Ahem, These Are the 9 Best Hoka Shoes for Walking (Tested and Reviewed for 2024)
Are you even a Hot Girl Walker if you don't have a pair of these???
We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we love. Promise.
There's a meme going around that jokes about that one friend who is always willing to walk everywhere and I can proudly say I am that girl. In fact, my family and friends have come across that video and have tagged me repeatedly! I'm just happy to be connected to my kind through the comments! If you want to join my crew (lol) or simply do some baby walking, you don't just need cute activewear (although v important). What you *actually* need are some good ol' walking shoes. And trust me, your baby toes and arches will be sighing with relief once you snag a pair. And if you pay close attention to what the people are wearing, you've probably seen a surplus of one particular brand on the street: Hoka.
A bunch of celebs have been seen in their various styles, but celebrity approval aside, Hokas have a huge cult following because they are lightweight, comfy, durable, and have that extra thick cushioning that makes you feel like you're walking on memory foam. Plus, they come in so many colorways that pairing them to your work out ensemble won't be a problem at all. But here, see for yourself!
Our top picks for the best best Hoka shoes for walking in 2024:
Yup, I did alllll the hard work for you and curated this list of the best Hoka shoes for walking, whether that’s for regular pavement pounders or hikers. Down below, you’ll see some tips and tricks for selecting the best Hokas for whatever outdoor walking activity is calling you. Truly, you should give 'em a try! After recently training with Hoka for a 12K, my walks have been transported to a new level. If my people thought I was a hot girl walker before, wait 'til they see me now!
Pros
- Very durable
- Foot-hugging comfort
- Not a bulky shoe
Cons
- Smaller toe box than the Mach 5, according to some reviews
Left: The Mach 6 in White/Nimbus Cloud / Right: The Mach 6 in Illusion/Dusk
We all need a go-to shoe. This everyday pair may be your best bet. It's a super lightweight style with ultra responsive cushioning—you love to hear it!
- Sizes: 5-11
- Weight: 6.70 oz
Rave Review: "The all pink color is gorgeous! This shoe can also do it all. Long slow days, sprints, intervals, walking etc."
Pros
- Lightweight
- Has breathable comfort
- Extended Achilles pull tab helps you effortlessly slip into the sneakers
Cons
- Some reviewers say the sneakers aren’t durable enough for both running and day-to-day wear
Left: Kim is wearing the Clifton 8 in Black (no longer available) / Right: The Clifton 8 in Summer Song/Ice Flow
Standing on your feet all day HURTS. I still cringe thinking about the blisters and bruises after my 8-hour shifts at the local grocery store in college. But! The Hoka Clifton 8s saved the day. Designed for your regular daily habits, these sneakers feel like nothing on your feet, and are made from a super breathable mesh—aka no sweaty feet for you.
- Sizes: U.S. 5 to 12 (available in wide width)
- Weight: 7.2 oz
Rave Review: “They are so lightweight, it feels like you’re not wearing anything. I could have sized up to a 7, but my regular 6.5 fit fine. I’m excited to wear these for my 12-hour shifts. Such a popular shoe for everyone that’s on their feet a lot.”
Pros
- Come in 11 (!!) different colors
- Abrasion-resistant rubber exterior that's built to last
- Helps alleviate knee pain
Cons
- The sole is harder and thinner compared to the previous Cliftons, according to reviewers
Left: Hannah is wearing the Hoka x FP Movement Clifton 9 in Cirrus / Right: The Clifton 9 in Vibrant Orange/Impala
The upgrade to the Clifton 8, these sneakers rank No. 1 thanks to their super cushy interior and durable outside. There's a foam midsole too, so you shouldn’t have any soreness or aches after wearing them.
- Sizes: U.S. 5 to 12 (available in wide width)
- Weight: 7.3 oz.
Rave Review: “I love the Hoka brand and these new shoes lived up to the mark. These Clifton 9s are much firmer and foamier than my Clifton 8s. I love that they don’t look bulky on my feet. They are true to fit. I did not get the wide fit. I love them so much that I want another pair in a neat color.”
Pros
- Luxuriously cushioned
- Large toe box
Cons
- Not quite suitable for wide feet, according to some reviewers
Before the ever so popular Bondi 8 came along, there was the cult fave Bondi 7. These shoes are so loved, Hoka had to bring 'em back for the fans (the ppl were begging and yay, the brand listened)! Get this: these are the most cushioned HOKA shoe and ensures a smooth journey. There's breathable mesh upper and this upgraded version has a plush collar to accommodate narrow heels and a variety of ankle widths.
