10 Best Hoka Shoes for Walking, Approved by Podiatrists & Testers

As the parent of a high-energy border collie and a proud owner of a walking pad, I wanted to find the best Hoka shoes for walking. In recent years, I’ve seen runners wax poetic about the brand’s pillowy, pretty models. But their sneakers, slides, sandals, and boots are also known to support feet at, well, a slower pace. “The right walking shoe will depend on the levels of cushion and stability that you need, based on the structure of your feet,” says Anne Sharkey, DPM, a double board-certified podiatrist and founder of Solely Podiatry in Austin, Texas. (Spoiler alert but the best for me are the Clifton 10). If you’re like me, you probably also want them to look cool, so they coordinate with whatever fitness skort, straight-legged jeans, or scrubs you’re stylin’. Luckily, every model featured on this list comes in color options that span the gamut from subtle neutral to trendy color-blocking. Ahead, the Hoka pairs that podiatrists and walk-enthusiasts (like me!) recommend for long strolls.

The best Hoka shoes for walking, at a glance

Best Overall: Clifton 10, $150
Best for Wide Feet: Skyflow, $170
Best for Plantar Fasciitis: Bondi 9, $170
Best for Commuting: Transport, $150
Best for Flat Feet: Arahi 7, $145
Best for Travel: Mach 6, $140
Best for Arch Support: Gaviota 5, $175
Best for Hiking: Kaha 3 GTX Low, $220
Best Hoka Sandals: Infini Hike TC, $140
Best Hoka Clogs: Ora Primo, $120

How to shop for Hoka shoes

Which Hoka Style is best for walking?

For most walkers, podiatrists say that the Clifton is the best of all. “The Clifton has all three features a walking shoe should have: arch support, a shock-absorbing heel, and a flexible forefoot,” says Mohammad Rimawi, DMP, a board-certified podiatrist with Manhattan Foot Specialists in New York City. Ultra-cushioned, the Clifton is also “plush enough to maintain foot comfort without the bulky feeling or heft of other Hoka models, adds Dr. Sharkey.

Neither the Hoka Clifton 9 or 10 are (currently) available in a wide model, so those with wide feet would be better off buying the Skyflow, which provides similar support while being wider throughout the midsole. Meanwhile, those with plantar fasciitis should opt for the super-stable Bondi, and people with flat feet should opt for Arahi, which offers impressive arch support.

Is the Hoka Bondi or Clifton better for walking?

Both the Bondi and Clifton are winners, as far as podiatrists and walkers are concerned, but the Clifton is the better choice for most walkers because it’s “much lighter in weight in comparison to the Bondi, which may make it a more suitable, comfortable choice for many walkers,” says Dr. Rimawi.

The Bondi is generally best for those with plantar fasciitis or neutral to high feet. “The Bondi has an inflexible midsole that provides ample support for the middle foot and protects against arch collapse,” he says. Most models, including the Hoka Bondi 8 and 9, have a sizable difference between the heel and forefoot height (known as the heel-drop), which allows for a more natural foot movement that minimizes strain on the foot, he says.

What to consider when shopping for a walking shoe?

Every walker will have different requirements, based on their unique feet and planned walking paths. Here are four factors podiatrists recommend keeping top of mind when shopping for a pair of Hokas to walk in.

Arch type: Dr. Sharkey recommends figuring out the shape of your arch—that’s the area between the ball of your foot and your heel. Those with high arches need cushioning and protection shock absorption that reduce the amount of force and stress placed on the delicate foot tissues with each step, she says. In contrast, she says people with low arch (or flat feet) benefit from rigid stability shoes that will help prevent their feet from overpronation ( when your feet turn inward).

Foot width: “You want to choose a shoe that contours well with your foot,” says Dr. Sharkey. “Wide feet may require shoes with a roomy toe box, while narrow feet may benefit from a snugger fit.” Donning a shoe that is either too wide or too narrow can cause uncomfy hot spots and blisters, which is definitely not ideal for logging long distances.

