On Cloud 6
Pros
- Smooth heel-to-toe transitions
- True to size and width
- Great traction on wet and dry
- Flexible construction
- A bit lighter than average
- Breathable for warm weather
- Promising outsole durability
- Slip-on design with easy on-and-off
Cons
- Steep price hike with minimal changes from the v5
- Not for all-day wear
- Not very supportive
- Upper lacks wear resistance
Key Features
- Rubber sole for durability and traction.
- Reflective accents enhance visibility in low-light conditions.
- Lightweight design promotes effortless wear.
- Cushioned collar and perforated tongue provide added comfort.
- Removable insole allows for customization and easy cleaning.
- Patented CloudTec sole delivers superior cushioning.
- Designed for everyday wear, suitable for various activities.
- Round toe for a relaxed fit.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outer material: Performance mesh
- Inner material: Fabric
The On Cloud 6 is a straightforward walking shoe best suited for those who prioritize comfort and ground control during their activities. Our lab tests confirm that its minimalist profile contributes to significant stability, further enhanced by its high-quality outsole. Due to its adaptive and lightweight design, we recognize it as our top choice for On walking shoes.
Cloud 6 minimizes resistance to movement with its light and flexible build, weighing only 9.7 oz (274g), making it easy to wear throughout the day. It flexes naturally with each step, achieving a 7.9% higher flexibility score than average. This feature promotes an unobtrusive experience, allowing for unencumbered movement.
The shoe’s minimalist profile of 28.3/19.5 mm enhances mobility while providing a secure sensation on varying terrains. Users can expect responsive ground feedback, which allows for better stride control and adjustment during walks.
Another aspect contributing to this control is the reliable traction of the Cloud 6. In our friction test, it recorded an impressive 0.48 score, ensuring good grip on both dry and wet surfaces. Its outsole also demonstrates notable durability, exhibiting 64.3% less damage than average in our Dremel test.
However, individuals seeking extensive cushioning for prolonged periods on their feet may find the Cloud 6 lacking in that department. For better impact protection, a more supportive platform is recommended.
Skechers GO WALK 6
Pros
- Pillow-like comfort
- Cushioned for all-day wear
- Amazingly lightweight
- Surprisingly durable upper
- Snug sock-like fit
- Easy on and off
- Super flexible
- Very affordable
Cons
- Not breathable
- Outsole lacks durability
Key Features
- Effortless Slip-in Design: The unique Skechers Slip-ins molded heel panel offers easy on and off wear.
- Superior Cushioning: Equipped with Skechers Air-Cooled Memory Foam insole and ULTRA GO cushioning, these sneakers provide responsive comfort throughout your day.
- Durable Traction: The dual-density traction outsole ensures stability and grip, which is essential for reliable footing on various surfaces.
- Easy Care: With a machine washable design, these shoes are simple to clean, allowing you to keep them looking fresh with minimal effort.
Specifications
- Fabric Type: Mesh
- Origin: Imported
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Outer Material: Rubber
The Skechers GO WALK 6 is an optimal choice for those seeking a sock-like fit during their trips to Europe. This walking shoe enhances excursions with its comfortable one-to-one fit, resembling the ease of wearing socks while providing significant support throughout movement.
Walking in the Skechers GO WALK 6 feels almost weightless, with our scale registering it at 8.78 oz (249g), making it 7.5% lighter than most walking shoes we've encountered.
The flexible construction of the Skechers GO WALK 6 contributes to all-day comfort, allowing for a fluid heel-to-toe transition. Testing revealed that the shoe bends easily at 9.7N of force, indicating a pliability that is 30.2% better than average.
We measured the widest part of the toebox at 98 mm, which aligns closely with the average and did not restrict movement. The stretchy, sock-like upper offers a snug feel; however, we anticipated better air circulation due to the knit design.
Unfortunately, the Skechers GO WALK 6 does not provide significant breathability, as indicated by our tests, where minimal airflow was observed. Therefore, this model may not be suitable for individuals who prioritize breathability in their footwear.
On Cloud 5 Waterproof
Pros
- Perfect for all-day wear
- Super light for its kind
- Easy on-and-off
- Amazing in-shoe feel
- Sustainable materials (40%)
- Regular laces are added
- Reflective elements
Cons
- Catches rocks and debris
- Can get smelly
Key Features
- Lightweight and Waterproof - Ensures comfort without adding weight.
- Signature Speed-lacing - Features elastic laces for quick adjustments.
- Updated Speedboard - Designed to enhance propulsion and efficiency.
- Zero-Gravity Foam - Provides excellent impact absorption.
- Round Toe Design - Offers ample space for toe movement.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Outer Material: Polyester
- Inner Material: Foam
The On Cloud 5 Waterproof is a top choice for those seeking a reliable waterproof walking shoe that excels in comfort and durability. This model allows for extended wear without discomfort, making it suitable for all-day use.
