5 features of the fast and lightweight Skechers GoRun 5

Canadian Running tested out the Skechers GoRun 5, a lightweight trainer that will have you feeling fast. See what features the GoRun 5 has to offer.

Tim Huebsch December 19, 2016

The Skechers GoRun 5 is a relatively new addition to the running market as the line of shoe has only been around for approximately four years. Though they compete with brands that have been making shoes for more than 20-30 years, Skechers fits into the market well– especially with this latest offering for speedster runners.

Some may know Skechers as the shoes of choice for Boston Marathon champion and Olympic silver medallist Meb Keflezighi as well as IAAF World Championship bronze medallist Kara Goucher. And while the shoes work for them, they may very well work for you too.

Canadian Running had the chance to test out the limited edition New York City Marathon-themed version of the GoRun 5. As can be seen in the photos, the shoe is stamped with “NYC 2016” stitching on the outer edge of the heel.

Minimal drop

The shoe has a much lesser heel-toe drop than most traditional running shoes. The 4mm difference from the heel to the toe is noticeable from the get-go, especially if you’re switching from a more cushioned shoe. As one Canadian Running tester noted, this minimal drop could initially be felt by the Achilles and calf muscles. The solution? Switch up shoes every once in a while. That will also allow the shoe’s cushioning to recover between runs. You’re going to be feeling the ground as the GoRun 5s are responsive yet firm. (The cushioning is similar to the New Balance Zante.)

The essentials:

Release date: Available now
Type: Lightweight trainer
Heel-to-toe drop: 4 mm (18 mm to 14 mm)
Weight: Men’s: 7.5 oz. (size 9), Women’s: 6.3 oz. (size 7)
Price (MSRP): $140
Terrain tested: Road, crushed gravel and trail.
Kilometres tested (so far): 135

Super light

The lessened drop is reflected in the weight. At just 7.5 oz. for men and 6.3 oz. for women, you’re bound to feel quick in the GoRun 5s. The lightweight profile means they’re suitable for racing (though, admittedly, CR hasn’t yet tested them in a race) while also having some protection for workouts. Are you someone who commonly feels the effects of the day after road racing? The GoRun 5’s hybrid nature between a racing flat and everyday shoe may leave your legs feeling a bit happier after some road running. Bonus: It can be an everyday trainer if you’re into shoes that have minimal cushioning.

Suitable for racing

The shoe is characterized as a lightweight trainer which can double as a racing flat if need be. Depending on personal preference, the soft upper lets runners get away with going sock-less on race day. Our testers liked that there’s a minimal feel to the shoe. It’s so flexible that you can fold the shoe in half, though a stability shoe may be your best bet if you overpronate.

Skechers axed the pods

Note that the sole has changed significantly from the previous generation, which feels a little firmer. This update of the shoe notably abandons the circular pod design of the past. Another positive is the affordability; a shoe going for less than $140 is steal if the shoe can last more than 500K. While we would potentially like to see some additional grip for the harsher conditions… we’ll pick our battles.

Quick fit

Another neat little detail is the quick fit feature on the heel. One of the first things Canadian runners may do after an icy run is jump in the shower. The first course of action is taking off the shoes, which is made way easier thanks to the small hook and grab handle that acts almost as a shoe horn. Sometimes, it’s all in the details and this one is a nice touch.

Look for the GoRun 5 at run-specialty stores across Canada now. Check out Canadian Running’s list of local retailers.