Your next pair of shoes should be from Skechers. Here are 12 podiatrist-backed picks to buy

CNN

15-04-2025

Best skechers shoes quick picks
Sandals: Skechers Women's Reggae Tireless Summer
Running sneakers: Skechers Women's Max Cushioning Elite 2.0
Slip-on shoes: Skechers Women's Go Walk 7 City Light
Hiking boots: Skechers Men's Respected Boswell
Golf shoes: Skechers Men's Go Golf Prestige SL Praised for its shoes' comfort and affordability, Skechers has options for nearly any activity. Whether you're looking for something that will get you through an intense cardio workout or keep you comfortable on the golf course, the brand's footwear doesn't sacrifice style either. And, to make them even more appealing, several Skechers models, like these athletic recovery sandals, have earned the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) seal of acceptance, a distinction awarded to products that support good foot health.
As with many brands, some Skechers will give you a higher level of support while others are more focused on ease of use and their simple, hands-free slip-on style (perfect for many older adults with mobility issues).
To help you find the perfect pair, we tapped several podiatrists for their insights about what to look for in Skechers shoes, along with their recommendations.
Women's shoesSkechers Women's Slip-Ins Work Tilido-Ombray
Need a reliable pair of nonslip, protective shoes for work or outdoor chores like gardening? These supportive, hands-free shoes deliver all-day relief without sacrificing function. 'The knit mesh uppers are breathable, and air-cooled memory provides temperature control,' Dr. Elizabeth Bonarigo, a podiatrist at the Lower Limb Institute, said. 'This option also features heel pillows, which contour [to] the heels and arches, giving long-lasting comfort.' Plus, the enhanced traction outsoles help prevent slips, making them a safe, sturdy option.
Skechers Women's Slip-Ins Go Walk 7 City Lights
This breathable, stretchy mesh pair slips on easily with no fussy laces, making them a great choice for busy mornings or travel days. Bonarigo recommends these shoes because of their snug fit, lightweight support and Hyper Pillar Technology for added stability. Bonus: They're machine-washable.
Skechers Women's D'Lites Fresh Start
These sneakers are perfect for walking and for anyone who spends hours on their feet, Dr. Samantha Landau, a foot and ankle specialist and assistant professor at the Touro University New York College of Podiatric Medicine, said. The secret is their breathable, air-cooled memory foam insoles, which help relieve pressure when walking and standing, along with their lightweight, shock-absorbing midsoles.
Skechers Women's Slip-Ins Max Cushioning Arch Fit 2.0 Antilles
With Goodyear rubber outsoles (yes, from the tire company), you know you're getting a premium shoe. 'With extra cushioning and a well-padded insole, these shoes are perfect for professionals who spend hours on their feet,' Dr. Gregory Alvarez, a podiatrist at Ankle and Foot Centers of America, said. 'The thick midsole helps reduce foot fatigue and pressure." Plus, like many Skechers shoes, the hands-free slip-in design makes them a great option for older adults or those who don't like tying laces. They're also approved by the APMA.
Skechers Women's Max Cushioning Elite 2.0
Several of our experts recommend the Max Cushioning Elite 2.0. According to Bonarigo, the shoes are a favorite among runners because they offer arch support and supportive cushioning. 'It also has a heel-toe rocker, which allows for smooth transitions between strides,' she said.
Skechers Women's Reggae Tireless Summer
Bonarigo recommends these toe-loop sandals for their supportive midsoles, shock-absorbing rubber outsoles and built-in arch supports. We like them for all kinds of warm weather adventures from trail hiking to a day at the beach, and their stylish vegan leather and woven fabric straps add a nice touch. You can nab them in dark Chocolate or a lighter Chestnut. Men's shoesSkechers Men's Relaxed Fit Respected Boswell
Landau recommends these men's mid-top boots for outdoor excursions. Their relaxed fit and breathable cushioning makes them a good choice for hikes, while their traction and side-to-side support help keep you steady on uneven ground. Crafted from a blend of water-repellent leather and synthetic uppers for durability, they also feature the brand's Goga Mat Arch technology for extra arch support.
Skechers Men's Slip-Ins E'Lite Afterburn Grill Corporal
Landau said these all-around great slip-on sneakers are a good choice for men dealing with limited mobility or back issues. The easy-on, hands-free design eliminates the need to bend, while the brand's air-cooled memory foam adds a layer of comfort, making them ideal for heavy walking or even hiking. And for those concerned about falls, they also have flexible traction outsoles for extra stability and grip on all types of surfaces.
Skechers Men's Slip-Ins Hillcrest 2.0
'These shoes provide good grip, arch support and stability for outdoor adventures,' Alvarez said. 'They are durable and designed for uneven terrain, making them a great option for light hiking.' And with their slip-on style, mesh upper and trail-traction outsoles, they offer a trio of simplicity, ease and stability.
Skechers Men's Slip-Ins Max Cushioning Arch Fit 2.0
If you're looking for an everyday shoe, Bonarigo recommends these Arch Fit 2.0 slip-on shoes, which have the APMA Seal of Acceptance. The shoes come with seriously plush cushioning and enhanced arch support, and they can be thrown in the washing machine for easy upkeep. And for anyone worried about slips and falls, the shoes feature the brand's Goodyear anti-slip rubber outsoles for added security.
