Skechers Max Protect Review: Is This Hiking Shoe Right for Your Adventures?

The Skechers Max Protect shoes are versatile hiking shoes designed to keep you comfortable and supported wherever your outdoor adventures take you.

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Key Features:

• Material: 3M Scotchgard treated leather and synthetic upper, Air-Cooled Memory Foam insole, Goodyear performance outsole (Goodyear performance outsole is only featured on the men’s sizes)
• Use: Outdoor hiking shoes designed for hiking and walking. Some people use them for trail running as well.
• Price: $95 for the women’s sizes (Max Protect – Legacy) on Skechers.com
• Arch type and support: Features an air-cooled memory foam cushioned insole
• Standout features: Water-repellent and stain resistant, 1.25-inch heel, Air-Cooled Memory Foam Cushion, lace-up style, rock plate, lightweight

Skechers has evolved a lot since the brand first launched its iconic men’s logger boot in 1992 at the height of the grunge era. The Southern California company has grown to become one of the most popular shoe brands in the United States, with collections available in over 180 countries. Today, Skechers is known for its diverse range of footwear options from work shoes, to casual athleisure shoes, to award-winning performance footwear.

In July 2023, Skechers officially launched its Max Protect Footwear collection, hiking shoes constructed to help you navigate outdoor activities through diverse terrains and conditions. Whether you’re hiking uneven terrain or walking on a wet road, these shoes incorporate a range of features to take you through your journey with ease, support, protection and comfort. Some of these features include Air-Cooled Memory Foam and 3M Scotchgard for water and stain resistance. The collection is available in both men’s and women’s sizes with a few slight differences.

Here’s an in-depth look at all the product details you need to know to decide if Skechers Max Protect Legacy hiking shoes are the best fit for your outdoor adventures.

Editor’s note: The men’s model, Skechers Max Protect – Task Force, is currently sold out. We will be updating this piece when it is available for purchase.

What Are Skechers Max Protect Shoes?

Skechers Max Protect shoes are hiking shoes designed to keep you supported and protected even on rough and wet terrain. These athletic shoes are built for outdoor walking and hiking activities. Customers also report using them for work and as trail running shoes in some cases.

Skechers Max protect shoes are treated with 3M Scotchgard to keep your feet dry and help prevent stains. They also feature an EVA midsole (a foam that helps absorb shock from your steps) and Air Cooling Memory Foam Insole for stability and comfort. 

The shoes are constructed with a lace up design and the Skechers “S” logo detail is displayed prominently on the back outer side of the shoes. Skechers Max Protect shoes are a Fall/Winter ‘23 launch, though they officially became available for purchase in July 2023.

Available Models

Skechers

Skechers Max Protect Legacy

Skechers Max Protect Legacy shoes are the women’s model of the Skechers Max Protect. These sporty hiking shoes are available in sizes 5–11 in two colorways, natural/orange and gray. There will be a third colorway launch available in fall.

While the Skechers Max Protect–Legacy does not feature the Goodyear rubber outsole, it does have a rock plate midsole for added protection on tough terrains.

These shoes are available in medium width and will be available in wide width in the future.

What We Like About the Skechers Max Protect

Skechers Max Protect shoes are designed to be a comfortable, supportive and lightweight hiking shoe option. Some of the reasons we like Skechers Max Protect include:

• Air-Cooled Memory Foam insoles provide comfort and support.
• They are designed to be worn on diverse outdoor terrains, even when it’s wet outside.
• They are treated with 3M Scotchgard to be water and stain resistant.
• The outsole features a high traction design to help keep you from slipping.
• Rock plate midsole offers extra protection.
• They are lightweight.
• They are currently available in women’s sizes, with a restock of men’s sizing coming soon.

What to Consider About the Skechers Max Protect

Some things to consider when deciding if Skechers Max Protect are right for you include:

• Color options are limited. There are currently only two color options for women’s sizes though more colors and sizes will be available in the fall.
• They are a lace-up style, which may not be preferred by some people.

Who Should Buy the Skechers Max Protect

Skechers Max Protect shoes are ideal for people who are looking for a hiking shoe style that is suitable for a range of outdoor activities from walking to hiking. They are a great option if you are looking for shoes that can be worn for a variety of terrains and conditions.

If you are looking for a lightweight, supportive shoe that is also water- and slip-resistant, this shoe may be a good fit.

Who Shouldn’t Buy the Skechers Max Protect

If you don’t want to deal with lace-up shoes, you may want to opt for a different style.

In addition, while you can run in these shoes, they are more optimized for hiking than for running. The GOrun line from Skechers may be a better fit if you are specifically looking for a running shoe. If you are looking for dress shoes for special occasions, keep in mind these may not be appropriate since they are designed for outdoor activities.

Factors to Consider Before Purchasing Skechers Max Protect

Use

These shoes are designed to be worn on a variety of outdoor terrains in wet or dry conditions. They are a good option for walking shoes or hiking shoes. Though they are designed to be hiking shoes, some customers also report using them for trail running.

Materials and design

The Skechers Max Protect shoes are made with protective materials to provide a sturdy shoe with good traction for a wide range of outdoor environments. They feature a lace-up style, EVA midsole and Air-Cooled Memory Foam insole. The mesh upper includes leather and synthetic materials. 