To assess the shoe's material quality, we analyzed the upper both visually and microscopically. The upper exhibited no light penetration, confirming its airtight and watertight properties, while the microscope revealed a tightly interwoven structure.
In terms of durability, the outsole demonstrated impressive metrics, with a hardness measured at 84.0 HC and a thickness of 3.3 mm. These values exceed average benchmarks by 10.7% and 22.22%, indicating that the outsole is designed to withstand significant wear over time.
During extensive testing, the On Cloud 5 Waterproof proved to be non-exhausting, supported by lab findings showing a midsole hardness of 30.4 HA, which is 7.8% firmer than average. This characteristic contributes to an optimal balance of cushioning and support.
However, performance diminishes in colder conditions. After placing the shoe in a freezer for 20 minutes, we observed a 41.9% increase in midsole firmness, resulting in a final hardness that is 10% harder than average. Therefore, we advise considering alternative footwear specifically designed for winter weather.
Skechers Summits
Pros
- Like walking on soft clouds
- Super lightweight
- Easy to put on and off
- Very affordable
- Highly flexible
- Surprisingly durable upper
- Suitable for casual attire
Cons
- Lacks breathability
- Exposed foam wears out fast
- Memory Foam doesn't last long
Key Features
- Hands-Free Comfort: Innovative Heel Pillow design allows for easy entry and exit from the shoes.
- Advanced Cushioning: The Air-Cooled Memory Foam insole provides exceptional comfort and breathability.
- Breathable Design: Made with a lightweight mesh upper and fixed stretch laces for optimal airflow.
- Versatile Style: Athletic casual design suitable for various occasions with a flexible traction outsole.
- Easy Care: Machine washable construction made with 100% vegan materials keeps your sneakers fresh.
Specifications
- Fabric Type: Textile
- Origin: Made in the USA or Imported
- Sole Material: Synthetic Rubber
- Shaft Height: Not provided
The Skechers Summits walking shoe is best suited for individuals seeking exceptional comfort during their travels.
A key feature contributing to the comfort of the Summits is its non-constricting toebox, which we measured at 98.8 mm at its widest point, offering an additional 0.9 mm of space compared to the average design.
The shoe exhibits notable softness and pliability. Our lab tests indicated that the midsole has a durometer reading of 21.1 HA, making it 16.3% softer than typical walking shoes. Additionally, flexibility was verified with a bending test showing a low opposing force of 4.6N, resulting in a flexibility score that is 66.9% higher than average.
However, one drawback is the limited ventilation of the Skechers Summits, which can lead to a clammy sensation in the toes. This was highlighted during our breathability test, where the upper only expelled a small amount of smoke, leading to a rating of 2/5. For those prioritizing airflow, it may be beneficial to consider shoes with more breathable uppers.
Skechers GO WALK Joy
Pros
- Very easy to put on and off
- Fits the foot closely
- Extremely lightweight
- Well-cushioned for all-day wear
- Marshmallowy plush sole
- Amazingly responsive ride
- Highly flexible
- Comfortable from the box
- Minimal design
Cons
- Less breathable than seems
- Poor sole durability
- Not supportive
Key Features
- Superior Comfort and Support: Equipped with an Air-Cooled Goga Mat insole featuring high-rebound cushioning, the Go Walk Joy sneakers ensure exceptional comfort, making them suitable for running and all-day wear.
- Breathe Easy: The lightweight mesh upper allows for breathability while the stretch bungee laces offer a flexible fit, perfect for the modern woman on the go.
- Convenient Slip-On Design: The innovative bungee closure system provides an easy slip-on experience, allowing you to quickly put them on or take them off without any hassle.
- Flexible Traction: With a durable outsole designed for optimal grip, these sneakers give you the confidence to tackle any surface during your walks or workouts.
- Easy Care: These shoes are machine washable, ensuring that your Skechers maintain their fresh appearance with minimal upkeep.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Outer Material: Mesh
- Inner Material: Fabric
The Skechers Gowalk Joy is recognized as the leading lightweight walking shoe, making it suitable for those seeking comfort during extended wear. Its notable weight of 6.17 oz (175g) makes it 31.7% lighter than the average, while still delivering significant cushioning.
Despite its lightweight design, the Gowalk Joy features impressive cushioning with heel and forefoot stack heights of 32.7 mm and 23.2 mm, respectively. These measurements exceed the averages by 4.5% and 10.5%, contributing to a sensation akin to walking on clouds.
A key advantage of the Gowalk Joy is its true-to-size fit, complemented by an accommodating toebox width of 97.9 mm. The upper material expands with foot heat, ensuring a comfortable and adaptive fit throughout the day.
However, it is important to note that the Gowalk Joy may not be suitable for individuals with foot issues. The shoe's pliability and lack of reinforcing elements can be problematic, as confirmed by our assessment of its torsional rigidity.