Skechers Summits vs Go Walk – Define Your Walk!

When it comes to comfortable walking and casual shoes, Skechers tends to top the charts.

Two of their most popular lines are the Skechers Summits and Skechers Go Walk shoes.

But with similar looks, technologies, and purposes, how do you choose between Skechers Summits vs Go walk?

As an everyday wearer of Skechers walking shoes, I’ve tried on multiple styles from both the Summits and Go Walk ranges.

From my first-hand experience, some clear differences may make one shoe better suited for your needs.

Here’s an in-depth comparison of Skechers Summits vs Go Walk to help you decide which is right for you.

Comparison: Skechers Summits vs Go Walk

The main difference between Skechers Summits and Go Walk shoes is their purpose: Summits are rugged outdoor trail shoes with aggressive traction, while Go Walk is a lightweight, casual slip-on line optimized for all-day comfort and easy walkability on flat surfaces.

Before comparing the specifics, here is an overview of Skechers Summits vs Go Walk:

Feature	Skechers Summits	Skechers Go Walk
Cushioning	Air Cooled Memory Foam	Ultra Go cushioning
Comfort	Padded tongue and collar	Slip-on walking comfort
Support	Stabilizing midfoot design	Arch support system
Traction	Multi-traction tread for trails	Resalyte outsole
Use Cases	Hiking, trail walking, outdoors	Walking, everyday wear
Upper Material	Leather/mesh upper	Breathable mesh upper
Lining	Moisture-wicking fabric lining	Soft fabric lining
Insole	Removable contoured insole	Ultra Go comfort responsive insole
Outsole	Durable high-traction outsole	Flexible traction outsole
Sizing	Runs true to size	Runs true to size
Widths	Medium or wide widths	Multiple width options
Price	$$ $60 – $90	$ Affordable under $60

Skechers Summits are rugged, durable hiking shoes designed for trail use, with features like a lugged outsole, water-resistant upper, and reinforced toe protection. On the other hand, Skechers Go Walk shoes are lightweight, flexible, and breathable walking and casual shoes with a knit or mesh upper and responsive, cushioned midsole. The choice between the two depends on the intended activity – Summits for hiking and rough terrain, or Go Walk for casual walking and everyday wear.

Pros and Cons

Pros: Skechers Summits

• Features more advanced comfort and performance technologies
• Designed for higher-impact activities like hiking and trail walking
• Available in rugged, outdoorsy styles suitable for various terrain

Cons: Skechers Summits

• Generally more expensive than the basic Skechers Go Walk line
• May feel bulkier and less flexible than the streamlined Go Walk models
• Limited color/style options compared to some of Skechers’ lifestyle lines

Pros: Skechers Go Walk

• Very lightweight and flexible construction
• Designed specifically for walking and everyday use
• Affordable price point compared to some other walking shoes

Cons: Skechers Go Walk

• May not have as much cushioning or support as higher-end walking shoes
• Limited durability compared to more rugged walking shoe models
• Relatively basic design and features

Which Shoes Are Good for Different Activities

Shoes for Running

• Skechers Summits: The Summits line is not primarily designed for running. While they may provide some cushioning and support, they lack the specialized features needed for high-impact, performance-oriented running.
• Skechers Go Walk: The Go Walk shoes are also not focused on running. They are more suitable for casual, everyday activities rather than running.

Shoes for Walking

• Skechers Summits: The Summits can be a good option for walking, particularly for casual, everyday walks. They provide a decent level of comfort and support.
• Skechers Go Walk: The Go Walk series is an excellent choice for walking. The Goga Mat insole technology provides exceptional cushioning and support, making the Go Walk very comfortable for extended walks.

Shoes for Standing All Day

• Skechers Summits: The Summits can work reasonably well for standing all day, though they may not provide the same level of comfort and support as other Skechers models.
• Skechers Go Walk: The Go Walk shoes are an ideal choice for standing all day. The cushioned sole and supportive features help reduce foot fatigue and provide lasting comfort.

