There’s a specific kind of exhaustion that sets in not in your mind, but in your feet. It’s a deep, throbbing ache that starts in the arches and radiates up through your ankles, a relentless reminder of a day spent constantly in motion. For years, my daily routine was a marathon on hard surfaces—navigating busy city streets, standing for hours during presentations, and trying to squeeze in a brisk walk during my lunch break. I tried everything: heavily-engineered running shoes that felt too bulky for casual wear, stylish flats that offered zero support, and expensive orthotic-recommended brands that promised relief but often delivered a cumbersome, heavy experience. The search felt endless: I just wanted a shoe that was as easy to put on as it was to wear, a true “forget it’s there” companion for the 12-hour days. This quest for the perfect blend of effortless comfort, lightweight design, and simple maintenance is what led me to take a very close look at the Skechers GO Walk 5 Slip On Trainers.
- Skechers logo detail
- Breathable mesh upper
What to Consider Before Buying Walking Trainers
A pair of walking trainers is more than just footwear; it’s a key solution for maintaining mobility, comfort, and overall well-being. For anyone who spends significant time on their feet—be it nurses, retail staff, teachers, or active commuters—the right shoe is an essential piece of equipment. The primary benefit is the dramatic reduction in foot fatigue and pain. Advanced cushioning systems absorb the impact of each step, protecting your joints from the relentless pounding of concrete and hard floors. This not only makes your workday more bearable but also helps prevent long-term issues like plantar fasciitis and joint strain. Furthermore, the convenience of a slip-on design can’t be overstated. It eliminates the daily hassle of tying and re-tying laces, making them perfect for those with mobility challenges or anyone who values a quick and easy start to their day.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone whose life demands constant movement and values comfort above all else. Think of the hospitality worker navigating a bustling restaurant for eight hours, the busy parent chasing after children, or the traveller exploring a new city on foot. These individuals need a reliable, lightweight, and supportive shoe that won’t fail them. However, the Skechers GO Walk 5 Slip On Trainers might not be the best fit for everyone. Athletes engaged in high-impact sports or activities requiring significant lateral support, such as tennis or basketball, would need a more specialised, structured athletic shoe. Similarly, hardcore hikers would require the rugged grip and ankle protection of a dedicated hiking boot. For those individuals, these walking trainers would lack the specific performance features needed for their sport.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Fit & Sizing: This is the most critical factor. A shoe that is too tight will cause blisters and pain, while one that is too loose will lack support and can lead to instability. Pay close attention to width options (like the “Wide” fit we tested) and be aware that sizing can vary between brands. For slip-on models, ensuring a snug fit around the heel and midfoot is essential to prevent your foot from sliding.
- Cushioning & Performance: Look for the technology inside the shoe. Terms like EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate), responsive foam, and specialised insoles indicate the quality of the cushioning. The goal is a balance between soft comfort and responsive “rebound” or “bounce-back,” which helps propel you forward and reduces the energy you expend with each step.
- Materials & Durability: The upper material determines the shoe’s breathability, flexibility, and weight. Soft knit mesh uppers, like the one on the GO Walk 5, are excellent for ventilation and adapting to your foot shape. The sole material, typically rubber or a synthetic like EVA, dictates the shoe’s grip and how well it will wear over time.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: The convenience of a slip-on is a major selling point, but also consider long-term care. A shoe that is machine washable is a massive advantage, allowing you to easily keep them fresh and clean after heavy use, extending their lifespan and maintaining hygiene without any extra effort.
While the Skechers GO Walk 5 Slip On Trainers is an excellent choice for its category, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models designed for various activities, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- Breathable mesh upper with synthetic overlays for added structure and support
- Breathable Comfort: Elevate your athletic style with our fashion-forward mesh sports shoes. Crafted with breathable materials, these shoes ensure optimal airflow, keeping your feet cool and...
Unboxing and First Impressions: A Featherlight Revelation
Opening the box for the Skechers GO Walk 5 Slip On Trainers was an unassuming experience, but picking them up for the first time was anything but. The first thing that struck me was the almost unbelievable lack of weight. At a mere 158 grams, they felt more like a pair of robust slippers than outdoor-capable trainers. The design is minimalist and functional, with the black soft knit mesh fabric presenting a clean, versatile aesthetic that can easily pair with workout gear, jeans, or casual work trousers. There are no flashy logos or aggressive design elements; it’s a shoe that prioritizes function over fashion, yet its simplicity is its strength.
Sliding my foot in for the first time was effortless. The collar has just enough stretch to accommodate easy entry without feeling loose. The immediate sensation was one of soft, encompassing comfort. The Air Cooled Goga Mat insole felt plush yet supportive underfoot. There was no “breaking-in” period required; they felt ready for a long walk straight out of the box. Compared to other walking shoes that can feel rigid and over-structured initially, the GO Walk 5 felt like an extension of my own foot, a promising start to our testing period. It was clear from the first moment that this shoe was engineered with one primary goal in mind: to make walking feel as effortless as possible. You can explore the full specifications and available colours online.
