Summary
Comfort is a necessity when it comes to work shoes, and the Skechers Work Malad Comp Toe Industrial Shoe did not disappoint in this department. The shoe comes in a lightweight structure that delivers protection and support without adding a bulkiness that can be a problem when using other work shoe options. This lightweight yet durable profile makes the Malad a suitable choice for jobs that require standing or walking for long hours on a daily basis since the shoe allows for continuous productivity while tackling various activities without sacrificing a comfortable experience in the process. Meanwhile, the shoe’s protective features gave me peace of mind so I was able to focus on the tasks at hand without worrying too much about safety hazards that may be lurking in and around the work area. The sporty silhouette is a wonderful bonus that I was able to fully maximize on the job site and in other settings without the footwear cramping my style in any way.
The Skechers Work Malad Comp Toe Industrial Shoe is built with an upper that combines the sturdiness of synthetic materials and the breathability of mesh fabric to deliver notable strength while ensuring that your comfortable experience is maintained as well. The interior features an Air-Cooled memory foam insole that conforms to the shape of the foot for a personalized feel and keeps things cool within the shoe by encouraging air to move unhindered in the confined space. Composite toe caps deliver superior nonmetallic foot protection against compression and impact threats that may otherwise result in serious foot injuries. The shoe is further enhanced with electrical hazard protection for an extra safety layer when there is exposure to live electrical sources in dry conditions. The sporty aesthetic of the shoe makes it versatile enough to be used on the worksite as well as for more relaxed settings where the casual look will pair nicely with your attire of choice. We will look more closely at the features that make up this work shoe so we can discover which are its most remarkable attributes and if there any enhancements that need to be made to make the footwear more wearable.
For increased safety without the extremely rugged aesthetic, this work shoe offers discreet yet reliable protection against workplace hazards.
Performance Analysis
Comfort
The Skechers Work Malad Comp Toe Industrial Shoe is crafted with materials that deliver remarkable flexibility and breathability to increase your comfort while you’re working on the most challenging activities on the job site. The synthetic upper flexes along with the foot’s movement so walking or going up and down stairs doesn’t lead to discomfort, since the material easily adapts to the movements as needed. The Air-Cooled memory foam insole provides remarkable cushioning and conforms to the curves of the foot for customized comfort that will keep pain at bay. This insole also relieves pressure spots to prevent blisters from developing as a result of the friction caused by nonstop walking for the better part of the day. The memory foam uses a special technology that allows air to freely move within the confined space so that heat and moisture can be dispersed before they have the opportunity to build up into full-blown overheating inside the shoe. The midsole works as the shoe’s shock absorber to ease the pressure off the foot and the calf, making it possible for foot fatigue to be prevented even with long hours of continuous shoe-wearing. This component was flexible as well and didn’t hinder my movements in any way, so I was able to walk unhampered by rigid materials underfoot.
I appreciated the cushioning provided by the padded collar and tongue that protected my calf and instep from painful chafing that I previously suffered from when I used footwear without padding on these crucial parts. A soft fabric lines the shoe’s interior and it made the area feel a lot more comforting since my foot was embraced with a welcoming softness.
Weight
This is a lightweight work shoe that will bring huge benefits to people who need to stay on their feet walking or working nonstop. It almost felt weightless, so I didn’t experience discomfort while wearing it all day long, since I didn’t need to carry heavy footwear on top of tackling the physically demanding tasks that I was required to deal with. I was expecting this shoe to be a bit heavy because the outsole is a bit thick, but I was pleasantly surprised with how lightweight the footwear felt even when I got the chance to wear it for a long time.
Traction
The shoe’s outsole comes in a sturdy structure that somehow managed to remain lightweight and didn’t contribute much to the total weight. This outsole provided strong traction that helped maintain my steady footing as I moved across different floor conditions and surfaces, allowing me to concentrate on my job without being stressed that a slight misstep would result in a slipping accident. The sole had a good grip on the ground, so I was able to move as confidently and quickly as my duties dictated at any given time.