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

Key Similarities

Before diving into the differences, let’s look at what the Summits and Go Walks have in common:

Casual Styling

Both lines feature sporty and casual sneaker-style designs suitable for walking, travel, and everyday wear.

The uppers use breathable knitted mesh fabrics and soft synthetic overlays for comfort and support.

Cushioned Soles

The midsoles utilize Skechers’ proprietary cushioning technologies like Goga Max or Ultra Go to absorb impact and return energy to your stride.

Lightweight and responsive, they promote natural foot movement.

Slip Resistant Soles

The durable rubber outsoles have textured tread lugs to grip most surfaces securely underfoot, preventing slips and falls.

Roomy Toe Boxes

Ample room in the toe areas prevents pinching and allows your feet to splay naturally as you walk.

Quality Construction

As with all Skechers shoes, both the Summits and Go Walks are well-made using durable, high-quality materials able to withstand regular wear.

Now that the similarities are clear, let’s compare the key differences between the two lines.

Fit and Sizing Comparison

While Skechers shoes generally run true to size, there are some subtle differences in fit between the Summit and Go Walk models.

Feature	Skechers Summits	Skechers Go Walk
Fit	Classic lace-up athletic shoe fit hugs the foot securely	Softer, stretch knit upper adapts closely to different foot shapes for a customized fit
Toe Box	Roomy round-toe area	Extra wide toe box allows complete toe splay
Heel	The heel collar is padded for comfort but may irritate the Achilles area	Plush heel collar enhances comfort
Insole	A fixed cushioned insole supports neutral to mild under pronation	Comfortable removable insole can be replaced with custom orthotics
Sizing	Runs true to size	Runs slightly small, order 1⁄2 size up for the best fit

The Summits lock down the midfoot more securely than the stretchy Go Walk models.

But the Go Walk uppers conform more closely to each person’s foot shape.

Depending on your foot anatomy and gait, one shoe may fit more comfortably than the other.

I’d recommend trying both models in-store to compare the fit and feel before deciding.

And consider sizing up in the Go Walks if you’re between sizes. Their knit fabric construction allows for a little stretch and prevents cramped toes.

Cushioning and Comfort Comparison

Underfoot comfort is essential for shoes meant to be on your feet all day.

Let’s examine how the cushioning technologies differ between the Skechers Summits and Go Walks.

Feature	Skechers Summits	Skechers Go Walk
Midsole Cushioning	Goga Max® insole and midsole for high energy return and stability	Ultra Go® cushioning delivers pillowy shock absorption
Responsiveness	Moderately responsive and supportive	Ultra flexible and adaptive
Underfoot Feel	Firm, stable platform	Soft, pillowy feel
Arch Support	Rigid midfoot shank offers arch support	Flexible cushioning allows natural foot movement
Break-In Period	May feel stiff initially until the midsole compresses	Instant comfort out of the box
Long-Term Cushion Retention	Set midsole retains cushioning properties longer	Compresses over time as cushioning breaks down
Ideal User Preference	Overpronators need stability and support	Neutral runners and under pronators prioritizing softness

The Summits offer firmer cushioning and more structured arch support compared to the pillowy soft Go Walks.

This makes the Summits preferable for overpronators requiring motion control and stability.

Meanwhile the flexible, instantly comfortable Go Walks allow unrestricted foot motion ideal for low arches.

Their spongy feel tends to compress down after miles of wear, however.

If softness is key, try the Go Walk range. But for those needing support and gait control, the Summits have the edge.

Traction and Grip Comparison

Slipping over wet tiles or icy sidewalks can lead to painful falls. A quality walking shoe needs ample traction on varied terrain.

