Skechers D’Lites DLT-A

Editor rating: 8.5 / 10

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By Jennifer Frazier

All Skechers Shoes

Skechers D’Lites DLT-A Review Facts

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The Skechers D’Lites DLT-A is a reboot of the D’Lites we all remember from the 90’s and 2000’s. Adjustments to the body, creating a more streamlined, sleek silhouette and offering an option between slip-on and lace-up are some key changes that had to be made to bring them to the present. Skechers is an edgy, fashion-forward company that designs in two divisions, performance and lifestyle. The DLT-A sits comfortably in between both. A soft knit mesh fabric upper with EVA foam midsole and ridged rubber outsole make this shoe great for a run, an impromptu dance battle, or an intense workout. It will accommodate each activity and still be fashionable and comfortable.

DLT-A is short for Delightful, Timeless and Attitude and this shoe embodies it 100%. The renewed DLT-A is, indeed, timeless and could hold its own against any other sports lifestyle shoe on the market in both performance and design. The attitude comes through very clearly in the sleek, edgy design. The monochromatic colorways and smooth synthetic overlay trim accent and compliment each other smartly while making the shoe appear smaller and faster. Skechers is continuing its timeless design with the D’Lites but bringing the technology forward and adding an edge to the silhouette that you haven’t seen elsewhere in Skechers’ catalog.

Editor's Pros & Cons

Pros

Textured,knit mesh panels for cooling
Sculpted synthetic wrap around heel panel
Air cooled memory foam cushioned insole
Futuristic, edgy design

Cons

Only 4 colors currently available
Minimal adjustment available on slip on model

Outsole

The rubber outsole has a wave-like appearance, allowing for additional traction, comfortable in a wide range of terrains. The dips and ridges disperse weight throughout the foot, allowing a natural flex and additional grip on surfaces with debris as well road running.

Midsole

The Skechers D'Lites DLT-A has an updated, waved midsole. Constructed from a combination of EVA foam and rubber, it settles the foot into the base securely, allowing for a stable fit. The insole is a memory-foam cushioned insole that produces the bounce that Skechers is known for throughout the industry.

Upper

The upper of this shoe is a lightweight, knitted fabric. This creates both a snug and breathable fit. The inside of the shoe has a soft fabric shoe lining, allowing for an easier slip in and out. Skechers also incorporated a padded tongue and collar. Inside, the shoe features memory foam interior that cups the foot. The sculpted synthetic wrap around heel panel holds the foot steady while acting as a cushion against any potential friction or impact. It also helps to hold the foot secure to reduce the possibility of blisters and it grounds the foot into the base, keeping it secure and stable. The elastic overlay is sewn securely to the synthetic trip, displaying the DLT-A logo prominently and holding the foot snugly into the shoe.

Weight

We were unable to find a measure of weight for this model but based on pictures and descriptions, it's fair to say the Skechers D'Lites DLT-A is more of a mid-range weight. The knit fabric upper along with the EVA foam of the midsole wouldn't be considered heavy, so the remaining pieces of synthetic fabric, leather and elastic of the upper along with the rubber outsole would be the main weight-increasing details. By appearance, this shoe does not look to be heavy or uncomfortable and should be useful for longer walks or runs as needed.

Breathability

The lightweight, knitted upper on the DLT-A is built to allow maximum airflow and cooling. The additional synthetic overlay trim is kept lightweight and to specific locations so as not to obstruct the path of cool air. The softly knit mesh fabric overlays provide additional support and stability while maintaining the necessary temperature, reducing overheated and slippery foot issues. The insole on the D'Lites DLT-A is an air-cooled memory foam, providing cushion and keeping foot temperature in a comfortable zone.

Comfort

Skechers hasn't grown to be the third largest athletic footwear brand in the United States by producing uncomfortable shoes. Quite the opposite, in fact. Between the lifestyle and performance divisions, Skechers has capitalized on current market technology, and installed the EVA foam midsole and the memory foam insole at increased levels to maintain comfort and add the famous Skechers bounce. The knit upper hugs the foot securely and with no pinching or laces to adjust. The textured knit panels help keep the foot cool, allowing additional airways into the shoe without allowing dirt and debris access. The secure heel panel design performs exactly as it was designed, holding the foot steady and reducing friction and rubbing.

Style

The sleek design and minimal colors available for the Skechers D'Lites DLT-A give this model a very edgy, clean appearance. The shoe name, DLT-A, is in the forefront of the elastic band across the top of the foot and Skechers is clearly written on the tongue of the shoe. Originally released in South Asia, this model appeals to the K-POP and rap scene so popular today. The minimalist design and contrasting black and white colors suit both music genres, blending with the fashions smoothly.

The knit upper has a softer look and feel while the elastic overlay holds the foot securely, adding contrast to the softness of the shoe, giving the DLT-A its edge. The sculpted, soft synthetic wrap-around heel panel holds the foot securely so the wearer can show them off in any sport. The shoe will perform well in the gym, shopping in the mall, or out for a timed run.

Durability

The Skechers D'Lites DLT-A features a flexible rubber traction outsole. This allows flexing along the natural flex lines of the foot, reducing forced flexing in less optimal locations on the shoe and reducing wear and tear. With a design built for movement, this shoe will last a significant amount of time when used in a rotation. The elastic wrap across the top of the foot is securely stitched into the synthetic overlay, keeping the elastic in position and reducing fraying or ripping from external overlays. The knit mesh fabric overlays are held close to the foot with the snugness of the design as well as the elastic foot wrap, keeping the openings away from potential damage and debris.

