Verdict from 3 experts and 5 user reviews
7 reasons to buy
- Ride: The MaxRoad 5 is neither too soft nor too harsh. The combination of foam and carbon plate creates a responsive yet comfortable feel.
- Fit: It's "safe and secure" from front to back, reported various experts. They all attribute this to the strategically placed overlays.
- Toe room: There's generous space for toe splay.
- Comfort: The combination of the upper and midsole allow for an irritation-free sensation when running.
- Heel hold: "Very good." This is how road runners find the shoe's heel clutch. There is no rubbing on the Achilles and the security is comparable to that of the Skechers Ride 9.
- Tongue: It's semi-gusseted, allowing a more lockdown wrap, and has enough padding for lace bite prevention.
- Breathability: According to testers, it's "far more superior" than other MaxRoad running shoes.
2 reasons not to buy
- Unstable: When you land on the forefoot, the shoe can feel wobbly because there's not much rigidity up front.
- Picks up rocks: It's all because of the wide flex grooves on the outsole, which runners find "annoying."
Bottom line
The Skechers GOrun MaxRoad 5 is a max-cushioned daily trainer that's perfect for easy-paced or uptempo middle to long-distance runs. And for those who want an affordable option for marathons, this is the shoe to buy.
If you're a fan of maximalist trainers in the like of Hoka, consider this a lighter, bouncier option than the brand's renowned Clifton series.
Tip: see the best running shoes.
Skechers GOrun MaxRoad 5: The midsole is where the magic happens
Creating an optimal mix between bounce and energy return, the GOrun MaxRoad 5 employs the Skechers Hyper Burst foam and a carbon-infused H-plate. In short, the combination of these two is responsible for the propulsive ride of the shoe.
Unlike most EVA foams, the Hyper Burst goes through an intensive process that makes it "lighter and more responsive."
What and who is it for?
The Skechers GOrun MaxRoad 5 is designed for neutral runners who want to go fast over long distances. It's also leg-saving for those who plan to take a recovery run.
MaxRoad 5 vs. 4: What's the difference?
Gathering feedback from runners, Skechers has made it a point to improve the fit and ride of the GOrun MaxRoad 5. To do this, it took the following changes:
- An internal carbon-infused H-plate is designated in the midsole, generating sufficient rigidity for a peppy, energetic ride.
- Moving from a knit-like upper, the shoe now has an engineered mesh upper. It's more pliable for a form-fitting wrap.
Comparisons to other long-distance shoes
GOrun MaxRoad 5 vs. GOrun Ride 9. They both have the same lightweight construction, but the latter has less stack, allowing a more traditional ride. It also has a firmer version of the Hyper Burst.
GOrun MaxRoad 5 vs. Novablast 2. They have the same fun ride, except that the Novablast is heavier (235 grams vs. 274 grams in men's US 9).
GOrun MaxRoad 5 vs. Glideride 2. Contrary to the MaxRoad, the Glideride is more protective, stable, and durable.
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