Saucony and Skechers are both well-established American brands with decades of experience crafting functional and stylish kicks. They offer expansive product ranges covering everything from performance running to weekend wear.
While Saucony is renowned for its tech-loaded racing flats, Skechers has carved a niche with ultra-cushioned kicks perfect for all-day wear. Both brands cater to runners and walkers alike with options galore.
When choosing between these two titans, consider your priorities – whether that’s featherlight speed, luxurious comfort, or both. Read on to see how Saucony and Skechers stack up across key categories.
Comparison Table
| Brand | Saucony | Skechers |
|---|---|---|
| Founded In | 1898 | 1992 |
| Comfort & Fit | Plush, supportive fit | Ultra-cushioned, roomy fit |
| Color Options | Wide range of colors | Tonals and bright pops |
| Durability | Durable for miles of wear | Varies depending on model |
| Performance | Excellent for speed and race days | Strong for casual wear |
| Style Popularity | Less trendy, more functional | Very trendy and stylish |
| Best Sellers | Kinvara, Guide, Ride | Go Walk shoes |
Saucony Overview
Saucony has been crafting high-quality athletic shoes since 1898 when the brand was founded in Kutztown, Pennsylvania.
Known for their cushioned and supportive fit, Saucony running shoes are designed to provide versatility for runners of all levels.
They incorporate features like PWRRUN+ midsole foam, FORMFIT uppers, and Everun in the outsole to deliver a smooth, flexible ride.
Saucony offers a wide range of pronation control options like their neutral, stability, and motion control shoes.
Their shoes also accommodate different arch types with models featuring low to high arch support.
While the average price point is around $100, Saucony has options spanning from $55 for basic models to $275 for their top designs.
They have a classic, sleek aesthetic that works for athletic training as well as casual everyday use. Saucony is a brand with broad appeal across the running community.
One of their popular model Kinvara is a light, flexible shoe perfect for tempo runs and racing. For runners seeking a reliable, well-cushioned workhorse of a shoe, Saucony delivers quality and performance.
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 the Brands
Comfort and Fit
Saucony rides the line between comfort and performance, while Skechers heavily prioritizes plush cushioning over all else. Saucony shoes have a snugger, more supportive fit through the midfoot while Skechers offers a roomier toe box. Both use quality materials but Skechers tends to be plusher and more pillowy underfoot.
Durability and Performance
Saucony excels in running shoe performance with focused support, responsive cushioning, and durable outsoles to withstand miles of pavement pounding. Skechers has made big improvements but has further to go, with mixed reviews on the staying power of some models. For athletic endeavors, Saucony is the clear winner.
Price
You’ll typically spend more upfront for Saucony’s performance kicks versus Skechers’ casuals. Their flagship trainers retail around $140 while comparable Skechers cost under $100. However, prices vary widely for both brands based on technology used.
Design and Style
Saucony’s styling appeals to performance purists who value a sleeker look. Skechers dominates casual lifestyle and walking categories with an endless parade of trendy patterns, materials, and silhouettes. Those wanting an athletic aesthetic lean Saucony while Skechers wins fans seeking fashion-forward looks.
Popularity
Among serious runners, Saucony edges out Skechers as a performance shoe mainstay. But Skechers’ broad lifestyle range has wider mainstream appeal and greater brand recognition among the general public. Skechers has mass retail presence which helps boost visibility.
Target Market
Saucony targets committed runners looking to smash PRs and go the distance in comfort. Skechers casts a wider net, marketing to fashionistas, professionals, and recreational fitness lovers wanting versatility. Saucony speaks to focused athletes while Skechers provides universal footwear.
Performance Comparison
For Nurses
Nurses praise the all-day cushioning of Skechers with their slip-resistant soles perfect for busy hospital shifts. Saucony offers select nursing clogs but can’t match Skechers’ deep selection designed specifically for the healthcare profession.
For Walking
It’s a toss-up for walkers. Saucony’s Triumph walker has a smooth roll while Skechers GOwalk offers extra flexibility. Both absorb shock effectively over miles of wear. Focus on proper fit and cushion needs.
For Running
Saucony dominates with race-ready shoes built for speed and endurance. Skechers has entered the performance game but leans lifestyle. For serious running from 5Ks to marathons, Saucony still reigns.
For Flat Feet
Skechers wins for flat feet given their focus on cushioning and support features like inner stabilizers. Saucony offers stability models but their core is neutral shoes. Go Skechers for flat feet that need extra love.
For Back Pain
Skechers takes the prize for aching backs thanks to memory foam insoles and arch support to encourage proper alignment. Saucony has select comfort models but nothing like Skechers’ deep cushioning lineup.
For Standing All Day
Nurses and retail workers adore Skechers’ standing sneakers like the D’lites for all-shift comfort. Saucony is not specialized in this area. For jobs requiring long hours on your feet, Skechers is the top choice.
For High Arches
Saucony excels for high arches with firmer midsoles and external support frames that prevent overpronation. Skechers has improving options but Saucony is preferred for arch support.
For Hiking
Saucony leaves the trail scene to hiking specialists, while Skechers offers capable options like the Torque trekker. For serious backcountry pursuits, look to brands dedicated to the outdoors.
For Plantar Fasciitis
Skechers provides excellent cushioning and arch support to relieve plantar fasciitis pain. Saucony also offers stability models with mild arch support. Overall, Skechers is ideal for countering this common running injury.
Final Verdict: Which is Better?
In the battle of Saucony versus Skechers, there is no single winner. Saucony dominates performance running but can’t compete with Skechers’ lifestyle comfort and variety. Skechers wins casual categories through innovation but falls short for hardcore training.
Choose Saucony if you’re a committed runner targeting race PRs and podium finishes. Opt for Skechers if you prioritize all-day comfort across activities, or want sporty style with unlimited outfit pairing potential.
Let your needs and priorities serve as the tie-breaker between these two tremendous brands. With outstanding offerings from each, any choice is sure to put an extra spring in your step.