New Balance 327 Women's Sneaker vs Skechers Gowalk 7 Lace-Up Sneaker

The New Balance 327 is the style pick: a retro runner silhouette with suede, mesh and leather panels that reads as a fashion sneaker, and most owners find it comfortable. The Skechers GoWalk 7 is the comfort and durability pick: a knit upper, Air-Cooled Goga Mat insole and machine-washable build aimed at all-day walking. The 327 has the stronger design reputation but a shakier quality record, with reported squeaking and color bleeding; the GoWalk 7 is plainer and less distinctive but built for repeat wear.

• Choose the New Balance 327 if you want a retro-looking sneaker for casual outfits and weekend wear and you accept that quality varies between colorways.
• Choose the Skechers GoWalk 7 if you want a cushioned, machine-washable walking shoe for daily errands and long days on your feet.