Shoe Review: Skechers Go Run Ride 7 (Women)

The Skechers Go Run Ride 7 shoe is a lightweight everyday trainer designed to eat miles for breakfast. A substantial upgrade from the Ride 6, if you are in the market for springy yet responsive cushioned shoe, get to know the Ride 7. 

Specs

  • Weight: 7.3 oz., Size 7 (tested: women’s 8.5)
  • Category: Neutral
  • Drop: 6mm
  • Stack Height: 30mm (heel), 24mm (forefoot)
  • Fit: Snug (recommend a 1/2 size up if you don’t like a tight fit)
  • Upper: Breathable knit upper 
  • Gusseted tongue for secure fit
  • Midsole: Ultra-lightweight responsive FLIGHT GEN™ midsole cushioning
  • Durable high-traction outsole for increased durability
  • Mid-foot strike zone
  • Reflective tab pull on back of shoe for easy on/off

What’s good about the Skechers GO Run Ride 7: The new, differentiating, or simply well-designed aspects of the shoe.

Skechers Go Run Ride 7 lacing.
Skechers Go Run Ride 7 Lacing

Construction of the Skechers Go Run Ride 7

The upper is almost entirely knit with only a few overlays. The overlays are across the midfoot and provide structure to laces, which allow a secure foot feel. The knit is very breathable and relatively stretchy. After about 70 miles in the shoe I’m seeing no wear to the knit, even though I do find the shoe a bit too snug. The construction of the shoe doesn’t seem to require much in the way of fussing with the laces. At first glance, I was a touch annoyed to find out there wasn’t the typical top eyelet to allow the heel lock lacing technique, but after one run it was clear it wasn’t necessary. 

Midsole

The FLIGHT GEN™ midsole foam is designed to be lightweight and very responsive. The Go Run Ride 7 is a road shoe that is meant to go the distance, as the FLIGHT GEN™ provides extra cushioning for runners who are putting in long miles. I definitely found the shoe to be light, and it had a good springy feel. My longest route in the shoe was 15 miles and my feet felt plenty fresh at the end.

What could be improved: Tweaks or improvements that could improve the shoe.

Skechers Go Run Ride 7 photo of outsole.
Skechers Go Run Ride 7 Outsole

Outsole

The outsole combines exposed Flight Gen foam with rubber nubs to enhance traction and durability. On most surfaces I found good grip with the rubber nubs, however, I think the traction is less than spectacular on some wet surfaces, specifically brick and cobblestone (I found this out the hard way).

Toe Box

The toe box on the Skechers Go RunRide 7 has a more aggressive curve than the Max Trail 5. I found it a bit snugger than I would like, as I prefer to splay my toes as I push off. But if you like that snugger foot-hugging feel, this could be just the right amount of curve for you.

Pay Attention: Size/Fit

I tested the Skechers Go Run MaxTrail 5 Ultra in a size 8.5 and they fit perfectly. The Skechers Go Run Ride 7 is too snug at an 8.5 and I think the fit would be better in a 9. I’d prefer if sizing stayed the same across the brand as it would be simpler to switch to a new model and always know your size.

Should you purchase? My overall recommendation on whether to purchase this shoe or not.

At $95 the Skechers Go Run Ride 7 is at a great price point for an everyday trainer. It’s lightweight, cushioned, springy, and comfortable. This is great shoe for a mid-foot striker who is putting in longer miles on the road. If you are a forefoot striker, or like a roomier toe box, I would keep looking.

Purchasing Information: where to go to purchase the Skechers GO Run Ride 7.

If you are interested in purchasing these shoes, check out your local, independently-owned running specialty store.  Independent stores are vital to our community and need all the help they can get.  If that’s not possible, please consider using this Amazon affiliate link. They’ve got a great return policy and it’ll drop a few nickels into the URP coffer. Thanks!

Your Reviewer: Sarah Bradham

I started my love of gear as a climber and as I turned my attention to running I shifted from carabiners, ice tools, and crampons to hydration packs, midsole foam types, compression clothing, and everything in between. After several years of foot injuries, I’m enjoying getting back to my beloved muddy and rocky trails near my home in Portland, Ore. In my work life, I enjoy coordinating an annual Mountain and Ultra Running Camp at the base of Mt. Hood with Yassine Diboun, Amy Sproston, Joelle Vaught, Krissy Moehl and Jeff “Bronco Billy” Browning. 

This product was provided to URP/me for review purposes. Compensation was neither offered nor requested and all words and thoughts are 100% my own.

Please use real name. Anonymous comments will be deleted. Thanks.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.