When it comes to comfortable shoes, two major brands always seem to come up in conversation – Skechers and Dr. Scholl’s.
Both companies are well known for prioritizing comfort in their shoe designs.
But with so many similar models on the market, how do you choose between them?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll compare Skechers and Dr. Scholl’s shoes across a variety of factors related to comfort. We’ll look at things like cushioning, arch support, fit, weight, breathability, and more. By the end, you’ll have a clear sense of which brand best matches your needs and preferences for all-day wear.
Skechers vs Dr. Scholl’s
The main difference between Skechers and Dr. Scholl’s is their product focus. While Skechers is a lifestyle and performance footwear brand, Dr. Scholl’s specializes in foot care products, insoles, and therapeutic footwear designed to alleviate foot pain and promote foot health.
Before comparing the specifics, here is an overview of Skechers vs Dr. Scholl’s Shoes:
| Criteria | Skechers | Dr. Scholl’s |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Footwear company | Footcare and footwear company |
| Origin | United States | United States |
| Founded | 1992 | 1904 |
| Founder(s) | Robert Greenberg | William Mathias Scholl |
| Headquarters | Manhattan Beach, California | Willowbrook, Illinois |
| Products/Services | Lifestyle and performance footwear, apparel, and accessories | Foot care products, insoles, orthotics, sandals, shoes |
| Target Audience | General public | People with foot problems or concerns about foot health |
| Focus | Fashion, athletics | Foot health and comfort |
| Key Products | Sneakers, casual shoes, sandals, apparel | Insoles, orthotics, foot care products, comfortable shoes |
| Materials | Various materials like leather, synthetic, mesh | Focus on materials that promote foot health |
| Design Philosophy | Aesthetic appeal, athletic performance | Comfort, support, relief from foot pain |
| Retail Presence | Extensive retail stores and online presence | Retail stores, online presence, and pharmacies |
| Price Range | Moderate to high | Moderate |
| Revenue (2022) | $6.29 billion | $837 million |
| Employees | Around 4,000 | Around 3,500 |
This table provides a detailed comparison between Skechers, a footwear company focused on fashion and athletics, and Dr. Scholl’s, a footcare and footwear company that prioritizes foot health and comfort. The table highlights their differences in target audience, product focus, design philosophy, materials, retail presence, price range, revenue, and number of employees.
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Pros and Cons
Pros: Skechers
- Offers a wide variety of athletic and casual shoes
- More stylish and fashionable designs
- Some models designed for specific activities like running or walking
Cons: Skechers
- Not all models prioritize orthopedic support
- Can be more expensive than some Dr. Scholl’s options
Pros: Dr. Scholl’s
- Focused on comfort and foot health
- Designed with orthotic support and cushioning
- Often recommended by podiatrists for foot issues
- Affordable pricing
Cons: Dr. Scholl’s
- Limited style options, primarily focused on comfort
- May not be as durable as some athletic shoes
- Not designed for high-impact activities
Which is Good for Different Activities
Shoes for Running
- Skechers: Skechers offers a range of running shoes designed with features like responsive cushioning, lightweight materials, and stability elements to provide a comfortable and supportive ride for runners.
- Dr. Scholl’s: While Dr. Scholl’s is known for its foot care products and insoles, the brand doesn’t have a strong presence in the performance running shoe market. Most Dr. Scholl’s shoes are geared towards casual wear and walking.
Shoes for Walking
- Skechers: Skechers has a strong reputation for comfortable walking shoes. Many Skechers models feature generous cushioning, arch support, and lightweight constructions that make them suitable for extended periods of walking.
- Dr. Scholl’s: Dr. Scholl’s offers a range of walking shoes designed with features like cushioned insoles, arch support, and shock absorption to promote comfort and foot health during walking.
Shoes for Standing All Day
- Skechers: Skechers offers a range of shoes designed specifically for prolonged standing, with features like memory foam insoles, arch support, and shock-absorbing midsoles. These shoes can help alleviate foot, leg, and back pain during extended periods of standing.
- Dr. Scholl’s: Dr. Scholl’s is a popular choice for shoes designed for standing all day. Many of their shoes feature cushioned footbeds, arch support, and shock-absorbing technologies to provide comfort and support during prolonged periods of standing.
Now that you have an overview of Skechers vs Dr. Scholl’s Shoes differences, read on for an in-depth feature-by-feature comparison.
