If you’re on your feet all day, finding the right comfort is crucial.
Skechers incorporates their responsive Goga Mat foam or cushioned memory foam into many shoe lines to ease walking pressures.
But how do these technologies differ in supporting your steps?
This guide compares Skechers Goga Mat vs Memory Foam performance to help identify the best option matching your needs.
Overview of Key Skechers Comfort Foams
Skechers footwear stands out for integrating innovative comfort foams into many affordable shoe options rather than just premium labels. Two of their most popular are Goga Mat foam and memory foam.
Goga Mat High Rebound Insoles
Goga Mat is a proprietary high-energy return foam from combined GObionic and energy return properties.
In shoes, it aims to absorb walking impact and then bounce back for a springy feel. Goga Mat debuted in Skechers athletic sneakers but now appears across lifestyle and work lines.
Key Features:
- High rebound cushioning
- Responsive, springy feel
- Impact absorption and energy return
- Natural walking motion
- Cooling airflow
Air Cooled Memory Foam
Memory foam conforms to the contours of feet for a custom feel. Open-cell designs infuse air to prevent heat build-up. Skechers uses it widely for cushioning casuals, sandals, and slip-resistant styles.
Key Features:
- Conforming cushioned support
- Pressure relief
- Air-cooled ventilation
- Durable compression set
- Customized comfort
| Factors | Goga Mat | Memory Foam |
| Material | Proprietary synthetic foam | Polyurethane foam infusion |
| Technology | High energy return | Heat conforming |
| Density | Firm but responsive | Softly padded |
| Air Flow | perforations | Open cell infusion |
| Use Cases | Athletic, walking, work | Lifestyle, Casual |
Comparison: Skechers Goga Mat vs Memory Foam
The key contrast between Skechers Goga Mat and Memory Foam insoles lies in their responsiveness: Goga Mat uses a proprietary 5GEN foam designed to provide high-rebound cushioning, while Memory Foam molds to your foot shape for a more conforming, low-rebound feel.
Before comparing the specifics, here is an overview of Skechers Goga Mat vs Memory Foam:
| Factor | Skechers Goga Mat Foam Shoes | Skechers Memory Foam Shoes |
| Cushioning Feel | Responsive “bounce”, firm yet flexible | Softly conforming around the foot |
| Impact Absorption | High energy return absorbs strike shock | Adaptive cushioning gently compresses |
| Ideal Activities | Athletic training, long shifts on feet | Prolonged standing, light walking |
| Durability | Up to 500 miles of retention | 1-2 years under normal wear |
| Footwear Categories | Athletic shoes primarily | Casuals and sandals mainly |
| Example Shoe Lines | GOrun, Skech-Air, Work shoes | Bobs, Relaxed Fit, Slip-resistant |
| Pricing | $$ | $ |
| Best Uses | High activity, exercise, long shifts on feet | Prolonged wear of standing or light walking |
In summary, Goga Mat foam provides a lively, energizing feel best suited for high-intensity activity like athletic training or nurses logging miles down hospital halls.
Memory Foam offers more gently cushioning properties ideal if spending long stationary shifts on your feet or wanting softness for leisurely wear.
Match intended uses to specialized Skechers shoes integrating these leading comfort foams.
You May Also Like:
Skechers GOga Mat vs GOga Plus Shoes
Pros and Cons
Pros: Skechers Goga Mat
- Highly cushioned and supportive footbed
- Designed for high-impact activities like walking and running
- Promotes proper foot alignment and reduces stress on joints
- Durable and long-lasting construction
Cons: Skechers Goga Mat
- May feel a bit bulky or heavy for some users
- More expensive than some other Skechers models
- May not be as breathable as other athletic shoe options
Pros: Skechers Memory Foam
- Incredibly comfortable and plush underfoot
- Conforms to the shape of your foot for personalized support
- Can help reduce foot and leg fatigue
- Versatile for casual, everyday wear
Cons: Skechers Memory Foam
- May not provide as much structured support as the Goga Mat
- Memory foam can break down over time, reducing cushioning
- May not be as durable for high-impact activities
- Can feel quite soft and squishy for some users’ preferences
Which Shoes Are Good for Different Activities
Shoes for Running
- Skechers Goga Mat shoes are better for running than Memory Foam. The Goga Mat technology provides responsive cushioning and shock absorption that is ideal for high-impact activities like running. The firmer, more supportive midsole helps provide stability and energy return.
- In contrast, Skechers Memory Foam shoes have a softer, more plush cushioning that is better suited for lower-impact activities like walking rather than running.
