Did Hoka Just Launch My New Favorite Cushioned Walking Shoe?

The older I get, the more I realize just how important the right shoes are. For me, I am usually walking for long periods of time for cardio and, whether outside or inside, I’ve noticed that less cushioned shoes just don’t seem to work for my recovery. Luckily for me, it seems like brands are finally coming out with plush pairs, and the technology is getting better and better. They’re lightweight, low profile and supportive if they’re a good pair. 

I have loved the Brooks Ghost Max sneaker for that reason, and haven’t quite found a shoe that’s compared since. That is until Hoka came out with its new Skyflow sneaker a month or so ago. The moment I put these on, I knew they’d become my new go-to.  

Hoka Skyflow 

The brand sent these shoes to me to try this week. Oftentimes, when I try a new shoe, I don’t have an immediate feeling or opinion—I need to try them several times to get an idea of how they perform. But the second I put these on, I felt that they’d be an instant hit for me.  

Once I started walking in them, the feeling only heightened. They were so noticeably springy, and I was walking with a little more pep right away. The plush cushion ensured that each step was cushioned, especially while I was on the street. It reminded me of a smooth-driving car, where I practically felt nothing on the road as I walked. I didn’t feel cracks, pebbles, or uneven terrain nearly as much as other pairs. The shoes also gripped well onto any surface. 

An entirely new sneaker from the brand, these are meant for everyday runs and walking. They have a balanced cushion and neutral stability level, which is just what I need. The brand noted that these shoes were a blend between two of its ever-popular pairs: the Bondi and the Clifton. These shoes inspired the ride and feel of the Skyflow, while the brand also used its Skyward X to help determine the shape. 

All of this comes together to create a sneaker that is cushy, springy, supportive and reactive. I particularly love the way the sole is designed, where the majority of the cushion is focused towards the center of the shoe, and it tapers ever so slightly at the heel and the toe. This has given me an extra-stable feeling, even when I wore the pair while using weights, which is something my Brooks Ghost Max isn’t ideal for. And, despite always feeling like the Hoka shoes of the past weighed a little more than I liked, these are lighter than the shoes I currently wear. The cushion stays thick and durable, but the shoe doesn’t get in the way and maintains a low profile design whether I am walking, stretching or training.   

Other notable hallmarks are the added support at the heel, where the majority of impact takes place. I really love how the upper is tight enough to feel secure but remains flexible and breathable. They come in five colors in the standard size (I have the midnight and pink twilight pair) and two shades in the wide sizes. 

Of course, I need to keep wearing these shoes to develop a very firm opinion, but the sheer fact that they’ve made such an impact on me in the first few wears is a spectacular sign. If they sound up your alley, I wouldn’t pass up on them. They’ll likely sell out if I know the brand. 

Shop More Hoka Shoes: 

Bondi 8

Clifton 9 

Skyward X

Arahi 7

Mach 6

At the time of publishing, the price was $160.