- Sizes: U.S. 5 to 12 (available in wide width)
- Weight: 8.9 oz
Rave Review: "I am so happy the Bondi 7 came back. I run ~20 miles a week for the last 5-ish years and the first few years I had burned through a few Bondi 7s getting 400 miles in them easy. They were the perfect everyday running shoe, I absolutely love them and told everyone about it. Cushioning without being too soft, firm but not too hard, not too heavy, good rocker to pick up if needed. When the bondi 8 came out, I was excited for the newest model of my favorite shoe but they didn't compare. I essentially became a trail runner instead of a road runner because of the Bondi 8. Now the 7s are back!!! If you keep making them, I'll keep buying them!"
Pros
- Made to put on with ease
- Ridiculously cloud-like
- Two colorways
Cons
- very chunky, so if you're into something sleeker, these aren't for you
I'm one that's really into speed-walking. With these, I can tell ya that you will be ZOOMING. While at a higher price point, the Skyward X is indeed worth it—particularly because it'll have you feelin' like you're on cloud nine and will help alleviate all pressure and pain away from your back!
- Sizes: 5-12
- Weight: 9.2 oz
Rave Review: "I've never experienced anything like these shoes. They're like walking on marshmallows! Plus, they look like cartoon shoes. What can I say, except it's nothing short of fantastic? My feet have never felt better. I'm hoping for more colors."
Pros
- Memory foam collar to protect your ankles from chafing and give added comfort
- Strategically placed foam and rubber that helps remove pressure joints
- Designed for forgiving foot to ground impact
Cons
- Some reviewers say the sneakers run on the larger side
Left: Rachel is wearing the Bondi 8 in White / Right: The Bondi 8 in Airy Blue/Sunlit Ocean
Baby walkers, intermediate runners, and professionals all need to wear these fan-favorite running shoes. These Bondi 8s have tons of built-in features to give you comfort, stability, and balance when walking and running. I mean, what more could you ask for?
- Sizes: U.S. 5 to 12 (available in wide width)
- Weight: 8.9 oz.
Rave Review: "My triathlon friend recommended these for my daughter...to help with her low to flat feet. She absolutely loved them so I bought a pair for her mom and she wished I had got these a decade ago. They are awesome!”
Pros
- Their heat-insulated material will keep your toes toasty in the cold month commutes
- Function kinda like slip-ons
- There's a quick toggle lace
Cons
- Does not come in wide sizes
The Hoka Transports are dubbed the “commuter-friendly” kicks because they'll get you to the office without you regretting your shoe choice first thing in the morning. Though they’re designed for your daily tos and fros, the Transports have range—they're durable and comfy enough to wear for long days at the airport, daily walks up hills, and even hiking on rocky terrains.
- Sizes: U.S. 5 to 11
- Weight: 11.20 oz.
Rave Review: “Amazing shoes! So comfortable and these specifically are stylish for a run or just out and about. Also, LOVE the fact that these are slip-ons!”
Pros
- A specialized design prevents over-pronation
- Lots of forefoot support
- Easy pull-on tab available
Cons
- Less supportive than other Hoka shoes, according to testers
Hoka Arahi 6s are the perf grab-and-go shoes. You basically can slip them on as easy as a sock, and they nearly feel like one too, since they have less cushion and padding than other sneakers on this list. But just because they're lighter, doesn't mean they skim on the comfort.
- Sizes: U.S. 5 to 12 (available in wide width)
- Weight: 7.60 oz.
Rave Review: “I pronate, so I love the stability and the cushioning in this shoe. This is my second pair and I can't imagine going back to what I used to wear. Highly recommend.”
Pros
- Has memory foam heels for added comfort
- Airy and breathable
- Made of vegan materials
Cons
- Don’t come in wide or extended sizes
Okay, think of the Ora Recovery 2s as the UGG slipper version of sneakers—that’s just how comfy these are. An elastic band at the ankle for extra grip make these kicks the most supportive Hoka shoe on this list. No need to imagine walking on clouds when the Oras will let you find out!
- Sizes: U.S. 5 to 11
- Weight: 5.20 oz.
