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 a lower-profile style that tends to fly under the radar.
First introduced in 2022, the Hoka 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. And currently, they’re 20% off at Zappos and Hoka, making them one of the cheapest Hoka sneakers available.
The balanced midsole that’s forgiving, but still firm — and won’t feel like your feet “have blocks on them.”
Though Hokas have become known for their supportive, chunky soles, these low-profile kicks have swept me off my feet. I love the Solimars for their lower 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. 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)
Reviewers enjoy the slimness too, noting that the Solimars are the “lightest weight Hoka I’ve had,” don’t feel like “blocks” on your feet, as other Hoka styles can and are ideal for traveling, as they take up less space in your luggage.
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.
They don’t scream “exercise shoe,” and don’t look out of place paired with a dress or office-appropriate outfit.
Coming in women’s sizes 5-11 and men’s sizes 7-14, with half sizes in a bunch of neutral colors, the Solimars are the everyday shoe you’ll wear, every day. The lower profile and neutral tones makes them super easy to style and great for taking on trips or wearing during your daily commute.
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.
Read on for some happy Zappos reviews left by Solimar devotees, and be prepared to want to snag a pair for yourself.
“What I love about these is they have the best combination of cush and support while being the lightest weight Hoka I’ve had. I’m not a runner but got these for travel and walking. These are great and the best looking Hoka I have.” — Happy F
“I use these sneakers for walking on the treadmill and cross training and anytime I travel and doing a lot of walking. They are extremely comfortable and have excellent support. This is my 3rd pair of Hokas. They are the best sneakers I’ve ever owned.” — DES
“I prefer a low profile shoe and this one exceeds my expectations. Is great for the gym and treadmill and looks good for casual wear which makes it a perfect travel shoe. Love the color and fit and it’s very lightweight. I always order one size up for athletic shoes and it’s perfect.” — Michele
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