Key Benefits
- Phenomenally lightweight construction reduces leg fatigue.
- Exceptional cushioning from ULTRA GO and COMFORT PILLAR technologies.
- Convenient slip-on design for ultimate ease of use.
- Machine washable for simple and effective long-term care.
Potential Drawbacks
- Sizing, especially the wide fit, can be overly generous and inconsistent.
- The heel cup design may cause rubbing or digging for some foot shapes.
Performance Under Pressure: A Deep Dive into the GO Walk 5 Experience
A shoe can feel great out of the box, but its true character is only revealed after miles of walking, hours of standing, and the rigours of daily life. We put the Skechers GO Walk 5 Slip On Trainers through an exhaustive testing process, wearing them for long work shifts on unforgiving tile floors, brisk walks through the park, and endless errands around town. Our goal was to push past the initial impression and discover how the shoe’s core technologies perform when fatigue sets in.
The Heart of Comfort: A Deep Dive into ULTRA GO™ and COMFORT PILLAR TECHNOLOGY™
The entire promise of the Skechers GO Walk 5 Slip On Trainers rests on its cushioning system, and I can confirm it does not disappoint. The foundation is the ULTRA GO™ midsole, a proprietary EVA foam that Skechers has tuned to be both incredibly lightweight and highly responsive. From the very first step, you feel it. It’s not a mushy, memory-foam sensation where your foot sinks and disappears; instead, it’s an energetic cushion. Each step feels absorbed, but there’s a distinct “bounce” or energy return that gently propels you into the next stride. After a 10-hour day spent mostly on my feet, this feature was the difference between tired legs and genuine, throbbing foot pain. The shoe actively works to reduce the fatigue that accumulates over thousands of steps.
This is elevated by the COMFORT PILLAR TECHNOLOGY™. If you flip the shoe over, you can see these distinct pillars integrated into the sole. These are strategically placed points of high-rebound cushioning that react to your individual stride, providing adaptive support exactly where you need it most. While walking, the sensation is subtle but profound. It feels as though the shoe is custom-moulding to the pressure points of your foot in real-time. This combination is likely why we found them, as one user also noted, to be more comfortable than many expensive, specialised orthotic shoes. For those suffering from general foot fatigue, this dual-action cushioning system is a game-changer. The innovative cushioning is a feature that truly sets it apart in the crowded comfort-footwear market.
Design & Materials: The Soft Knit Upper and Everyday Practicality
The upper of the shoe is crafted from a flexible, soft-knit mesh fabric. This material is brilliant for several reasons. Firstly, it’s exceptionally breathable. Even on warmer days or during more strenuous walks, my feet remained cool and dry, preventing the discomfort and blistering that can come from overheating. Secondly, the fabric is soft and pliable, expanding and contracting with the natural movement of the foot. This eliminates stiff pressure points and accommodates variations in foot shape, such as bunions, without causing irritation. The seamless design further enhances this comfort, reducing the chances of chafing.
However, the single greatest feature of its design, in our opinion, is its practicality: the shoe is machine washable. This is a revolutionary feature for an everyday trainer. After a muddy walk or just the general accumulation of city grime, the ability to simply toss them in the washing machine (on a gentle cycle with cold water) and let them air dry is incredible. They emerged looking nearly new, with no damage to the fabric or sole structure. This makes long-term maintenance effortless and ensures your investment stays fresh for longer. While one user reported a terrible experience receiving a dirty, smelly pair, this sounds more like an issue with a specific seller or a return being re-shipped, rather than a flaw in the product itself. Nevertheless, it’s a good reminder to always inspect products upon arrival, especially when purchasing from online marketplaces. The easy-care nature of these trainers adds enormous value for daily wearers.
The Slip-On Experience: Fit, Sizing, and Potential Pitfalls
The convenience of a slip-on is undeniable, but achieving the perfect fit is paramount. This is where our experience with the Skechers GO Walk 5 Slip On Trainers became more nuanced and where user feedback proved invaluable. We tested the “8 UK Wide” model, and the most immediate finding was that the “Wide” designation is not an exaggeration. The shoe offers a very generous amount of room in the toe box and across the midfoot. For someone with genuinely wide feet, this will be a welcome relief. However, for those on the cusp between standard and wide, it could feel too loose. This was confirmed by a user who, despite having wide feet, wished they had ordered the standard width. Our recommendation is to be conservative; if you don’t typically buy wide-fit shoes, you almost certainly won’t need it here.
The second critical fit point is the heel. A slip-on needs to grip the heel securely to prevent movement and rubbing. In our testing, the fit was secure and comfortable. However, we must address the user feedback stating that the shoe “dug into the back of my foot.” This is a common issue with slip-on styles and is highly dependent on the unique shape of an individual’s heel and ankle. The padded collar on the GO Walk 5 is soft, but if its curvature doesn’t align with your Achilles, it could create a pressure point. This isn’t necessarily a design flaw, but rather an issue of anatomical incompatibility. It highlights the importance of trying on shoes if possible, or at least purchasing from a place with a good return policy to ensure the fit is perfect for you. Getting the sizing and fit right is crucial to unlocking the shoe’s comfort, so be sure to check the sizing chart and user reviews carefully before purchasing.
