Compared to the previous model, the GOrun 5 has a major overhaul of the midsole unit, minor changes to fabric construction in the upper, and a significant change in the lacing system.

Fit
The GOrun 5 is true to size in length, with a fairly narrow forefoot that will be problematic for wide feet. The height of the ankle collar and shape of the heel cup provide a good fit in the rearfoot. The heel has a new Quick Fit flap to help pull the shoe on easily; some of our testers enjoyed this feature, while others found it completely unnecessary. For this version, Skechers introduces a new lace system that our testers unanimously rejected. The laces are flat and wide, they run through loops instead of lace holes, and there are only five loops/holes instead of the customary seven. The laces are difficult to pull tight, lax in holding their tension, and there’s less room to customize the fit with small adjustments. 

Comfort
The GOrun 5 keeps the no-sew GOknit upper, which looks like a Nike Flyknit knockoff with a much coarser feel. The material is snug but flexible to move with your foot, and has a sock-like fit through the midfoot. Ventilation is very effective with extensive holes throughout the upper, increased in size and concentration in the toe box. 

Responsiveness
The GOrun 5 uses a new advanced 5GEN midsole compound that provides better cushioning and energy return compared to the GOrun 4. Our testers generally found this compound very soft, but with disappointing responsiveness; one described it as “like running in sand”. There is also very little support or structure in the midsole to help you through high mileage days. 

Ride Quality
Another change to the GOrun 5 is a more traditional outsole rubber distribution instead of the pods found on the GOrun 4, which covers impact areas more extensively and has solid traction on multiple surfaces. The shoe retains the M-strike area of firmer midfoot foam and outsole rubber which promotes a midfoot strike with a slightly rockered contour from midfoot to toes.

Speed
Despite being one of the lightest shoes in our test group, our testers had some problems cranking up the speed in the GOrun 5, primarily thanks to the insecure fit and poorly responsive midsole.