We’ve all been there. That frantic morning rush, fumbling with laces, cramming our feet into shoes that promise support but deliver only pinching and pressure by midday. The search for the perfect everyday shoe often feels like a quest for a mythical creature: something that slips on effortlessly, feels weightless, cushions every step, and still looks sharp enough for a casual outing. I’ve personally spent years cycling through trainers that were either a hassle to put on or left my arches aching after a simple trip to the supermarket. This isn’t just a minor inconvenience; chronic foot discomfort can genuinely ruin your day, sap your energy, and make even simple tasks like walking the dog feel like a chore. The dream is a shoe you can simply forget you’re wearing, and that’s precisely the promise we set out to test with the Skechers Summits Artistry Chic Sneaker.
- Soft flat mesh knit upper with a bungee laced front
- Slip on athletic sporty sneaker design
What to Consider Before Buying Everyday Comfort Trainers
A pair of trainers is more than just footwear; it’s a key solution for daily mobility and well-being. For those of us constantly on our feet, they are our primary interface with the world, absorbing the impact of concrete, providing stability on uneven paths, and carrying us through our busy lives. The main benefits of a great everyday trainer are threefold: sustained comfort that reduces fatigue, practical convenience that saves time and hassle, and versatile style that seamlessly fits into a casual wardrobe. They solve the problem of foot pain, the inefficiency of traditional laced shoes, and the need for a reliable, go-to option for non-specialist activities.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone who prioritises comfort and ease-of-use above all else. This includes busy parents, professionals who are on their feet but not in a formal setting, retirees, and anyone who enjoys long walks or travels frequently. It’s for the person whose daily routine involves a mix of errands, light exercise, and casual socialising. Conversely, these trainers might not be suitable for those who engage in high-impact sports like running or cross-training, as they lack the specialised support and durable construction required for such activities. Similarly, anyone needing rugged, waterproof footwear for hiking or outdoor work should consider more robust alternatives.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: Fit is paramount in a slip-on shoe. Unlike laced shoes that can be adjusted, a slip-on must fit correctly from the start. Consider not only your length (e.g., UK Size 6) but also your foot width. Some brands run narrow, while others, like Skechers, are often praised for being more accommodating, a point echoed by users with wide, flat feet who found these a perfect fit.
- Performance & Cushioning: For an everyday trainer, performance isn’t about speed; it’s about comfort endurance. The key feature here is the insole and midsole technology. A Memory Foam insole, like the one in the Skechers Summits, is designed to mould to your foot’s unique shape, providing personalised cushioning. The midsole, often made of a material like EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate), is responsible for shock absorption, which is crucial for reducing stress on your joints during long walks on hard surfaces.
- Materials & Durability: The upper material dictates breathability, weight, and longevity. A flat knit mesh, as used in this model, is excellent for keeping the shoe lightweight and allowing air to circulate, preventing your feet from getting sweaty. However, as some user feedback suggests, this material can be less durable than leather or thicker synthetic fabrics, potentially leading to premature wear or splits, especially around the toe area.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: The primary draw of a shoe like the Skechers Summits Artistry Chic Sneaker is its slip-on, bungee-laced design. This “set it and forget it” system is the pinnacle of convenience. For maintenance, it’s important to check the care instructions. These trainers are “Hand Wash Only,” meaning they shouldn’t be thrown in a washing machine, which requires a bit more effort to keep them looking pristine.
While the Skechers Summits Artistry Chic Sneaker is an excellent choice for many, 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 needs, 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...
First Impressions: Unboxing the Skechers Summits Artistry Chic Sneaker
Pulling the Skechers Summits Artistry Chic Sneaker out of the box, the first thing we noticed was its astonishing lightness. At a mere 500 grams, it felt like holding a cloud. The Black Mesh/Black Trim colourway is sleek and understated, a versatile design that easily pairs with anything from athletic wear to casual jeans. The nearly one-piece flat mesh knit upper is soft to the touch and highly flexible, promising a non-restrictive fit. There’s no complex assembly or break-in period required; these are designed for immediate wear. The bungee laces are purely aesthetic but provide a sporty look while maintaining the shoe’s core identity as a true slip-on. Our initial impression upon slipping them on was one of instant gratification. The Memory Foam insole immediately began to yield and contour to the shape of our feet, creating a sensation of plush, personalised comfort that many other brands fail to deliver right out of the box. You can see the full feature set and specifications to understand why it feels so good from the very first step.
Key Benefits
- Effortless slip-on design with bungee laces for ultimate convenience.
- Exceptionally lightweight construction reduces foot fatigue.
- Memory Foam insole provides outstanding initial comfort and cushioning.
- Accommodating fit that is well-suited for wider feet.
Potential Drawbacks
- Concerns regarding the long-term durability of the Memory Foam insole liner.
