Skechers vs Decathlon Shoes – Which Brand Wins?

Finding comfortable shoes that suit your lifestyle is crucial for keeping your feet happy.

Two popular and affordable comfort shoe brands are Skechers and Decathlon.

But with so many cushioned models to choose from, which is better?

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll compare Skechers and Decathlon shoes across a variety of factors related to comfort. Read on to learn how cushioning, arch support, fit, weight, breathability, and more stack up between the two brands.

Skechers vs Decathlon

The main difference between Skechers and Decathlon is that Skechers is a footwear brand specializing in casual and athletic shoes.

Both Decathlon is a sports retail chain offering a wide range of sporting goods and apparel for various activities.

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

Aspect	Skechers	Decathlon
Brand Origin	Founded in 1992 in Manhattan Beach, California, USA	Founded in 1976 in Villeneuve-d’Ascq, France
Brand Focus	Lifestyle, athletic, and casual footwear	Sporting goods and equipment for various sports and activities
Popular Lines	Skechers D’Lites, Skechers GOwalk, Skechers Max Cushioning, Skechers Memory Foam	Decathlon’s own in-house brands like Kalenji, B’Twin, Kipsta, Quechua, and more
Materials	Synthetic uppers, rubber soles, memory foam insoles	Various materials based on the specific product and sport
Sizing	Offered in a wide range of sizes for men, women, and children	Offered in a range of sizes for men, women, and children, based on the specific product and sport
Fit	Generally wider and more comfortable fit	Tailored to the specific sport and activity, ranging from snug to relaxed fits
Cushioning	Emphasis on cushioning and comfort	Cushioning and support tailored to the specific sport and activity
Design	Variety of styles, including athletic, casual, and sandals	Focused on functional and performance-oriented designs for various sports
Collaborations	Frequent collaborations with celebrities and brands	No significant collaborations, focus on in-house brands
Pricing	Affordable, ranging from $40 to $100	Affordable to mid-range, depending on the product and sport
Target Market	Broad appeal to various age groups and lifestyles	Focused on athletes and sports enthusiasts across various disciplines
Sustainability	Some eco-friendly initiatives and materials used	Emphasis on sustainable and eco-friendly practices in product development
Customer Base	Diverse, ranging from casual wearers to athletes	Sports enthusiasts, athletes, and families looking for affordable sporting goods

In summary, Skechers and Decathlon across various aspects, including brand origin, focus, popular lines, materials, sizing, fit, cushioning, design, collaborations, pricing, target market, sustainability, and customer base. It highlights the key differences between Skechers, a lifestyle and athletic footwear brand, and Decathlon, a sporting goods retailer focused on equipment for various sports and activities.

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Pros and Cons

Pros: Skechers

• Widely recognized brand with strong reputation
• Excellent cushioning and comfort technologies
• Diverse range of casual, athletic, and work styles
• Available at major retailers worldwide

Cons: Skechers

• Generally more expensive than Decathlon
• May not have the same level of technical features as some athletic specialists

Pros: Decathlon

• Very affordable price point for budget shoppers
• Focus on providing good value for money
• Decent quality for basic athletic and casual shoes
• Extensive selection available at Decathlon stores

Cons: Decathlon

• Brand recognition and reputation not as strong
• Construction and materials may not be as durable
• Limited availability outside of Decathlon retail stores

Which Shoes are Good for Different Activities

Shoes for Running

• Skechers has dedicated running shoe lines like the GOrun and Max Road series. These offer features like lightweight mesh uppers, responsive cushioning systems (e.g., Hyper Burst, Ultra Go), and durable rubber outsoles for traction.
• Decathlon’s running shoe offerings include the Kalenji and Newfeel lines. They prioritize factors like cushioning, breathability, and grip, often at more affordable prices compared to premium brands.

Shoes for Walking

• Skechers has comfortable walking shoes like the Go Walk and Arch Fit lines, with responsive cushioning, flexible soles, and supportive arches to reduce foot fatigue.
• Decathlon offers walking shoes under brands like Newfeel and Oxypas, designed for comfort and support during extended periods on your feet.

Shoes for Standing All Day

• Skechers’ Work line includes shoes with memory foam insoles, shock-absorbing midsoles, and slip-resistant outsoles, ideal for jobs that require prolonged standing.
• Decathlon has occupational footwear lines like Oxypas and Outbasic, focusing on features like cushioning, arch support, and slip resistance for those who spend long hours standing.

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

Cushioning and Impact Absorption

Cushioning is key for shock absorption and comfort while walking and standing. Here’s how the cushioning technologies compare:

Skechers Cushioning

• Ultra Go foam midsoles for responsiveness
• Goga Mat insoles for extra cushioning
• Air Cooled Memory Foam in some styles
• Impact absorption via Resalyte foam

Decathlon Cushioning

• Heel cushions absorb shock
• EVA foam midsoles mold to feet
• Memory foam insoles on some models
• Air cushion bubbles in some soles

Both use EVA foam cores with extra cushioning features like memory foam. Skechers offers more proprietary systems, but Decathlon has basics covered for shock absorption.

