Skechers is a popular footwear brand known for its comfortable and stylish shoes.
Two of their most popular walking shoe lines are the Ultra Flex and Go Walk series.
But with different features and technologies, how do you decide which one is better for your needs?
We’ll compare Skechers Ultra Flex vs Go Walk shoes across key factors like comfort, support, price, user reviews, and more.
Read on to discover which shoe best fits your walking and lifestyle preferences.
Skechers Ultra Flex vs Go Walk
The main difference between Skechers Ultra Flex and Go Walk is that Ultra Flex has a flexible, resilient midsole allowing natural foot movement, while Go Walk has a cushioned midsole for shock absorption. Ultra Flex aims to mimic barefoot walking, while Go Walk focuses more on all-day comfort and stability for longer wear.
Both promote walking but with different cushioning approaches.
Before comparing the specifics, here is an overview of Skechers Ultra Flex vs Go Walk Shoes:
| Feature | Skechers Ultra Flex | Skechers Go Walk |
|---|---|---|
| Cushioning | Air Cooled Goga Mat insole | Air Cooled Goga Mat insole |
| Cushioning Feel | Soft, flexible | Very responsive |
| Arch Support | Minimal support | Moderate support |
| Outsole | Flexible traction outsole | Goga Pillars traction outsole |
| Weight | Lightweight | Ultra lightweight |
| Toe Box | Roomy round toe | Tapered toe |
| Upper Material | Knit mesh | Breathable mesh |
| Usage Time | Short walks, casual wear | Long walks, exercise |
| Insoles | Removable insoles | Removable insoles |
| Safety Features | None | Reflective accents for visibility |
| Washable | Not machine washable | Not machine washable |
| Odor Control | Lacks odor control | Antimicrobial treatment |
| Sizing | Runs true to size | Runs true to size |
| Ideal For | Casual wear, flat feet | Walking, mild pronation |
| Break-In Time | No break-in time | Minimal break-in time |
In summary, the Ultra Flex offers a stretchy knit upper while the Go Walk provides better arch support.
The Ultra Flex works well for casual use and flat feet while the Go Walk is ideal for walking and mild pronation issues.
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Pros and Cons
Pros: Skechers Ultra Flex
- Extremely lightweight and flexible
- Responsive cushioning system
- Breathable knit upper material
- Good shock absorption for impact
Cons: Skechers Ultra Flex
- May not provide as much overall support as the Go Walk
- Outsole treads may wear down quicker on high-mileage
- Limited color/style options compared to the Go Walk line
Pros: Skechers Go Walk
- Lightweight and flexible design
- Breathable mesh upper
- Responsive 5GEN cushioning
- Affordable price point
Cons: Skechers Go Walk
- Not as lightweight and ultra-flexible as the Ultra Flex
- May not have as much responsive cushioning as the Ultra Flex
- Treads may not be as durable as the more athletic Ultra Flex
Which Shoes Are Good for Different Activities
Shoes for Running
- Skechers Ultra Flex is not recommended for running. While it has some cushioning and flexibility, it lacks the stability and motion control features needed for high-impact activities like running.
- Skechers Go Walk is also not suitable for serious running. It is primarily designed as a walking and everyday shoe, without the specific performance characteristics required for running.
Shoes for Walking
- Skechers Ultra Flex is a good walking shoe. It has a flexible, lightweight sole that allows for a natural stride, and the cushioned midsole provides comfort.
- Skechers Go Walk is an excellent walking shoe. It features Skechers’ advanced 5GEN midsole technology, which provides responsive, supportive cushioning for extended walks.
Shoes for Standing All Day
- Skechers Ultra Flex is a decent option for standing all day, but not as supportive as the Go Walk. The cushioning is lighter and may not provide as much relief for prolonged standing.
- Skechers Go Walk is the better choice for standing all day. The thicker, more substantial midsole and supportive insole help reduce foot fatigue when standing for long periods.
Now that you have an overview of Skechers Ultra Flex 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 Skechers Ultra Flex and Go Walk shoes have in common:
- Lightweight and flexible: Both lines are praised for their lightweight and flexible materials that promote natural foot movement as you walk. Ultra Flex incorporates woven knit uppers while Go Walk uses lightweight mesh fabric. Their traction outsoles also demonstrate flexibility to move naturally with the foot.
- Breathable fabric: The shoes feature highly breathable knit or mesh fabric uppers to keep your feet cool, dry, and comfortable during activity. The seamless designs help prevent irritation too.
