Skechers vs Clarks

Shoes are an important part of any wardrobe.

The right pair can complete an outfit and make you look and feel great.

Skechers and Clarks are two popular shoe brands with distinct styles and features.

This comprehensive guide compares Skechers and Clarks shoes to help you decide which brand is better for your needs.

Skechers vs Clarks

The main difference between Skechers and Clarks is their brand heritage and style focus: Clarks is a classic British shoemaker known for its leather dress shoes, boots, and casual footwear with a traditional aesthetic.

While Skechers is a more modern brand offering a wide range of stylish and comfortable casual and performance shoes.

Before comparing the specifics, here is an overview of Skechers vs Clarks Shoes:

Feature	Skechers	Clarks
Company Overview	American footwear and lifestyle brand founded in 1992, known for its casual and comfortable shoes	British footwear company founded in 1825, known for its classic and comfortable shoes
Product Range	Casual shoes, athletic shoes, sandals, boots, apparel, and accessories	Casual shoes, boots, sandals, and accessories
Target Market	Casual consumers seeking comfortable and stylish shoes	Consumers seeking comfort, quality, and classic styles
Materials	Wide range of materials including leather, mesh, and synthetic fabrics	Leather, suede, and textiles
Comfort and Cushioning	Strong focus on comfort and memory foam cushioning for all-day wear	Emphasis on cushioning and support for all-day wear
Arch Support and Foot Health	Varied levels of arch support depending on the shoe model	Core focus on supporting the foot’s natural arch and promoting foot health
Traction and Grip	Varied levels of traction and grip depending on the shoe model	Moderate traction and grip for casual wear
Price Range	Affordable to mid-range prices, typically between $50 and $100	Mid-range to premium prices, typically between $70 and $150
Retail Presence	Widespread retail presence in malls, department stores, and dedicated Skechers stores	Available in department stores, specialty stores, and Clarks’ own retail stores
Brand Perception	Casual, comfortable, and affordable	Comfort, quality, and classic designs

This table highlights the key differences between Skechers and Clarks in terms of their company profiles, product offerings, target markets, materials, comfort features, arch support and foot health focus, traction, pricing, retail presence, and overall brand perception.

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Pros and Cons

Pros: Skechers

• Wide variety of styles for casual, athletic, and fashionable footwear
• Affordable prices across most product lines
• Innovative cushioning and comfort technologies
• Global brand with widespread retail availability

Cons: Skechers

• Can be perceived as a mass-market brand lacking prestige
• Some lower-priced models may use lower quality materials
• Limited options for formal or professional footwear
• May not be viewed as trendy or fashion-forward

Pros: Clarks

• Respected brand known for quality craftsmanship
• Focus on comfort and foot support, especially in casual and dress shoes
• Uses premium leathers and durable materials
• Offers more formal and professional footwear options

Cons: Clarks

• Generally more expensive than similar casual shoe brands
• Limited athletic and performance footwear options
• Styles can sometimes appear dated or unstylish
• Fewer color and design options compared to trendier brands

Which Shoes are Good for Different Activities

Shoes for Running

• Skechers: The Skechers Arch Fit line has some performance features like responsive midsoles, but they are not dedicated elite running shoes.
• Clarks: Clarks is primarily a casual shoe brand and does not specialize in technical running shoes.

Shoes for Walking

• Skechers: The Goga Mat and Arch Fit lines offer excellent cushioning, arch support, and comfort tailored for walking.
• Clarks: Clarks is well-known for their comfortable casual walking shoes with decent cushioning and support.

Shoes for Standing All Day

• Skechers: Shoes like the Skechers Work line with Goga Mat cushioned insoles are designed specifically for prolonged standing comfort.
• Clarks: While Clarks makes comfortable casual shoes, they don’t have technical comfort features engineered for extensive standing like Skechers’ specialized lines.

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

Overview of Skechers and Clarks

Skechers

Founded in 1992, Skechers is an American footwear company headquartered in Manhattan Beach, California. They are known for their wide range of casual and athletic shoes. Some key facts about Skechers:

• Mass market brand with shoes priced $40-$120
• Third largest athletic footwear brand in the US
• Diverse product lines including sneakers, sandals, boots, dress shoes
• Technology-focused with memory foam, air-cooled memory foam, etc.
• Endorsed by celebrities like Demi Lovato, Camila Cabello

Clarks

Clarks is a British shoe manufacturer founded in 1825. Headquartered in Somerset, England, they are known for comfortable leather shoes. Some quick facts:

