Details
Brand
Skechers
Heel To Toe Drop
4 mm
Breathability
8/10
Latest Version
Yes
Terrain
Trail
Type
Maximalist
Key Features
• Multi-surface traction system• Lugs on the bottom of the shoe for added traction• 5Genb foam midsole for extra plush cushioning• Dupont Hytrel dispersion protection plate• H2GO technology makes shoe water-resistant• Reflective details• Ortholite sock line• Drainage holes
Upper
This shoe’s upper is incredibly soft, stretchy, responsive and lightweight. Synthetic, nearly seamless mesh is used in its construction. The benefit of having a seamless upper is that skin irritation becomes a thing of the past. There’s only a tiny bit of stitching near the shoelaces for reinforcement. Additionally, the upper is designed to be breathable and flexible. H2GO protection gives the shoe water-resistant properties, so you don’t have to worry about running through puddles or rain. The toe box is fairly rounded, with ample room for the toes to move freely.;The Dual Hotmelt Overlay system works with the lacing system to provide a secure, snug fit while still maintaining the shoe’s flexibility. Support straps are used to connect the sections of the upper to the shoelaces. These straps not only provide the shoe with extra security, but they assist in customizing the shoe’s overall fit. Its lacing system uses traditional laces rather than the quick-lace system that some running brands are beginning to implement into their shoes. The tongue and collar of the shoe are both well-padded, adding to both the comfort and protection the GoTrail Ultra 4 offers.
Midsole
This Skechers GoTrail Ultra 4 is a maximum cushioned shoe. The 5GEN cushioning is used for the midsole unit. It’s a full-length foam, designed to absorb shock with every stride. While some find its plush midsole to be too cushioned, most runners appreciate the support, responsiveness, and comfort that come along with it. Additionally, there are drainage holes in the mid-sole, so in case any water enters the shoe it can be funneled right out. The OrthoLite sockliner contains anti-microbial and moisture-wicking properties, ensuring that the inside of the shoe remains a healthy environment. A supportive heel cup holds the foot firmly in place and prevents accidental shoe removals. The midsole uses M-strike technology to encourage a comfortable and reliable mid-foot strike.
Outsole
The outsole of the Skechers GoTrail Ultra 4 has incredible grip and does great on most terrains. The Multi-Surface Traction System, a rubber compound that sticks to the ground, is used for the outsole. Aggressive lugs attached to the bottom of the shoe “dig” into the ground to provide you with the best traction possible. They essentially hold onto the surface like clamps. In the forefoot area, the shoe has flex grooves to ensure the foot is able to move naturally. This is especially important during the toe-off phase. Circular GOimpulse sensors are used on the rubber outsole for added responsiveness and traction.
Breathability
The upper’s tightly woven mesh is incredibly breathable, making the GoTrail Ultra 4 a perfect choice for those hot sunny days. The shoe is designed to ensure that your foot doesn’t become excessively hot or sweaty. Mesh is an excellent choice of material for running shoes, especially those that are going to be used frequently in hot conditions. A drainage system adds to the level of breathability the shoe already has, while simultaneously letting go of any water that may enter the shoe.
Comfort
Many runners find that this shoe doesn’t even need to be broken in, it’s comfortable from the start. The shoe’s toe box is roomy enough to accommodate natural toe-splay. This plays a large role in the shoe’s comfort level, as your toes won’t feel restricted or crammed. However, if you have over-pronation, this shoe probably isn’t a great choice. It’s designed for those with neutral pronation. The semi-curved shape of this shoe is designed to conform to the foot’s shape for a natural, relaxed feel. The shoe runs a half-size smaller than usual, so make sure to take that into account when ordering.
Style
This is a very visually appealing shoe. The GoTrail Ultra 4 does a great job of combining functionality and style. In women’s sizes, the shoe is available in navy and coral, charcoal and teal, and all black. In men’s sizes, it’s available in red and orange, charcoal and teal, and all black. The thick base of the shoe gives it a heavy-duty look, but it’s not overly bulky by any means.
Durability
The Skechers GoTrail Ultra 4 is without a doubt one of the brand’s most durable shoes. Designed specifically for rough trails and tricky terrain, this shoe does an excellent job of holding up throughout the miles and resisting wear and tear. Although they’re durable, they’re also flexible which are two factors that often times do not go hand in hand. Additionally, the lace area is reinforced for extra durability and security. Some runners have reported wearing this shoe for longer distances than they’ve ever seen another running shoe hold up for. Customers definitely seem to be impressed by the shoe’s heavy-duty nature, and the fact that it’s lightweight AND durable just makes it that much better.
