Comfortable shoes are few and far between—so whenever I find a pair that makes me feel like I can walk 500 miles and then another 500, I keep them for life. . In my worn-out, run-down Nike Roshes shoes, my shins, knees, and lower back were Fight even after walking for miles. Knowing that podiatrists endorse Hoka as a brand, I decided to try out their new fall release: The Solimar ($125).
First impressions
The first thing that struck me when I unboxed the bright blue Hoka was that the Solimar midsole is significantly less bulky than the typically impressive sole for which Hoka sneakers are known. I also love that the toe area is soft and stretchy, which gives the Solimar great flexibility. With Solimar, Hoka has created a sneaker that you can wear for most of your activities.
But don’t just take mine word for it.
Why Surgeons Love Hoka Solimar
According to board-certified podiatrist Doug Tumen, DPM, author of Ask a podiatrist, Hoka Solimar is “A shoe that does it all. When I first saw it and put it on, I knew it was the one I would wear to work,” Dr. Tumen said. And when he says “do-it-all,” he means it. He kicks them all day at work and “If I forget my running shoes, I can also use these for running,” says Dr. Tumen, adding that he especially likes the shoes. Lightweight, breathable and flexible in the toes. (Similarly, Dr. Tumen! Similar.)
But related story
Foot surgeon and podiatrist Dana Canuso, DPM, founder of Dr. Canuso Skincare for Feet, gives special thanks for the sole. “Solimar has a seesaw bottom, also known as a rolling bottom, which propels you forward and relieves pressure on your heels and toes,” says Dr. Canuso. She points out that the cushioned sole of this shoe will actually help absorb shock through your body. total body.
And in the process of testing Solimar, I learned this for myself.
My Life Experience in Hoka Solimar
In the four weeks I tested Solimar, I did everything in it to provide a comprehensive assessment. I wear them to work, to errands, and to the gym. I run in it, I take a leisurely walk in it, and I do resistance training in it.
Because of work, I babysit two to three times a week. Pushing a stroller along the beach while chasing the kids, I take an average of 19,000 steps per shift. Solimar makes those steps look like a piece of cake. As Dr. Tumen and Dr. Canuso have pointed out, the midsole absorbs a lot of impact—so I don’t feel any joint pain when strutting around in these shoes.
After a few weeks, I couldn’t imagine a more comfortable walking shoe, so I thought the Solimar would be great for running as well. I chose wisely.
I’m definitely not a marathon runner, but I recently started running and recording 8 to 10 miles a week. The Solimar midsole is also the MVP when I run, but there are a few other worthy screams. Whether I’m running on the treadmill or on the sidewalk, these shoes offer unparalleled breathability. Since I live in Los Angeles, we have 80 degree weather in the fall. Even at higher temperatures, my feet stay cool. And on a cloudy day, the temperature is below 60 degrees, my feet are not cold at all.
Canuso warned me that Solimar might “not provide enough balance for weightlifting,” but I wanted to experiment for myself. Turns out she was right. Remember that rocking bottom that Dr. Canuso loved so much? It’s great for pushing you forward, which makes it a bit difficult to keep your balance completely during squats and other exercises.
What activities is Hoka Solimar best suited for?
According to Hoka, these shoes are “everyday running and training shoes,” but Dr Tumen says they’re actually best for short runs, long walks and speed workouts. “I wouldn’t wear these for long runs, and I wouldn’t use them on the trail,” Dr. Tumen said. “Also, the bottom of the shoe isn’t really for trail running,” he adds. I agree, because I can record short runs and endless walks wearing the Solimar.
final thought
On a scale of 1-10, I give Hoka Solimar an 8.5. It sounds low compared to the brilliant review I gave, but I wish I could run the longer distances in these reviews. Unfortunately, due to thinner soles, I will use them for shorter runs. Although I’m not good at resistance training, I wish I could lift better in Solimar.
That said, I would wear these sneakers on any trip and for all the walking. They’re easy to put on and take off, they’re breathable, offer Hoka’s unmatched comfort, and they’re quite stylish. Concluding thought from Dr. Tumen: “Hoka nailed it with a shoe for everyday and if you want to be athletic — but it’s also a great work shoe, especially if you’re walking all day.”
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