• Higher-end, classic styles priced $100-$200
• Largest shoe brand in the UK
• Known for Original line: Desert Boot, Wallabee, etc.
• Uses innovative comfort technologies like Ortholite insoles
• Endorsed by actors like Amy Adams, Radhika Apte

Now that you know a bit about each brand, let’s compare them in depth across several factors:

Shoe Types Offered

Skechers

Skechers has an incredibly diverse product line with shoes for men, women, and kids. Some of their most popular categories include:

• Sneakers: From skater shoes to athletic sneakers, they have thousands of casual styles. Popular examples are the D’Lites and Energy afterburn.
• Sandals: Ranging from sporty slide sandals to sophisticated strappy styles. The Reggae line is a bestseller.
• Boots: Casual options like Chelsea boots and rugged hiker boots in leather, suede, and knits.
• Dress Shoes: Oxfords, loafers, dress boots suited for business attire. The Segment line is popular.
• Work Shoes: Slip-resistant clogs, boots, and athletic shoes for jobs requiring foot safety.
• Walking Shoes: Supportive slip-on and lace-up shoes optimized for walking with cushioning. The Go Walk line is beloved.

In addition to shoes, they sell apparel, bags, socks, masks, and accessories allowing you to get a full athleisure outfit.

Clarks

are more focused on leather shoes and have the following main categories:

• Originals: Their most famous silhouettes like the Desert Boot, Wallabee, and Trigenic.
• Boots: Choices range from ankle booties to knee-high riding boots in leather, suede, and nubuck.
• Sandals: Classically styled flat sandals and heeled options featuring ankle straps or toe loops.
• Dress Shoes: Timeless Oxfords, loafers, monk strap shoes, wedges and high heels.
• Casual Shoes: Slip-on sneakers, espadrilles, mules and slippers with Ortholite insoles.
• Wide Fit Shoes: Selection of stylish shoes in multiple width options.

While smaller than Skechers, they target their offerings towards comfortable leather shoes across casual, dressy, and business needs.

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Size Range

Skechers and Clarks both cater to men and women in an extensive range of foot sizes.

Skechers

• Men’s sizes: 6 – 13, 14, 15 regular width
• Men’s wide sizes: 7 – 13, 14, 15 wide and XW widths
• Women’s sizes: 5 – 11 regular width
• Women’s wide sizes: 6 – 11 wide and WW widths

They also have kids sizes ranging from infant to youth. The generous size range ensures most people can find the right fit.

Clarks

• Men’s sizes: 6 – 13, 14 regular width
• Men’s wide sizes: 7 – 13, 14 wide and 2E widths
• Women’s sizes: 4 – 12 regular width
• Women’s wide sizes: 5 – 12 wide and 2E widths

Clarks also offers children’s sizes from toddlers to kids. Plus they have an extensive in many styles.

Both brands can comfortably accommodate narrow to wide feet. Skechers has more XW options for extra wide feet.

Width Options

In addition to a spectrum of sizes, having multiple-width fittings ensures a good fit.

Skechers

Skechers labels their width options as:

• Medium width: D standard for men, B standard for women
• Wide width: 2E for men and women
• Extra wide: 4E for men and women

The regular and wide options are available in most styles. Extra wide is offered on select shoe lines.

Clarks

Clark uses the British sizing method with these width indicators:

• Medium width: G for men, D for women
• Wide width: H for men, E for women
• Extra wide: K for men, H for women

Many of their shoes come in medium and wide widths. For extra wide feet, their has widths up to 6E.

For both brands, trying shoes in-store is recommended to get the ideal fit.

Style Variety

When it comes to shoe styles, both brands offer abundant options but with differing aesthetics.

Skechers

As a younger sporty brand, Skechers has a casual vibe with many athletic styles. Some defining features include:

• Athletic sneakers in leather, mesh, and knits
• Chunky soles and visible cushioning
• Sporty straps, toggles, and laces
• Bold pops of color and prints
• Iridescent metallic accents

They have trendy styles while also offering professional options like oxfords and loafers. Their line has roomier silhouettes.

Clarks

With its British heritage, Clarks has more traditional styling with some defining characteristics:

• Handcrafted leather shoes
• Understated silhouettes like loafers, and ankle boots
• Subtle stitching accents and leather finishes
• Professional, versatile styles for work
• Elegant details like buckles, and straps, jewelry accents
• Neutral tones of black, brown, tan, navy

Their classics like Wallabees and Desert Boots have iconic smart-casual vibes. The line modernizes their shoemaking.