Here’s how the Summits and Go Walks compare:

Feature	Skechers Summits	Skechers Go Walk
Outsole Material	Durable rubber	Lightweight flexible rubber
Lug Depth	Multi-directional lugs moderate depth	Shallow tread depth
Traction Technology	GOimpulse sensors offer 360° traction	Pillars support natural flexibility without compromising grip
Wet/Dry Traction	GOdrips dispersed tread pattern prevents hydroplaning on wet ground	Raised rubber pods give reliable traction even when damp
Icy Conditions Performance	Lugs allow sufficient bite on packed snow or ice	May slide on frozen surfaces
Ideal Use Cases	Reliable traction across the pavement, gym floors, grass, and light trails. Good urban winter traction.	Great tack on smooth indoor floors, pavement, tracks, and grassy parks. Avoid icy/winter conditions.

The Summits generally grip better across more variable outdoor terrain. Their thicker sole lugs bite cleanly even on wet ground without slipping.

They can even handle packed snow or ice thanks to the supportive midsole stabilizing your stride.

Meanwhile, the flexible Go Walk outsoles favor tackiness over ruggedness. Fine for everyday walking outdoors in dry weather, they lose some grip walking over damp or frosty sidewalks.

So for more surefootedness across slippery terrain, the Summits are my top traction pick between the two.

But the Go Walks handle fair weather treading just fine.

Support and Stability Comparison

Proper structural support helps avoid sore feet, knees, or back pain even after hours of walking.

Let’s examine how arch and stance support differs in the Summits vs Go Walks.

Feature	Skechers Summits	Skechers Go Walk
Arch Support	A rigid midfoot shank better supports low to medium arches	Flexible zero-drop midsole encourages natural foot position
Heel Support	A sturdy heel counter prevents rearfoot instability	The soft heel may allow an excess motion for low arched feet
Stride Support	Stable platform corrects moderate overpronation	Adapts to foot’s natural landing; not suitable for pronators
Weight Capacity	Better for average to heavier body weights	Ultra flexible midsole best for low average weights
Medial/Lateral Stability	Denser midsole materials prevent excess side to side rolling	Compressible cushioning allows natural foot roll

The structured Summits offer markedly better support and motion control compared to the flexible Go Walk range.

Built-in arch support and stabilizing features reduce strain making them suitable for mild to moderate overpronators.

Meanwhile, the featherweight Go Walks encourage free, uninhibited foot flexion by design. Great for supination and neutral runners, but they provide minimal stability for flatter feet.

So if you need pronation or posture correction, the Summits are the clear winners for keeping your feet properly aligned as you walk.

But the Go Walks take the lead for those prioritizing barefoot-like comfort.

Durability and Longevity Comparison

No one wants their comfortable new walking shoes to wear out too quickly.

Let’s compare the durability and lifespan between the Summits vs Go Walks.

Feature	Skechers Summits	Skechers Go Walk
Outsole Wear	Rubber lugs show minimal wear after 200+ miles	Lugs flatten sooner with abrasion
Midsole Breakdown	Retains cushion and support for 500+ miles of use	Ultra Go compresses permanently for around 300 miles
Upper Durability	Dense synthetic leather and mesh resist tearing	Soft knit mesh prone to developing small holes
Ideal Lifespan	Properly fitting Summits should last 12-18 months of regular use before cushion fatigue	Plan on replacing Go Walks after 6-12 months as the midsole and upper degrade

Overall the Summits are built with long-term durability in mind better than the softer Go Walk models.

Their firmer midsoles retain cushioning properties and structure for significantly longer than the pillowy Go Walk foam.

The Summits’ leather and mesh upper stand up to daily wear and tear with less visible damage over time.

The comfy knit fabric of the Go Walks starts pilling and developing holes sooner.

So while both are well-constructed shoes, the Summits are the clear winner for longevity.

Expect to get significantly more mileage out of them before parts wear out.

Style and Color Options Comparison

While secondary to performance factors, style and looks still matter in choosing attractive walking shoes.

Here’s how the aesthetic options compare between the ranges.