Cushioning and Impact Absorption
Cushioning is one of the most important factors when it comes to comfortable shoes. Both Skechers and Dr. Scholl use proprietary materials and designs to cushion your feet and absorb impact.
Skechers Cushioning
Many Skechers shoes feature the brand’s Ultra Go cushioning system. This uses a high-rebound foam material called Resalyte in the midsole. It absorbs impact and distributes weight evenly across the shoe. The Ultra Go system also includes a shock-absorbing Goga Mat insole.
Some high-performance Skechers models contain air-cooled memory foam for extra cushioning. The Skechers Arch Fit system has cushioning that mimics the arch of your foot for support.
Dr. Scholl’s Cushioning
Dr. Scholl’s is renowned for its cushioning technologies. Key options include:
- Massaging Gel Technology: Gel-infused cushions soften the impact
- Cool Fit memory foam: Provides customized molding and rebound
- Double Air-Pillo insoles: Extra arch support and resilience
- Shock Guard Technology: Absorbs jolts in the heel
In general, Skechers tends to use more lightweight, responsive foams while Dr. Scholl’s incorporates advanced comfort features like memory foam and gel. Both give excellent cushioning, but Dr. Scholl’s may have a slight edge for those wanting plush, pillow-like softness underfoot.
Cushioning Comparison
| Skechers | Dr. Scholl’s |
| Ultra Go lightweight, responsive cushioning | Gel, memory foam, and air pillow options |
| Resalyte, Goga Mat impact absorption | Massaging gel and shock absorption |
| Memory foam in some models | Memory foam in most models |
Arch Support: Skechers vs Dr Scholl’s
Proper arch support prevents foot pain and fatigue. Here’s how the two brands compare when it comes to supporting arches:
Skechers Arch Support
- Designed for medium arch heights
- Resalyte midsole follows a natural arch shape
- Some models have a Removable Arch Fit insole
- Skechers Arch Fit shoes have specialized support
Dr. Scholl’s Arch Support
- Built-in arch support in all shoes
- Gel-cushioned options for low arches
- Air Pillo insoles provide extra arch cushioning
- Custom Fit orthotics can be inserted for personal arch needs
Dr. Scholl’s specialized orthopedic background gives them an edge for customized arch support. They accommodate both high and low arches better out of the box. But Skechers provides decent mid-level support.
Arch Support Comparison
| Skechers | Dr. Scholl’s |
| Medium arch support | All arch types supported |
| Resalyte midsole arch shape | Gel technology for low arches |
| Removable Arch Fit insole | Air Pillo insoles cushion arches |
| Arch Fit shoes target support | Custom orthotics can be inserted |
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Fit and Sizing
The right fit ensures your shoes hug your foot comfortably without pinching or pressure points. Here is how Skechers and Dr. Scholl’s compare when it comes to fit:
Skechers Fit
- Medium to wide width options
- The roomy toe box in most styles
- Mesh uppers are flexible
- Some “slip-on” models with stretchy fabric
- True to size overall
Dr. Scholl’s Fit
- Mainly medium widths
- Not designed for narrow feet
- Wider toe box and forefoot
- Cushioned memory foam conforms to foot shape
- Runs large, consider sizing down
Skechers excels at having roomy, flexible uppers for toes to splay. Dr. Scholl’s runs a bit large but offers cushy foam that custom-fits your foot. Those with wide feet may prefer Skechers’ extended width availability.
Fit Comparison
| Skechers | Dr. Scholl’s |
| Medium to wide widths | Mainly medium width |
| Roomy toe box | Wider toe box and forefoot |
| Mesh uppers are flexible | Memory foam conforms to the foot |
| True to size | Runs large, size down |
Weight: Skechers vs Dr Scholl’s
The weight of a shoe affects comfort – heavy shoes can cause fatigue while you walk. Here is how Skechers and Dr. Scholl’s shoes compare:
Skechers Weight
- Go and Flex lines are lightweight at 6-11 oz
- Chunkier styles like work shoes are heavier
- Foam and mesh used to reduce weight
- Athletic and walking shoes weigh 9-12 oz
Dr. Scholl’s Weight
- Most shoes are 10-15 oz
- Heavier than Skechers on average
- Leather, padding, and gel add weight
- Some athletic/walking under 10 oz
- Work shoes 15-20 oz
Skechers focuses more on lightweight designs for athletic, casual, and walking shoes. Dr. Scholl’s uses weightier materials for cushioning and support, with fewer ultralight styles.
