Skechers is generally an on-the-garb brand for many people that are looking for running shoes, or comfortable training footwear. They are easy on the pocket. They are comfortable and very versatile. Sketches do offer shoes for HIIT training. They have some excellent cross-training shoes and stability running shoes that are ideal for high-intensity interval training.
Running Shoes VS Cross Training Shoes
As I have mentioned above, you can choose from across training shoes or stability running shoes for doing high-intensity interval training. However, most running shoes are not suitable for high-intensity interval training, and I would much rather recommend that you opt for a proper cross-training shoe with certain features.
As you also might have noticed by now, you do not essentially get an actual HIIT training shoe. You get a cross-training shoe that is suitable for HIIT training and CrossFit training.
High-intensity interval training consists of many different types of movements that are high impact and that also involves many lateral movements.
For these movements, you do need specific features from your shoes, as well as a very specific fit. So let me explain to you the difference between running shoes and cross-training shoes, and why it is better to opt for a cross-training shoe than a running shoe for HIIT training.
- Running Shoes – First of all running shoes cannot absorb high impacts such as box jumping, which many times you do in HIIT training, running shoes are designed, basically for moving forward, for striking heel to toe. Thus, most training shoes have a heel-toe drop of around 10 millimeters to 12 millimeters, which is essential for cushioning for your heel and forward movement. This type of forward movement can be detrimental when doing cross-training or high-interval intensity training, as it can cause instability and prevent you from keeping your balance. Then we get to cushioning most running shoes have much softer cushioning, which is ideal for the impact of running only. Running shoes also generally have a more accommodating fit. Running shoes offer much durability in the outsoles for running on roads, mostly they offer light traction and light grip as not much is needed for this type of floor surface
- Cross Training Shoes – Cross training shoes, on the other hand, are specifically designed for the demands and the various movements involved with cross training, high-intensity interval training, and CrossFit training.[1] Cross-training shoes are designed with slightly firmer and more energizing cushioning in their midsoles to absorb harder impact, especially during jumps. They generally have a more grippy outsole that is slightly flexible and offers excellent traction. You balanced on your feet. Cross-training shoes are also much more stable to help you keep your balance during all these complex movements, and are designed to allow for more lateral movements.[2] They have a more snug fit, especially in the heel area to prevent your hill from slipping in and out of your shoes.
Why Choose Skechers Shoes
One thing I love about Skechers as a shoe brand is how many types of shoe options they have available.
They offer everything from formal shoes to athletic and sports shoes, as well as a very wide range of sandals.
Skechers have both neutral and stability running shoes, as well as Cross training shoes.
Their Cross training shoes offer excellent features to improve your performance and keep you comfortable during HIIT training.
Features of a Good Skechers Shoe for HIIT
- Uppers – The best Skechers shoes for HIIT training will usually have either mesh, knit mesh, or engineered mesh uppers. The knit net mesh uppers are more flexible and have a more sleek and tight fit that will adapt to the shape of your feet. The uppers are breathable and moisture-wicking, which will help to keep your feet cool during training, and they are also usually lined for comfort.
- Midsole – They will generally have a dual density and more flexible midsole to allow for lateral movements and have high impact absorbency capabilities. Most Skechers shoes for HIIT training will have a cooled memory foam insole for comfort and keep your feet dry.
- Outsole – The Outsole will be designed to offer light stability and excellent grip and traction for training.
- Fit – Skechers shoes offer a comfortable and snug fit to prevent heel slippage.
Key Specs Compared
Numbers match the reviews below (tap to jump).
| No. | Shoe | Type | Upper | Closure | Cushioning (as listed) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Skechers GoRun Glide / GO Run Glide (men's) | Not stated | Mesh | Not stated | Not stated |
| 2 | Skechers Go Run Ride 8 | Not stated | Not stated | Not stated | Not stated |
| 3 | Skechers Go Walk Arch | Sneaker | Mesh | Lace-up | Arch Fit |
| 4 | Skechers Ultra Flex 4.0 | Slip-On Sneaker | Knit | Hands-free slip-in | Memory Foam |
| 5 | Skechers Go Walk Joy | Sneaker | Mesh | Not stated | Goga Mat |
– = not stated on the Amazon listing. Specs as stated by the listing, not tested by us; check the listing before you buy.
Reviews: The Best Skechers Shoes for HIIT
In our review section, we have some of the best available shoe models from Skechers that are ideal for HIIT training;
1
Cushioned Lightweight Shoe for Everyday Wear
The Skechers GO Run Glide (men’s) and GoRun Glide (women’s) are matching shoes from Skechers, and both are worth a look for Skechers shoes for HIIT.
- Unique outsole design for energy return and high-rebound performance, with a pillow-like soft landing, a useful trait in Skechers shoes for HIIT.
- Ortholite insole provides long-term cushioning, moisture management, and breathability, which helps keep long stretches of workouts comfortable.
- Goodyear rubber outsole for superior traction, enhanced grip, and durability, a practical detail for workouts.
- Breathable engineered mesh upper with hot melt details, which helps feet stay comfortable through workouts.
