Shoppers have been snapping up some Skechers trainers, which are being lauded for comfort and for working well for anyone who struggles to bend down to put on their shoes.
The Ultra Flex 3.0 Smooth Steps are part of Skechers’ Slip-ins range. They are designed to be taken on and off without crouching or fiddling with laces, making them particularly convenient for wearers with limited mobility.
The shoes are reduced to £62.99 from £90 on Skechers' website in both women's and men's styles. We've also found them on Amazon, where some are cheaper. However, size and colour do differ. At the time of writing, the black women's pair is available in most sizes, ranging in price from £31.80 to £49.99.
The shoes have a stretchy knit upper that hugs the foot, and a memory foam insole. To make them easy to slide on and off, there is a slightly elevated part at the heel that allows the foot to be pulled out when needed, but grips enough to stop slipping when walking.
Many shoppers confirm that the shoes live up Skecher's claims. One wrote: “I have several pairs of this style. They truly are the best slip-on. Hands free. No stooping to get them on and off. Some claim to be but don't hold a candle to these.”
Another who was recovering from surgery praised their versatility: "They look great with activewear as well as summer dresses. I've been known to pair them with eveningwear for nights when I know I'll be on my feet for long periods of time.”
The shoes also won a lot of praise for comfort, with one reviewer saying that they had worn them “from breakfast until late evening” on a city break and felt no need to change.
However, not all feedback is glowing. A few buyers with arthritis noted that the slight heel angle wasn’t as comfortable for sensitive knees as a completely flat sole. Those who prefer a firmer, more structured fit also mentioned the knit upper’s flexibility took some getting used to. They also mentioned that over time, the fabric can stretch a little, especially if worn daily.