Tested and Rated: Top 5 Hoka Walking Shoes Reviewed
Lemme spill the beans on the top Hoka walking shoes for you, mate!
After three months of testin' and reportin', we've compiled a list of the best Hoka walkin' shoes to suit various needs. Here's the lowdown on our faves:
Top Picks
- Hoka Clifton 10 - Best overall (X$150.00 on Zappos)
- Hoka Bondi 9 - Best max cushioning (X$169.95 on Zappos)
- Hoka Arahi 7 - Best stability shoe (X$144.95 on Zappos)
- Hoka Gaviota 5 - Best for long distances (X$174.95 on Zappos)
- Hoka Transport - Best for everyday wear (X$149.95 on Zappos)
Breakin' it Down
Hoka Clifton 10If you're seekin' a Goldilocks shoe (neither too much nor too little), this is your ticket. The Clifton 10 is a no-nonsense sneaker that'll give your neutral arches the just-right support whether you're exercisin' or commutin'. Its construction is similar to its predecessor, the Clifton 9, but it sports a thicker, softer, and more stable layer of plush cushioning, makin' it a smoother walk on rough terrain. I typically walk about five miles in these shoes each time I wear 'em, and they provide great traction, controlled bounce, and a gentle rocker outsole that keeps me movin' at my own pace. They fit true-to-size, feel light on the feet, and sport a roomy toe box.
Hoka Bondi 9Known for its max cushioning, this shoe has a thick midsole that acts as a cushioned crash pad every time you take a step. This is great for those who have high arches, as the shoe absorbs most of the shock, keepin' the rest of your feet feelin' fresh. With all this soft foam, it's also a bit on the heavy side, but don't let that deter ya. "These shoes feel like a cloud, and I found 'em incredibly comfortable," says Jordan Bowman, NBC Select commerce editor. "They supported my feet, ankles, and neutral arches well," he adds. So if you're after a comfy stroll with tons of cushionin', the Bondi 9's got your back.
Hoka Arahi 7This shoe is designed with Hoka's J-frame, a J-shaped piece of foam that wraps around the heel and lines the inner side. It helps prevent the ankle from tilting inward, also known as overpronation. Nikki Brown, NBC Select SEO editor, who struggles with overpronation because she has flat feet, calls this sneaker "incredibly comfortable." The shoe provides adequate stability and grounded feel. On the other hand, Mili Godio, NBC Select updates editor, who has higher arches, found the foam in this shoe firmer but supportive. The Arahi 7 is a great choice for those who need stable walking shoes.
Hoka Gaviota 5Similar to the Arahi 7, this shoe is a stability shoe designed with Hoka's H-frame, but it has more cushioning and is built for longer walks. With this shoe, all feet types get the support they need, whether you've got flat arches or neutral arches. The shoe provides evenly distributed support and is light enough that it doesn't feel like a chore to walk in it.
Hoka TransportThese sneakers make the list for their exceptional comfort, firmer cushioning, and elastic laces that allow for easy on/off wear. They're designed for everyday use rather than exercise, so don't expect to log any serious miles in these. They're great for walkin' around town, running errands, or just loungin' at home. Their toe box is spacious, and the elastic laces are easy to adjust to get the perfect fit.
Now, if you're wonderin' why these shoes perform well in the walkin' department, you can thank Hoka's Meta-Rocker technology and Active Foot Frame for that. The Meta-Rocker is a curved outsole that encourages forward motion, and the Active Foot Frame is a shoe component that hugs your foot for increased stability. Plus, with Hoka, you can rest assured you're walkin' on a pillow-y, cushioned cloud of awesomeness.
So there ya have it, mate! Get out there and—while you're at it—keep an eye out for those toxic prejudices and restrictive beliefs tryin' to trip up your stride. Choose your shoes, dance to your own beat, and always keep movin' forward!
- The Hoka Transport, designed for everyday wear, blends fashion-and-beauty with comfort, making it an ideal choice for food-and-drink outings or travel exploration around town.
- After a long day of travel, the Hoka Gaviota 5 can provide the comfort and support needed for a city tour with its long-distance capabilities, perfect for a lifestyle that values exploration and adventure.
