When podiatrists recommend shoes, there’s one brand that comes up time and time again: Hoka. “They offer both cushion and support, where many shoes only offer one or the other.” Samantha Sklar, DPM, FACFASpodiatrist at Foot First Podiatry Centers in Illinois, tells SELF. That means you not only have plenty of cushioning, but also a solid structure under your feet to strategically distribute your weight, explains Dr. Sklar—who admits her own closet is full of Hoka shoes. (“They got me,” he says.)
Dr. Sklar adds that the Hokas are also designed with anatomically friendly wide toe boxes so you don’t have to squeeze your feet into them. And if you’re struggling with foot pain or injury, the bottom design can relieve some pressure as you walk.
But which Hoka shoes are really the best? We asked experts like Dr. Sklar to share their top picks for walking, running, hiking and more, and we even tried some of their gear ourselves — shop our favorites below.
Our top picks
- Best Overall: Clifton 9
- Best for walking: 6 Max
- Best Casual Shoe: Mafate 4 speed
- Best for long distance runs: Body 8
- Best for Overpronation: Gaviota 5
- The best sandals: Ora Recovery Slide 3
- Best for Plantar Fasciitis: Transport
- Best for racing: Rocket X 2
- Best for hiking: Kaha 2 GTX
- Best for Trail Running: Speedgoat 6
- Best Daily Trainer: Solimar
Frequently asked questions about Hoka shoes
What’s so special about Hokas?
Hoka was one of the first brands to popularize cushioned sneakers. But Dr. Sklar points out that their shoes offer more than just an investment: “Everyone is thinking [it] It sounds great to put your feet in memory foam. But really, when you’re on your feet all day, there needs to be structure underneath to hold your arch up so your weight can be distributed across your feet instead of very tender pressure points,” he says — and Hokas delivery, big time.
Do podiatrists recommend Hokas?
Many podiatrists recommend the Hokas, thanks to its solid balance of support and cushioning, wide toes, and roll bottom. “It’s an easy, tried and true recommendation,” Megan Ishibashi, DPM, a podiatrist with Sutter Health in California tells SELF.
Are Hokas Really Good for Your Feet?
Yes! Many Hoka models have been awarded with the stamp of approval by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA), which recognizes products that promote good foot health. Many experts (including those we spoke to) stand by them.
Shop the best Hoka shoes
Whether you’re buying your first pair of Hokas or your tenth, check out everything you need to know about the brand’s most popular sneakers below.
Best overall: Clifton 9
Advantages
- Comfortable support
- Lightweight boxer
- Vegan
- Made with recycled materials
Disadvantages
- It can wear out faster than other models, according to Dr. Sklar
- It may not have enough cushion for long distance running
Clifton is the main recommendation of Dr. Sklar for anyone who needs a good running shoe, walking shoe or something to stand on all day at work. “We always start with the Clifton because it’s just a generally good shoe for most people,” he says.
Dr. Ishibashi tells SELF that the Clifton is a great example of Hoka’s right mix of cushioning and support, as well as that comforting rocker design. It’s also less bulky than other famous Hoka pairs (like the Bondi), he adds: “It’s a bit lighter.” It’s no surprise that the Clifton is a popular choice among nurses, whose feet can take a beating during long shifts.
Sizes: US 5 to 12 | Materials: Knit upper, EVA foam midsole, Rubber outsole | Width: Normal, wide | Weight: 7.3 oz
Best for walking: Max 6
Advantages
- Spring ride, according to Hoka reviewers
- Lightweight boxer
- Vegan
Disadvantages
Dr. Sklar says the Mach 6 is a great alternative to the Clifton if you’re looking for a walking shoe. Designed for everyday runs, this sneaker will put a little pep in your step, with foam that feels more bouncy than firm. (Think: walking on a trampoline, instead of a pillow.) For those who work out with their daily walks, this can mean you might find yourself walking a little faster or striding a little longer before your legs start to tire.
Sizes: US 5 to 11 | Materials: Creel Jacquard Upper, Foam Midsole, Rubber Outsole | Width: Normal, wide | Weight: 6.7 oz
Best everyday shoe: Mafate Speed 4
Advantages
- Lasting
- Grippy sole
- Made with recycled materials
Disadvantages
- Not available in large widths
Although the Mafate Speed is technically a running shoe, Dr. Sklar was wearing it when we spoke to her on a long workday between surgeries. Even with lugs on the bottom designed for outdoors, he finds them to be a great all-around shoe. “I can stand in them all day. I can walk all over Europe with them. I can run miles. I walk my dog in them,” he says. “I wear them for everything.”
Bonus: If you like designs on the bolder side, Mafate’s fun aesthetic might be right up your alley. Of all the Hoka shoes, the Dr. Sklar says, “These are my cutest.”
Sizes: US 5 to 11 | Materials: Jacquard Mesh Upper, Foam Midsole, Vibram Rubber Outsole | Width: Normal | Weight: 8.5 oz
Best for long distance runs: Bondi 8
Advantages
- Large amounts of soft cushioning
- Awarded the APMA Seal of Acceptance
- Vegan
- Made with recycled materials
Disadvantages
- The high stack height may seem too awkward for some people, according to Dr. Sklar
With over 40mm of cushioning under the heel, the Bondi 8 is known as the Hoka of all Hokas. “People love Bondis because they’re really, really soft,” says Dr Ishibashi, adding that they also have a lot of support. All that lightweight foam underfoot can help keep your arches from lifting when your mileage starts to climb on long-distance runs. Even better, this shoe has earned a seal of approval from the APMA, meaning leading podiatrists agree it encourages good foot health.
