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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.
First introduced in 2022, theHoka 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. They typically go for $125 a pair — meaning they’re already one of the cheapest Hoka sneakers available. But today, we found two colorways (the cloud for women and slate for men) for 20% off, making them only $99.99. That’s pretty unheard of for a new pair of Hokas.
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.
The soles are a durable, high-abrasion rubber that can last through daily use and are extra-padded in areas more likely to endure wear. The uppers are made of a breathable, recycled mesh, and the collar and tongue have padding that feels soft without rubbing uncomfortably against my ankles.
I’ve put these to the test by taking them out for over 10,000-step walks on a pretty regular basis. They’ve served me well as a Manhattanite, from trekking hundreds of city blocks to even trudging up a hill’s worth of old, rough stairs during a day trip to Governors Island. I’ve never had any soreness or foot pain during or after, which has helped me be more willing and motivated to get my steps in.
While the Solimar is technically designed for running and training, according to Hoka, reviewers seem to agree that it’s best suited for everyday wear including walking, and is great for people with plantar fasciitis. Some have purchased multiple pairs — and I’m pretty much certain that when I wear mine through, I’ll be buying a second pair, too.
If you want to snag a pair for under $100, find a women’s pair at Foot Locker in the color cloud in sizes 6-11 and a men’s pair at Hoka in the color Slate in sizes 7-14.
Read on for some happy reviews left by Hoka Solimar devotees, and be prepared to want to snag a pair for yourself, for $99.99.
“I was hesitant with the hype and hefty price of the Hoka brand of shoes. But, I was in need of some serious comfort and durability, unfound in previous brands of shoes I’ve obliterated while paying way too much. So, I took the leap into a pair of Hoka shoes. The first thing you notice when opening the box for the first time is how LIGHT these shoes are. I’m pretty sure a banana weighs more than both shoes combined! Next, was the blackout color style I wanted. I was not disappointed. Very stylish, without being too “over the top” like some shoes out there. Then, oh yes, the absolute best part: slipping into these shoes for the first time (with my fav socks). It’s like bouncing around on 10 1/2 clouds at once! (11 clouds may be too bouncy) In conclusion, I’ve owned these shoes for about a month now and they are the only shoes I wear. My feet don’t hurt at work, and I’ve somehow managed to double my daily steps. I was skeptical with the price tag, but am not regretting the investment. Thanks Hoka for designing a great shoe. Will be more than happy to write more awesome reviews for future purchases!” — TJ
“I have so many friends and family members that love their Hokas!! The first pair I tried were not comfortable for me. A friend let me know about the guarantee that they offer, which was amazing! I then found the Solimar style, which is absolutely perfect for me. I have a narrow foot for the most part, but I deal with longer toes, and occasional pain in my feet from plantar fasciitis and bunions. The Solimar offers a nice long toe bed and still gives me enough support to hold my foot in place along with just enough cushion underneath.” — Nicole
“My new Hokas were comfortable from the start! No breaking in was needed. Great cushioning and amazing arch support. The front toe area is slightly more rounded than other brands I’ve had, which allows a comfortable, nonrestricted fit, as well as a great look!” — Terri
“I’ve enjoyed walking in the HOKA Solimar shoe for over a year now! I ve worn it out, but always in comfort! My latest adventure was walking my HOKA Solimar shoes on the Great Wall in China! The 3-4 miles of walking on the wall wasn’t even a thought, doing 15-18K steps per day! Thanks HOKA…” — Gerry
“Wow! These are the most comfortable shoes I have ever put on my feet. Super lightweight and a dream to walk in. This was a great buy. So good in fact that I have ordered a second pair. Time will tell how long they last but I’ve worn them everyday for the past month and I see no wear whatsoever. Size and fit were perfect.” — Joe
Looking for more comfortable walking shoes? Check out these options approved by women over 40, previously reported by HuffPost Shopping writer Griffin Wynne:
Paula Elam Beaver, 67, loves her slip-on Converse shoes for casual wear, noting that she owns them in many colors. With an elastic collar around the heel, these adorable shoes are super easy to kick on and off and don’t require you to tie them. They come in a selection of colors in sizes 5-11.
(Tip: They’re available from Amazon, Converse and more places — but several colors are on sale right now at Designer Shoe Warehouse for the lowest price we’ve spotted on the internet.)
We’ve written about the Brooks Ghost shoes many times before, mainly because so many people over 40 in our lives love them. Shopping editor Emily Ruane reported that both her mother and her kids’ nanny swear by their Ghosts, noting the roomy toe box and ample foot support. Facebook follower Wendy Pitoniak, 43, also recommended these shoes, saying: “The Brooks Ghost 15’s are my new favorite sneakers. They come in wides and were great for walking long distances while traveling.” You can find many versions of the Ghost, but the 16 is the newest. These come in a bunch of colors in sizes 5-13, along with wide, extra wide and narrow options.