While these are solid trail shoes, they are also lightweight. Skechers Max Protect are treated with 3M Scotchgard to help ensure they are water-repellent and stain resistant. The design features the signature Skechers “S” on the outer back sides.

Price

The women’s sizes are $95 and the men’s sizes are $100 on Skechers.com.

Sizing

The shoes are available in US men’s sizes 7-13 and women’s sizes 5–11 (currently 7.5–11 are available on the Skechers website). You can check the size chart on Skechers.com if you wear UK or EU sizes to find the best fit for you.

Skechers Max Protect Test Impressions

I put the Skechers Max Protect Legacy to the test for common hiking shoe uses including a rocky unpaved hiking trail, a paved walking path and everyday errands. Here are my observations:

Fit: Skechers Max Protect Legacy shoes fit true to size. (I’m usually a 7 for a tighter fit or a 7.5 for a looser fit, depending on the shoe brand. I wore these in a size 7.) They were comfortable right out of the box and didn’t need to be broken in.

I immediately took the shoes on an unpaved two mile hike the first time I wore them, and they were pleasant to wear the whole time. After the hike, my feet weren’t sore, as can sometimes happen when you first wear new hiking shoes for the first time.

The fit on the Skechers Max Protect Legacy was like a snug hug with a good amount of cushioning around the sides and back. The shoes held my feet in place well, so there was minimal sliding between my heel and the back of my shoe. There wasn’t any uncomfortable rubbing or painful blistering. There was also enough breathable space between my toes and the front of the shoes to keep my toes comfy. The shoes feel lightweight at 5.7 ounces.

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Skechers Max Protect Features

Tread: One of the main differences between the Skechers Max Protect Legacy and the Skechers Max Protect Task Force (the men’s version) is that the Task Force has a Goodyear rubber outsole. The women’s shoes don’t have that feature, but the outsole absorbed impact well and offered enough friction to keep me from sliding on rocky unpaved terrain and inclines. For part of a hike, I tested the shoes on a steeper rocky path and the Skechers Max Protect Legacy’s grip helped me avoid slipping up and down the trail.

Rock plate: When I tested these shoes on a rocky unpaved path, I had no issues with sharp rocks. The shoes offered a good amount of protection from the elements. I didn’t even get any rocks or stones in my shoes while on my hike.

I also took a short jog on the unpaved hiking path and felt both stable and protected from sticks and rocks.

Laces: The laces are a round style. They are a good length for one tie with about two inches left of lace. At the time of this review (after a week of wearing them), they hold in place well with one loop—I’m not constantly needing to retie them. You could also double knot them for extra hold.

Air-cooled memory foam: The air cooled memory foam offers a cushion that keeps the bottom of my feet comfortable in a range of conditions, from everyday errands to unpaved hiking trails. I’ve walked on paved paths, driven several hours in the shoes and worn them on a natural terrain hike. I continue to feel comfortable and supported after hours of successive wear.

Colorways: The gray color is a nice neutral that will go with a variety of outfits. The shoes are currently available in limited colors (two women’s colorways), so the focus is more on function than an eye-catching trendy aesthetic.

Heel: The heel gives you an extra 1 ¼ inches, offering a stable lift and a barrier of protection from the elements. The shoes still manage to feel lightweight and breathable.

Final impressions: Skechers Max Protect Legacy shoes offer all-day comfort and function for a variety of activities from hikes to everyday tasks. 

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Warranty and return policy

If you purchase your shoes from Skechers.com you have 45 days to return them for a full refund. Skechers Plus members have an extended return window and can return them in up to 90 days, but must use a Skechers Plus account at checkout to qualify.

Skechers Max Protect Customer Reviews

Since Skechers Max Protect are newer shoes from Skechers the reviews are just starting to come in. The Skechers Max Protect Task Force men’s shoes have received an overall 4.8/5 stars on the Skechers website.

Overall, reviewers report that these shoes are comfortable and lightweight. One reviewer says these shoes are “Like Walking On AIR!!.” Another reviewer says, “Was going to use them mainly for hiking but they are so comfortable, I find myself wearing them more often.” Another reviewer reports that they are a good option for work shoes. (The Skechers Max Protect Legacy haven’t received reviews on the Skechers website at the time of this review.)

Skechers Max Protect FAQs

Are the Skechers Max Protect recommended by podiatrists?

While each person’s feet are different and individuals may have different needs, The American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) recommends looking for shoes that provide stability and cushioning (for people with normal arches). Finding shoes with the right amount of support also can help you avoid foot issues.

Skechers Max Protect are designed with Air-Cooled Memory Foam, providing comfort and cushioning and an EVA midsole for stability on diverse terrains. These product details include features recommended by podiatrists.

Are the Skechers Max Protect waterproof?

Skechers Max Protect are treated with 3M Scotchgard to be stain- and water-resistant.

Do the Skechers Max Protect have a memory foam insole?

Yes, these shoes have a Skechers Air-Cooled Memory Foam insole.

Final Thoughts: Is the Skechers Max Protect Worth It?

If you are looking for a versatile hiking shoe at an affordable mid-range price point, Skechers Max Protect may be a good fit for you. Skechers incorporates the latest shoe technology to optimize Max Protect for comfort and performance, providing a hiking shoe that is worth purchasing.

Prices are accurate and items in stock as of publish time.