Rave Review: “My husband has had a pair of Ora recovery shoes for some time and I finally was jealous enough to get myself a pair. They are so, so comfy. As soon I slipped them on, I knew I'd be wearing these all the time. These are one of the comfiest casual shoes in my closet and as a healthcare worker on my feet all day, it is nice to have an option that isn't a literal sneaker.”
What makes Hoka shoes different from other walking and running shoes?
Hoka shoes are known for their ultra-plush interiors, durable exteriors, and unique styles and colors. They tend to find the perfect balance between maximum cushion and lightweight feel, making them an optimal walking and running shoe, as well as a good pain relieving option. In fact, most podiatrists recommend the brand for folks suffering from foot conditions and runners who want to protect their feet. The American Podiatric Medical Association has also given some Hoka shoes a seal of approval for their efficiency in protecting foot health. So, basically, you can't go wrong!
How to choose the best Hoka shoe for you!
Consider why you’re buying.
Hokas are having a moment right now, and honestly, I get it. They’re cute and super functional for a variety of needs. But speaking of, remember that all Hokas are designed for a specific purpose. It’s why each pair belongs to a certain category, from “everyday wear” to “running” and "terrain."
Focus on the material.
So, ~footwear tech~ is an entire thing, and Hoka puts it to great use, especially in the variety of materials the brand uses. Some Hokas are constructed with breathable mesh that'll stop foot sweat, others have water-resistant leather that keep your feet dry. And certain soles are made extra sturdy for rocky terrains, while others are more plush for max comfort. Take a look at the material of the shoes before shopping—it’ll help you determine when and where you can walk in them.
Pick the support you need.
The main goal behind a good walking or running shoe is the support, but the levels of comfort can be subjective. Think through what type of foot you have: Do you pronate? Do you need an extra cushion for your ankles? Is arch support a must? That'll ensure all your needs are met.
Also, don’t be afraid to do a couple of test walks! The best way to know if a shoe fits is by taking it out for a stroll in one of your regular activities. A shoe can sound comfortable, but really, it’s your experience with it that matters.
How did we pick the best Hoka shoes for walking?
We here at Cosmo like to keep comfort in mind, especially for a life on the go (which we know a thing or two about). So we narrowed down the best Hoka shoes for walking based off of our staffers real life reviews, user reviews, and tests that had that same priority. We made sure to give you the most stylish options that also have a ton of practical utility. Because who said you had to sacrifice form for function? Definitely not us.
Why trust Cosmo:
Cosmo’s team of fashion experts—which includes fashion director Cassie Anderson and fashion features director Rachel Torgerson, senior accessories editor Andrea Zendejas, and fashion editors Tarah-Lynn Saint-Elien and Danielle Flum—have decades of experience in the industry. They spot relevant trends on the runway before they even hit your TikTok FYP or Insta Explore Page and conduct research across retailers of all kinds to bring you the best clothing and accessory picks for every season. Basically, we've curated a chic little corner of the internet for you like it’s our job (because it is, heh).
We have pretty high standards when it comes to clothing and accessory recommendations. Each of our shopping articles adheres to the 15 Percent Pledge and includes products for all sizes. And you better believe we read those product reviews (and test many of the brands IRL) so you don't have to. You're welcome!
Tarah-Lynn Saint-Elien is the fashion editor at Cosmopolitan, writing weighty and witty stories that run the gamut of gushing over Zendaya to convincing you of everything you need in your closet! She began her journey in the industry with a fashion and faith blog and an internship at Elle.com almost 10 years ago. Since then, she's also served as the style editor at The Haitian Times. The Haitian-American pageant queen is a Syracuse Masters graduate and the author of two books, including: Claim Your Crown. Follow her on Instagram and Twitter: @iamtarahlynn.
Mel Curry (she/her) is the current assistant editor at Cosmopolitan, where she covers everything from lifestyle to politics. You can often find her watching The Real Housewives of Atlanta or discovering local coffee roasters. Before joining Cosmo, she was an editorial assistant at Hearst Magazines, writing for Women’s Health, Elle, and more. Follow her on Instagram and the bird app aka Twitter.
Watch Next
Hi, Your Passport Wallet Could Use an Upgrade
The Absolute Best Shampoos for Wavy Hair
Shockingly Good Golden Goose Dupes That You’ll ❤️
This Serum Is Legit Like Botox in a Bottle