Shoes for Walking
- Skechers Memory Foam shoes are a better choice for walking compared to the Goga Mat model. The soft, conforming memory foam insole provides excellent comfort and pressure relief for long periods of walking. The flexible, lightweight design also promotes a natural stride.
- While the Goga Mat shoes have good cushioning, the firmer midsole may feel a bit rigid for extended walking sessions compared to the more pliable Memory Foam.
Shoes for Standing All Day
- Both the Skechers Goga Mat and Memory Foam shoes can work well for standing all day, but the Memory Foam may have a slight edge.
- The conforming memory foam insole molds to the shape of your foot, providing custom-like comfort and support for standing. This helps reduce foot fatigue and pain.
- The Goga Mat technology is also very good for standing, with its responsive cushioning. But some may find the Memory Foam a bit more plush and cradling for prolonged standing.
Now that you have an overview of the Skechers Goga Mat vs Memory Foam differences, read on for an in-depth feature-by-feature comparison.
Cushioning Performance Differences
Do you need bounce-back support for exercising or plush personalized comfort for leisure wear?
Understanding performance differences helps match technologies to individual needs.
Impact Absorption and Energy Return
Goga Mat shines for absorbing foot strike shock then rebounding energy back during motion for that “spring in your step” feel.As a midsole or insert, it eases impacts through gait cycles.
The high rebound cushions without packing out excessively over time. It works well in athletic shoes subject to repetitive pounding like runners and cross trainers.
Memory foam conforms more softly around the foot for cushioning rather than recoil. It suits prolonged wear when standing or moderate walking rather than intense training.
Conforming close to the foot prevents rub spots from impact shock during breaking-in periods.
| Cushion Factor | Goga Mat | Memory Foam |
| Strike Absorption | High | Moderate |
| Energy Return | High | Low |
| Break In Comfort | Fair | Excellent |
| Prolonged Wear | Good | Excellent |
You May Also Like:
Skechers Goga Mat vs Goga Max
Responsiveness Comparison
Testers praise the “bounce back” responsiveness of Goga Mat, feeling energized across long shifts on their feet. The foam rebounds quickly without packing down over miles.
Memory foam conforms more slowly at first wear, softening around the foot for gentle cushioning. It responds better to prolonged standing rather than rapid compression.
| Responsiveness | Goga Mat | Memory Foam |
| Immediate Comfort | Excellent | Fair |
| Break-In Comfort | Moderate | Excellent |
| Long Shift Comfort | Excellent | Very good |
| Rapid Compression Response | Excellent | Fair |
Breathability Comparison
Proper airflow prevents hot irritated feet in closed-toe shoes, especially for athletes or workers spending hours on the move.
Goga Mat configurations allow air to pass through the reactive foam, aided by perforations.
Open-cell memory foam infuses direct airflow to limit heat buildup. Both work well inserted into mesh-lined shoes.
| Cool Comfort | Goga Mat | Memory Foam |
| Heat Buildup | Low | Low |
| Perforations | Yes | No |
| Ventilation | Air through | Air infused |
| Breathability | Excellent | Very good |
Long-Term Durability Comparison
Durable comfort technologies maintain supportive properties over the years rather than quickly flatten.
Goga Mat retains springiness resisting permanent compression set.
Though firmer, athletes can pound up to 500 miles without losing lively properties.
Memory foam softens gradually over a more extended time, hugging feet without bottoming out.
| Durability | Goga Mat | Memory Foam |
| Compression Set | Resists packing out | Gradual softening |
| Shock Absorption | Up to 500 miles | 1-2 years of moderate wear |
| Material Integrity | 5 years + | 2-4 years |
User Reviews and Rating
Here are three sample user reviews/testimonials comparing Skechers Goga Mat shoes and Skechers Memory Foam shoes:
| Rating | Skechers Goga Mat Foam Shoe User Reviews | Skechers Memory Foam Shoe User Reviews |
| ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | “I’m a nurse who’s on my feet all day, so I need a shoe with great cushioning. The Skechers D’Lites with Goga Mat foam are perfect – they absorb shock and provide a nice bounce-back with every step. My feet feel so much better compared to my old sneakers.” | “I tried the Skechers Bobs slip-on flats with Memory Foam because I wanted something comfortable yet cute for casual summer wear. They feel like walking on a cloud! The memory foam hugs my feet perfectly and I can stay in them for hours with no issues.” |
| ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | “These Nsearch walking shoes with Goga Mat foam have just the right amount of cushion and responsiveness for my fitness walking routine. They provide great energy return to keep me moving mile after mile.” | “As a teacher on my feet all day, I swear by Skechers Relaxed Fit Memory Foam shoes. My feet are completely comfortable even after 8 hours of standing and walking on hard floors. The memory foam inserts mold to my arches wonderfully.” |
| ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | “I’m training for a half marathon this fall and wanted a good lightweight cushioned running shoe. The Skechers GOrun Fast shoes with Goga Mat foam give me great shock absorption on concrete without losing responsiveness critical for a neutral runner like me. After many miles, my feet still feel fresh even in the heat.” | “As someone with plantar fasciitis, these Skechers Memory Foam arch-fit sandals are a lifesaver for summer wear. They provide soft cushioned arch support to reduce inflammation pain without needing rigid custom orthotics. I can enjoy wearing flatter shoes again thanks to the conforming memory foam footbed.” |
In summary, Skechers athletic and work shoes with Goga Mat Foam provide responsive cushioning for high-activity uses.
