Skechers-GOrun-Max-Road-6

Upper

Risa: "The upper was breathable and overall comfortable. On my first couple of testing runs, the heel felt a bit roomy on me, so I used a runner's loop and had no issues after that. As a more narrow-footed runner, the fit was a bit roomy in the heel and forefoot, but overall the Skechers Max Road 6 was comfortable both on foot and on the run.

The updated mesh upper was not the most breathable, and the Max Road 6 may not be my first choice for summer runs in high heat, but even though it could be more breathable, I did not experience any irritation throughout testing."

Kaitlin: "Upper provides a healthy amount of padding in the heel collar and tongue, providing a plush step-in that continues to deliver comfort on the roads. The material is not very adaptable, and the overall fit for me was on the snugger side, and runners with wider feet may need a little more room from the Max Road. That said, average and narrow-footed runners should have no issues."

Midsole

Risa: "With a max stack of HYPER BURST ICE foam, the Max Road 6 has a highly protective ride that delivers a small bounce. The carbon-infused plate adds a slight snap to the ride but acts as more of a stabilizer for the foam than a speed inducer. Also, with the shoe's slightly heavier weight, I did not feel super inspired to pick up the pace while wearing the MAx Road. I enjoyed the Max Road most on longer, easier daily runs. It kept me comfortable, protected, and the ride was lively enough to continue enjoying the run as the miles began to accrue."

Kaitlin: "The ride is soft and springy, and I was impressed by how fresh I felt during high-mileage efforts while wearing the Max Road 6. I do not find the shoe to be fast, but the ride is ideal for daily training runs at moderate to slower paces. Furthermore, I know the Max Road 6 will be popular among the walking community.

Sadly, the Max Road 6 is much heavier and less energetic than the previous model, which has definitely changed what runs I will be using the Max Road for, but it is still a very good shoe, and there will be a lot of runners who appreciate this more comfort-minded cruiser."

Outsole

Risa: "I had no issues with traction while wearing the Max Road 6 thanks to its Goodyear Rubber outsole. There is a considerable amount of rubber underfoot, and I expect it to be a durable, long-lasting shoe on par with or better than other popular max-cushion trainers."

Kaitlin: "The Max Road 6 is not lacking any outsole rubber, and the hearty slab of Goodyear rubber provided reliable traction in dry and wet conditions, as well as an extra layer of protection. I appreciated the toe bumper, which will protect runners' feet from debris that might come up on your runs. Durability definitely should not be an issue. The only issue I have with the outsole is that there is a lot of it, contributing to the Max Road 6's weight increase." 

Comparable Shoes

Skechers Max Road 6 vs. Skechers Max Road 5

The Max Road 6 is roughly a half-ounce heavier with a higher stack height and a slightly softer underfoot feel. Version 5 feels lighter and more lively on the run, and it is a bit more stable. The Max Road 6 is better for longer, slower runs, whereas the Max Road 5 is more versatile for shorter daily efforts.

Skechers Max Road 6 vs. HOKA Clifton 9

The Max Road 6 has more stack height and is more protective over distance. The HYPER BURST ICE midsole foam also produces a better energy return. The Clifton 9 is much lighter and has a more secure upper. The Clifton 9 is also a better option for those who need a more stable ride.

Skechers Max Road 6 vs. ASICS Gel Nimbus 25

Both models are highly protective, offering rides that pair perfectly with long, cruising runs. The NImbus is a bit softer, whereas the Max Road 6 has a little more bounce. The Nimbus has a comfortable yet toned-down upper compared to the MAx Road. If you like an abundance of plush padding in your upper, then the Max Road 6 is for you.