Shoe size: Wearing the correct shoe size is crucial for foot health, especially if you plan to walk or run in them, says Dr. Sharkey. “Shoes that are too small can cause blisters, calluses, ingrown toenails, and even deformities like bunions or hammertoes over time,” she says. And shoes that are too large can lead to instability, increasing the risk of falls or ankle injuries, she says.

For a walking shoe, “you want to make sure there’s about a thumb’s width of space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe,” she says. Most Hoka shoes run true to size, but if you fall between sizes, she suggests comparing sizes before committing to a size.

Walking surface: You should also consider whether you’ll be accumulating miles on the pavement, grass, gravel, or a hiking trail. “If you’re walking on a hard surface, you’ll benefit from wearing a shoe with good cushioning and shock absorption,” says Dr. Rimawi. But if you plan to off-road and explore grass or dirt paths, a flexible shoe is more suitable because it will allow your foot to move with the ground beneath, he says.

“If you plan to walk on uneven terrain, look for a shoe with a durable, rubber outsole and deep lugs for stability and grip,” adds Dr. Sharkey.

To help you find the best Hoka walking shoes, we consulted with a team of podiatrists to determine what people should look for in a walking shoe based on their foot type. We also asked the foot doctors which models they personally recommend for walking and which models their clients swear by.

We surveyed people who diligently track their steps, hikers, and people who work on their feet all day.

I regularly log 25,000 steps daily, so I made sure to give a shoutout to my fave Hoka shoes to wear whether I’m stepping inside or out.

The final list includes 10 top picks that were given two thumbs up by podiatrists and people with hundreds of miles of history with their Hoka shoes.

Best Hoka Walking Shoes Overall: Clifton 10

Hoka Women’s Clifton 10 Sneaker

“The [Hoka Clifton] has won the National American Podiatric Medical Association seal of acceptance multiple times,” says Jason Gold DPM, a board-certified podiatrist with Foot, Ankle & Leg Vein Center in Boynton Beach, Florida. Despite being a much more cushioned shoe than other shoe options and having ample arch support, they are impressively lightweight, he says. “This allows you to walk longer periods with less stress and strain on the musculoskeletal system of the lower extremity.”

The 10th Clifton iteration, which just came out this month, provides all the comfort Hoka is known for, and has (literally) been leveled up. It now has an 8mm heel stack compared to the 5mm heel stack from the previous models. This supports the natural rocking motion of your foot as you step, helping you travel further with less energy, whether you’re walking your dog or training for a marathon. Also nice: The colorwaves range from basic (all black and all white) to fun and flirty (neon orange!), so there’s something for walkers of all styles.

What reviewers say: I walk my puppy a minimum of 3 miles per week day and up to 7 on the weekend. No matter our distance, the Hoka Clifton is my go-to shoe for walking her because the foam insole cradles my foot, rather than allowing the weight of my foot to sink in like my body on a memory foam mattress. I also love that slim profile of the upper, which keeps my foot secure without feeling too snug. What sets the Clifton 10 apart from the earlier models I’ve worn is how much vavavoom I get per step. My high-energy border collie loves how much faster our mile walking pace has been!—Gabrielle Kassel, product reviewer and Glamour writer

Best Hoka Walking Shoes for Wide Feet: Skyward

Hoka Women’s Skyward Running Shoes

These are a great pair of walking shoes for wide feet because they sport a foam sole that offers springy oomph with every step. Heck, some reviewers even say they feel like they’re walking on clouds. Each shoe lifts you a full 1.5 inches off the ground, but the upper offers a low profile that keeps them from looking, well, clownish. Those who get the bulk of their steps in before sunrise or after sundown will appreciate the reflective detailing.

