Walking is one of the easiest ways to boost your health, and it’s truly for everyone—whether you’re new to exercise or a seasoned walker. It’s great for your heart, strengthens muscles and even gives your mood a lift. Plus, it’s easy to fit into everyday life, from a quick loop around the neighborhood to a longer stroll through a local park. But to really enjoy those walks, a comfortable, supportive pair of shoes makes all the difference, and Hoka’s walking shoes are a standout, offering the cushion and stability you need to keep your feet feeling great every step of the way. After interviewing experts—including a podiatrist and walking fitness pro— and surveying Forbes Vetted employees, we picked the Clifton 9’s as the best Hoka shoes for walking overall since they’re lightweight, breathable and responsive to most types of strides. For more customized needs, the Ahari 7 is great for enhanced stability and the Mach 6 is the most comfortable for wide feet. These and four additional pairs caught our eye.
Hoka sneakers have the cushioning and support to keep you comfortable for miles.
-
Best Hoka Shoes For Walking Overall: Hoka Clifton 9
-
Most Stable Hoka Shoes For Walking: Hoka Arahi 7
-
Best Cushioned Hoka Shoes For Walking: Hoka Bondi 8
-
Best Everyday Hoka Shoes For Walking: Hoka Transport X
-
Best Hoka Shoes For Walking Long Distances: Hoka Gaviota 5
-
Best Wide Hoka Shoes For Walking: Hoka Mach 6
-
Best Non-Slip Hoka Shoes For Walking: Hoka Bondi SR
Sizes: 5-12 (W), 7-16 (M) | Width: Regular, Wide | Heel-to-toe drop: 5mm | Heel stack: 29mm (W) and 32mm (M)
- What’s notable: It’s an excellent lightweight shoe with a balanced mix of cushioning and stability.
- What could be better: If you’re used to a lower-profile sneaker, the stacked heel may take some getting used to.
The Clifton 9 scored highest in our review for many reasons. The vegan mesh upper features molded EVA foam in the midsole for pillowy comfort, a gusseted tongue keeps out dirt and debris, and a thick rubber outsole and MetaRocker technology put spring in your step. Hoka recently made the Clifton 9 even more lightweight by shaving off 4 grams, and they added more heel stack for extra cushioning. If you walk outside in all weather, consider paying the extra $15 for the GTX version, which is weatherproof and has reflective details to keep you visible on the roads.
What the expert says: Walking expert Joyce Shulman, CEO of 99 Walks and Jetti Fitness and author of Why Walk? has tested many sneakers. “Cliftons remain my favorite,” she says. “They are very comfortable, well-cushioned and provide the perfect support.” Dr. Brad Schaeffer, a board-certified foot surgeon and podiatrist at Central Park Sole in New York City runs in Clifton 9s and says they are excellent for walking, too.
Sizes: 5 to 12 (W), 7 to 15 (M) | Width: Regular, Wide | Heel stack: 27 mm (W), 29mm (M)
- What’s notable: This shoe has a sleeker profile than most other Hokas, which increases stability, and the extended heel pull makes them faster to get on and off.
- What could be better: It’s not as lightweight and flexible as some of Hoka’s other models, and it runs narrow.
This is a true stability shoe that prevents feet from over-pronating (where the foot tends to roll inward) and even though it’s cushy, this sneaker doesn’t feel wobbly when you’re walking at a fast clip. It has a j-shaped frame, which helps guide the foot into a more neutral alignment and keep you stable as you stride (without feeling restrictive), and the flat knit breathable upper adds extra support and ventilation. There’s also an extended heel pull and a plush tongue.
What the expert says: If you have balance issue, are unstable when you walk or overpronate, Schaefer is a big fan of this Hoka shoe. “It’s supportive without sacrificing cushioning,” he says, adding that he recommends replacing the standard insoles with a Dr Scholl’s orthotic or a custom orthotic from your podiatrist to add even more stability.
Sizes: 5 to 12 (W), 7 to 16 (M) | Width: Regular, Wide, X-Wide | Heel stack: 31mm (W), 33mm (M)
- What’s notable: This pair is exceptionally comfortable, with extra cushioning to prevent foot fatigue, and it comes in a range of widths.
- What could be better: That supersized sole may not appeal to all.