Cushioning Comparison

Skechers	Decathlon
Ultra Go responsive foam	EVA foam midsoles
Goga Mat insoles	Memory foam insoles on some
Air Cooled Memory Foam on some	Heel cushions absorb shock
Resalyte foam absorbs impact	Air cushion bubbles on some

Arch Support: Skechers vs Dr Scholl’s

Arch support promotes alignment and reduces strain on feet. Here is how the brands compare:

Skechers Arch Support

• Medium arch support
• Resalyte foam follows an arch shape
• Removable Arch Fit insoles on some
• Arch Fit shoes have built-in support

Decathlon Arch Support

• Anatomic foam insoles
• Curved last shapes mimic arches
• Reinforced arch areas on some
• Removable footbeds on many

Decathlon uses curved lasts and anatomic shaping for medium arch support. Skechers offers removable support features but isn’t molded as specifically.

Arch Support Comparison

Skechers	Decathlon
Medium arch support	Anatomic foam footbeds
Resalyte foam arches	Curved lasts mimic arches
Removable arch-fit insoles	Reinforced arches on some
Arch Fit has built-in support	Removable footbeds on many

Fit and Sizing

An ideal fit eliminates slippage, rubbing, and pressure points. Here is how fit compares:

Skechers Fit

• Runs true-to-size
• Wide width options available
• The roomy toe box on most styles
• Mesh fabric uppers are flexible

Decathlon Fit

• Runs large, consider sizing down
• Only standard widths
• The toe box roomy on some styles
• Mesh/knit fabrics on some models

Skechers excels at having extended widths and roomy toe boxes. Decathlon runs larger but has breathable mesh uppers on many shoes. Overall, Skechers may fit more foot shapes comfortably.

Fit Comparison

Skechers	Decathlon
Runs true-to-size	Runs large, size down
Wide width options	Only standard widths
Roomy toe box	Roomier toes on some
Mesh fabric uppers	Mesh/knit fabrics on some

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Weight

Less shoe weight prevents fatigue from lugging around heavy shoes. Here’s how they compare:

Skechers Weight

• Go line is very lightweight at 6-11 oz
• Bulkier shoes like work styles heavier
• Foam and mesh reduce weight
• Athletic/walking around 9-12 oz

Decathlon Weight

• Lightweight at 5-12 oz
• Streamlined walking and runner’s lighter
• Athletic shoes 8-12 oz
• Casuals and work at 9-15 oz

Both keep athletic and walking styles lightweight. Decathlon sneakers skew slightly lighter while Skecher’s casual range is lighter. Very comparable weights overall.

Weight Comparison

Skechers	Decathlon
Go line 6-11 oz	Lightweight 5-12 oz range
Heavier work styles	Streamlined walking/runner’s light
Foam and mesh reduce weight	Athletic 8-12 oz
Athletic/walking 9-12 oz	Casual and work 9-15 oz

Breathability: Skechers vs Dr Scholl’s

Breathability prevents hot, sweaty feet by allowing airflow. Here is how they compare:

Skechers Breathability

• Mesh fabric uppers
• Perforations in some soles
• Moisture-wicking linings
• Some waterproof yet breathable

Decathlon Breathability

• Mesh fabric on most models
• Airflow channels in some soles
• Linings wick moisture on many
• Waterproof styles lack ventilation

Both companies use lots of mesh and moisture-wicking linings for ventilation. Skechers offers some waterproof yet breathable models, while Decathlon’s waterproofing reduces breathability.

Breathability Comparison

Skechers	Decathlon
Mesh fabric uppers	Mesh fabrics on most
Perforated soles on some	Airflow sole channels on some
Moisture-wicking linings	Linings wick moisture on many
Some waterproof yet breathable	Waterproof lacks ventilation

Style Variety

Multiple style options ensure you find comfortable shoes for every need. Here is how the brands’ offerings compare:

Skechers Style Variety

• Athletic sneakers
• Dressy options like loafers
• Trendy slip-ons and knits
• Walking/hiking silhouettes
• Clogs and work styles

Decathlon Style Variety

• Running and gym shoes
• Hiking and trekking boots
• Sandals and slides
• Casual sneakers
• Minimal dress/work shoes

Skechers has far more lifestyle variety from athleisure to dressy occasions. Decathlon focuses on performance athletic and casual wear with fewer dress options.

Style Variety Comparison

Skechers	Decathlon
Athletic sneakers	Running and gym shoes
Loafers and dressy options	Minimal dress/work shoes
Trendy casual slip-ons, knits	Sandals and slides
Walking/hiking shoes	Hiking and trekking boots
Clogs and work shoes	Casual sneakers

Durability and Longevity

Durability impacts the value and longevity of comfortable shoes. Here’s how they compare:

Skechers Durability

• Varying durability concerns
• Soles wear faster than expected
• Mesh tears over time
• Adhesive failures on some models

Decathlon Durability

• Excellent longevity and construction
• Soles withstand daily wear
• Mesh/leather uppers are quite durable
• Minimal durability complaints

Decathlon shoes are very well-made with sturdy materials that hold up for years. Skecher’s use of lightweight fabrics comes at the cost of reduced durability over time.