- The mesh upper may be prone to splitting or tearing with heavy use.
A Deep Dive into the Performance of the Skechers Summits Artistry Chic Sneaker
A trainer can feel great out of the box, but its true value is revealed over days and weeks of real-world use. We put the Skechers Summits Artistry Chic Sneaker through a battery of everyday scenarios—from brisk morning walks with the dog and long grocery runs on hard linoleum floors to simply standing for extended periods while working. Our in-depth analysis focuses on the three pillars of this shoe’s identity: its signature comfort system, its practical design, and its underfoot foundation.
The Memory Foam Experience: Cloud-Like Comfort or a Ticking Clock?
The star of the show, without question, is the Memory Foam cushioned comfort insole. From the very first moment we slipped the shoe on, the sensation was undeniable. It’s a soft, enveloping plushness that feels less like a shoe and more like a custom-moulded slipper. During our testing, this feature was a game-changer. On a three-mile walk across pavement, the foam did an admirable job of dampening the harsh impact, making the journey feel significantly less jarring on the knees and back. One user perfectly captured this feeling, exclaiming, “feels like my feet are on clouds they are so light,” and we wholeheartedly agree. The foam conforms to the unique contours of your foot, providing support in the arch and cushion for the heel and ball of the foot. This personalised fit is what makes them so appealing for long periods of wear.
However, this initial bliss is where our findings diverge, mirroring the mixed reports from the wider user base. While our short-term testing was overwhelmingly positive, we cannot ignore the significant number of users who reported durability issues specifically with this Memory Foam liner. We encountered several accounts where, after just a few weeks of regular use, the liner began to “come away,” “break,” or fold over on itself inside the shoe. One user, who works three days a week, noted that the liner had folded into her foot, creating an uncomfortable ridge that was impossible to flatten permanently. This is a critical flaw. The very feature that provides the shoe’s signature comfort can become its greatest source of discomfort. It suggests a potential weakness in the adhesive or material used for the liner, transforming a “cloud-like” experience into a frustrating and disappointing one. This is a significant gamble for a potential buyer, weighing sublime immediate comfort against questionable longevity.
Design and Usability: The Genius of the Bungee Slip-On
Beyond the insole, the overall design of the Skechers Summits Artistry Chic Sneaker is a masterclass in convenience. The slip-on functionality, facilitated by the flexible upper and elasticated bungee-laced front, is genuinely liberating. In our daily testing, this became the feature we appreciated most. The ability to slide the shoes on and off hands-free when your arms are full of groceries or you’re in a rush to get out the door is a small luxury that adds up. As one user gratefully noted, the elastic cords “do not have to be tied, which I greatly appreciate.” This makes them an ideal choice for travel—easy to slip off for airport security—or for anyone with mobility issues who finds bending down to tie laces difficult.
The soft, nearly one-piece flat mesh knit upper contributes significantly to this ease of use. It’s incredibly pliable, stretching to accommodate the foot without creating pressure points. This flexibility, combined with the material’s inherent breathability, kept our feet cool and comfortable even after hours of wear. The “Artistry Chic” name is apt; the monochrome design is minimalist and modern, allowing the shoe to blend in effortlessly with a variety of casual outfits. However, this lightweight mesh is also a point of concern. We came across a review where a user’s previous pair made of similar material “developed holes quickly” and another where the “toe split within a week.” While we did not experience this in our testing period, it highlights a potential trade-off: the very qualities that make the upper so comfortable—its lightness and flexibility—may also compromise its structural integrity over the long term.
Underfoot Performance: The EVA Midsole and Rubber Outsole in Action
A shoe’s engine room is its sole, and the Skechers Summits Artistry Chic Sneaker is built on a solid, if simple, foundation. The midsole is made from lightweight, flexible, and shock-absorbing EVA foam. In practice, this translated to a cushioned ride that effectively smoothed out the bumps of everyday terrain. Walking on hard surfaces like concrete and asphalt felt noticeably softer, with the midsole absorbing a good amount of the impact that would otherwise travel up to the ankles and knees. It’s a forgiving platform that works in concert with the Memory Foam insole to create a comprehensive comfort system.
This is paired with a flexible rubber outsole designed for traction. We tested its grip on various surfaces, including dry pavement, wet tarmac, and polished indoor floors. The traction was reliable and confidence-inspiring for general walking. We never experienced any slips or instability during our casual use. The sole’s flexibility allows the foot to move naturally, avoiding the stiff, board-like feeling that can plague some more structured trainers. This makes them comfortable for all-day wear, as your foot isn’t fighting against the shoe with every step. While it’s more than adequate for its intended purpose, it’s important to reiterate that this is not an all-terrain or high-performance outsole. It’s built for urban and suburban environments, not for challenging trails or demanding athletic manoeuvres. You can check the latest price and availability for this highly practical everyday trainer.
