Skechers GOmeb Speed 5

The most helpful thing I think I can do here is to compare to the Zoom Streak LT3, which many of the people who are looking at this shoe will have worn.

Weight: GoMeb Speed 5 is under a half ounce heavier. Unnoticeable, but the difference is there.

Advantage: LT3

Looks: The LT3 is one of the best looking shoes out there, and the GoMeb Speed 5 is pretty plain-Jane.

Advantage: LT3

Value: Both shoes can be found for less than $90 retail and on clearance for less than $55.

Advantage: Push

Fit: GMS5 has a more accommodating upper, with overlays around the laces that really allow you to cinch down the fit. This comes with the cost of material scrunching under the laces. Both shoes have roomy toe boxes - for racing flats - and snug midfoots. I always felt like the ZSLT3 was a half size too snug, even for a racer.

Advantage: Push, depending on your preferences, but ZSLT3 is cleaner looking while GMS5 is more comfortable

Midsole: This is where the GMS5 shines. The Flight Gen material available in the Speed 5 and Ride 7 is LEGIT. In the Speed 5, you get WAY more comfortable cushion and a MUCH springier ride than the ZSLT3. Both midsoles are listed at identical 22-18, but the feel is night and day. The ZSLT3 is firm to the point of being harsh (but shines on the track, is that is your arena), whereas the GMS5 is incredibly comfortable, with more protection and energy return. My legs and feet feel better after a 10k in the GMS5s than they do after a 5k in the ZSLT3s. I wouldn't use the ZSLT3s in anything over a 5k, whereas the GMS5s could easily be used up to a Half, and efficient runners will be able to use them in a Full without issue.

Advantage: GoMeb Speed 5

Final Verdict: If I can only buy one, I am buying the GoMeb Speed 5. It is much more versatile over a variety of distances, and I believe the energy return of the Flight Gen midsole more than makes up for the slightly increased weight.

Skechers has stepped up the GoMebSpeed. It's about an ounce lighter than the previous version and a bit more responsive. This flat seems to be more suited to mile/5k road races, but I may even use it up to the marathon as I like a lighter more responsive flat, and will gladly sacrifice a little cushioning.

The shoe actually has a very springy feel, something I couldn't rate above. It actually has VERY good cushioning considering how light and responsive the flats are. By far one of my favorite flats I've ever worn.