What reviewers say: I wear the Skyflow while walking my dachshunds and coaching CrossFit (where I’m on my feet for an hour or two at a time). They have a broader midsole that keeps the shoe from compressing my wide, flat feet and keeps my feet from overpronation. Plus, they have a sizable toe box that doesn’t crush my toes. —Arpi Latner, CrossFit Coach

Best Hoka Walking Shoe for Plantar Fasciitis: Bondi 9

Hoka Bondi 9 Running Shoe

The Hoka Bondi 9 is our podium pick for people with plantar fasciitis. Their foam sole and cushioned inner work together to absorb shock, reduce fatigue, and protect against strain on the delicate plantar tendons, says Dr. Rimawi. Despite how cloud-like they are, “the Bondi has an inflexible mid-portion that protects against arch collapse and strain,” he says. The 5mm heel-drop also gives the shoe a rocker-type structure that supports natural movement, he says.

What our reviewers say: The Bondi 9 is a fantastic walking shoe with a responsive midsole and impressive stack height for extra cushioning. The knit upper is soft and flexible, and I can wear these when I’m on my feet all day without feeling foot fatigue or tenderness afterward —Maggie Slepian, gear tester and Glamour contributor

Best Hoka Shoes for Commuting: Transport

If you walk to work, the aptly named Transport should be your pick. It is excellent for walking because of its meta-rocker bottom (or curved sole design) that helps guide the foot to move heel to toe, says Bruce Pinker DPM, a podiatrist and founder and owner of Progressive Foot Care in New York, New York. “The shoe also has added cushioning and shock absorption, which adds comfort while stabilizing the foot and ankle.” The grippy rubber will keep you from slipping, whether you’re climbing up and down wet subway stairs, or navigating the goo and poo of city sidewalks. Plus, the entire upper is water-resistant, which will keep your feet dry if you get caught in a storm.

What our reviewers say: The Hoka Transport has been my go-to walk-around town shoe thanks to the cushioned midsole and the padding around the tongue and collar. I love the variety of colorways and the fit is just right, not too much space in the toes but without any uncomfortable rubbing out of the box. I also like the aesthetic and practicality of the toggle lace.—Maggie Slepian, gear tester and Glamour contributor

Best Hoka Walking Shoes for Flat Feet: Arahi 7

The Arahi 7 comes highly recommended by podiatrists for walkers with flat feet. Walkers who are flat-footed tend to overpronate, but this shoe provides arch and ankle support that can help combat that tendency, says Dr. Sharkey. The J-Frame technology supports the medial side where the foot typically rolls inward,” says Dr. Gold. Unlike other stability shoes, which can feel like cement bricks, these sleek shoes are lightweight and comfortable. They also have a slimmer profile than most other Hokas, which are known for their maximalist design.

What our reviewers say: These runners feel super lightweight on my feet, while still feeling secure when I move. They have dense cushioning throughout the shoe, which makes walking and running comfortable. The toe box is narrower than what I’ve experienced with other Hoka and walking shoe models, so I sized up half a size.—Melissa Morello, CrossFit Coach

Best Hoka Walking Shoes for Travel: Mach 6

The Hoka Mach 6 are about to become your globe-trotting BFF. The single-layer foam helps support your feet whether you’re exploring cobble streets or beach towns, or pursuing museums or monuments. Weighing in at just over 6 ounces, these ultra-lightweight travel shoes won’t add unnecessary weight to your suitcase. The upper is ultra breathable, so you don’t have to worry about your feet getting over-heating if you travel to warm climates. Best of all is the sporty-chic aesthetic, which will go with jeans, athletic dresses, or whatever other streetwear you select for travel.

What our reviewers say: These shoes are super bouncy and light. I’ve run several 5K marathons in them and never experienced a blister. The main reason why I think they’re the absolute best walking shoes is because I’ve walked all of Manhattan in them—seriously from the tippity top to Battery Park. I logged 17.74 miles and (a whopping 34,608 steps!) in just one day. Yes, my feet were killing me at the end but it wasn’t because of my shoes. In fact, they supported me the entire walk. —Jenifer Calle Glamour senior commerce editor.