Their sandals and casuals with Memory Foam offer gently conforming comfort ideal for prolonged wear.
Price Comparison
Here is a price comparison table contrasting Skechers Goga Mat shoes versus Skechers Memory Foam shoes:
| Shoe Style | Goga Mat Foam Price Range | Memory Foam Price Range |
| Athletic Sneakers | $70 – $100 | $50 – $85 |
| Work Shoes | $80 – $120 | $65 – $95 |
| Walking Shoes | $65 – $90 | $55 – $75 |
| Sandals | n/a | $45 – $70 |
| Casual Flats | n/a | $50 – $65 |
On average, Skechers shoes featuring Goga Mat foam cushioning retail around $15 – $30 higher than comparable styles relying on memory foam instead.
You May Also Like:
Skechers Goga Mat vs Arch Fit
Key Takeaways
- Work shoes and sneakers with Goga Mat cost over $100, while memory foam options run under $100
- Leisure shoes like flats and sandals use memory foam primarily
- Runners and occupational athletic shoes utilize more advanced Goga Mat bounce-back support
So while Skechers positions models incorporating either technology at affordable pricing, your intended uses help determine optimal cost per wear.
Performance shoes see more mileage justifying the higher Goga Mat price tag.
Skechers Shoe Lines With Key Cushioning Systems
Skechers incorporates Goga Mat and memory foam across various footwear categories. Consider performance differences in light of usage needs.
Goga Mat Shoes
Goga Mat stars prominently in their athletic and work shoe collections where durable comfort assists repetitive wear and intensive activity.
Some key Goga Mat shoes:
- Athletic Sneakers: Runners, trainers, golf
- Work Shoes: Slip-resistant clogs, boots, shoes
- Relaxed Fit walking styles
Memory Foam Shoes
Conforming memory foam suits prolonged wear for occupations spending more stationary time on feet over long shifts, or leisure shoes in frequent rotation.
Some key memory foam shoes:
- Slip Resistant: Work clogs, casuals, boots
- Sandals: Sports and fashion designs
- Casuals: Flats, slip-ons, walking
- Wide width collections
Conclusion
Skechers footwear shines for fusing innovative comfort technologies into affordable product lines. Comparing Goga Mat foam versus memory foam performance helps wearers identify appropriate features for individual needs.
Seek Goga Mat’s lively cushioning and responsiveness to energize athletic training or nurses logging miles down hospital halls.
For those spending more stationary time on feet or wanting a softly conforming fit, choose memory foam’s gentle yet durable compression set instead.
Match predicted wear frequency, use conditions, and personal priorities to optimize all-day support and comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about Skechers’ Goga Mat foam and memory foam:
Which technology provides more arch support?
Memory foam conforms closely to feet for customized arch hugging whether used as a full-length insole or just heel insert. Goga Mat offers consistent cushioning across the whole foot without focused arch contouring.
What shoe lines use Goga Mat foam?
Primarily Skechers athletic sneakers and occupational footwear, though some walking and golf styles also integrate it. Casuals, sandals, and wide-width shoes favor memory foam instead.
Does foam durability depend on body weight?
Within reason, both Goga Mat and memory foam should retain supportive integrity across average wearers. However, extremely heavy body weight over 250lb might compromise long-term shock absorption.
Which Skecher’s work styles have memory foam?
Many slip-resistant clogs, casuals, and boots incorporate either open-cell memory foam or the air-cooled variation. Check descriptions for specifics on which comfort foam is used.
Is Goga Mat bounce back feel tiring for nurses?
Some initially may prefer memory foam’s softness. However, most find Goga Mat’s energy return helps their busy shifts fly by without sore feet by day’s end. It prevents muscle fatigue from dragging feel.
Where is memory foam used most by Skechers?
Memory foam sees prominent use across their sandal and casual collections for women and men, especially slip-on flats and walking shoes needing forgiving softness.
Share your love