- Cushioned insoles: They contain cushioned insoles to absorb shock, provide arch and heel support, ease pressure points, and offer underfoot comfort. Go Walk specifically uses 5GEN cushioning and Ultra Flex has Memory Foam footbeds.
- Grippy rubber outsoles: Durable rubber outsoles equip both options with reliable traction, be it on indoor floors or varied outdoor terrain. Flex grooves or pillars allow flexibility too.
- Affordably priced: The shoes retail at affordable prices, usually ranging from $45 to $85 per pair. That delivers impressive comfort technologies without breaking the bank.
Now that we’ve seen their core similarities in purposes and designs, let’s compare some of their notable differences.
Comfort and Cushioning Technologies
A key distinction is their proprietary cushioning systems and comfort technologies:
Ultra Flex
- Ultra-flexible “Flex Pillars” made from thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) provide improved flexibility. They bend and flex with your stride.
- Mellow Memory Foam insole adapts to the contours of your foot for personalized cushioning and support.
- The breathable knit upper design stretches and fits like a sock.
Go Walk
- High rebound cushioning called 5GEN delivers pillow-soft comfort. Energy returns with each step.
- Goga Max Technology insoles cushion feet while energizing your every step.
- Comfort pillar shock absorbers flex and compress to help absorb impacts.
- The breathable two-tone mesh upper design provides cooling airflow.
For the most responsive cushioning, Go Walk may be a better choice.
But Ultra Flex offers unbeatable flexibility for natural foot movement over long distances.
Both excel at comfort and innovative cushioning systems.
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Traction and Durability Comparison
You’ll also notice differences in the traction and durability of Skechers Ultra Flex vs Go Walk:
| Feature | Ultra Flex | Go Walk |
| Outsole | Flex grooves allow flexibility while providing reliable traction | Pillars flex for comfort while also supplying traction |
| Durability | Lightly less durable over time due to flexible grooves | Slightly more durable pillar construction |
The Ultra Flex outsole utilizes horizontal and vertical flex grooves to supply flexibility for the foot to move naturally from heel to toe.
These flex grooves grip various surfaces surprisingly well, providing great traction even without an aggressive lug pattern.
However, these flex grooves may begin showing wear before other areas after prolonged use.
Comparatively, the Go Walk outsole relies on rows of TPU pillars for shock absorption and flexibility.
These pillars prove quite durable even over miles of walking while still gripping terrain effectively.
So if you’re looking for maximum durability over years of steady use, Go Walk edges out the competition.
But Ultra Flex offers impressively flexible wear for the first few seasons of break-in walking. Both excel at balancing flexibility and traction underfoot.
Arch Support Comparison
Another key distinction is arch support technologies:
- Ultra Flex: Midsole provides neutral medium arch support that best suits neutral pronators with medium to high arches.
- Go Walk: Comfort Pillar Technology gives ideal stabilization and support for mild overpronators with flat feet or fallen arches. Those with lower arches get proper stabilizing comfort.
Therefore, consider your arch type before deciding between the two Skechers models. Go Walk makes an excellent choice for flatter feet needing arch reinforcement and stability during each step.
Meanwhile, Ultra Flex matches medium to high arched feet wanting reliable shock absorption tailored to a neutral gait cycle.
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Sizing and Fit Comparison
When it comes to sizing and fit, Skechers walking shoes are known to run slightly large:
Ultra Flex
- Run 0.5 size large on average
- Wide toe box accommodates wider feet
- The Knit fabric upper is woven to stretch and conform closely to your foot’s shape
- Adjustable bungee-style laces allow customizing the snugness of the fit
Go Walk
- Typically run 1 full-size large
- More structured upper construction so less give than Ultra Flex
- Mesh fabric is still breathable and flexible enough for comfortable wear
With the above sizing guidelines and knowing your foot width and arch height, you can determine the optimal shoe size selection.
Trying both collections on at the store is ideal to personally gauge the fit and comfort.
The Ultra Flex may have a little more wiggle room for adjustable tightening, while Go Walk promotes a secure walking experience right out of the box after sizing up accordingly.
