Paying for a new pair of shoes can feel like a major investment — and that’s not just coming from a shopping writer. Among the big brands, Hoka sneakers offer the most desirable maximal cushy comfort, but it comes at a steep price of around $200.
If you’d rather skip the trend tax, consider this pair of sneakers we found on Amazon instead. These sneakers from Nortiv 8 are “extremely comfortable” and feel much like “walking on clouds,” with so many reviewers saying they’re comparable to Hoka Cliftons but at a fraction of the cost. They’re attractive, users say they’re very well made, come highly recommended for anyone with plantar fasciitis, and, right now, they’re on sale for 20% off! That’s under $50 for comfort that rivals the major players.
“I own Hokas, Nikes, ASICs, Skechers and I walk regularly,” says one reviewer. “These shoes are the most comfortable of all of them.”
These Nordiv 8 ActiveFloat walking shoes feature plush, rebound-heavy EVA midsoles, making them easy on the knees and ankles, whether you’re walking or running on pavement. If roads and sidewalks aren’t your style, they also have excellent traction for trails, gravel and easygoing hiking paths. You can grab a pair in women’s sizes 6-11 and in one of seven colors.
“I’ve only worn these a week so far but they’re holding up great and exactly as comfortable as my Brooks Ghost 17 or Saucony Endorphin Shift 3 have been,” explains a user named Jessica. “I’m thrilled with these shoes!”
Reviewers truly love these, raving that they’re comfy enough for all-day wear and alleviating tired feet.
“I’m a dog groomer who works an average of 8-10 hours a day and I’m plus size so shoes wear out fast for me and replacing $100+ shoes every other month or so isn’t feasible,” says one user with planters fasciitis. “I came across these as an alternative, and after reading the reviews comparing them to Hokas, I decided to try them out. I’m so glad I did because for the first time in years I’m not struggling to walk and stay upright at the end of the day.”
Get a pair and see how comfy they are while they’re under $50. If you need some convincing, check out these promising reviews below. And get to stepping.
“The support is phenomenal!! Normally my feet would start hurting mid-shift or sooner with my other shoes. With these shoes, I dont have to sit to rest them. My feet dont hurt at the end of the shift! Plantar fasciitis has been terrible and these shoes are such a relief! Please buy!! They are lightweight, true to size and are super cute. I can’t stop bragging about my feet not hurting anymore.” — Areli Elias
“Absolutely love these! I’ve never had a pair of the name brand ones but I would buy another pair of these in a heartbeat! Perfect for walking. The quality is very nice. I’ve seen some say they are heavy but I think they’re actually light weight. It feels like I’m walking on a cloud. I just wish there was more color options.” — Kimberly
“I usually spend three times as much on good quality walking shoes. I have arthritis in my big toe joints and enjoy walking 5-6 miles per day so I need really good shoes. I’ve only worn these a week so far but they’re holding up great and exactly as comfortable as my Brooks Ghost 17 or Saucony Endorphin Shift 3 have been! I’m thrilled with these shoes!!” — Jessica A. Bedsole
“I really like these shoes and was pleasantly surprised by how comfortable they are. They feel similar to my HOKA shoes but cost about a third of the price, which is a big plus. The cushioning is supportive and works well for walking and everyday wear. I have been wearing these now on and off for about 6 months so they have held up very well.
I ordered the same size I wear in my Hokas, and the fit is very similar—true to size for me. The only thing worth noting is that the sole is a bit bulky, so they may not be ideal if you prefer a more streamlined look. That said, the cushioning and comfort make up for it. Overall, these are a great value option from NORTIV 8.
Here is a picture of my shoes 6 months later.” — Tyler and Kaela
The Real Deal: We use deal trackers and commerce experience to sift through “fake” hike-and-drop deals and other deceptive sales tactics. Products will usually be rated at least 4 stars with a minimum 15% discount. (And when there’s an exception, we’ll tell you why.)