Weight Comparison
| Skechers | Dr. Scholl’s |
| Go and Flex lines under 11 oz | Most shoes are 10-15 oz |
| Athletic/walking 9-12 oz | Heavier on average than Skechers |
| Foam and mesh reduce weight | Leather/gel adds weight |
| Work shoes heavier | Some athletes under 10 oz |
Breathability: Skechers vs Dr Scholl’s
Proper ventilation keeps your feet cool and dry for maximum comfort. Here’s how the brands compare:
Skechers Breathability
- Mesh fabric uppers
- Perforated soles
- Some waterproof yet breathable styles
- Moisture-wicking Goga Mat insoles
- Air Cooled Memory Foam in some models
Dr. Scholl’s Breathability
- Leather and suede are less breathable
- Few mesh/knit fabric options
- Ventilation holes in the midsole
- Cool Fit Memory Foam regulates the temperature
- Moisture-wicking Dri-Lex linings
Skechers uses more open, breathable meshes and perforations. Dr. Scholl’s leather shoes can get hot, but some styles have moisture-wicking linings and ventilated footbeds.
Breathability Comparison
| Skechers | Dr. Scholl’s |
| Mesh fabric uppers | Leather/suede is less breathable |
| Perforated soles | Some mesh/knit fabrics |
| Moisture-wicking insoles | Ventilation holes in the midsole |
| Air Cooled Memory Foam | Cool Fit Memory Foam regulates the temp |
| Some waterproof yet breathable | Moisture-wicking Dri-Lex linings |
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Style Variety
Having options for different occasions is important for overall shoe comfort. Here’s how the brands compare:
Skechers Style Variety
- Athletic sneakers for sports/gym
- Classic loafers and oxfords for work
- Trendy casuals like slip-ons and knit shoes
- Walking and hiking silhouettes
- Clogs and slip-resistant styles
Dr. Scholl’s Style Variety
- Dress shoes, loafers, and oxfords
- Sporty walking and running shoes
- Sandals and slides
- Clogs and slip-ons
- Less casual and athletic variety
Skechers simply provides many more style options for both casual everyday wear and active pursuits like sports and hiking. Dr. Scholl excels in dress shoes and sandals but has fewer casual and athletic choices.
Style Variety Comparison
| Skechers | Dr. Scholl’s |
| Athletic sneakers | Fewer athletic options |
| Loafers, oxfords for work | Dress shoes and oxfords |
| Trendy casuals like slip-ons | Sandals and slides |
| Walking, hiking shoes | Walking/running shoes |
| Clogs and slip resistance | Clogs and slip-ons |
Durability and Longevity: Skechers vs Dr Scholl’s
You want comfortable shoes to last. Here’s how Skechers and Dr. Scholl’s stack up for durability:
Skechers Durability
- Varying reports of quality
- Soles wear down quicker than expected
- Mesh fabric prone to holes/tears
- Adhesives can fail over time
- Some styles more durable than others
Dr. Scholl’s Durability
- Known for excellent longevity
- Soles stand up to daily wear
- Leather/suede outlast fabric
- Foams retain cushioning
- No major red flags for construction
Dr. Scholl’s comes out ahead for durability and construction quality thanks to their leather materials and sturdy sole materials. Skechers use of fabrics and lightweight foams may sacrifice some longevity.
Durability Comparison
| Skechers | Dr. Scholl’s |
| Varying durability concerns | Known for excellent longevity |
| Soles wear quicker than expected | Soles withstand daily wear |
| Mesh fabric prone to tears | Leather/suede outlast fabric |
| Adhesives fail over time | Foams retain cushioning |
| Some models more durable | No major construction issues |
Cost and Value
You’ll want comfort at a reasonable price. Here’s the cost comparison:
Skechers Cost
- Typical range $50-$120
- Some styles under $50
- Expensive lines $120-$160
- Frequent sales around 30% off
- Lower and mid-cost styles have best value
Dr. Scholl’s Cost
- Range from $50-$150
- Majority $80-$120
- Frequent 40% off sales
- Bundled deals with inserts
- Solid value across the lineup
Dr. Scholl’s regular prices skew a bit higher but frequent sales bring the costs down. Both brands offer styles under $100 that deliver comfort for the price. Overall costs are comparable.
