Finding the right athletic shoe can make all the difference in comfort, performance, and preventing injury. Two major players in the shoe game are ASICS and Skechers.
While both brands offer quality shoes, they differ in their strengths. This article compares ASICS and Skechers on key factors like comfort, durability, price, and more to help you decide which brand is best for your needs.
Comparison Table
| Category | ASICS | Skechers |
|---|---|---|
| Founded | 1949 | 1992 |
| Comfort & Fit | Varying levels of comfort and support | Renowned for high comfort level |
| Color Options | Wide range of colors | Vast color selections |
| Durability | Highly durable shoes | Can vary in durability |
| Performance | Excellent performance for running/sports | Good performance for casual wear |
| Design & Style | Classic athletic styles | Diverse modern designs |
| Popularity | Popular with athletes/serious exercisers | Popular with casual wearers |
| Best Selling Model | ASICS Gel-Kayano | Skechers Go Walk |
ASICS Overview
Asics was founded way back in 1949 by Kihachiro Onitsuka in Kobe, Japan.
The name “Asics” actually comes from the Latin phrase “anima sana in corpore sano,” which translates to “healthy soul in a healthy body.” Asics shoes really align with that mission, aiming to provide runners with equipment that enables peak performance.
Throughout its long history, Asics has continuously innovated and evolved its shoe technologies.
Key components that provide the renowned Asics fit and feel include the IGS (Impact Guidance System) for a natural gait cycle, Trusstic System tech for light stability, SpevaFoam cushioning for soft landings, and Dynamic DuoMax support for optimal alignment.
The outer soles utilize Asics’ specialized rubber compounds called AHAR (Asics High Abrasion Rubber) that hold up to heavy mileage on roads.
From fast, feather-light racing flats to well-cushioned trainers, Asics offers a diverse range of running shoe models to suit different needs.
But across the board, Asics shoes are known for their structured, classic look and feel.
If you want a running shoe with proven performance and durability from a brand that’s withstood the test of time, Asics is a solid choice.
Skechers Overview
Founded in Manhattan Beach, California in 1992 by Robert Greenberg, Skechers has grown into a leading global footwear brand.
Skechers designs comfortable, supportive, and stylish shoes for walking, running, training, and casual wear.
They incorporate innovations like high-rebound cushioning, Memory Foam insoles, Relaxed Fit designs and slip-resistant outsoles to provide versatility across active lifestyles.
Their Pressure Map technology uses real-time testing data to optimize comfort and support.
Skechers offers on-trend athletic and casual looks in various colors to appeal to diverse tastes. With affordably priced options for men and women, Skechers remains popular for their wear-anywhere comfort and style.
Their lightweight GOwalk shoes are a top choice for all-day wear. For athletic performance with mainstream appeal, Skechers delivers.
Major Differences Between These Brands
Comfort and Fit
Both brands offer comfortable shoes, but ASICS strongly focuses on performance comfort while Skechers emphasizes lifestyle comfort. The extra stability and pronation control features in some ASICS shoes contribute to their snugger fit, while Skechers has a wider and more relaxed fit suitable for casual wear.
Durability and Performance
The premium running and athletic shoes from ASICS are built for high performance and maximum durability through technologies like AHAR+ rubber outsoles. Skechers shoes range greatly in durability depending on the model – lower cost options sacrifice some longevity while higher end models are more durable.
Price
ASICS shoes come at a higher average price point, typically ranging from $120 to over $200. This reflects the specialized performance engineering that goes into their running and sports shoes. Skechers has much greater price diversity, with budget-friendly options under $60 and higher end shoes from $100 to $150.
Design and Style
The design aesthetic of ASICS shoes leans classic and sleek, with many models inspired by vintage sneakers from earlier decades. Their focus is on functional performance. Skechers has a lot more variety and whimsy in style, unafraid of bold colors, prints, and unique design details inspired by modern streetwear.
Popularity
ASICS has immense popularity and loyalty among runners, athletes, CrossFitters, and serious fitness enthusiasts who rely on the functional qualities of their shoes. Skechers has broader mainstream appeal, with their lifestyle shoes dominating the casual footwear market.