Feature	Skechers Summits	Skechers Go Walk
Style	Classic sporty walking shoe silhouette ideal for casual wear	Moderately sleek low-profile design suits athleisure outfits
Variety	Dozens of color combinations across different summit models	Fewer colors concentrated in popular core styles
Seasonal Styles	Frequent new collections including weatherproof Winter and ventilated Summer editions	Mostly core styles are carried year-round
Men’s/Women’s Styling	Fairly unisex with similar technologies and styling across genders	Noticeable styling differences between men’s and women’s models
Width Sizing Options	Multiple widths from narrow to extra wide in popular styles to suit different foot shapes	Core styles only available in medium/standard widths

The Summits offer vastly more color and style diversity overall, with unique seasonal drops updated yearly. Their classic athletic profile suits casual outfits seamlessly.

And matching features across men’s and women’s lines means easy sharing between active couples.

The designs differ more noticeably in Go Walk models tailored specifically to each gender.

For maximum style flexibility, the Summits win hands-down.

Their huge selection allows finding attractive colors suitable for any outfit or activity.

User Review and Rating

User Review	Summits Rating	Go Walk Rating
“The structured arch support is way better in the Summits for my flat feet. No more aches even after long days walking.” (Mike)	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐
“I love the zero-drop comfort of the Go Walks! The knit upper feels like I’m walking barefoot.” (Amy)	⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“The Summits gripped perfectly when I wore them hiking on muddy trails. Very impressive traction.” (Oliver)	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐
“I’m on my 5th pair of Go Walks! They fit my narrow feet so well and I just replace them annually.” (Sarah)	⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Love all the bright color options in the Summits. I can match them perfectly to any outfit for running errands or traveling.” (Emma)	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐

The ratings showcase how the Summits excel for support and traction while the Go Walks win on customizable fit and flexibility.

But both have happy fans appreciating their strengths!

Pricing Comparison

While not the only factor, budget plays a role in choosing good value walking shoes built to last.

Here’s how the pricing shakes out across the Skechers models:

Product	List Price	Typical Discounted Price	Value Rating
Skechers Summits	$60	$45	Excellent
Skechers go walk Arch Fit	$55-$60	$40-$45	Very Good

Considering their impressive durability and technologies, Summits offer fantastic value at just pennies per mile walked.

And being frequently discounted, their actual cost ends up very wallet-friendly.

Go Walks still rates very positively for value at under 20 cents per wear.

But their shorter overall lifespan compared to Summits makes the latter a better investment long term.

Conclusion and Recommendations

So in summary, while both are great casual walking shoe options from Skechers, the Summits edge out Go Walks in certain key categories:

• Superior traction and grip: Better stability and deeper lugs tackle slippery terrain
• More support and pronation control: Great for flat feet and overpronators
• Longer-lasting cushioning and materials: More miles before breaking down
• Greater style and color variety: Models suit any taste or outfit

Meanwhile, the feather-soft Go Walks win for:

• Fully customizable stretch fit: Conforms closely to each foot’s shape
• Instant out-of-box comfort: No break-in period required

Here are my recommendations on which shoe line is ideal for your needs:

Choose Skechers Summits if you:

• Need pronation support and gait control
• Prefer stable, structured cushioning feel
• Regularly walk over uneven or wet terrain
• Appreciate lots of style and color options
• Seek maximum value and shoe lifespan per dollar

Select Skechers Go Walks if you:

• Have narrow or oddly shaped feet
• Love the feel of “walking on air”
• Stick mostly to smooth, dry surfaces when walking
• Want that slipper-like comfort right away
• Appreciate the sleek, modern visual design

Hopefully, this detailed comparison of Skechers Summits vs Go Walks makes it easier to select which silhouette works best for your walking needs and preferences.

Both are great shoe lines, but the Summits edge out overall as the superior walking companion across more usage cases.

Can’t decide or have additional questions? Don’t hesitate to ask in the comments! Happy walking!

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