Comfort Features

With everyone spending so much time on their feet, comfort has become paramount in footwear. Here is how Skechers and Clarks shoes deliver cushioning and support.

Skechers Comfort Technologies

• Air Cooled Memory Foam: Breathable foam molds to feet with a cooling effect.
• Goga Max: High rebound cushioning insoles for energy return.
• Hyper Burst: Micropods provide responsive cushioning and stability.
• FlexSole: Flexible shock-absorbing midsole.
• Arch Fit: Contoured arch support.

Clarks Comfort Technologies

• OrthoLite: Moisture-wicking antimicrobial insoles.
• Ultra Flex: Flexible grooved outsoles.
• CloudSteppers: Soft cushioning for walking.
• Clarks Plus: Ergonomic comfort with heel cushioning.
• Bendables: Flexible construction.

Both brands use quality materials and innovative features to provide comfort, though Skechers has a greater athletic focus.

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Traction & Durability

Sturdy construction and grippy soles are important in both work and casual settings.

Skechers Traction & Durability

• Durable rubber traction outsoles
• Reinforced toe and heel for protection
• Shock absorbing midsoles
• Leather, synthetic leather, canvas, mesh uppers
• Water-resistant materials on some styles
• Electrical hazard protection on work shoes

Clarks Traction & Durability

• Hard wearing rubber outsoles
• Many styles feature Vibram outsoles for traction
• Leather and suede uppers
• Reinforced stitching for longevity
• Moisture wicking linings
• Slip resistant soles on some shoes

Both brands use quality materials ensuring traction and durability for years of wear.

Arch Support

Proper arch support prevents injuries and fatigue by stabilizing feet.

Skechers Arch Support

• Gel-infused memory foam insoles
• Removable cushioned insoles on some styles
• Contoured arch support in midsoles
• Podded outsoles flex with feet

Clarks Arch Support

• Anatomical OrthoLite insoles
• EVA and cork footbeds mold to feet
• Combination lasts for arch shaping
• Rounded heel profiles for stability
• Removable insoles on some styles

Clarks focuses more on molded arch support while Skechers offers cushioning through insoles and midsoles. Those needing orthotics may prefer Clark contoured lasts.

Cushioning & Shock Absorption

Cushioning absorbs impact while shock absorption reduces force through feet.

Skechers Cushioning & Shock Absorption

• Air Cooled Memory Foam
• Ultra Go cushioning
• FlexSole shock absorbing midsole
• Goga Max high rebound insole
• Podded flexible outsoles

Clarks Cushioning & Shock Absorption

• OrthoLite Impressions insoles
• Soft cushioned footbeds
• EVA midsoles absorb shock
• Air circulation from perforated insoles
• Flexible grooved outsoles

Skechers uses visible cushioning technology like air cooled foam while Clarks relies more on classic methods like EVA midsoles. Both work to prevent foot pain.

Breathability

With sweaty feet being a nuisance, breathability is a key comfort factor.

Skechers Breathability

• Mesh fabric panels and linings
• Air Cooled Memory Foam
• Ventilated soles
• Open knit textile uppers

Clarks Breathability

• Leather uppers allow air flow
• Perforated footbeds
• Moisture wicking OrthoLite insoles
• Lined with breathable materials

Clarks’ leather shoes offer more innate breathability while Skechers uses mesh fabrics and ventilated soles. Those needing heat relief may prefer Skechers more open designs.

Weight

The weight of shoes affects mobility and fatigue over long periods.

Skechers Weight

• Athletic and casual styles weigh 10-15 oz
• Dress shoes and boots weigh 15-20 oz
• Lightweight injected midsoles
• Open knit fabrics reduce weight

Clarks Weight

• Leather shoes tend to weigh 15-22 oz
• Rubber outsoles add weight
• Loafers and casuals 10-15 oz
• Heeled sandals and boots 20 oz+

Skechers sporty designs with knits and open weaves reduce overall weight. Clarks’ leather dress shoes weigh a bit more. For lightweight mobility, Skechers has the advantage.

Flexibility

Flexible soles allow natural foot movement while walking.

Skechers Flexibility

• FlexSole flexible midsole
• FlexPillar outsole flex points
• Ultra Flex outsole grooves
• Segmented midsole construction

Clarks Flexibility

• FlexZone with flex grooves
• TR outsoles with 180° pivot points
• Bendables flexible construction
• Anatomical flex patterns

Both brands engineer flexibility into outsoles for comfort. Skechers tends to have more visibly flexible soles.

