When looking for comfortable walking or casual shoes, two popular styles from Skechers are the Relaxed Fit and Air Cooled collections.
But with different features geared towards versatility or breathability, how do you decide which is right for you?
This guide will compare Skechers Relaxed Fit vs Air Cooled shoes across key categories to help you determine the best choice for your needs and preferences.
Overview of Skechers Relaxed Fit and Air Cooled
Skechers Relaxed Fit shoes have a roomy construction to provide all-day comfort for extended wear. They offer features like:
- Spacious toe box and relaxed instep
- Cushioned insole
- Shock-absorbing midsole
- Durable rubber traction outsole
Skechers Air Cooled shoes are designed to keep your feet cool and dry. Notable features include:
- Lightweight, breathable mesh fabric upper
- Air Cooled Goga Mat insole for airflow and cushioning
- Low-profile cushioning for flexibility
- Stable traction outsole
Below is a detailed comparison of some of the most important deciding factors when choosing between these two Skechers styles.
Comparison Skechers Relaxed Fit vs Air Cooled shoes
The main contrast between Skechers Relaxed Fit and Air Cooled shoes is in their ventilation technology: Relaxed Fit provides an overall roomier fit, while Air Cooled shoes feature a specialized mesh and perforation design to promote enhanced breathability and airflow around the foot.
Before comparing the specifics, here is an overview of Skechers Relaxed Fit vs Air Cooled:
| Feature | Skechers Relaxed Fit | Skechers Air Cooled |
|---|---|---|
| Cushioning | Air Cooled Memory Foam insole | Air Cooled Memory Foam insole |
| Comfort | Roomy fit through toe box and instep | Lightweight breathable mesh uppers |
| Support | Neutral, flexible cushioning | Some have Gel Infused Memory Foam |
| Traction | Textured flexible non-marking outsole | Textured traction outsole |
| Use Cases | Casual everyday wear | Good for walking and exercise |
| Upper Material | Leather, knit, mesh | Breathable mesh or knit fabrics |
| Lining | Soft fabric lining | Moisture-wicking lining |
| Insole | Removable padded insole | Removable Air Cooled Memory Foam |
| Outsole | Rubber/EVA with flex grooves | Flexible shock-absorbing outsole |
| Sizing | Runs true to size | Runs true to size |
| Widths | Medium or wide widths available | Medium or wide widths available |
| Price | $$ Affordable around $50-$80 | $$ Affordable $60-$100 range |
In summary, Skechers Relaxed Fit shoes prioritize a roomy, generous fit, making them ideal for those with wider feet or who prefer a more relaxed, comfortable fit. On the other hand, Skechers Air Cooled shoes feature the Air Cooled Memory Foam insole technology, providing cushioning and cooling properties while maintaining a standard, true-to-size fit. The choice between the two depends on whether the individual prioritizes a roomier fit or the cooling and cushioning benefits of the Air Cooled technology.
Pros and Cons
Pros: Skechers Relaxed Fit
- Designed with a roomier, more relaxed fit for added comfort
- Maybe a good option for those with wider feet or swelling
- Available in a variety of casual, everyday styles
Cons: Skechers Relaxed Fit
- Designed with a roomier, more relaxed fit for added comfort
- Maybe a good option for those with wider feet or swelling
- Available in a variety of casual, everyday styles
Pros: Skechers Air Cooled
- Features Air Cooled technology to improve breathability and temperature regulation
- Memory foam insole provides enhanced comfort and cushioning
- Available in various casual and athletic-inspired designs
Cons: Skechers Air Cooled
- May be slightly more expensive than the standard memory foam models
- The Air Cooled technology, while beneficial, adds some complexity to the shoe design
- Color/style selection may be more limited compared to Skechers’ broader collections
Which Shoes Are Good for Different Activities
Shoes for Running
- Skechers Relaxed Fit: The Relaxed Fit line is not primarily designed for running. These shoes focus more on casual comfort and everyday wear, lacking the specialized features needed for high-impact activities like running.
- Skechers Air Cooled: Similarly, the Air Cooled shoes are not optimized for running. They are more geared towards providing comfort and breathability for general, everyday use rather than running performance.
Shoes for Walking
- Skechers Relaxed Fit: The Relaxed Fit shoes can be a decent option for casual, everyday walking. Their comfortable, relaxed fit and basic cushioning provide a comfortable walking experience.
- Skechers Air Cooled: The Air Cooled models are also a good choice for walking. The air-cooled technology helps keep the feet cool and comfortable during walks.
Shoes for Standing All Day
- Skechers Relaxed Fit: The Relaxed Fit shoes can work reasonably well for standing all day, though they may not offer the same level of support and cushioning as some other Skechers models.
- Skechers Air Cooled: The Air Cooled shoes are a good option for standing all day. The air-cooled design and cushioned soles help reduce foot fatigue and provide lasting comfort.
Now that you have an overview of the Skechers Relaxed Fit vs Air Cooled differences, read on for an in-depth feature-by-feature comparison.