Hoka is known for making the most cushiony walking shoes, and the Bondi 8 is the cushiest of all. The shoe feels like walking on clouds thanks to layers of soft, lightweight foams, and updates include a pillowed tongue, a sockliner, and an extended heel. A shoe this plush can sometimes feel unstable but a rear “crash pad” will keep feet in line.
What the expert says: The rocker bottom sole is in full display on the Bondi 8. “It provides a nice landing and propels you forward in a controlled way,” says Dr. Schaeffer. This makes striding feel smoother and easier because the rocker helps you push off.
Sizes 4 to 15 (unisex sizing) | Width: Medium | Heel stack: 30mm
- What’s notable: This is a crossover shoe that’s stylish for every day but still athletic enough when you’re on the go for hours. Reflectivity keeps you visible when walking down the street.
- What could be better: It’s not available in wide widths, and it may not be as durable as other Hokas.
On casual days you don’t need the same amount of support as you would to, say, walk an entire city or go for a long walk in the woods. The all-gender Transport X is breathable, lightweight and has ample cushioning in the midsole. The outsole is made from “sticky” rubber, which prevents you from slipping on rain-slicked streets, and the shoe offers reflectivity to improve visibility outdoors. Finally, a sneaky carbon fiber plate helps you stride more smoothly and efficiently.
What the expert says: Shulman views this as a solid walking shoe “with a tread that’s best for on-road walking.” This is all you need for cruising around town, but if you do take to the trails, you would need a more substantial, grippier tread (Shulman recommends the Hoka Skyline-Float).
Sizes 5 to 12 (W), 7-15 (M) | Width: Regular, Wide | Heel stack: 34mm (W), 36mm (M)
- What’s notable: This a cushy shoe for tackling long treks that also offers some stability.
- What could be better: It runs a bit narrow.
Long walks can cause aches and pain over time. That’s why you want a shoe that’s well cushioned to keep feet feeling fresh and bouncy, plus some stability to prevent overpronation injuries. The Gaviota 5 solves both issues with a stabilizing H-shaped frame that evenly distributes pressure across the entire foot and keeps the shoe from twisting excessively to minimize strain on your feet and ankles. The upper, meanwhile, is breathable and those with bunions will like the fact that Hoka recently made the Gaviota 5s slightly wider.
What the expert says: This shoe gets high marks for its versatility, and it has the features you need to get through long walks without pain. “It’s a good mix of comfort and stability for getting you where you need to go,” says Dr. Schaeffer.
Sizes: 5 to 11 (W), 7 to 14 (M) | Width: Regular, Wide | Heel stack: 35mm (W), 37MM (M)
- What’s notable: It’s a very lightweight shoe with a generous width and roomy toe box.
- What could be better: It doesn’t come in as many colors as some other Hokas.
There are few pairs of Hokas that work well for wide feet. The Clifton 9, Gaviota 5 and Ahari 7 all come in wide widths, and the Bondi 8 is even available in extra wide. So you have a lot of choices. But we chose the Mach 6 for wide feet because it’s unusual to find a fast shoe that also accommodates wider widths. The creel jacquard upper is stretchy and gives toes plenty of breathing room, and the architectural rubber sole will help you pick up your walking pace on the street or the treadmill. And of course, there is a hearty dose of foam in the midsole to keep feet comfortable.
What the expert says: “A stretchy material is important for wide feet, as is a wide toe box that allows toes to splay out,” points out Dr. Schaeffer. The Mach 6 checks those boxes, he says.
Sizes: 5 to 11 (W), 7 to 15 (M) | Width: Regular, Wide | Heel stack: 31mm (W), 33mm (M)
- What’s notable: The design receives a water-resistant leather upper and slip-resistant outsole.
- What could be better: The slip-resistant outsole makes the shoe a bit squeaky.
The Hoka Bondi 8 is already a best-selling shoe, but if you’d like it to be a bit more durable to handle the demands of everyday life, reach for its tougher sibling, the Bondi SR. Complete with a water-resistant leather upper to defend against moisture and a slip-resistant outsole to improve grip, everyone from nurses to cooks to teachers can benefit from the SR’s support and safety. And even though it’s a bit more durable than the original Bondi, the Bondi SR is just as comfortable thanks to its plush cushioning and neutral stability. At 11.5 ounces, it’s on the heavier side, but the tradeoff between weight and comfort is worth it when you’re on your feet all day.