Protection

The air-cooled memory foam cushioned insole keeps the foot cool and comfortable while the synthetic wrap-around heel panel holds the heel securely in position, reducing friction and potential blisters. The padded ankle collar also reduces friction and hot spots that could result in injury. The lightweight shock absorbing EVA midsole with sculpted detail extends the secure sensation throughout the foot and absorbs shock, protecting the ankles, knees and muscles and reducing foot fatigue. A flexible, rubber traction outsole allows for a variety of terrains and a wider range of stability due to varying weight distribution. The wavy design also allows for flex with the natural foot movements, reducing foot fatigue and potential injury.

Responsiveness

The Skechers D'Lites DLT-A features an air-cooled memory foam cushioned insole that sinks the foot into the shoe and holds it stable. In contrast, the lightweight, shock-absorbing EVA midsole features a sculpted 1 1/4" heel which adjusts the angle of the foot just enough to focus the energy into the shoe and provide a responsive, bounce-back that Skechers is well known for. The angle along with the technology make for a responsive, neutral ride.

Support

The knit fabric upper on the Skechers D'Lites DLT-A is lightweight yet supportive. The design is meant to hug the foot snugly while still allowing the flexibility necessary with a natural movement. A soft, synthetic wrap-around heel panel holds the foot steadily in place, grounding the foot in the base and providing stability and adding to the snug feel of the shoe. A soft fabric lining also holds the foot steady for a comfortable fit. With the wavy, rubber outsole that supports a full movement, the DLT-A provides stability and traction as needed.

Terrain

The Skechers D'Lites DLT-A is advertised as an all-terrain trainer. The rubber outsole and waved midsole provide a strong grip on all terrains while the outsole design allows for even weight distribution and accommodation to dirt, debris, rocks and other obstacles. The same grip would work well for road and track running, though the amount of grip could reduce the time and potentially create foot fatigue.

Price

With Skechers having both the lifestyle division and the performance division, you see all ranges of price on their designs. The Skechers D'Lites DLT-A is a cross between both divisions so it's fair to say the price is somewhere in the middle as well. As an affordable, stylish option, this shoe is reasonably priced. You're actually getting more for your money as this shoe is a fashion statement as well as a trainer.

Traction

The outsole of the Skecher D'Lites DLT-A is a flexible, rubber traction-focused design. The waves on the base of the shoe distribute weight and allow for movement, giving a more stable landing with every step. The foot is securely seated into the base of the shoe with the memory foam cushioned insole and the wrap-around heel panel. This allows for a firmer step and better control over each footfall, whether on a trail or a cement road.

Flexibility

The knit fabric of the upper allows for a higher degree of flexibility to the top of the foot than with full leather uppers and overlays. The wavy rubber design of the outsole emphasizes flex and encourages a natural foot flex with each step, regardless of terrain. The memory foam cushioned insole in combination with the lightweight shock absorbing midsole are designed to allow a natural flex to the shoe, corresponding with the runner's natural gait. The elastic wrap across the foot also allows for additional flexibility or swelling without discomfort from being confined to an enclosed shoe.

Stability

If you're using the Skechers D'Lites DLT-A as a running shoe, it has a fairly neutral ride. The wedge-like design from the 1 1/4" rise in the heel focuses energy absorption and processing in the EVA foam midsole. With that midsole is a memory foam cushioned insole which holds the foot firmly in place, thanks to the wrap-around heel panel. All of these components hold the foot steady and securely, creating a stable shoe that feels as though it was molded to your foot. The outsole of the shoe has a wavy design that allows for natural weight distribution and accommodates a variety of terrains. This shoe is a comfortable and stable ride, no matter which route you take.

Drop

We were unable to locate an exact measurement on the drop of the Skechers D'Lites DLT-A. Based on photos, it's clear that the toe does come up a few millimeters compared to the heel so this shoe is more of a neutral ride than a natural drop. The feel of the road should be more cushioned with more of a bounce response than in another model, typical of the Skechers brand.

Key Features

• Sculpted, synthetic wrap-around heel panel holds the foot securely into the base
• Soft knit mesh fabric and leather upper
• Elastic foot wrap in place of laces
• Wavy rubber outsole provides additional traction for various terrains
• Air cooled memory foam cushioned insole
• 4 colors - monochromatic colorways with a unisex, gender-neutral design

Bottom Line

The Skechers D'Lites DLT-A is a reboot of the incredibly popular original from the 1990's - 2000's. The streamlined, sleeker body, as well as the updated technology, make this shoe a fantastic combination of Skechers' performance and lifestyle divisions. The knit fabric upper with the elastic wrap create a beautiful visual but also a lightweight, breathable, and comfortable trainer. The unique design from the heel panel on the midsole to the wavy rubber outsole adds an edgy touch that also increases traction and stability. The DLT-A could be seen along trails and streets or fashion shows all over the world. Skechers has accomplished what many sports-focused companies struggle to do. They have created a highly functional, performance-based trainer that has a personality and an edge that will appeal to many different groups.