This Under-The-Radar Hoka Style Is The Best One For Walking

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Over the past few years, Hoka has rightfully earned a spot in the conversation about the best brand for comfortable walking shoes. Known for their plush, “cloudlike” cushion, Hoka models like the Clifton 9 have been previously declared hypeworthy by HuffPost shopping writer Lourdes Avila Uribe. But the Cliftons aren’t the only shoes worth buying from the brand — in fact, my favorite model as a Hoka fan is one that tends to fly a little under the radar. And at $125 a pair, they’re one of the cheapest Hoka sneakers available.

First introduced in 2022, the Hoka Solimar is officially my favorite walking shoe — and that’s coming from someone who loves Hokas so much, I once asked for a pair for my birthday. The Solimar has a balanced midsole that’s forgiving, but still firm. The extended crash pad absorbs enough impact that I don’t feel like I’m on a trampoline every time I take a walk (definitely a feeling I got wearing my old beloved Rincon 3s, which are now discontinued).

I also appreciate the Solimar’s stack height and thinner design. The support is evident, but the shoes don’t look as bulbous from the top as some of the other Hoka models I’ve tried on before like the Bondi 8, whose cushioning flares out on the sides a bit. It gives the Solimars a sleeker appearance, and combined with their light, 6.7-ounce weight, they don’t feel heavy on my feet. In the neutral white colorway I chose, they don’t scream “exercise shoe,” and don’t look out of place paired with a dress or office-appropriate outfit.

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