The weather is finally getting to a place where you are don't need as many layers to keep warm just to go for a run, or you may just be ready to get back into running, it's the perfect time to invest in a new pair of shoes.
That's where this guide comes in handy.
We gathered testers from all over the country, including veteran runners at ACTIVE, to extensively test the shoes in this guide. All of our testers put their shoes through a minimum of 20 running miles (some way more than 20 miles) while paying attention to comfort, fit, weight, breathability, flexibility and ride.
From updates of old favorites that had our feet singing to new releases that will ensure you'll find something to motivate your miles well into summer, you're guaranteed to find a shoe you'll love. We know money might be tight, but if you can, treat yourself! You deserve it.
Spring Shoe Guides
Asics | Astral | Brooks | HOKA | Merrell | Nike | Reebok | Scarpa | Skechers | Under Armour
Why Trust Us?
ACTIVE.com's editorial team relies on the knowledge and experience of fitness and wellness experts including competitive athletes, coaches, physical therapists, nutritionists, and certified trainers. This helps us ensure the products we feature are of the highest standard. Collectively, the team has spent countless hours researching equipment, gear, and recovery tools in order to create the most accurate, authentic content for our readers. Customer satisfaction is also a key part of our review process, which is why we only feature products that are highly rated.
Skechers SuperSonic
Skechers Go Run Razor 4
Skechers Go Run Ride 11
Skechers SuperSonic
About:Skechers brings another great running shoe to the table with comfort and running technology combine in Supersonic Max. This running design features a lightweight athletic mesh upper with lightweight ULTRA GO® cushioning, a Goga Max technology insole, and a Hyper Arc carbon infused forefoot winglet plate.
These are a must-have for anyone in search of comfortable and reliable running shoes. They have great comfort, stylish design, durability, and performance. The breathable mesh upper ensures adequate airflow, keeping your feet cool and dry even during strenuous runs.
Whether I'm casually walking or traveling longer distances, these shoes offer the perfect blend of support and cushioning, ensuring that my feet remain happy and fatigue-free even after my runs or extended walks.
Things We Liked:
"These shoes offer the perfect blend of support and cushioning."
"I love the colorways and how comfortable they are right out of the box! Don't sleep on Skechers."
Areas for Improvement:
"Could use a bit more arch support especially when going on longer runs. "
"Could use a couple more different colorways variations, if having to be picky."
Final Thoughts
The SuperSonic Max is a very light, breathable shoe, great for a recovery walk or light jog, especially in the heat. At the $90 price point, this shoe has some great value. Once again, you can clearly see the pride that Skechers is putting into their Go Run line up. Currently there is a limit to the number of colorways for both Men's and Women's but is a great budget friendly option as the price of shoes seem to be increasing with the rise of the Super Shoe(s). I know we've said it before and we'll keep saying it, Don't sleep on Skechers. They continuously put out great running shoes, one after the other.
Specs:
- Drop: 6mm
- Weight: 8.6oz
- Price: $90
- Category: Cushion
- Type: Road Running
- Fit: True to Size
- Ideal For: Recovery, Long Distances
Buy:
Women's | Men's
Skechers GO RUN RAZOR 4
About:Skechers knocked it out of the park with the GO RUN Razor 4. It is the perfect mix of cushioned comfort and responsiveness at a lightweight that makes it ideal for both pushing the pace in races or workouts, as well as logging long miles. At just under $150, it makes it an affordable and very solid option in the carbon-plated race shoe category as well.
With the Arch Fit® insole system, and a perforated, breathable mono mesh upper, the shoe seems to gently hug the foot in all the right places. The breathability would make this an ideal trainer or racer for hotter conditions. The non-gusseted tongue stays put and seems to blend seamlessly with the rest of the upper. The heel collar/tab fit snuggly locking in the heel without undue pressure, providing a secure fit even while pushing it at top end speeds.
While the GO RUN Razor 4 has a bit more stack height than previous iterations, the addition of a carbon infused forefoot plate and the HYPER BURST® PRO cushioned midsole, make it feel faster and more responsive than ever. It is a definite upgrade. Paired with the light weight of the shoe, the somewhat firm Hyper Burst® cushioning offers ample protection that seems to bounce off the ground and really promote faster running.
This shoe is meant for speed. The benefits of the shoes best feature (carbon infused forefoot plate) are more obvious the quicker the pace/intensity becomes. While it is absolutely cushioned and comfortable enough for any type of distance or pace, it would almost be a waste to use it for those easy, recovery miles. Furthermore, it is so successful at promoting an efficient, quick stride, that it might actually be difficult to run those "easy miles" as slowly as intended!
GO RUN Razor 4 is the perfect go-to shoe for intervals and tempos, when running fast is important, yet not worth "wasting" the added mileage on more expensive "super shoes." It is also an ideal racer for those who do not wish to spend more than $200 on racing shoes.
Things We Liked:
“The Go Run Razor 4 felt fast right out of the box. I needed zero break-in period and had an incredibly solid speed session on my very first wear.”