- Glide-Step geometric midsole designed to provide natural momentum with every step.
- Skechers M-Strike technology promotes efficiency in each stride and creates smooth transitions from landing to toe-off.
- Breathable engineered mesh upper with elastic bungee laces, functions as a slip-on.
2
Shoe for Everyday Wear
The Skechers Go Run Ride 8 comes in men’s and women’s versions, and this shoe is worth a look for Skechers shoes for HIIT.
- HYPER BURST cushioning midsole offers a highly responsive and ultra-lightweight experience. This innovative resilient foam is created using a ‘Super Critical’ process, which helps keep long stretches of workouts comfortable.
- Mid-foot strike zone promotes efficiency in each stride.
- Goodyear Performance Outsole for enhanced traction, stability and durability, the kind of support many people look for in Skechers shoes for HIIT.
- Breathable engineered mesh upper with a lace-up design, worth noting if fit is a priority for Skechers shoes for HIIT.
- Men’s and women’s versions are listed separately on Amazon, each with its own size range.
- Check the Amazon listing for current colors and size availability before you order.
- Compare the size chart on the listing, since fit can vary between colorways and versions.
3
Cushioned Lightweight Sneaker for Everyday Wear
The Skechers Go Walk Arch comes in men’s and women’s versions, and this sneaker is worth a look for Skechers shoes for HIIT.
- Removable insole helps mold to your foot to reduce shock and increase weight dispersion, which helps keep long stretches of workouts comfortable.
- Breathable engineered mesh upper with elastic bungee laces, functions as a slip on, a practical detail for workouts.
- Lightweight, responsive ULTRA GO midsole cushioning, which helps keep long stretches of workouts comfortable.
- Machine washable design keeps your athletic walking shoes looking fresh with minimal effort.
- Men’s and women’s versions are listed separately on Amazon, each with its own size range.
- Check the Amazon listing for current colors and size availability before you order.
- Compare the size chart on the listing, since fit can vary between colorways and versions.
4
Cushioned Breathable Slip-On Sneaker for Everyday Wear
The Skechers Ultra Flex 4.0 comes in men’s and women’s versions, and this slip-on sneaker is worth a look for Skechers shoes for HIIT.
- Hands Free Slip-In Technology, a practical detail for workouts.
- Air-Cooled Memory Foam insole, which helps keep long stretches of workouts comfortable.
- Machine washable, air dry.
- Stretch fabric upper in Skechers Hands-Free Slip-ins® styling, helpful on the surfaces you meet during workouts.
- Air-Cooled Memory Foam footbed, a useful trait in Skechers shoes for HIIT.
- Men’s and women’s versions are listed separately on Amazon, each with its own size range.
- Check the Amazon listing for current colors and size availability before you order.
5
Mesh Lightweight Sneaker for Everyday Wear
The Skechers Go Walk Joy comes in men’s and women’s versions, and this sneaker is worth a look for Skechers shoes for HIIT.
- Designed to keep your feet cool while providing soft, cushioned support, which helps keep long stretches of workouts comfortable.
- Helps reduce foot fatigue and provides superior comfort for extended wear.
- Removable insole helps mold to your foot to reduce shock and increase weight dispersion, which helps keep long stretches of workouts comfortable.
- Breathable comfort knit upper with elastic bungee laces, functions as a slip on, a practical detail for workouts.
- Lightweight, responsive ULTRA LIGHT midsole cushioning, which helps keep long stretches of workouts comfortable.
- Men’s and women’s versions are listed separately on Amazon, each with its own size range.
- Check the Amazon listing for current colors and size availability before you order.
Index Table: Top Rated Skechers Shoes for HIIT
| No. | Shoe | Men ♂ | Women ♀ | Features | Brand |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Skechers® - Cushioned Lightweight Shoe for Everyday Wear |  |  |
| Skechers |
| 2 | Skechers® - Shoe for Everyday Wear |  |  |
| Skechers |
| 3 | Skechers® - Cushioned Lightweight Sneaker for Everyday Wear |  |  |
| Skechers |
| 4 | Skechers® - Cushioned Breathable Slip-On Sneaker for Everyday Wear |  |  |
| Skechers |
| 5 | Skechers® - Mesh Lightweight Sneaker for Everyday Wear |  |  |
| Skechers |
Sources
General background on foot health and footwear. This is not medical advice; see a doctor or podiatrist about foot pain or a foot condition.
- Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety: Safety Footwear
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (OrthoInfo): Athletic Shoes
Update History
- Oct 2026: Updated Skechers GoRun Glide to a current in-stock listing
- Oct 2026: Updated Skechers Go Run Ride 8 to a current in-stock listing
- Oct 2026: Updated Skechers Arch Fit Keep It Up to Skechers Go Walk Arch
- Oct 2026: Updated Skechers Ultra Flex to Skechers Ultra Flex 4.0
- Oct 2026: Updated Skechers Go Walk 5 to Skechers Go Walk Joy
- Oct 2026: Removed Max Cushioning Elite Promised (unavailable)
- Feb 2023: First published
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