Protection
The H2GO protection that this shoe utilizes does a great job of protecting the shoe from absorbing any moisture. Additionally, drainage holes are used in the midsole just in case any water enters the shoe. The base of the shoe is very thick and heavy-duty, so it easily protects the foot from rocks and other trail hazards. A protection plate at the front of the forefoot is added for extra protection against trail hazards. This shoe contains reflective detailing, which is a great feature to have for those who frequently run at dusk or in other low-light conditions. Additionally, the tongue and collar of the shoe are both very well padded to prevent pebbles and other debris from entering the shoe.
Responsiveness
The GoTrail Ultra 4 scores very well in the responsiveness category. Thanks to its 5GEN midsole, the shoe is incredibly responsive on all terrains. Its rubber outsole uses circular GOimpluse Sensors for the most responsive running experience possible.
Support
The platform of the Skechers GoTrail Ultra 4 is incredibly supportive of the whole length of the foot. This shoe has better arch support than most other neutral running shoes. The heel cup does an excellent job of securing the foot firmly in place and providing the heel with the perfect amount of support needed to carry you through your run.
Terrain
While the GoTrail Ultra 4 is technically a trail shoe, it performs well across a variety of terrains. Thanks to the lugs on the bottom of the shoe, you’ll never have to worry about not receiving enough traction on certain terrains. This makes the shoe incredibly versatile. Whether you’re running on rocky, technical terrain, or going for a jog through your neighborhood, the GoTrail Ultra 4 has you covered.
Price
This shoe is priced moderately compared to other running shoes. Compared to trail running shoes particularly, the GoTrail Ultra 4 is more affordable than most.
Drop
The Skecher GoTrail Ultra 4 has a heel to toe drop of 4 mm. Most runners find this drop to be just right, as it gives the shoe an incredibly smooth and efficient turnover.
Stability
The GoTrail Ultra 4 exceeds expectations in the stability category. With a sturdy, protective outsole and a heel cup that firmly holds your foot in place, it’s not likely that your foot will exit the shoe while running. The lacing system with reinforced stitching is great at securing the foot while still being comfortable and non-restrictive. The 5GEN foam insert in the midsole conforms to your foot’s natural shape and gives you an even greater sense of security.
Flexibility
With the GoTrail Ultra 4, unlike its predecessor, the overlays of the shoe are not stitched on. This reduces bulk and encourages a much greater range of flexibility. In the Skechers previous GoTrail Ultra shoe, runners reported feeling a bit restricted due to the stiff overlays. Rather than bulky stitching, the shoe now uses Hotmelt overlays. Skechers did an excellent job of solving the flexibility issue.;The forefoot section of the platform is very flexible, enabling the shoe to move and flex with you rather than against you. The forefoot’s flex groove is a great benefit especially during the toe-off phase. The 5Gen foam in the midsole gives the shoe a natural flex, with the only drawback being the fact that on rocky, technical terrains, the flexibility can be a bit too much, causing potential strain on the ankle.
Traction
This shoe performs very well in terms of traction. Being a trail shoe, this is not surprising. The outsole itself uses the Multi-Surface Traction System, giving the shoe incredible grip. On top of that, lugs of the bottom of the shoe, dig into the ground for added traction. There have only been complaints of the shoe not doing very well on surfaces with thick sticky mud. However, this is a problem you’re going to run into with essentially every running shoe you encounter, so it doesn’t necessarily mean this is a drawback of the GoTrail Ultra 4.
Bottom Line
Overall, the Skechers GoTrail Ultra 4 has received very positive feedback. Its comfort level, flexibility, and weight make it the perfect choice for not only runners but even those just looking for a supportive everyday shoe. For the price, you’re getting an extremely well-made, durable shoe with the Skechers GoTrail Ultra 4. For medium-distance runs on various terrains, this shoe is a great choice. Its high level of cushioning gives the shoe it’s comfortable “plushy” feeling, however, some runners feel that the degree of cushioning is excessive. Overall, we definitely recommend the Skechers GoTrail Ultra 4 to anyone seeking a shoe that provides them with the stability and support they need, without breaking the bank.