“With its lightweight and cushioned yet springy sole, this is the perfect shoe for going fast AND long,”
Areas for Improvement:
“There is absolutely nothing structural I would change about this shoe. While the white/blue colorway looks sharp, it would be nice to have some brighter or darker colorways available that don't get so dirty right away.”
“The laces on these absolutely had to be heel locked; otherwise, my heel was slipping away from the heel cup - which is not only annoying, but can also lead to blisters. Plus, the laces weren't long enough to heel lock and double knot.”
Final Thoughts
The Skechers GO RUN Razor 4 is a triumph. Not only is it incredibly lightweight, it is also comfortable, responsive, and durable. From the moment of unboxing, it was apparent that these shoes were built for speed (the word is printed on the side). Upon putting them on, it was clear that they were also comfortable. True to size, they provide ample space in the toe box while simultaneously providing a snug fit through the mid-foot and heel. The TPU foam in the midsole is responsive and resilient resulting in a shoe that feels springy run after run. The outsole is also very durable due to the inclusion of Goodyear rubber.
As a brand, Skechers has clearly dedicated significant research and resources into the running shoe market. It is clear that a lot of thought has gone into creating this iteration of the Razor 4. The upper is breathable and light. The mid-foot is resilient and responsive. The forefoot features a carbon infused plate making it light and stiff for optimal energy return. And, critically, the outsole is also extremely durable- a feature that is unusual in a shoe this lightweight. For runners who have yet to experience Skechers-particularly those interested in a shoe that almost begs you to run faster- the GO RUN Razor 4 just might be your next favorite shoe for everything from long runs to your local 5k.
Specs:
- Type: Running
- Support: Neutral
- Cushion: Extra
- Fit: True to Size
- Weight: 6.4 oz
- Drop: 4mm
- Price: $145
Buy:
Women's | Men's
Skechers GO RUN RIDE 11
About:The Skechers GO Run Ride 11 is a great choice for an everyday running shoe, making it the perfect companion for those long weekend runs. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, this shoe offers a delightful combination of lightweight design, breathable mesh upper, and ample cushioning.
One standout feature is the patented Skechers Arch Fit® insole system, complete with podiatrist-certified arch support. This not only provides exceptional comfort but also reduces shock impact and evenly distributes weight across your foot. The removable insole adapts to the contours of your foot, enhancing the personalized fit. Every part of the foot feels guided and supported without force. The shoe incorporates HYPER ARC™ technology to enhance running efficiency with each stride-- the arch fit is what sets this shoe apart from the rest. While cushioned, it doesn't have that sinking feeling found in so many foam-based shoes. The stability is attributed to the flexible carbon fiber-infused forefoot plate that contributes to a more energetic and responsive feel during your runs. The plate is unnoticeable, however, as the comfort found in the HYPERBURST ICE dual cushioning, maintains the softness while still providing stability.
Another standout feature of the Skechers GO Run Ride 11 is its Goodyear® Performance Outsole, consistently delivering excellent traction even in inclement weather conditions and offering exceptional durability. Rain is no problem for this road shoe: the dependable outsole ensures a firm grip on uneven surfaces while maintaining long-lasting performance, making it highly resistant to wear and tear.
The Skechers GO Run Ride 11 is a great choice for daily running needs, providing comfort, support, and durability; they offer a solid ride.
Things We Liked:
“It's been a blessing to have such an extremely comfortable go-to shoe for the majority of my slower and easier recovery and long runs.”
“The arch support is so tailored to provide stability while still having flexibility; for those of us with high arches, it feels amazing that they got it just right”
Areas for Improvement:
“It's hard to think of one, but I'd say that I'd recommend incorporating an a more competitive and edgier design to also appeal to more competitive runners.”
“There is s much cushioning that it defeats the energy return and response of the carbon plating. So much cushion that it rocks the forefoot upward a bit”
Final Thoughts
Skechers GoRUN 11's probably aren't on the list of shoes for a runner that considers themself competitive. But they should be. It a word, these shoes are comfortable. There's another brand out there that is gaining popularity in droves, and while that brand isn't Skechers, it should be. Skechers' foam midsole is the perfect combination of forgiving and comfortable cushion and rigidity and provides confidence in each stride. The rocker design and carbon-infused plate offer the perfect balance of spring on the toe-off and forgiveness on the foot strike. The Good Year outsole adds to the running experience of these shoes with durability and traction that give the novice and experienced runner less to think about.
The outer breathability and cushioning provide stability and comfort that make these an amazing shoe for any distance in training. While they're a bit on the heavier side, the pure comfort and stability makes the GoRUN 11's an excellent go-to shoe for much-needed recovery runs, and training runs that are designed for time on feet.
Specs:
- Type: Road
- Support: Cushion
- Cushion: Extra
- Fit: True to Size
- Weight: 7.6oz
- Drop: 6mm
- Price: $125
Buy:
Men's
Check out the other shoes in the Spring Shoe Guide.