Comfort and Support Comparison
When you’ll be on your feet for hours running errands or taking a walk, comfort is a must.
Skechers designs both these collections to provide cushioned steps without painful pressure points.
Relaxed Fit has a thick, padded insole and a flexible shock-absorbing midsole.
Together these absorb impact and distribute your weight evenly across your foot.The roomy toe box prevents pinching while allowing natural foot movement.
Air-cooled shoes offer exceptional lightweight cushioning.
The responsive Air Cooled Goga Mat insole and flexible traction outsole soften every step. The stretchy mesh fabric upper moves with your foot without irritation.
For arch support, Air Cooled styles have better contoured footbeds while Relaxed Fits are flatter. If you need significant arch reinforcement, choosing supportive insoles for your Relaxed Fits may help.
Tip: Air Cooled excels at lightweight cushioning while Relaxed Fits have thicker padded comfort good for spending all day on your feet.
Breathability Comparison
When you’re active outdoors or live in a warmer climate, breathability helps keep feet dry and comfortable in shoes. This is where air-cooled shoes shine.
The entire upper is extremely breathable knit mesh, promoting air circulation around your feet. Hotspots are prevented so feet stay cool and sweat-free.
The moisture-wicking liner also minimizes dampness buildup inside the shoe.
Relaxed Fit shoes do have perforations on leather or knit fabric uppers for some breathability.
However solid overlays and padded collar linings do limit airflow compared to the very open and mesh Air-cooled construction.
For temperature regulation and sweat reduction, Air Cooled is the clear winner.
But in cold weather or climates, Relaxed Fit offers more coverage and warmth for your feet.
Tip: Choose Air Cooled for staying cool and dry. Pick Relaxed Fit for insulation and weatherproofing.
Traction and Durability Comparison
Whether you’ll be wearing your new Skechers for errands, travel, or light trail use, it’s reassuring when shoes hold up well to daily wear and tear without slipping.
Relaxed Fit and Air Cooled shoes both have quality rubber outsoles with molded traction lugs.
Grip is suitable for everyday activities in most conditions whether city walking or well-groomed nature paths.
The outsoles are not aggressive enough for advanced hiking but handle casual outdoor use.
For durability, Relaxed Fit tends to withstand abrasion slightly better thanks to protective overlays and sturdier construction. The shock-absorbing midsole also retains cushioning well over time.
In Air Cooled shoes, the mesh fabric upper is vulnerable to damage without overlays while cushioning can compress with heavy use. However, the Goga Mat insole does regain loft if allowed to fully air out between wears.
Tip: Pick a Relaxed Fit for longevity with its protective design. Or choose Air Cooled for lightweight versatility accepting more delicate materials.
| Feature | Relaxed Fit | Air Cooled |
| Fit | Roomy in the toe box and instep | Contoured standard fit |
| Width Options | Narrow/Medium/Wide/Extra Wide | Medium/Wide |
| Cushioning | Thick padded insole, shock-absorbing midsole | Lightweight Air Cooled Goga Mat insole |
| Arch Support | Flat insole | Contoured insole |
| Breathability | Moderate from leather/knit perforations | Superior from open mesh fabric |
| Weather Suitability | Better insulation and coverage for cold/wet | Better airflow for heat and humidity |
| Traction | Everyday rubber traction lugs | Comparable everyday rubber traction |
| Durability | Protective overlays resist abrasion, retain cushion | Vulnerable upper, cushion compresses then rebounds |
Fit and Sizing Comparison
One of the biggest considerations when buying shoes is getting the right fit.
Relaxed Fit shoes are roomier by design to prevent your feet from feeling restricted.
There’s extra space through the forefoot and a wider toe box allowing your toes to spread out.
Air-cooled styles provide a more standard fit.
They are shaped closer to the foot without significant extra roominess. The lightweight mesh upper does have some give to prevent restricting your foot.
Both Relaxed Fit and Air Cooled shoes come in a range of full and half sizes.
However Relaxed Fit has more width options, with narrow, medium, wide, and extra wide available depending on the exact style. Air Cooled widths tend to be limited to medium or wide.
Tip: If you have wide feet or swelling concerns, Relaxed Fit may accommodate you better. For those wanting no excess room, Air Cooled offers a more tailored fit.
Style Variety Comparison
Beyond feel and performance, style preference plays a role in shoe decisions too.
From casual sneakers to sporty designs, Relaxed Fit and Air Cooled collections both offer diverse options.
Relaxed Fit shoes skew towards understated walking silhouettes but also include some athletic styles.
Colors tend towards versatile neutrals with pops of contrast accents on some versions.
Many choices emulate leather with fabric paneling and stitching detail. Casual lace-up Oxfords and slip-on walking shoes are common in the range.
Air Cooled shoes encompass contemporary trainer styling with bold color blocking in vivid shades. Athletic sneakers with prominent branding draw the eye for urban streetwear flair.
Savvy moisture-wicking fabrics fused with ventilation provide scientific appeal blending tech and sport fashion.