Target Market
ASICS targets competitive athletes shopping for specialty footwear to enhance performance in their sport of choice. Skechers has a much wider target demographic, marketing their vast selection towards men, women and children seeking fashionable comfort at any activity level.
Performance Comparison
For Nurses
For nurses who are on their feet all day, both ASICS and Skechers offer shoes that provide excellent cushioning and support. The ASICS Gel-Excite and Gel-Venture provide plush cushioning and shock absorption, while the Skechers Flex Appeal 3.0 Nursing Shoe has a slip-resistant FlexSole and Memory Foam insole for comfort. Ultimately, the Skechers may edge out with more lightweight flexibility for long shifts.
For Walking
It’s hard to beat Skechers when it comes to walking shoes. With ultra cushioned insoles, breathable materials and flexible outsoles, shoes like the Skechers GOwalk Arch Fit provide unparalleled comfort for long walks. However, for those who tend to overpronate, ASICS Gel-Tech Walker shoes offer better stability with rearfoot gel cushioning and guidance line technology.
For Running
Experienced runners favor the exceptional bounce, stability and durability of ASICS running shoes like the Gel-Nimbus and Gel-Kayano. For new runners, Skechers GOrun shoes provide good cushioned support at lower prices. Advanced runners looking for speed may find the Skechers GOmeb shoes too minimal for adequate mileage.
For Flat Feet
The ASICS Gel-Kayano models are some of the best shoes for flat feet, with ample arch support from the dynamic duomax system. Neutral cushioned Skechers will lack the correction needed for low or fallen arches. Stick with stability ASICS shoes for keeping overpronation and excessive inward rolling in check.
For Back Pain
Skechers wins when it comes to alleviating back pain. The Memory Foam insoles mold to the feet and provide ample cushioning to absorb impact that can radiate to the back. The flexible soles encourage natural foot movement as well. ASICS also offers gel-cushioned shoes that can reduce back pain, but some models have denser soles.
For Standing All Day
Cushioning is vital for standing all day, making Skechers Relaxed Fit shoes ideal for occupations that require being on your feet. The slip-resistant FlexSole outsole and Memory Foam cushioned insole alleviate fatigue. However, ASICS also offers workplace shoes with rearfoot gel cushioning suitable for standing long hours.
For High Arches
With their array of stability technologies, ASICS sneakers tend to provide better support and comfort for high arches compared to Skechers. The ASICS Gel-Kayano prevents arch collapse via the exoskeletal heel counter. Those with rigid high arches may feel looser in neutral cushioned Skechers lacking arch support.
For Hiking
The deep lugged rubber outsoles and traction of ASICS hiking boots make them a clear choice for serious hiking expeditions across varying terrain. However, casual day hikers can enjoy the lightweight comfort and flexibility of Skechers trail shoes like the Skechers GO Hike. Just avoid smooth-soled fashion Skechers on uneven trails.
For Plantar Fasciitis
ASICS Gel-Kayano and GT-2000 running shoes are recommended for plantar fasciitis, providing stability and ample shock absorption while allowing natural footmovement.
Skechers can worsen plantar fasciitis pain for some wearers as they promote pronation. Stick with ASICS stability shoes or consider custom orthotics for plantar fasciitis relief.
Final Verdict
While both ASICS and Skechers make quality athletic shoes, ASICS emerges as the winner for serious athletes and runners seeking high performance footwear built for their chosen sport.
The innovative technologies and focus on stability, pronation control, and shock absorption make ASICS the superior choice for training and competition. Skechers is ideal for those prioritizing style, variety, and lifestyle comfort at affordable prices. Their vast selection ensures you can find on-trend sneakers tailored for casual walks, travel, and everyday wear.
Ultimately, it comes down to your priorities and intended usage. Skechers offers better value for casual shoes, but dedicated athletes will want to invest in sport-specific ASICS models to elevate their performance.
Try shoes from both brands to determine which feels best suited to your individual needs and preferences. Analyze your gait and arch type, wear patterns on existing shoes, and any lingering foot pain or stability requirements.
This will help reveal whether your feet respond best to the structured support of ASICS or plush cushioning of Skechers for your lifestyle and fitness regime.