What the experts say: “We often think of walking shoes as just for exercise or leisurely strolls, but many of us actually spend our workdays on our feet,” says Forbes Vetted gear editor Cam Vigliotta. “That’s why having the right footwear is so important. If you’re on the go and need to stay comfortable and safe, the non-slip Bondi SR is a fantastic option, offering the support and traction you need to tackle ever day in comfort, with confidence.”
Why Trust Forbes Vetted
We research, test and thoroughly analyze the best shoes—including sneakers, dress shoes and boots—on the market, and we’re constantly updating and expanding our robust inventory of footwear stories. We’ve also covered Hoka shoes in our broader roundup of the best Hoka running shoes, as well as our guide to the best Hoka shoes for nurses and our in-depth Hoka Clifton versus Bondi comparison.
- This story was originally written by Forbes Vetted contributing writer Lesley Rotchford and updated by Forbes Vetted gear editor Cam Vigliotta in October 2024.
- Rotchford is a former executive editor at Women’s Health. She has been covering health, fitness and fashion for 25 years. She is also a competitive runner who has tested out dozens of sneakers throughout her running career.
- Vigliotta is a dedicated gear tester and runner who frequently evaluates running shoes, including many Hoka models. He holds a degree in kinesiology from the University of Massachusetts Amherst and uses his background to assess athletic shoes, analyzing their support, biomechanics and overall fit to ensure they meet the needs of active individuals. His personal shoe collection includes the Clifton 9, which he uses as a daily trainer, and the Mach 6 for faster tempo runs.
- Before recommending any product, we always ask leading health and fitness experts to weigh in on the gear that they use personally and recommend to their clients. We also firsthand test and consider independent user reviews as part of our evaluation process.
How We Chose The Best Hoka Shoes For Walking
To identify and recommend the best Hoka shoes for walking, we relied on our expertise and firsthand experience with Hoka shoes, consulted experts for insights and read online reviews from those who bought Hoka walking shoes with their own money.
- We put together a list of over 10 best-selling Hoka shoes to analyze their cushioning, stability, weight and overall design before considering how variables influence the walking experience. That list of over 10 shoes was then cut to a total of six, all featured in this guide.
- We consulted board-certified foot surgeon and podiatrist Dr. Brad Schaeffer at Central Park Sole, about Hoka walking shoe features and what to consider when shopping for walking shoes.
- We also spoke to walking expert Joyce Shulman, co-founder and CEO of 99 Walks and Jetti Fitness and author of Why Walk, to learn more about her favorite Hokas, and which are best for each type of walker.
- Finally, we cross-referenced online reviews with insights from Forbes Vetted staffers who run, walk and train in Hoka shoes to ensure our picks come highly rated by customers and colleagues.
- This final list reflects the Hoka walking shoes that reviewers, experts and Forbes Vetted staffers consider to be the best on the market.
What To Consider About Hoka Walking Shoes
Material
Why it matters: The most important thing to look for in walking shoes is breathability, which prevents your feet from overheating (and smelling). Proper airflow can make a big difference in your comfort, especially during long walks or in warmer weather.
Key considerations: Hokas are made from airy, flexible, lightweight fabrics like mesh, creel jacquard, and flat-knit. You can’t go wrong with any of those materials, but Dr. Schaeffer especially likes mesh for its superior breathability.
Fit
Why it matters: Walking shoes should gently hug your feet without feeling tight or restrictive. “If anything rubs, hurts or is uncomfortable when you are trying them on, keep looking—those things will only get worse when you hit the trail or the road,” says Shulman. Proper fit is crucial to avoid discomfort and potential injuries during walks.
Key considerations: Wiggle your toes around to ensure they have plenty of room. “Avoid any shoe in which the toe box squeezes your toes together,” says Shulman, and make sure there is a thumbnail’s worth of space between the top of your big toe and the end of the toe box. Additionally, “When you walk, your heel should remain ‘grounded’ in the shoe and the shoe counter (the very back of the shoe) should rest comfortably against the back of your foot. If it digs into your Achilles tendon, this is not the shoe for you,” says Shulman.
Tread
Why it matters: If you’re walking outside, you’ll need a sturdy tread to prevent slipping and tripping. A good tread ensures safety and stability, especially when navigating different terrains. Choosing the right tread is crucial for comfort and safety during your walks.
Key considerations: It’s important to select a tread that’s specifically built for the type of activity you have planned. “This might very well mean that you need more than one walking shoe if you walk on more than one terrain,” says Shulman. She emphasizes the importance of this by sharing a personal experience: “Just last weekend I was traveling and ended up hiking in shoes without sufficient tread. It was not comfortable and, frankly, not safe.”