Tip: Like classic casuals and leather looks? Browse Relaxed Fit. Want a breathable athletic edge? See the Air Cooled lineup.
Price and Value Comparison
When deciding between shoe types, price often weighs on shoppers’ minds too.
Does spending more on certain features make sense or does one collection provide better overall value?
On average Relaxed Fit shoes retail between $50-$80.
Prices depend on material finishes like leather or fabric uppers and outsole compounds.
At the budget end of the Skechers lineup, they deliver outstanding comfort and cushioning for all-day wear at an accessible price point hard to beat.
Air Cooled shoes retail from $70-$100 typically.
The specialized construction warrants a slight price premium, packing innovative comfort technologies into moisture-wicking performance shoes.
Plus visible tech elements like highly vented uppers satisfy athletic fashion demand.
Both collections represent strong value in tapping into Skecher’s comfort heritage.
Air-cooled costs a bit more but breathable technologies do come at a higher expense.
And cheaper Relaxed Fits still provide unbelievable support even for wide feet.
Ultimately needs and budget guide the best choice.
| Feature | Relaxed Fit | Air Cooled |
| Style Variety | Understated walking silhouettes and casual athletic | Contemporary trainers mixing tech and sports fashion |
| Color Options | Mostly versatile neutrals | Vivid hues and color blocking |
| Average Price Range | $50-$80 | $70-$100 |
| Value Overview | Outstanding comfort and support for the price | Innovative moisture-wicking performance technologies |
Tip: Search sales for deals on last season’s Air Cooled styles to get high-tech shoes below budget. Or choose classic Relaxed Fit comfort best bought at full price to get long wear.
Which is Best For You?
With all the differences covered between Skechers Relaxed Fit and Air Cooled shoes, deciding what’s best for your needs should be clearer.
If you want supreme comfort and support for wide feet or will be walking for hours, Relaxed Fit is ideal.
The thick padded insole and roomy construction prevent foot fatigue so you can go about your active day in cushioned comfort.
Go with Air Cooled if you need breathability to keep your feet cool and sweat-free. The mesh uppers and Air Cooled Goga Mat insoles make these the best choice for hot weather and preventing odors. Style-wise the athletic silhouettes work well for casual urban use too.
For other factors like price, appearance, or performance, weigh your priorities then let the comparison info guide you.
Getting the decision right means you find shoes delivering on expectations so your choice feels like money well spent.
User Reviews and Rating
| Model | Rating | Reviews |
| Relaxed Fit: Expected Avillo Mule | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | “Love these shoes! As a nurse, I’m on my feet all day and these are like slippers.” |
| Air Cooled: Quantum Atmosphere Sneaker | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Great for walking in Florida heat. Feet stay pretty dry minus heavy sweating.” |
| Relaxed Fit: Superior Brode Slip-On | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | “Decent arch support and doesn’t hurt my troublesome heel. Great value.” |
| Air Cooled: Pure Insight Sneaker | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | “Stylish while keeping my feet from getting too hot and sweaty on daily dog walks.” |
Tip: Browse more customer reviews and photo testimonials for real user experiences with Skechers Relaxed and Air Cooled shoes before you buy.
Conclusion
We hope this beginner’s guide covered all the key similarities and differences between Skechers Relaxed Fit and Air Cooled shoes.
Keep the detailed feature breakdown with you while you shop to focus on matching attributes to your needs.
Prioritizing roomy supreme comfort or lightweight breathability and athletic styling makes picking between collections easier.
Getting the fit and performance elements right ensures whichever pair you choose delivers exactly what you want out of new daily shoes.
With prominent Skechers technologies offering foot-cradling support or cooling comfort, you have great options.
Now just decide whether you need quintessential Relaxed Fit cushioning or Air Cooled moisture wicking in your next go-to shoes.
Frequently Asked Questions
For more guidance in deciding between Relaxed Fit and Air Cooled shoes, here are answers to some frequently asked questions.
Which Skechers are most comfortable?
Testimonials show both the Relaxed Fit and Air Cooled lines rate very comfortable. Relaxed Fit wins for supreme cushioning and roomy fit offering relief for problem feet. But the air-cooled insoles and mesh feel like “walking on air” too.
Do Skechers Relaxed Fit run big?
Yes, Skechers Relaxed Fit shoes intentionally run at least a half to full size large to allow toe spread. Size down for the appropriate relaxed but not sloppy loose fit.
What is the difference between regular and relaxed fit Skechers?
Relaxed Fit shoes have a roomier construction, especially through the toe box. This prevents pinching wide feet but also allows natural foot movement and swelling accommodation. Regular fit Skechers follow standard foot contours more closely.
Are Skechers Air Cooled good for walking?
Yes, Skechers Air Cooled are award-winning walking shoes. Lightweight and breezy, they cushion miles while wicking sweat to keep feet cool and supported.
Do air-cooled Skechers run small?
Skechers Air Cooled generally runs true to size. However, some wearers size up a half or whole size for a bit more room, especially if also using orthotics. Many styles suit adding your medical insoles well.
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