I review running shoes for a living, but I often walk around in fashion trainers, converse, heels, and other less practical footwear. Nevertheless, as I begin the long and tedious process of recovering from a twisted ankle, I've been reaching for a pile of shoes to try for some time now.

Sure, they may not look as pretty as my Veja's, but after 50 miles in Skechers, there's no going back. But how do they compare to the best running shoes and hiking boots on the market, and how comfortable are they after a long hike?

Read our review of the Skechers Go Walk Workout Walker below for more information.

The Skechers Go Walk Workout Walker costs $125 / 110 lbs and comes in a number of different colorways - the original design comes in gray and black/white colorways, but there are different collections are available.

Shoe sizes range from US 7 to US 13 for men and US 5 to US 8.5 for women, with half sizes available for both men and women.

First, let's talk about the design of these shoes. I haven't worn Skechers since I was a kid, and the main reason for this is that I have never found these shoes particularly attractive. Of course, beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but I was impressed with the design of the Skechers. While they won't be hitting the catwalk anytime soon, they didn't look like orthopedic shoes.

I opted for the gray/turquoise colorway, but recently discovered the Outspace Black/Lavender shoes and wished I had seen them first.

The fit is a UK 4.5 in my everyday sneakers, but a UK 5 in my running shoes. Knowing that I would be working out in these, I reached for the larger size, but they were definitely a little too roomy and I had to pull the laces tighter to get a secure fit. In other words, I will not be running in these shoes, so buy your usual sneaker size.

Upper

The mesh upper of this shoe is not particularly lightweight, but it is breathable thanks to the large mesh panels on the top and sides of the shoe. Comfort is the name of the game in the Go Walk workout walker, so there is a thick, padded tongue to prevent any hot spots across the top of your feet as you walk, and a good amount of padding around the collar.

I had no blistering issues and wore the shoes securely for a week of walking straight from the box.

Midsole

The Sketchers midsole is where the magic happens. Sketchers' Arch Fit insole system is podiatrist approved and provides instant arch support as you move. According to the brand, this was developed based on 20 years of data and 120,000 feet of scans. The insoles are removable, cushioned, and designed to give you a comfortable walking experience.

The shoe's midsole also features Skecher's Hyper Burst cushioning - designed to increase responsiveness and lightness underfoot, and carbon-infused plates to help off springy toes.

Outsole

The outsole of the Skechers Go Walk Workout Walker is made from Goodyear rubber for traction and stability. I tested these primarily on concrete sidewalks and light trails, but I definitely wouldn't recommend them for more technical hiking - best hiking boots that have additional ankle support, and deeper outsole lugs for better support Check out the best trail running shoes, which will be.

Right from the start, I was impressed with the arch support of these shoes. I have high arches and my feet immediately felt cradled and comfortable walking in the shoe. The cushion is amazingly plush and I often go on long hikes with my energetic (read hyperactive) cocker spaniel puppy on the weekends. I could easily walk and stand for most of the day wearing these. No wonder so many doctors and nurses choose this brand.

I was able to walk many miles in these shoes comfortably. I just wish I had checked the size beforehand and made sure they were half the size of my regular running shoes. Unlike when I was running, my feet didn't swell as much when I was walking and I didn't need the extra toe room.

After a week of walking about 7 miles a day in these shoes, I saw no signs of wear or tear, and I imagine they rival some of the best hiking boots in terms of durability. The midsole's rocker-style Hyper Arc design helps the foot roll forward for a comfortable toe-off, no matter what speed you're walking at. The result is a bouncy, cushioned walking experience.

If you are looking for a seriously comfortable shoe, I have found it. In all my years of shoe testing, no shoe has ever impressed me so instantly.

The downside, of course, is that these shoes are definitely designed for walking, so if you're a runner looking for a little more versatility, you're probably better off shopping for one of the best running shoes on the market. The Nike ZoomX Invincible Run 2 or the New Balance 1080v12 are both gorgeous running shoes that can easily be used for running or walking.

Overall, these are great options for those looking to add more walking to their daily fitness routine. Here is what 30 minutes of walking a day can do for your body and how to lose weight by walking if that is one of your goals.