The best Hoka shoes for long walks and quick walks

Whether you’re a daily walker or someone who spends their working days on their feet, a good pair of walking shoes can mean the difference between a great day and a bad one. If you’ve followed footwear trends over the past few years, you probably know that Hoka sneakers – recognizable by their oversized soles and bright color combinations – have garnered a cult following that includes everyone from streetwear fans to healthcare workers to hot girls -Walker. And with good reason: When it comes to high-quality hiking shoes, Hoka focuses on the essentials and ranks between top brands such as Nike and New Balance.

What should you look for in a hiking shoe?

If you already own a pair of general running shoes, they should be fine for walking. But if you’re looking for a new pair of shoes to wear solely (pun intended) for walks, here are some key design elements to consider when shopping.

Pillow

Whether you enjoy a leisurely stroll or move at a brisk, determined pace, walking can have a major impact on your feet and joints because they act like shock absorbers for your stride, Jeffrey DeLott, DPM, a board certified foot and Ankle surgeon at Connecticut Orthopedics, tells SELF. A well-cushioned shoe can help reduce some of these impacts and keep your feet, ankles, and knees comfortable for longer. dr DeLott recommends looking for shoes with materials and features like gel, foam, and air pockets.

Support

A supportive walking shoe will help keep your feet stable as you walk, says Dr. DeLott, adding that when shopping for shoes, you should think about your foot type and inclinations. For example, you can look for shoes designed for pronation (when feet roll inward) or supination (when feet roll outward), or you can try a shoe designed for stability or motion control. There are also neutral shoes that don’t provide targeted support but may be more comfortable for some people. Consider trying on a few pairs to get a feel for what you like.

Weight

It can be difficult to balance the weight of a hiking shoe with the cushioning and support it offers, but it’s still an important factor to consider, says Dr. DeLott. A comfortable, sturdy shoe will likely feel heavier, while a lightweight shoe may not offer much support or cushioning. Again, taking the time to test a few types of shoes will help you determine the right weight and feel for you.

material

Depending on where and when you plan to run, you should take a closer look at the materials in your shoe. Hot weather (or feet prone to sweating) calls for a breathable shoe made with mesh and other fabrics that facilitate ventilation. Rain, on the other hand, means finding a shoe made with water-repellent or waterproof materials like Gore-Tex. And don’t forget to check the soles: if you’re running on outdoor trails or rocky terrain, make sure your shoes offer adequate traction.

What makes Hoka different from other sneaker brands?

Hoka, also referred to as the Hoka One One, is probably best known for its line of ultra-plush shoes that make walking on concrete and other hard surfaces feel like stepping on marshmallows. Hoka running shoes typically have a “maximum” look with chunky, oversized soles that give the wearer’s feet buoyancy. They’re extremely easy to spot, not just for their shape, but for their vibrant color combinations, ranging from cool pastels to Kindercore-esque color blocking. They’re undoubtedly a millennial fashion statement at this point, but they’re also a great choice for runners and hikers who want to take care of their feet and knees along the way.

In fact, thanks to the brand’s trademark feeling of walking on clouds, Hokas is recommended by podiatrists for people dealing with plantar fasciitis. This condition is characterized by shooting pains in the soles of the feet, particularly in the heel, and wearing supportive, comfortable shoes can help relieve this discomfort. Some pairs even have a seal of approval from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) stating they are beneficial to foot health.

The best Hoka shoes for hiking

If cushioning and support are your top priority, then you should look to Hokas for your next pair of hiking shoes. Here we have, taking into account the purchasing criteria of Dr. DeLott highlighted our top picks for the best Hoka shoes for walking.