Style and Color Comparison
In terms of aesthetics and styling, Ultra Flex trends towards more athletic-inspired fashions while Go Walk promotes classic walking shoe looks:
| Style | Ultra Flex | Go Walk |
| Types | Sporty low-cut sneaker silhouettes | More standard walking shoe profile |
| Color Options | Vibrant pops of color like blue, pink, orange | Neutral black, white, and grey tones |
The Ultra Flex frequently incorporates vibrant athletic trim colors contrasted against darker uppers for eye-catching flair.
Comparatively, Go Walk collections opt for understated blacks, whites, and greys to blend into any wardrobe.
So the bold Ultra Flex appeals more towards younger generations and fitness lovers desiring those active styling cues.
Go Walk better suits mature buyers wanting simple walking shoes to match various casual outfits without drawing attention.
User Reviews and Rating
Skechers walking shoes earn overwhelmingly positive reviews for their comfort, cushioning support, and affordability.
Here is a comparison of what real customers are saying about Ultra Flex versus Go Walk:
| Metric | Ultra Flex | Go Walk |
| Overall Rating | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Review Counts | 3,200+ reviews | 7,600+ reviews |
| Sample Feedback | “Most comfortable shoes ever” “Like walking on air” | “So comfortable from the first walk” “Don’t need to break them in” |
As you can see, both collections receive rave reviews and high marks across online retailers and company websites.
The Go Walk line does pull in more than twice the review volume, indicating its popularity among walking shoe buyers.
But longer-term wearers of Ultra Flex also sing high praises about their continuous comfort.
It’s clear from thousands of reviews that both deliver outstanding cushioning and support mile after mile.
Price Comparison
When it comes to pricing, Ultra Flex models cost $5 to $10 more on average:
| Shoe Series | Average Price Range |
| Ultra Flex | $50 – $90+ |
| Go Walk | $45 – $80 |
But whichever you choose, both Skechers lines deliver impressive comfort and durability at reasonable price points – especially if snagged during sales.
Their affordable prices make these walking shoe technologies accessible for almost every budget.
Conclusion
In summary, Skechers Ultra Flex versus Go Walk shoes have unique strengths:
- Ultra Flex: Unparalleled flexibility from Flex Pillars to move naturally with the foot. Ideal for neutral gaits wanting freedom and comfortable wear.
- Go Walk: Superior comfort and support for overpronators. Cushioning pillars make them perfect for flatter arches needing reinforcement.
Other deciding factors come down to arch type preferences, fit needs, style choices, and budgetary constraints.
Knowing these personal requirements helps determine if Skechers Ultra Flex or Go Walk shoes make the best match.
Hopefully, this thorough comparison has provided the information you need to select between these top Skechers walking shoe contenders.
Visit your local retailers to try them on and experience first-hand how Ultra Flex and Go Walk collections can upgrade your walking comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Ultra Flex or Go Walk shoes better for plantar fasciitis?
Both Skechers models provide exceptional relief from plantar fasciitis pain in the heels and arches thanks to shock-absorbing midsoles and quality cushioning. However, Go Walk may have a slight edge for this condition with its Comfort Pillar technology engineered to alleviate pressure on impact zones. But Ultra Flex still makes a fine choice too.
Which is better for flat feet or overpronation?
For flat feet and overpronation, the Go Walk line takes the lead. Its additional stability technologies like pronation correction and comfort pillars supply essential arch support for those rolling ankles inward or having little arch structure. Ultra Flex promotes natural movement but has less correction for overpronation.
What shoes are more comfortable, Ultra Flex or Go Walk?
Both Skechers walking shoes deliver exceptional comfort and cushioning. But Go Walk shoes edge out Ultra Flex regarding that “walking on clouds” pillow-soft feel underfoot. Innovations like 5GEN cushioning and Goga Max insoles give Go Walk a plusher sensation some buyers prefer. But Ultra Flex still impresses with its knit fabric feel and Flex Pillars.
Do Ultra Flex stretch and form your feet over time?
Yes, the knit fabric upper and woven design of Ultra Flex shoes will stretch and conform closely to your foot’s shape for a sock-like fit. The adjustable bungee-style laces also permit customizing snugness even after initial break-in periods. So you get a truly customized walking experience.
Can nurses wear Skechers Go Walk shoes at work?
Yes, Skechers Go Walk makes exceptional nursing shoes or clogs to withstand long shifts on your feet. Features like slip resistance, arch reinforcement, and shock absorption help reduce fatigue and pain associated with 12+ hours of walking and standing. Just be aware that the mesh fabric uppers may not stand up to certain workplace fluid exposures.
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