What Other Users Are Saying
Synthesizing the feedback from other buyers provides a balanced perspective that largely aligns with our own findings. The praise is overwhelmingly directed at the shoe’s out-of-the-box comfort. One user, who works on their feet for their entire shift, stated they are “more comfortable than all the expensive orthotic shoes I’ve bought,” which is a powerful testament to the effectiveness of the ULTRA GO™ cushioning system for people with demanding jobs.
However, the critical feedback consistently revolves around two key areas: sizing and fit. The comment that “they do run really wide” is crucial advice for potential buyers. The most pointed criticism came from a user who experienced the back of the shoe digging into their heel, forcing them to return it. This confirms our assessment that while the shoe is exceptionally comfortable for many, its specific shape may not be universally compatible with all foot types. The isolated but severe complaint about receiving a dirty and smelly product serves as a cautionary tale about quality control from third-party sellers, rather than an indictment of the Skechers brand itself, but it’s a valid concern for any online shopper.
How Does the Skechers GO Walk 5 Compare to Alternatives?
While the Skechers GO Walk 5 Slip On Trainers excels in pure walking comfort, the Skechers brand offers a diverse range of footwear catering to different styles and needs. Here’s how it stacks up against three popular alternatives.
1. Skechers Men’s Uno Stand on Air Sneaker
- Smooth synthetic 'durabuck' perforated upper
- Skechers Air-Cooled Memory Foam cushioned comfort insole
The Skechers Uno – Stand on Air is a completely different beast. Where the GO Walk 5 is a minimalist, lightweight comfort-first shoe, the Uno is a fashion-forward “dad shoe” sneaker. Its primary feature is the visible “Skech-Air” airbag in the heel, which provides a different kind of cushioned feel—firmer and more structured. This is a lace-up shoe with a synthetic ‘durabuck’ upper, offering more lateral support and a more locked-in feel. Someone might prefer the Uno if their priority is style and a classic sneaker look, while still wanting a good level of cushioning. It’s less of a pure walking shoe and more of an all-around lifestyle sneaker.
2. Skechers Women’s Uno Shimmer Away Sneaker
- Comfortable Shoe
- Air Cooled Memory Foam
Similar to the men’s version, the Women’s Uno – Shimmer Away places a heavy emphasis on aesthetics. It features the same air-cushioned midsole and lace-up design but adds a touch of flair with subtle metallic trim and a wedge fit heel. This shoe is for the person who wants the comfort of a sneaker but refuses to compromise on style. Compared to the GO Walk 5’s understated, functional look, the Uno Shimmer Away is designed to be seen. It’s a great choice for casual outings, but for someone who needs a shoe for a 12-hour shift on their feet, the GO Walk 5’s superior lightweight design and breathability would likely make it the more comfortable option over the long haul.
3. Skechers Women’s Slip-On Loafer
- Flexible traction outsole
- Cushioned comfort insole
This Slip-On Loafer offers a compelling alternative for someone who needs the convenience of the GO Walk 5 but in a smarter, more work-appropriate package. It bridges the gap between a casual trainer and a formal shoe. While it still features Skechers’ comfort technology, likely with an Air-Cooled Memory Foam insole, its loafer design provides a more polished look suitable for a business-casual environment. A user might choose this over the GO Walk 5 if their primary need is an easy-to-wear, comfortable shoe for the office or for events where a traditional trainer would look out of place. It sacrifices some of the athletic breathability of the GO Walk 5’s mesh for a more structured, classic appearance.
Our Final Verdict on the Skechers GO Walk 5 Slip On Trainers
After extensive testing, we can confidently say that the Skechers GO Walk 5 Slip On Trainers is a phenomenal shoe for its intended purpose. It delivers an extraordinary level of lightweight, responsive comfort that can genuinely make a difference for anyone who spends long hours on their feet. The combination of ULTRA GO™ and COMFORT PILLAR™ technologies creates a walking experience that feels both soft and energetic, while the machine-washable design is a masterstroke of practicality.
However, it is not without its caveats. The generous sizing, particularly in the wide fit, means that prospective buyers must be diligent in choosing the correct size to avoid a sloppy fit. Furthermore, the shape of the heel cup may not be suitable for every foot, making a try-on or a flexible return policy advisable. If you are seeking a no-fuss, incredibly comfortable, and featherlight shoe for daily walks, travel, or demanding jobs, and you get the sizing right, the GO Walk 5 is an absolutely outstanding choice that offers incredible value. It succeeds brilliantly in its mission to make walking an effortless pleasure. If you’re ready to experience a new level of walking comfort, we highly recommend you check the latest price and availability for the Skechers GO Walk 5 today.
Last update on 2025-11-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API