Heel Stack
Why it matters: Stack height refers to the amount of material between the bottom of your foot and the ground, and it can range from barefoot to maximal. Essentially, it’s a measurement that describes how high the sole of a shoe is, influencing the level of cushioning and overall feel underfoot.
Key considerations: A shoe with more cushioning will typically have a higher stack height, while a shoe with less cushioning will have a lower stack height. However, this can vary depending on the type of foam used. “EVA foam is more conspicuous than PEBA foam, which is denser,” and other factors like the inclusion of a carbon plate in the sole can also affect the stack height.Heel-To-Toe Drop
Stability
Why it matters: Stability shoes prevent your feet from rolling inward or outward as you strike the ground, which is crucial for reducing strain on your body. Overpronation, where feet roll inward, is often associated with flat feet, while supination is when feet roll outward. These foot strike conditions can put a lot of stress on your body, potentially leading to back pain, knee pain, shin splints, plantar fasciitis, and other injuries.
Key considerations: You can determine your foot strike pattern by examining the wear on the bottom of your shoes. “If your shoes are more worn down in the top right, you over-pronate. If shoes have more wear on the outside, you supinate.” Understanding your foot strike pattern helps in selecting the right shoes. “When selecting a shoe, I usually recommend finding one that has a good mix of comfort and stability,” says Dr. Schaeffer.
Cushioning
Why it matters: Cushioning, especially in the midsole, is essential for keeping feet comfortable while you walk. Proper cushioning helps absorb shock and reduces fatigue, which is particularly important for those who walk long distances or have existing joint issues.
Key considerations: “Hokas have a lot of cushioning—it is one of their distinct features, which can be great for shock absorption as you rack up the miles,” says Shulman. While those who are prone to injury or have conditions like bad knees or achy hips often prefer the extra padding, speed walkers may lean towards more “responsive” shoes that feel less bulky.
Laces
Why it matters: Choosing the right lacing system for your walking shoes can significantly impact comfort and fit. While some shoes feature elastic laces or elaborate lacing systems, traditional shoelaces are generally more reliable and allow for a more customized fit.
Key considerations: Both of our experts recommend sticking to regular old shoelaces, as they provide better dependability. “[Traditional lacing] allows you to loosen and tighten in the right areas, depending on your foot type,” says Dr. Schaeffer. This customization can help enhance overall comfort during walks.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are Running Shoes Good For Walking?
Yes, most running shoes are a good choice for walking. But avoid choosing running shoes that are designed for racing, as they likely won’t have enough cushioning for people who are on their feet for long periods of time.
How Often Should You Replace Walking Shoes?
You should retire your walking shoes and buy new ones after approximately 300 to 500 miles. If you walk three miles every day, that means you should start checking for signs of wear after about four months. To determine wear, flip your shoe over and analyze the wear pattern on the bottom. If certain areas are worn down, it’s time to spring for a new pair.
Is The Bondi Or Clifton Better For Walking?
The Hoka Bondi and Clifton are both excellent choices for walking, but they offer different benefits. The Bondi provides maximum cushioning with a plush, pillowy feel, making it ideal for those who want extra support on long walks or hard surfaces, though it is heavier. In contrast, the Clifton is lighter and more versatile, offering a balanced cushion that’s great for those who prioritize a less bulky shoe and appreciate a bit more flexibility during their walks. If you seek plush comfort, go for the Bondi; if you prefer a lightweight, adaptable feel, the Clifton may be the better option.
What Walking Shoes Are Good For Plantar Fasciitis?
Look for walking shoes that have ample cushioning in the forefoot and heel, plus excellent arch support, which will take pressure of the sore plantar fascia. Heel cups are another feature to consider, as they can help relieve discomfort. The Hoka Bondi 8, with it’s layers of comfortable cushioning, is a popular choice for those suffering from this chronic foot issue.
What Kind Of Socks Should Be Worn With Walking Shoes?
Materials like polyester or nylon will keep feet cool and sweat-free, and spandex is important too, as it stretches for a customized fit and helps prevent bunching that can lead to blisters. Some socks offer extra cushioning and compression to keep feet comfortable, but the additional padding may feel too hot if you’re exercising in a warm climate. The length of the socks is purely a matter of preference, but low, no-shoe socks tend to be most flattering.