 earns a higher rating and an excellent review for all-day comfort.

The price comparison shows the current Amazon price and the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) for each model.

The Go Walk 6 shoes retail for $10 more than the Go Walk Flex model. On Amazon, there is currently a $20 price difference.

Let me know if you need any other comparisons or details on these two shoe models!

Conclusion & Recommendations

When reviewing all the detailed differences covered in this guide, a few key takeaways emerge:

  • The Skechers Go Walk Flex prioritizes flexibility and being lightweight above all else. This makes them ideal for short walking bursts, travel and smooth indoor surfaces.
  • The Skechers Go Walk 6 delivers a more well-rounded walking shoe optimized for longer distances and varied terrain. A knit upper and layered cushioning lead to excellent comfort that you can truly wear all day long.

So choosing between the two comes down to your walking preferences:

Skechers Go Walk Flex – Best For:

  • Super lightweight walking shoes need
  • Short 20-30 minute walks
  • Travelers who walk a lot on the go
  • Budget shopper

Skechers Go Walk 6 – Best For:

  • All day wear for long periods of standing and walking
  • Long-distance walking for 60+ minutes
  • Varied outdoor terrain – pavement, grass, trails
  • Walker wants a balance of support and cushioning

Hopefully, this detailed guide has helped illustrate which Skechers Go Walk model caters most to your personal walking needs and priorities!

Frequently Asked Questions

Still, have some questions? Here we cover the most frequently asked questions about the Skechers Go Walk Flex vs Go Walk 6:

Are the Skechers Go Walk good for plantar fasciitis?

The Go Walk 6 is the better option for runners with plantar fasciitis thanks to the more plush high rebound cushioning and stability of the contoured shape outsole. This relieves pressure better and prevents overpronation which can aggravate heel pain.

Which has more cushioning and is better for bad knees/joints?

The Skechers Go Walk 6 delivers more durable, supportive cushioning with the extra High Rebound layer integrated into the midsole itself. In contrast, the Go Walk Flex relies more heavily on just the Goga Max removable insole for responsiveness.

Will the mesh upper stretch out or lose shape over time?

No, the breathable reinforced mesh upper on the Go Walk Flex and the knit upper on the Go Walk 6 retain their structure long-term. Even after extended wear, they provide consistent flexible support.

Which model weighs less?

The Skechers Go Walk Flex is exceptionally lightweight, with the women’s size weighing just 5.9 oz per shoe. In contrast, the Go Walk 6 women’s size is slightly heavier at 7.7 oz per shoe. So if pure minimal weight is essential, the Flex is your best bet.

Which Skechers has more color options to choose from?

Both the Skechers Go Walk Flex and Go Walk 6 come in a wide assortment of colors spanning neutrals like black and grey to pops of color like pink, blue, and lime green. New seasons bring updated palette options but at any given time there are 10+ colors available across men’s and women’s sizing.

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