Skechers GOwalk 2

During the summer I love going for long walks and hikes in beautiful peaceful environments. Provincial parks, forest reserves and wooded areas that have a natural beauty are my ultimate favorite spots especially in the fall when all the colors are changing. I enjoy the scenic and varied terrain. Some of the trails are long and challenging and require being prepared. I pack an ultralight backpack with my essentials but the most important element to enjoying a great hike is your footwear. I don’t like hiking boots because of their weight so I opt for sneakers or walking shoes, but even some of these can be heavy, uncomfortable, and cause blisters.

Recently I got to test drive a pair of Skechers Gowalk 2 Stance shoes. Normally when I get a new pair of shoes I’ll take them for several trails runs on my treadmill before venturing out into the wild blue yonder. Some shoes just seem to require breaking in time.

The first thing I noticed with the Skechers Gowalk 2 Stance shoes was how extremely lightweight they are, approximately 5 ounces per shoe. This is such a relief especially if you’re hiking for a couple of hours. I love the shape of them too, they have a wider toe area so no pinching was felt. They have a canvas-like mesh upper body that allows your feet to stay nice and cool. The next thing I noticed was how incredibly comfortable they are. As soon as I put them on I had a spring in my step and wanted to go for a long run, so I did. No pain, no strain, no blisters, no limping, and no downtime.

I was impressed with how flexible they are, they managed every kind of surface I walked on from rocky to slick. Often I will slip off an uneven surface and my shoes will lose their grip and slide on my foot. I’ve sprained many an ankle because of this. I did not experience this at all, there was lots of secure traction so I had sure footing. As a result, I could really pick up my pace. I also have high arches and if I don’t get enough support I will endure a burning sensation and tightness in my muscles. The Gowalk 2 Stance seemed to fit the shape of my feet nicely so I did not feel any discomfort. These bright beauties have oodles of great attributes that completely back up my experience.

Details:
*V-Stride technology features unique angled outsole that complements a natural walking gait and promotes fluid stride transitions
*Four-way stretch mesh at front for greater flexibility and comfort
*Engineered Stability Mesh side panels provide lateral support
*Quick-Fit Portal on heel for easy on, easy off convenience
*Go sockless – Integrated OrthoLite® anti-microbial sockliner helps inhibit odor and prevent slippage
*Resalyte™ Midsole – proprietary lightweight injection-molded compound with memory retention helps absorb impact
*Independent circular GOimpulse sensors offer flexibility and feedback for a more responsive walking experience
*A multi-directional traction motif helps enhance footing control

Construction:
*Nearly weightless synthetic and mesh upper
*Flatlock stitching for a nearly seamless upper with a flexible, lace-up design
*Added side overlays provide lateral stability
*Lace up front
*Soft smooth fabric lining for easy barefoot wear
*Weight: Radically lightweight 5 oz. per shoe based on a women’s size 7

I have worn these shoes for several weeks and have put them through the worst walking areas and they did not let me down. Every time I’ve worn them they’ve been totally comfortable, actually beyond comfortable. I hardly knew I had them on. I really love the variety of colors they come in, like the super bright orange I got. I always choose bright colors because I walk in a lot of dark and dense areas so I want to be seen, or at least my feet be noticed. I was also impressed with the price, I usually pay twice a much for other athletic shoes and don’t get the comfort the Skechers offer. Two thumbs up from this hiker!!

Disclaimer: I received products to facilitate a review. All opinions are my own, yours may differ.