What Other Users Are Saying
The consensus among users is a story of two extremes, revolving almost entirely around comfort versus durability. On one hand, the positive feedback is effusive. We saw numerous comments like, “Very comfortable, coming back for another pair in a different colour,” and “these trainers are SO comfortable!!!”. Many praise the lightweight feel and the immediate, plush cushioning, with one Italian user remarking it’s like “walking on foam rubber.” The slip-on design and accommodating fit for wider feet are also frequently celebrated as major wins.
On the other hand, the negative feedback is pointed and consistent, focusing on a critical failure point: the Memory Foam insole. Reports of the liner detaching, wrinkling, or breaking down after just weeks of use are too common to be dismissed as isolated incidents. Phrases like “memory foam has come away” and “liner has ‘broken’… not comfortable, now sticks up as folded into my foot” paint a picture of a product whose core feature can quickly become a defect. This stark contrast in experiences suggests that while the initial design is brilliant, the execution or material quality of the insole may be inconsistent, which is a crucial factor for any potential buyer to consider.
How Does the Skechers Summits Artistry Chic Sneaker Compare to the Alternatives?
No product exists in a vacuum. To give you the full picture, we’ve compared the Skechers Summits Artistry Chic Sneaker against three distinct alternatives, each catering to a slightly different user need. This will help you decide if the Summits model is the perfect fit for you, or if another option might better serve your priorities.
1. Skechers Men’s Flex Advantage Sr-Bronwood Slip On Trainers
- RELAXED FIT Double Gore Slip On with Water Repellent
This alternative from Skechers offers a similar core promise of slip-on comfort but is geared more towards a work environment. The “SR” stands for Slip Resistant, indicating an outsole designed for superior traction on potentially slick surfaces, like those found in hospitality or healthcare settings. While it shares the Memory Foam insole and slip-on design, its aesthetic is more utilitarian, and the construction feels slightly more robust. If you love the Skechers comfort ethos but need a shoe that provides enhanced safety and durability for a workplace that keeps you on your feet, the Flex Advantage Sr-Bronwood is likely a better investment.
2. adidas Samba Super Trainers
The adidas Samba Super represents a completely different philosophy of footwear. This is a classic, iconic lace-up trainer rooted in athletic heritage and timeless style. Instead of plush, yielding memory foam, it offers a firmer, more structured feel with a durable leather upper and a robust rubber sole. The Samba is for the user who prioritises iconic style, a supportive and stable feel, and long-term durability over the “walking on clouds” cushioning and slip-on convenience of the Skechers. If you prefer a traditional trainer with a retro look that will last for years, the Samba is the superior choice.
3. Skechers Men’s Hands-Free Slip-ins Garza Duran Sneaker
- EFFORTLESS SLIP-ON STYLE: Smooth leather upper with stretch bungee laces allows for easy slip on shoes for men.
- CUSHIONED COMFORT: Charcoal-infused Skechers Air-Cooled Memory Foam insole and Skechers Goga Mat Arch provide cushioning and support.
The Garza Duran represents the next evolution of Skechers’ convenience-focused technology. While the Summits Artistry Chic is an easy slip-on, the “Hands-Free Slip-ins” line takes this a step further with a patented heel pillow design that allows you to step into the shoe without bending over or using your hands at all. It’s the ultimate solution for pure, unadulterated convenience. If the main appeal of the Summits is its ease of use, and you’re willing to invest in the latest technology for an even more effortless experience, then the Hands-Free Slip-ins are the logical upgrade.
Our Final Verdict: Is the Skechers Summits Artistry Chic Sneaker Right for You?
After extensive testing and careful consideration of user feedback, our verdict on the Skechers Summits Artistry Chic Sneaker is one of conditional recommendation. This shoe is an absolute triumph of initial comfort and everyday convenience. For those seeking an incredibly lightweight, breathable, and easy-to-wear trainer for casual walks, errands, and travel, it delivers an experience that genuinely feels like walking on clouds. The slip-on design is a practical joy, and its understated style makes it a versatile addition to any wardrobe.
However, this recommendation comes with a significant caveat regarding long-term durability, specifically of the Memory Foam insole. The recurring reports of the liner failing after a short period are a serious concern that cannot be overlooked. Therefore, we recommend the Skechers Summits Artistry Chic Sneaker primarily for light to moderate use. If you are looking for a plush, comfortable shoe for specific activities rather than a rugged daily workhorse, and you prioritise immediate comfort over guaranteed longevity, then you will likely be thrilled with your purchase. For those who need a shoe to withstand heavy, daily wear and tear, it would be wise to consider more robust alternatives.
Last update on 2025-11-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API