Pricing

With both being established brands, Skechers and Clarks have competitive pricing.

Skechers Price Range

• Casual sneakers: $50 – $80
• Performance sport: $70 – $100
• Work shoes: $50 – $120
• Boots: $70 – $120
• Dress shoes: $80 – $100

Clarks Price Range

• Casual shoes: $100 – $150
• Sandals: $60 – $120
• Dress shoes: $130 – $160
• Boots: $150 – $200

Skechers positions itself as an affordable brand while Clarks’ leather craftsmanship comes at a higher price. Relaxed styles like sneakers are cheaper than heeled boots in both brands.

User Review

Feature	Rating	Skechers	Clarks
Comfort	⭐⭐⭐⭐✰	Many users find Skechers very comfortable for long term wear. The memory foam insoles provide good cushioning and support. Some models may require breaking in.	Clarks shoes are known for providing excellent comfort, especially for all day wear. The OrthoLite® footbed offers cushioning and most styles do not require break-in time.
Fit	⭐⭐⭐⭐✰	Skechers run true to size but some users find certain styles to be narrow. There are wide size options available for some models.	Clarks are designed with standard and wide width options for most styles. Many users say Clarks shoes fit well and as expected.
Style	⭐⭐⭐⭐✰	Skechers offer many athleisure, casual lifestyle, walking, and athletic styles. Lots of fun colors and prints available.	While focused on comfort, Clarks also offers many stylish options from sandals to boots and dress shoes with classic clean lines.
Durability	⭐⭐⭐⭐✰	Skechers use quality materials but some users notice tread or foam cushioning wearing down over time with heavy use.	Clarks shoes are well-made with stitched leather uppers and durable rubber soles. Most users get years of wear before any issues arise.
Price	⭐⭐⭐⭐✰	Skechers provide excellent value with most styles under $100. Frequent sales and specials also available on already affordable shoes.	While known for quality, Clarks shoes are priced very reasonably with many options under or around $100. Sales can bring higher end styles into an affordable range.

Overall, both Skechers and Clarks are highly regarded footwear brands known for providing comfortable and supportive shoes using quality materials and excellent construction methods. Skechers have more casual and athletic styles while Clarks shoes lean more business casual and dressy. Choose the brand that offers the right mix of comfort, style and value you prefer!

Sustainability

Eco-conscious production benefits the planet while synthetic vegan materials appeal to some buyers.

Skechers Sustainability

• Limited eco-friendly initiatives
• Some animal-free vegan options
• Mainly synthetic fabrics and vegan uppers
• Limited use of recycled and organic materials

Clarks Sustainability

• Natural materials like leather, wool, cork
• Plant Tannery oak-bark tanning
• Bio-based algae insoles
• Wood and paper footbed options
• Commitment to responsible sourcing

As a leather company, Clarks uses more sustainable natural materials while Skechers has minimal green focus but lots of vegan options.

Which Brand is Best For Your Needs?

Determining which brand fits your lifestyle requires analyzing your specific wants and needs. Here are some key questions to consider:

Casual Style

Do you need laidback sneakers and sandals? Skechers has endless sporty options from flats to chunky platforms perfect for relaxed activities.

Workplace Polish

Does your office call for professional oxfords and loafers? Clarks has timeless leather styles to elevate business and formal wear.

Athletic Performance

Are you looking for serious workout shoes? With running, training, and hiking shoes, Skechers excels at active support.

Comfort Features

Do orthotics or foot pain require anatomical arch support and cushioning? Clarks’ contoured footbeds provide ergonomic comfort.

Wide Widths

Do wide or extra wide widths fit you best? Skechers has footwear in up to 4E men’s and women’s widths.

Natural Materials

Do you prefer sustainable leather and natural materials? Clarks crafts shoes using oak bark tanned leathers.

Budget Conscious

Are you looking for affordable prices under $100? Skechers casual sneakers and sandals offer the best value.

Luxury Quality

Do you want high-end materials with premium construction? The Clarks Originals showcase quality craftsmanship.

Conclusion

While both brands make comfortable attractive footwear, they excel in different areas.

Skechers is the perfect choice for casual weekends, travel, and athletic activities with endless sporty styles featuring innovative comfort technologies at affordable prices.

Clarks shine for work, business occasions, and smart casual gatherings with elegantly crafted leather shoes offering cushioned arch support and professional polish.

The ideal solution is investing in both brands: Skechers for your relaxed adventures and Clarks when style and decorum matter. With a selection of shoes from these brands, you’ll be comfortably equipped for every occasion!

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