9 best Hoka shoes for walking in comfort and style, as approved by TikTok

Hot-girl walkers are all over Hoka. They know it: whether you’re a daily walk devotee or someone who spends their workdays on their feet, a good pair of walking shoes can make all the difference between having a great day or a crummy one. So, if you’ve followed footwear trends in the last few years, you’re probably aware that Hoka sneakers – recognisable by their oversized soles and bright colour combos — have garnered a cult following that encompasses everyone from streetwear aficionados to healthcare workers and said hot-girl walkers. And that’s for a good reason: When it comes to making high-quality walking shoes, Hoka checks the essential boxes and ranks among top brands like Nike and New Balance.

Meet the experts:

• Jeffrey DeLott, DPM, a board-certified foot and ankle surgeon at Connecticut Orthopaedics

What should you look for in a walking shoe?

If you already own a pair of general running shoes, those should work well for walking. But if you’re looking for a new pair of shoes to wear solely (pun intended) for strolls, here are some key design elements to keep in mind while you shop.

Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely stroll or moving at a quick, determined pace, walking shoes can have a major effect on your feet and joints, as they act like shock absorbers for your steps, Jeffrey DeLott, DPM, a board-certified foot and ankle surgeon at Connecticut Orthopaedics, tells SELF. A well-cushioned shoe can help reduce some of that impact and keep your feet, ankles, and knees comfortable for longer. Dr. DeLott says to look for shoes with materials and features like gel, foam, and air pockets.

A supportive walking shoe will help keep your feet stable while you walk, Dr. DeLott says, adding that you should think about your foot type and tendencies when shopping for shoes. For example, you can look for shoes designed for pronation (when the feet roll inward) or supination (when the feet roll outward), or you can give a shoe made for stability or motion control a try. There are also neutral shoes that don’t provide targeted support but may be more comfortable for some people. Consider trying on a few pairs to get a feel for what you like.

It can be tricky to balance the weight of a walking shoe with the cushion and support it offers, but it’s still an important factor to keep in mind, Dr. DeLott says. A cushy, sturdy shoe will likely feel heavier, while a lightweight shoe might not provide much support or shock absorption. Again, taking the time to test drive a couple types of shoes will help you determine the right weight and feel for you.

Depending on where and when you plan to walk, you might need to take a closer look at your shoe’s materials. Hot weather (or feet that are prone to sweating) will call for a breathable shoe made with mesh and other fabrics that facilitate ventilation. Rain, on the other hand, means finding a shoe that’s made with water-resistant or waterproof materials like Gore-Tex. And don’t forget to check the soles: If you’re going to walk on outdoor trails or rocky terrain, make sure your shoes provide adequate traction.