Cost Comparison
| Skechers | Dr. Scholl’s |
| Range $50-$160 | Range $50-$150 |
| Typical $50-$120 | Typical $80-$120 |
| Best value under $120 | Sales around 40% off |
| Sales around 30% off | Bundled deals with inserts |
| Lower/mid-cost best value | Solid value across lineup |
User Reviews
| Brand | Rating | Skechers | Dr. Scholl’s |
|---|---|---|---|
| Comfort | ⭐⭐⭐⭐✰ | “Very soft and comfortable memory foam insoles.” | “Extremely comfortable with excellent arch support.” |
| Durability | ⭐⭐⭐⭐✰ | “The soles wore down faster than expected.” | “Soles are long-lasting.” |
| Style | ⭐⭐⭐⭐✰ | “Lots of cute and trendy styles to choose from.” | “Classic and conservative shoe styles.” |
| Price | ⭐⭐⭐⭐✰ | “Priced higher than some other athletic shoe brands.” | “Bit more expensive but worth it for the comfort.” |
| Use | ⭐⭐⭐⭐✰ | “Great for walking and casual everyday use.” | “Especially good for people on their feet all day.” |
| Sizing | ⭐⭐⭐⭐✰ | “Skechers run small, size up a half or full size.” | “They fit true to size.” |
| Traction | ⭐⭐⭐⭐✰ | “Grip wears down easily on the soles.” | “Great traction on most surfaces.” |
| Overall | ⭐⭐⭐⭐✰ | “Cute, comfortable shoes but questionable durability.” | “Well worth the price for the superior comfort.” |
The Verdict: Skechers vs Dr. Scholl’s for Comfort
When comparing comfort features, Dr. Scholl’s comes out slightly ahead for their plush cushioning systems, customized arch support, and shock absorption. Their foot-conforming memory foam also helps create a comfortable fit.
However, Skechers runs very close behind with their lightweight impact protection, roomy toe boxes, and breathable styles. Their vast selection ensures you can find comfortable Skechers shoes for every activity and look.
Ultimately, it comes down to your specific needs:
- For superior cushioning, choose Dr. Scholl’s
- For lightweight walking/sports shoes, choose Skechers
- For wide toe boxes and arch support, Skechers has an edge
- For narrower feet, Dr Scholl’s contouring foam works better
Both brands make comfortable, supportive shoes at reasonable prices. Keep these comparisons in mind, try some models on, and you can confidently choose the best comfort footwear for your needs.
Conclusion
Skechers and Dr. Scholl’s both deliver exceptional comfort in their shoe collections. By comparing critical factors like cushioning, arch support, fit, breathability, and more, you can determine which brand better matches your needs and preferences. Both offer great value at reasonable prices. Keep these comparisons in mind, try on some styles, and you’ll be able to confidently choose comfortable shoes to keep your feet feeling great all day long.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most comfortable Skechers shoes?
Some of Skechers’ most comfortable shoe lines include:
Skechers Go Walk: Cushioned and flexible athletic walkers
Skechers Arch Fit: Good arch support and Memory Foam
Skechers Max Cushioning: Extra plush Ultra Go cushioning
Skechers Go Run: Lightweight and responsive runners
What are the most comfortable Dr. Scholl’s shoes?
Some of the most comfortable Dr. Scholl’s shoes include:
Dr. Scholl’s Madison Slip-On: Cushioned slip-on with memory foam
Dr. Scholl’s Rate My Walk Sneaker: Great for walking with CoolFit technology
Dr. Scholl’s Kinney Loafer: Gelled footbed and shock absorption
Dr. Scholl’s Restore Sandal: Double Air-Pillo insole and massaging gel
Is Skechers or Dr. Scholl’s better for foot pain?
Dr. Scholl’s specializes in shoes for foot pain and all-day comfort. Their advanced cushioning systems and contoured footbeds help reduce pain from plantar fasciitis, arthritis, bunions, and more. Skechers can also alleviate discomfort with arch support and quality cushioning. Those with narrower feet may find Skechers roomier fit provides relief.
Are Skechers memory foam shoes machine washable?
Most Skechers shoes with memory foam insoles are not machine washable since getting the foam wet can damage it. You can spot clean the insides gently by hand with a damp cloth. Let air dry completely before wearing again. The uppers may be washable if made of fabric rather than leather or suede. Check the shoe’s tags for care instructions.
Do Dr. Scholl’s shoes run big or small?
Dr. Scholl’s shoes tend to run large in general due to the extra toe room and cushioning layers. Trying them on is recommended, but you usually can safely size down half a size to a full size compared to your normal shoe size. Certain styles with laces or adjustable closures can accommodate variable sizing.
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