Hoka: Taking Care of Our Aching Feet
... and Superfeet: taking care of our arches --Karen
This review is not about beautiful footwear like Jimmy Choo and Louboutin, and they are beautiful.
This review is about shoes for aching feet. Shoes that relieve your foot pain enough so that you can walk your dogs, go to a party at your neighbors and stand around, and cook in the kitchen. As the pain in my feet increased and the cortisone shots and physical therapy were no longer effective, I began searching for footwear and insoles that would help with the pain. I progressed out of sandals and loafers to shoes that tied. I found myself in the world of Merrill, Clark, Ecco, Oboz and Hoka. Heavy duty shoes that had enough support to take the pressure off the arch of my foot. Hoka were the only ones that provided the cushioning and support that made hiking possible.
Hoka is big enough now that they no longer have a well defined mission statement or a story about their beginnings, though I am sure there is one. Their statement is now about inspiring people to move, empowering athletes, and amplifying voices, not sure shoes can do all that but best of luck. But they can definitely make it easier to get out the door and start walking. And ode to the shoe company that addresses aching feet which Hoka does.
These Kaha Hokas which are available for Women and Men along with Superfeet insoles have made hiking enjoyable, and after my foot surgery I have been known to wear them around the house. They are comfortable and the ankle support takes pressure off my foot.
Hoka Kaha Description
When hiking over long distances, this trekking shoe will deliver you to your destination in comfort and safety. Unequaled in its weight-to-cushion ratio, the Kaha GTX offers the full HOKA ONE ONE® package — proprietary foams, patented geometries and exceptional Vibram® Megagrip traction. Soft and smooth, but inherently supportive, the Kaha GTX features a GORE-TEX bootie that’ll keep your feet comfortable and dry regardless of the conditions. And an adjustable lacing system provides a lockdown fit regardless of your foot type. The world is your oyster.
Features:
GORE-TEX bootie keeps your feet comfortable and dry
Features a full-grain waterproof leather upper for durability and support
Features an EVA top layer for plush comfort next to the foot
Bottom layer of rubberized foam offers durable cushioning and a supportive base
Features a Vibram® Megagrip hi-traction outsole with 5mm lugs
Includes multidirectional lugs for supreme grip on varied terrain
Hoka has an extensive line of running shoes. I know runners who love Hoka and those that do not like them at all. It really depends on your running style. Typically, Hoka provide a lot of support and some runners want less support and more flexibility. My running days have long since passed so I cannot speak to the running shoes. They also have clothes which are good quality but aren’t that different from other good quality athletic wear.
I wear these Hoka Stinsons when I work out. They do provide a lot of support and are extremely comfortable.
I will wear these Tor Summit shown below when I am out and about. They are also incredibly comfortable and look …not too clunky.
Tor Summit Description
The Tor Summit Waterproof features a durable textile upper and a dynamic RMAT midsole that combine to form a lightweight, responsive hiker that will take you as fast and as far as you want in comfort. Sticky rubber and multi-directional lugs make sure to maintain confident footing on varied terrain. RMAT is utilized in the Dynamic Midfoot Transition Zone to insure a smooth and soft transition. A breathable eVent waterproof bootie compliments the technical nubuck and leather suede upper to make versatile upper that is at home in both wet and dry conditions.
Features:
Gusseted Tongue keeps debris out
eVent® Waterproof Membrane with Full Bootie Construction
Engineered RMAT® Midsole for a Supportive Ride
Multi-directional, Sticky Rubber lugs for traction and confidence in all conditions
I have experimented a lot with insoles like CureRex and FORM. The ones that I paid a small fortune for from the podiatrist were a waste of money. Insoles have come a long way and several companies like Hoka will customize your insoles for a lot less money than the podiatrist. I like a thicker insole because of the added cushioning. My favorites are Superfeet Merino Grey
In combination with Hoka, they are wonderful. They definitely make it easier to get out of the door. Right now the weather has cooled off a bit here in Colorado and a great time for hiking.
OK, as a Podiatrist, I've treated a lot of achy feet! I must add that 'custom orthotics' are a great add to Hokas. I also use Brooks, which I believe, are probably the best arthletic shoes on the market today.