There are many Ryka styles to choose from that look similar but each has exclusive materials and is built uniquely. Just like this, if you look at their famous Ryka Devotion shoes, it might be hard to tell how they are different from Ryka Sky Walk. They look a lot alike but have a few key differences, and most women might wonder which is better.
We’ve put together this guide to help you understand the notable differences between these two sneakers and give you our final verdict on which one we think is the absolute best. So, let’s begin
Similarities and Differences between Ryka Devotion And Sky Walk:
| Features | Ryka Devotion | Ryka Sky Walk |
|---|---|---|
| Launched in | 2016- 2018 | 2014-2019 |
| Stability | Stable | More Stable |
| Flexibility | Highly Flexible | Mid-level Flexibility |
| Sizing | 5-11 for women only | 5-12 for women only |
| Weight | 7.44-10.5 oz. | 8.2-8.7 oz. |
| Cushion | Responsive cushioning | Lightweight cushioning |
| Outsole | Eight-Piece Rubber | Full-Length Rubber |
| Insole | Anatomical | Memory Foam |
| Midsole | EVA, RE-ZORB | EVA |
| Upper | Breathable mesh, Faux leather, Iridescent overlays | Breathable mesh and Faux leather |
| Retail Price | $99-$134 | $79.99-$89.99 |
Ryka Devotion vs Sky Walk: Good, Bad, and the Worst:
Now we are comparing the characteristics of Ryka Sky Walk and Devotion to determine which surpasses the other. Let’s get right to it.
1) Comfort:
Comfort and support are prioritized in the construction of the Ryka Sky Walk and Devotion shoes as they are designed for women.
The midsole of both types is made of molded cushioning EVA foam, which is lightweight and not only keeps your feet in place while you wear it, but it also absorbs the shock with each step and lets you move in a way that doesn’t make you tired.
In addition, the soft mesh lining with the padded collar and tongue provides an exceptional level of comfort within the shoe without causing soreness or blisters.
The main difference in terms of cushioning materials is Ryka Sky Walk Models have a memory foam footbed that conforms to each women’s foot shape and provides supportive comfort exactly where it is required to evenly distribute weight, giving the impression of walking on clouds. Whereas, Ryka Devotion incorporates RE-ZORB cushioning that offers more bounce with your stride while reducing energy backlash.
To sum up, you can expect a good level of comfort from both of these due to the use of quality materials and advanced technologies.
2) Popularity:
Ryka Sky Walk and Devotion is a favorite among women who lead active lifestyles, such as frequent gym goers, those who walk for fitness or are obsessed with healthy living.
Furthermore, Ryka Devotion is featured in Business Wire, Travel+ Leisure, and NBC News whereas the Ryka Sky Walk is highlighted in a publication of Forbes.
3) Running:
Despite their appearance and intended use for fitness, the Ryka Devotion and Sky Walk are “not made for impact-based activities” and do not offer the same level of support as running-specific shoes.
Furthermore, conventional running shoes have added padding at the bottoms to give your feet extra strength and both of these models lack this property.
These shoes might work if you are used to running in walking shoes but switching to these should be done slowly to avoid the chance of injuries, so we will not suggest them for even shorter runs.
4) Walking:
The Ryka Sky Walk and Devotion are two of the most versatile performance walking footwear available by the brand. The cloud-like feel of the cushioned insoles will make long days of exploring a breeze.
Moreover, the technology in the foam soles of Ryka Devotion is lightweight but bouncy so your feet do not suffer after walking all day in these shoes.
On the other hand, Ryka Skywalk has a TPU shank and its main purpose is to give extra strength, and stability while walking. It will also help in properly bending your shoes at the toe area making your stroll easier.
5) Flat Feet:
Ryka Devotion and Sky Walk, each with an 11 mm heel-to-toe drop, will have slightly more arch support than other shoe styles the brand offers, so people with flat feet or a minimal arch will find these beneficial.
However, Ryka Devotion is deep and broad enough to accommodate any foot shape to prevent knee or ankle pain caused by this foot condition.
6) Design:
Ryka Sky Walk and Devotion shoes are designed specifically for walking on flat surfaces such as gyms, treadmills, pavement, and roads. The uppers of these shoes are made from a breathable mesh material that allows air to circulate freely, preventing the foot from overheating and keeping them fresh.
Besides this material, the top of both models has stitched-on leather in key structural areas, such as the sides of the shoe, toe box, lacing system, and heel, to keep the foot locked in place and supported while walking in them.
Furthermore, for durability and traction, the outsole of the Ryka Sky Walk is made of a durable rubber material with a unique pattern and treads positioned in high-abrasion spots. Due to this material, this walking sneaker will perform exceptionally well on different surfaces.
In addition to EVA, the midfoot area of the skywalk also implemented a TPU shank for additional arch support which stands out in the performance of this model.
Conversely, instead of a full-length rubber outsole, Ryka Devotion incorporates the 8-Piece Skeletal Rubber Sole, providing excellent traction on wet and dry surfaces, and enhancing its looks as well. It also works together with the midsole to add a bit softer feel.
Additionally, the Ryka Devotion has the ability to bounce back which you will not get in the Ryka Skywalk, so you can rely on Ryka Devotion to provide consistent cushioning and responsiveness with every stride.
What do Customers think?
Many reviewers complimented the lightweight nature of Devotion and said that it did not make their feet tired.
Also, some women were pleasantly astonished by the RYKA Devotion’s price, considering the technologies they employ and their aesthetic, while others believed they are worth the cost. In addition, they stated that they are happy with their purchase and consider it the most protective footwear.
A consumer also mentioned that she had tried various tennis shoes over the years due to her bunion surgery and when she tried Ryka Devotion the pair changed her life and she repurchased many models of this series; however, she has noted that the older variations design requires a brief period of break-in.
Some reviewers, however, claim to have worn them on hiking paths and for light jogging without any discomfort. In contrast, a narrow fit and insufficient arch support were also noted in the comments.
Conversely, many customers appreciated the pleasant strolling experience that the Ryka Sky Walk provides and they enjoy the shoe’s traction, support, and breathability.
One buyer who stood for extended periods at work reported feeling no discomfort in her feet after switching to this footwear in her daily routine. This shoe has been recommended by another woman who has had major issues with their feet and legs.
Many reviewers praised that the best feature of this sneaker is it is very easy to break them in.
Some of them found the shoe size to be very accommodating, while others suggested going half a size down.
Nevertheless, few are not satisfied with the durability of its overlays and the short length of the laces but in the end, the benefits of this footwear outweighed these concerns.
Conclusion: What Should I Buy?
If you want good walking shoes that will last a long time but don’t want to spend much money, these fairly priced shoes will not disappoint you.
The primary difference between these two shoe styles is the material and technology used in their construction. The Ryka Sky Walk has Memory foam insoles whereas most Ryka Devotion variants have RE-ZORB and anatomical footbeds.
Also, the Ryka Devotion is somewhat more durable and robust due to the upper having iridescent accents that Sky Walk did not have but still, they withstand a lot of wear and tear.
Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide what you want to buy based on how it makes you feel and how well it fits your needs.
Although we prefer Ryka Devotion for those who want Performance Walking footwear in more styles and colors, Sky Walk is a better bet for everyday walks and they might also work better for fitness walking.