Fit and Sizing
This shoe is true to size and offered a comfortable, relaxed fit. There was enough room inside for my toes to wiggle effortlessly when necessary, such as when I could feel the exhaustion mounting and the cramps starting to develop as a result.
However, this extra space within doesn’t mean that the secure fit was compromised, as my foot stayed securely in place inside the shoe even with nonstop walking and moving around.
Those who prefer a tighter fit may not appreciate Malad’s relaxed fit, though, and their foot may start to feel unstable with the roomier shoe structure. Fit adjustments were easily made with the help of the lace-up design, so I was able to get to a secure and comfortable feel whenever necessary.
Waterproofing
The shoe doesn’t come with waterproof components. As such, it is suitable for use in dry locations and in other settings where there are minimal to zero risks of being exposed to water and other liquid substances to prevent uncomfortable foot wetness and material damage.
Breathability
The insole is made with memory foam enhanced with the exclusive Air-Cooled technology, which works to keep air moving continuously within the shoe. This results in optimal breathability as the moisture and heat are allowed to dissipate before turning the shoe’s interior into a virtual oven that will cause a great deal of discomfort. I used the shoe for long hours at a time and enjoyed foot dryness and comfort without extreme sweatiness to deal with at the end of the day, thanks to this specially treated memory foam material.
Quality and Durability
The Skechers Work Malad Comp Toe Industrial Shoe is constructed with a smooth synthetic material that delivers reliable strength that can keep up with the demands of different work sites without easily breaking apart in the process.
However, this material can more quickly accumulate dirt and may be more difficult to clean, compared to leather that can easily be maintained with simple wiping.
There are also mesh fabric panels incorporated into the upper that permit air to move through the shoe. This prevents overheating even with long periods of shoe usage. Bumper overlay panels are placed on the heel and toe areas to make these points even stronger so they can more easily resist material damage when faced with abrasive substances and tough environments. The work shoe comes with safety toes that act as a protective barrier to keep the foot safe from being gravely injured when compression and impact dangers accidentally fall or roll on the shoe, especially from an elevated position at your worksite. These toe caps are made from a composite material that has a lightweight structure so the footwear protection can be maximized without the additional bulk and weight that can bring discomfort with long-term use. The Malad offers electrical hazard protection so you will have a secondary layer of protection to rely on in case you are exposed to live currents in dry conditions. It features a sporty silhouette that offers wonderful versatility as it is rugged enough to be utilized fully in a variety of work settings yet is stylish enough to work incredibly well when paired with casual attire in more relaxed surroundings. The lightweight midsole absorbs the impact that comes from nonstop movements throughout the day and doesn’t hamper your movements for complete and effortless comfort all day long without any additional weight or bulk. The memory foam insole follows the contours of the foot to deliver a comfortable experience that will last for the entire day and works to prevent pressure spots from forming due to the continuous friction within the shoes. This memory foam material is crafted to promote long-lasting breathability and comfort to save your feet from extreme overheating, even with long hours of use in hot surroundings. The rubber outsole maintains a lightweight profile while delivering superior traction that can keep you protected from accidental slipping when walking over wet, uneven, or slippery surface conditions.
Other Versions
The Skechers Work Malad Comp Toe Industrial Shoe doesn’t come in other versions. It’s available in all-black and navy tan.
The Challengers
Skechers Work Bulklin Lyndale Comp Toe Work Shoe
The Skechers Work Bulklin Lyndale Comp Toe Work Shoe looks very similar to the Malad but it comes with a few distinctive features that may be more beneficial, depending on your requirements and preferences when it comes to work shoes. The Bulklin Lyndale also has a composite safety toe in place to deliver superior foot protection against tools and objects that may accidentally fall from a high area in the job site. The electrical hazard protection offers another safety layer against live currents in dry conditions. The lace-up style allows for unlimited fit alterations so you’ll have no trouble achieving the secure and comfortable fit that you prefer to be able to work efficiently all day long. This work shoe has a tighter fit compared to the Malad, so it may be a better choice for those who feel more comfortable with snug-fitting shoes. This shoe also comes with external lace eyelets that are a nice accent to the upper but can be the source of durability issues in the long run.