Skechers Men's Slip-Ins Go Golf Prestige SL
According to Bonarigo, these waterproof shoes are a great option for golfers. The leather upper shoes feature heel-pillow contouring, which helps stabilize your feet while you wander the green. They're also available in both medium and wide widths to accommodate different feet.
Skechers Men's Vigor 2.0 Trait
Landau is a fan of these men's sneakers for outdoor activities because they balance performance and comfort. They feature the brand's signature memory foam insoles and shock-absorbing midsoles, which help reduce impact on the joints. They also have low heels and rubber traction outsoles, which make them more stable for longer walks and uneven terrain. Think about the intended activity
When it comes to finding the best Skechers shoes for your needs, Dr. Peter Wishnie, a retired podiatrist with over three decades of experience, thinks purpose is as important as style. Are you a runner? A long-distance walker? A hiker? Or are you just looking for something for everyday wear? 'Walking shoes are designed for forward motion and often have more flex in the forefoot, while running shoes provide more shock absorption and heel cushioning,' he said. 'Hiking shoes offer stability and grip for uneven surfaces.'
And, of course, comfort is key, no matter what you wear them for. According to a study by The National Library of Medicine, 'In addition to facilitating a general sense of well-being, the use of comfortable footwear is also considered to have a range of practical advantages, as it may facilitate physical activity, enhance sporting performance and reduce the incidence of injury.'
Thankfully, Skechers has shoes for nearly every type of lifestyle.
Look for arch support
Selecting a pair of shoes suitable for your arch type should be a primary consideration when looking for Skechers shoes (or really any shoe), Dr. Holly Spohn-Gross, a podiatrist and APMA trustee, said.
And, according to Bonarigo, supportive arches are especially beneficial for flat-footed folks because they limit the degree of overpronation — the inward rolling of the arch — that occurs when standing or walking. 'The arch support aids in shock absorption and serves as an external brace for the foot,' she said. 'These features provide protection against foot pain and overuse injuries when worn by those who are active and stand on their feet for long periods of time.'
Keep in mind the cushioning, fit and stability
According to Spohn-Gross, the level of cushioning and stack height — the thickness of the main sole — is also a concern for daily stability and balance. 'The thickness and the foam is now something that's very common in our shoes. And if it's too high, the patient could end up falling and tripping because the shoes won't have that foundation, that support,' she said.
As for fit, the shoes should feel comfortable but offer enough space in the toe box to prevent pressure on the toes, Alvarez said.
The following FAQs have been answered by podiatrists Dr. Peter Wishnie and Dr. Gregory Alvarez.
Which Skechers are the most comfortable?
Which Skechers are the most comfortable?
Alvarez and Wishnie agree that the shoes from the Go Walk and Arch Fit lines are some of the most comfortable. 'Generally speaking, models like the Skechers Arch Fit series are great for those needing extra support, while the Skechers Go Walk line is good for everyday wear,' Wishnie said.
Do podiatrists recommend Skechers?
Do podiatrists recommend Skechers?
Podiatrists do recommend Skechers, especially shoe models that have the Arch Fit technology for proper foot alignment and support, Alvarez said, noting that ultimately, the best shoe depends on individual needs. Wishnie said that some models, like the Arch Fit and Go Walk series are podiatrist-approved thanks to their comfort and support.
How do you wash Skechers?
How do you wash Skechers?
'Skechers has specific care instructions for each shoe model, so I always recommend checking their guidelines to keep your shoes in the best shape,' Alvarez said. According to Wishnie, a lot of the fabric versions can be machine-washed cold on a gentle cycle and air-dried. 'Leather or suede models should be cleaned with a damp cloth and specialty shoe cleaner,' he said.
Are Skechers good walking shoes?
Are Skechers good walking shoes?
Both Wishnie and Alvarez agree that Skechers Go Walk series are great walking shoes.
For this article, we consulted the following podiatrists to gain their professional insights on the best Skechers shoes for men and women to buy this year.
Dr. Gregory Alvarez, podiatrist at Ankle and Foot Centers of America
Dr. Elizabeth Bonarigo, board-certified podiatrist at the Lower Limb Institute
Dr. Samantha Landau, board-certified foot and ankle specialist and assistant professor at the Touro University New York College of Podiatric Medicine
Dr. Holly Spohn-Gross, board-certified podiatrist at Sienna Wellness Institute and APMA trustee
Dr. Peter Wishnie, retired podiatrist and leadership coach
CNN Underscored has a team of writers and editors who have many years of experience testing, researching and recommending products, and they ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when relevant to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item. For this article, associate lifestyle editor Rachel Dennis interviewed podiatrists who shared their tips for shopping for Skechers shoes and their recommendations.