Paula Elam Beaver also recommended the Adidas Cloudfoams, saying she wears them to work. A soft and stretchy textile upper gives these shoes supreme comfort, while the “Cloudfoam” midsole and memory foam lining make them even more lush. The low-profile shape means they’re super easy to style, and the nonmarking rubber outsole keeps everything looking clean.
You’ll be happy to know that the style is a hit among nurses, according to numerous reviews on Amazon. Several noted how comfy they are for all-day wear. These come in a bunch of colors in sizes 5-11.
Few people are as passionate about supportive footwear as my favorite and only aunt, a 67-year-old retired physical therapist. For daily wear while chasing grandkids and running errands, she likes the Allbirds Wool Runners (which many people in my family own). “Sooo comfy!” she said. “Made of wool. Breathes, repels moisture and lightweight.”
Versatile kicks that are great for travel or daily use, they are soft and cozy without getting sweaty but will help keep your piggies warm in the cold. These come in a selection of neutral hues in sizes 5-11.
My aunt’s other favorite shoes, and her longtime suggestion for comfy sneakers, are the Asics Gel-Ventures. “I forget that I have sneakers on,” she said. Enjoy the shock absorption and grippy outsoles these shoes offer, keeping you steady and stable as you move and groove. This shoe is designed to not feel too heavy on the foot while still being durable and supportive for long-term wear. Rock them in a bunch of fun color combos in sizes 5-12.
My very sporty mom, a spritely 61-year-old, loves her Hoka Bondi sneakers. “I get a new pair every year, and this is my third pair,” she said. “Good arch support and great walking and running shoe. Feels like I’m walking on a cloud.” Hokas are a HuffPost favorite, known for their extreme comfort. The Bondi features a light foam sole, with a slightly extended outer heel to help you feel balanced and provide a little more cushion as you stride. These come in a bunch of colors in sizes 5-12.
A 41-year-old Facebook user with the display name Persnickety Plates recommended Nike Air Max 270s, saying she owns them in multiple colorways. Previously, surgical assistant Shakira McNeal also recommended these kicks, saying: “For the last year I have been wearing Nike brand 270s! I love them! I do surgery all day and they feel like I’m walking on air! I originally bought them for style and I put them on for work one day and NEVER LOOKED BACK!” The Nike Air Max 270 comes in various colors in women’s sizes 5-12.
Heads up: For a limited time, if you sign in on the Nike site and use the code “FALL20,” you can get an extra 20% off.
Katy Heckendorn Storm, 47, said: “I’m a huge fan of Topo Athletic shoes both on and off the trails. The Ultraventures are my favorite pair!” As cushioned trail runners, these kicks stay comfortable for miles and miles of walking time. The slight platform protects your underfoot and gives you some extra cushion, and the increased toe sweep helps with the transition between steps or strides. Best of all, these offer a Vibram outsole, making them extra tough while still looking nice. These come in four colors in sizes 6-11.
Looking for a hiking shoe that you’ll find yourself wearing every day? Ann McGregor, 60, likes the Altra Lone Peak Alpine sneakers, saying on Facebook that they have a “Roomy toe box for my wide feet and bunions.” Lightweight but still durable, these sneaks give your feet ample room while offering stability and protection. They come in a selection of colors in sizes 5.5-12.
“Looove my New Balance Fresh Foam X!” Katie Jones, 42, wrote to us on Facebook. “So cushiony, like a pillow for my feet – I actually look forward to treadmill walks and sloooow jogs!”
Another nurse fave, according to Amazon reviews, these New Balances offer a rounded toe, as well as a super comfy foam sole and a rubber outsole for stability. These come in a bunch of colors in sizes 5-13.
James Beard Award-winning chef and restaurateur Stephanie Izard, 47, (who’s also a frequent traveler and self-proclaimed religious attendee of F45 Training classes) told us she loves the On Cloud X sneakers so much that she has five pairs.
Super lightweight and breathable, these kicks earn their “cloud” name. They are easy on the feet and will keep you feeling bouncy on the go. These come in a bunch of colors in sizes 5-11.
Bring an old classic to new heights — literally. Kimberly Wilson Parsons, 48, said her new favorite sneakers are her Converse All Star Lifts. “They look great with anything – but especially pearls,” she wrote.
A little dressier than a basic Converse, these platform sneakers give you a bit of a lift with a super comfy foam insole to keep your feet happy. Despite the thicker sole, the shoes are also made with lightweight materials so they won’t feel like cinder blocks at the end of your legs. (I am not over 40, but I do have a pair of these and can attest to this.) Grab them in a bunch of colors in sizes 5-11. Note that the brand says this style runs large and suggests ordering ahalf-size down.