Skechers Work Relaxed Fit Grinnell Comp Toe Shoe
The Skechers Work Relaxed Fit Grinnell Comp Toe Shoe is a great alternative if you want your work shoes to have a more rugged silhouette. The oiled suede upper gives the shoe a robust look that works well in various job sites and still manages to pair nicely with jeans for a casual aesthetic. The shoe utilizes ripstop mesh fabric to deliver reliable strength that can take on challenging work environments and physically demanding tasks while allowing air to flow freely into the shoe’s interior to diffuse pent-up heat and moisture before they can turn into severe overheating. The insole of this shoe is topped with memory foam that molds to the foot’s curves for maximum comfort that will last for the entire day. The memory foam also works to ease pressure spots and prevent them from developing into painful blisters, especially when the shoes are used for long hours at a time. The rubber outsole maintains reliable flexibility to keep you moving through the most difficult tasks and settings with ease.
Skechers Work Relaxed Fit Cesssnock SR
The Skechers Work Relaxed Fit Cesssnock SR will work better for your needs if you are looking for lightweight work shoes that don’t have toe protection in place. This work shoe is designed with a slip-resistant outsole that will allow you to keep moving confidently throughout various work areas without compromising your safety and productivity in the process. The insole features memory foam for ample cushioning that will cradle your foot while easing pressure points to prevent blisters from forming due to the friction from repetitive movements. This memory foam is enhanced with Air Cooled technology that works to maintain a cool shoe interior by dissolving heat and moisture build-up before they can bother the foot with extreme warmth. The electrical hazard protection offers a secondary level of protection in the event that your foot becomes accidentally exposed to a live electrical current in dry settings. The lightweight structure of this shoe will help you move more effortlessly for long hours at a time.
Reebok Sublite Cushion Safety Toe Work Shoe
The Reebok Sublite Cushion Safety Toe Work Shoe is another fantastic choice if you’re after protective work shoes with an athletic flair. It’s built with alloy safety toes that protect against compression and impact dangers that may be lurking within the workplace, keeping your foot safe from being crushed in case these hazards accidentally fall on your shoe. The work shoe is fitted with a special footbed that works with a massaging motion as it molds to the distinctive curves of the foot for remarkable comfort that can help keep foot pain at bay for the entire day. The outsole is designed with rubber pads that deliver a firm grip on the surface you’re walking on to prevent slipping without the additional weight that may be associated with other work shoes with bulky outsoles. These shoes come with mesh uppers that allow quick heat and moisture dispersal to prevent them from accumulating and causing extreme discomfort.
Timberland PRO Radius Composite Safety Toe
The Timberland PRO Radius Composite Safety Toe brings all-day comfort in a stylish silhouette that looks more like a running shoe than a work footwear choice. The composite safety toe caps guard the foot against injuries that may be caused by heavy or blunt objects falling on the shoe. A specially molded rubber toe protector delivers increased protection and abrasion resistance to this area so you can keep on working without worrying that your activities or environment will easily damage this shoe. An external heel cup is fitted into place to keep the heel secured and to maintain your stability, especially when doing lateral movements in challenging surface conditions. This shoe is enhanced with anti-fatigue technology that absorbs the impact of repetitive movements and brings back the energy to critical foot spots for maximum performance.
Conclusion & Verdict
The Skechers Work Malad Comp Toe Industrial Shoe comes with a lightweight and comfortable structure that makes it a suitable partner for professions that require all-day walking or staying on your feet. The composite safety toes provide ample protection against compression and impact threats without the additional weight and bulk. The suede material adds a nice accent that makes the aesthetic stylish enough to be paired well with more casual outfits but can be a bit challenging to clean when compared to leather that can easily be refreshed with a simple wipe of a cloth.
