I’m a far cry from my first marathon, but I do love to go running (okay, it’s mostly jogging… and sometimes a walk/jog combo) on the regular. I’m also plagued by a lifetime of bad knees and some persistent post-pregnancy back pain, so finding the right sneakers has become a hobby all its own.
Lately I’ve been getting lots of first-hand recommendations for various models from On Running, and I have to say I’m pretty tempted: They’re supposed to be incredibly lightweight, reduce impact on your feet, provide fantastic arch support, etc. etc. Plus, their signature toothy outsole design just looks really cool. The only thing that’s really holding me back is the cost: On’s prices are on-par with every other big name running brand; but consistently pounding the pavement means I need to buy new sneakers somewhat regularly, and I’m getting pretty tired of dropping $150+ on a new pair every 6 months.
I think I found a happy medium in the form of Skechers’ Glide line of sneakers. I’ve specifically opted for the Go Run Glide Step Hyper model, but the line has plenty of options to choose from. There are dedicated options for running, walking, and just plain everyday, and in both lace-up and lace-less iterations. All Glide models claim to be featherlight, provide a cushiony, energizing stride, and offer an innovative midsole design that’s great for the foot. Like On, Glide models have a ton of eye-catching and very technical-looking outsoles that can make even the slowest jogger look like a die-hard pro.
Aesthetics and performance aside, I’m also a big fan of the cost: While some On shoes start around $140 and can exceed the $200 mark, the average Glide (both men’s and women’s models) will set you back around $100 (and sometimes way less). And especially when you’re re-upping as often as (or more than) I am, that adds up to a significant annual savings.
Read on to see some of our favorite pairs from Skechers’ assortment.
Don’t be fooled by the heft of this elevated sneaker’s outsole — it promises to offer a “pillow-like” impact, and is paired with a feathery insole that’s designed to wick away moisture. The shoe also offers superior grip and traction thanks to the Goodyear rubber treads. Get these in women’s sizes 6-9.5.
Promising review: “I have numerous pairs of skechers shoes and this model by far is the most comfortable they have made to date. I wear a 7.5 normally and this fits exceedingly well. I call them a true 7.5. Skechers provide a tab of extra room I find and they are fit perfectly. Comfortable heel height which is of major importance to my stance and ability to walk any distance.” — kk strickland
Another stylish and supportive option, these Glide-Step sneakers are made from entirely vegan materials that include a breathable mesh upper and a cooling memory foam insole with a cushioned shape that’s designed to keep your feet stable. You can get these in men’s sizes 6.5-14. (Sizes will vary slightly by color and retailer.)
Promising Zappos review: “Slip in is awesome. Laces make them fit just right. Great cushion support. finally a great shoe!” — Bob W
The brand’s Dani sneaker is outfitted with an optic white design and equipped with a “heel pillow” to cradle your foot and absorb impact. There’s also a lightweight memory foam insole that provides cushioning without weighing you down. The bungee-style laces making slipping these on and off a breeze. They’re available in women’s sizes 5-13 and two additional colorways.
Promising Zappos review: “I purchased the taupe/pink color and am very pleased. All of my Skechers are comfortable, but this is my first glide step purchase, and wow, these feel great!” — LH
With a breathable fabric upper and a signature comfort-foam insole, these gym-ready sneakers will keep your feet feeling supported in any type of workout. (Sizing is limited at Zappos, but you can get them in women’s sizes 6-10 at Amazon.)
Promising Zappos review: “These shoes are SO comfortable. The tongue is connected all the way around, so no wrinkles or lumpy spots. The soles are really squishy so no hard landings. I haven't used them in muddy or gravelly areas, but I think they will collect dirt on the bottoms, but they are washable, so that should be fixable. I'm very happy with them (I would have preferred a different color - I'm not a pink person.) They definietly have enough room in the toe box - always my first question!” — Susan
The standout feature of these sturdy sneakers is the “rock plate” embedded in the midsole, which is designed to absorb impact and protect feet on rough or uneven surfaces. The round toe and flexible outsole offer increased comfort and flexibility, and pull tabs attached the heel and tongue ensure a firm fit. These are available in men’s sizes 6-14.
Promising Amazon review: “Very comfortable and easy to walk in. Fit well.” — imhambone
These machine-washable slip-ons are constructed with a stretchy upper that promises to completely conform to your foot. There’s also a padded collar for even more comfort and protection against blisters. These are also designed with a heel pillow and grippy outsoles for security with every step. They’re available in women’s sizes 5-11.