Best Hoka Walking Shoes for Arch Support: Gaviota 5

Hoka Gaviota 5 Running Shoes

If your arches are super low, consider the Hoka Gaviota, which Dr. Rimawi says offers the most arch support of all Hoka options. “This model provides the extra support that people with very low (or absent) arches need.” This model also incorporates Hoka’s J-Frame technology, which adds to the feeling of stability with each step. Unlike other walking shoes that are heavy on the foam, your feet won’t overheat in these. The mesh upper will also keep your dogs from getting too sweaty.

What reviewers say: My baby sleeps best when in motion, which means my partner and I have become accustomed to logging long distances before bedtime. These shoes keep me and my arches well supported, no matter how long we walk. This is especially important to me as a person with a history of back pain because if my feet aren’t supported, the pain makes its way to my lower back. Aesthetically speaking, they are a little bulky but I tend to like a bold accessory so it works for me.—Sam S., new parent

Best Hoka Hiking Walking Shoes: Kaha 3 GTX Low

Hoka Kaha Low GTX Sneakers

Whether you’re a thru-hiker or enjoy short jaunts in the woods, you should be hyped that Hoka has entered the hiking shoe space. Their trail-friendly Kaha 3 offers the ankle support, durability, and toothy Vibram sole you need while trekking through the trees. In true Hoka style the outdoor walking shoe provides all of that in a lightweight, super-cushioned, stylish package. The Kaha 3 is available in both a mid (boot) and low (shoe), so there’s a suitable option for you, whether you prefer the stability of a boot or the freedom of a shoe.

What reviewers say: The Kaha 3 is one of the grippiest hiking shoes I’ve ever owned. The sole has 4mm lugs, which create the sensation that I’m grabbing the trail, even when rocks are slick or debris is loose. I prefer a low-rise hiking shoe and like how the cushy sock liner hugs my foot—tight but not too tight. My go-to trail is pretty muddy, so I opted for the all-black option, but I’m obsessed with the other options. Oh, it’s also worth noting that the laces are extra grippy and never come undone.—Gabrielle Kassel, product reviewer and Glamour writer

Best Hoka Sandals for Walking: Infini Hike TC

The Infini Hike TC takes all the things that make Hoka walking shoes popular amongst steppers—supportive foam insole, cushiony midsole, lightweight construction—and puts them into a trail-ready sandal. These ultra-adjustable strappy sandals use Velcro and buckle closures to help you obtain a secure fit while hiking and a looser fit while walking around basecamp. If you like to climb routes with dirt, rock, and varied terrain, you’ll appreciate the highly textured tread that allows the sandals to grip terrain of all kinds.

What our reviewers say: During the hot summer months, the cement roads are too hot for my dog’s sensitive pads, so I walk her on the trails. While traditional hiking boots make my feet schvitz, the Infini Hike TCs are breathable. The toe bed is slightly curved up, which keeps me from jamming my tootsies. But the best part is that the sandals are quick-drying, so I can puddle jump with my pup, without the consequence of soggy feet.—Gabrielle Kassel, product reviewer and Glamour writer

Best Hoka Clogs for Walking: Ora Primo

Hoka Ora Pimo Recovery Sneaker

The Ora Prima is a great shoe that proves that clogs aren’t just for seniors, and that the chunky shoe trend doesn’t stop at sneakers. The lovechild of four-season slip-ons and laceless walking shoes, these clogs will make you look like Zenon and feel like you’re walking in space. The insole of the Ora Primo is made from a dual-density foam that feels similar against your bare or socked foot as the insole of Crocs or the Kane Revive. Trust, you’ll feel like you’re getting a massage with every step and stride. The outer of these laceless beauties is inspired by a puffer jacket. Certainly, they’re suitable for more seasons than the aforementioned recovery shoe faves. But the upper is breathable enough that you can slip them on during spring and summer days without worrying about sweaty feet.

What our reviewers say: I’ve always loved a good pair of plush slides, and these slightly oversized foam shoes have become the pair I leave by the door whenever I need to leave the house and want something comfy and fast to slip on. The footbed is molded for arch support, and unlike others I’ve tested, I haven’t noticed any rubbing along the top of the shoe when I wear them barefoot. —Maggie Slepian, gear tester and Glamour contributor

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