Durability Comparison

Skechers	Decathlon
Varying durability concerns	Excellent longevity
Soles wear quickly	Soles withstand wear
Mesh tears over time	Mesh/leather durable uppers
Some glue failures	Minimal durability issues

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Cost and Value

You want comfort without breaking the bank. Here’s how prices stack up:

Skechers Cost

• Range from $50-$160
• Typical $50-$120
• Best value under $120
• Sales around 30% off

Decathlon Cost

• Inexpensive range $20-$100
• Most $30-$80
• Outstanding value for money
• Frequent sales and deals

Decathlon shoes are an exceptional value with very affordable pricing. Skechers discounts help offset some higher prices. Both deliver comfort at a reasonable cost.

Cost Comparison

Skechers	Decathlon
Range $50-$160	Inexpensive $20-$100 range
Typical $50-$120	Most $30-$80
Best value under $120	Outstanding value for money
Sales around 30% off	Frequent sales/deals

User Reviews

Product	User Review	Rating
Skechers Go Walk 5 Woven Mesh Sneakers	“These Skechers are the most comfortable shoes I’ve ever owned! The memory foam insole feels like walking on clouds. They are lightweight and breathable, perfect for long walks or being on your feet all day. The only downside is that they don’t have much arch support.”	⭐⭐⭐⭐✰
Decathlon Arpenaz 100 Hiking Shoes	“Great value for the money! These hiking shoes from Decathlon have surprised me with their quality and durability. The grippy soles give good traction on trails. They needed a short break-in period, but now they are comfortable for day hikes. Not as cushiony as running shoes, but that’s to be expected for a hiking shoe in this price range.”	⭐⭐⭐⭐✰
Skechers Max Cushioning Elite Walking Sneakers	“The cushioning is divine! I can walk for miles in these Skechers without any foot fatigue. They have a roomy toe box which is great for my wide feet. However, they run a bit big so I had to get a half size smaller than usual. Not very breathable for summer use.”	⭐⭐⭐⭐✰
Decathlon Arpenaz 100 Low Hiking Shoes	“These were a great budget buy for hiking and camping trips. They have held up really well after lots of rugged use on the trails. They protect my ankles and have excellent grip, but can feel a bit stiff until fully broken in. Not the most stylish, but who cares when you’re out on the trail!”	⭐⭐⭐⭐✰
Skechers Max Cushioning Premier Sneakers	“Absolutely the most comfortable sneakers I’ve ever worn! The air-cooled memory foam insole provides incredible cushioning. They are lightweight yet supportive. I can wear them all day with no foot pain. Highly recommended for anyone on their feet a lot.”	⭐⭐⭐⭐✰
Decathlon Quechua Arpenaz 500 Hiking Boots	“These affordable hiking boots from Decathlon exceeded my expectations. They are waterproof and have great ankle support. The Vibram soles grip well on slippery surfaces. It took some time to break them in, but now they are my go-to boots for backpacking trips. Outstanding value!”	⭐⭐⭐⭐✰

Skechers User Reviews:

• “The memory foam insoles make these the most comfortable shoes for all-day wear.”
• “Not great for wide feet. The knit upper seems tighter than expected.”
• “Great looking shoes that don’t need much break-in time.”

Decathlon User Reviews:

• “Amazing quality for discount athletic shoes.”
• “The tread wore down faster than expected, but for $30 can’t really complain.”
• “Don’t provide the best arch or ankle support, but decent for my gym workouts.”

The Verdict: Skechers vs Decathlon for Comfort

When comparing overall comfort, Decathlon competes surprisingly well with Skechers. The brands are evenly matched for cushioning, weight, and breathability. Decathlon excels in arch support, durability, and cost savings. Skechers offer more style variety and fit for wider feet.

Ultimately, the choice comes down to your needs:

• For superior value, Decathlon wins
• For versatile style options, choose Skechers
• For roomier toe boxes, Skechers is better
• For molded arch support, Decathlon shoes excel

Both companies make quality, budget-friendly comfortable shoes. Decide what matters most to your feet to pick the best option for your needs. With these comparisons in mind, you can confidently find affordable comfortable shoes to keep your feet happy all day long.

Conclusion

Finding affordable shoes that keep your feet comfortable all day can seem tricky. But popular brands Skechers and Decathlon both offer quality comfort features at reasonable price points. Comparing factors like cushioning, support, fit, and breathability reveals the strengths of each brand. The right choice ultimately depends on your foot shape, needs, and budget. Use these comparisons to make an informed decision about comfy shoes for all your adventures!

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