Shetchers shoes are a popular youth brand known for their casual style, youth-marketed patterns and bright colors. But, is that pair of $50 shoes actually going to last until your child outgrows them?

Would you be better off buying something cheaper? Do kids actually like them? For the answers to these questions and more, keep reading for an insightful review of Sketchers brand shoes.

Price of Sketchers

For Sketchers shoes, you can expect to pay anywhere from $25 to $95, depending on the style of the footwear. However, the average price for a pair of Sketchers usually hovers around $50. They're not the most expensive kid's shoe sold, but they're definitely a little more costly than other department store brands.

Are they Comfortable?

Sketchers makes casual running shoes for tweens and teenagers. These shoes are made to be comfortable, but they're definitely not orthotics. Overall, they offer good support, and most kids like the thicker sole. The fit is somewhat narrow and generally not suited for wider feet.

So, if your child has wider feet, you may opt for a brand like New Balance, which sells youth shoes in a variety of widths and sizes.

Quality and Make

Sketchers are a youth shoe - meaning they're designed to be abused and worn into the ground. That said, don't expect them to last for years. Instead, these are footwear that may make it through the school year, if you're careful.

To maintain your purchase, start by waterproofing them and spraying each with shoe protector before they ever go out the door. Keep them clean with monthly washings, and replace the shoelaces every few months. Remember, insoles and laces can be replaced, but once the soles wear down - it's time for a new pair of shoes.

Sketchers Fashion and Style

Sketchers are a young shoe. The company may make certain styles that are "grown up" or shoes that come in adult sizes, but they're not an adult shoe - it's just not their market. While their funky and sweet styles may be perfect for junior high and high school, they're not appropriate for grown-ups.

Sketchers recently attempted to step into the adult shoe market with a line of comfortable and casual, yet office appropriate, work shoes. The result was hideous. As they tried to hold onto their funky and strappy style, the shoes just came off looking juvenile and clunky. In short, if you're a grown up, these are not the shoes for you.

The Final Verdict

Sketchers shoes are reasonably priced when compared to other brand-name sneakers, and the style is popular with kids. For quality, you'll find they normally last at least until your kids outgrow them.