I’m ditching my New Balance shoes for these Skechers on my 3 mile runs — here's why

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Prioritize comfort for your benefit

Skechers Max Cushioning Elite 2.0 running shoes photographed in front of a blue background.
(Image credit: Tom's Guide)

I've relied on New Balance Fresh Foam running shoes for years. I think they offer great arch support and are super comfortable to wear, and in my opinion are some of the best running shoes.

But I didn’t know that I was missing a whole other level of comfort until I tested the Skechers Max Cushioning Elite 2.0. They are so comfortable to wear even just for walking around, but when I took them on a run for the first time I set a new PR for my 3-mile run.

Skechers Max Cushioning Elite 2.0
Skechers Max Cushioning Elite 2.0: was $111 now $62 at Amazon

I have been relying on the Skechers Max Cushioning Elite 2.0 sneakers for runs for over a month and they have incredible bounce to help me move faster with fewer aches and pains.

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So yes, the change in shoes has made me a little faster but the comfort and support from them alone makes it worth the change.

Cushion and lift

The midsole of the shoe is made from memory foam and a PU (polyurethane) foam which, when put together, creates a bouncy and springy walk. The Skechers Air-Cooled Goga Mat technology also provides further cushioning for high intensity exercise.

The sole has a two-inch lift and I could really feel the effect of this from the shock absorption the shoe offers. My poor knees bear the brunt of the effects of my running, and in the weeks I have used these sneakers I haven’t had any aches or pains.

Skechers Max Cushioning Elite 2.0 running shoes photographed in front of a blue background.

(Image credit: Tom's Guide)

I have also noticed the elevation from the sole means I am leaning forward ever so slightly, so the shoes will automatically propel you forward with every step you take.

Cooling

These shoes are totally breathable and kept my feet far cooler than my usual New Balances. And while the mesh upper of the shoe makes for a cool running experience, it’s not so great for running in the rain.

Skechers are of course known for their breathability, but I didn’t quite understand the hype until trying these out. While the Goga Mat technology works to cushion the show, it also has a cooling effect. This is also in the Skechers’ Go Run Elevate 2.0 sneakers and makes them extremely comfortable to wear for long periods.

Skechers Go Run Elevate 2.0
Skechers Go Run Elevate 2.0 : was $72 now $46 at Amazon

We have awarded the Skechers Go Run Elevate 2.0 a coveted 4-stars. They are a great option for new runners as the elevated sole makes them bouncy, and they are lightweight to make every step easy.

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Space for toes

Most Skechers shoes come with a wide fit option, but I would say the Max Cushioning Elite 2.0 run wide anyway. While I have narrow feet, there was more than enough room in the regular fit version of these sneakers.

Skechers Max Cushioning Elite 2.0 running shoes photographed in front of a blue background.

(Image credit: Tom's Guide)

That meant there was plenty of room in the toe box and no squished toes in sight, This is an issue I find with a lot of sneakers I wear, where the toe box tapers to almost a point. While the Skechers still have a flattering shape, they are not constrictive.

Arch support

I have very arched feet from years of ballet training, so when I don’t have enough support from my shoes I really feel it. And as a chronic Doc Martens wearer, I know the impact of an uncomfortable shoe.

By having extra support in the arch area of my foot, my runs have become more comfortable, but that’s not the best part.

Usually a little while after a run, my arches can become slightly sore without the right support, and this is something I was experiencing with my previous running shoes. Since switching to Skechers I haven’t had any aches.

Skechers Max Cushioning Elite 2.0 running shoes photographed in front of a blue background.

(Image credit: Tom's Guide)

I will definitely be sticking with Skechers for my short runs from now on. For longer runs I would still go down the route of a sturdier shoe like the Asics Novablast 5, but for short training runs where you need to prioritize comfort? I can’t recommend these Skechers enough.

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Ashley Thieme
Ashley Thieme
Staff writer, Reviews

Ashley is a staff writer on the the Reviews team at Tom’s Guide. She has a master’s degree in Magazine Journalism from Cardiff University and a BA in Journalism, Media and Sociology. She has written for titles including Women’s Health UK, writing health and wellness stories, and Virgin Radio UK, specializing in entertainment news and celebrity interviews. She has reported on a variety of topics including music, literature, motorsport, entertainment and health. She has previously reviewed live music events, books, and wellness products but discovering the top audio equipment on the market is what she does best. When she is not testing out the latest tech, you can find her either curled up with a cup of tea and a good fantasy novel or out hiking.

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