It’s almost impossible to go a whole day in public without seeing someone else wearing a pair of HOKA shoes. Flourishing in popularity over the past decade, the California-based footwear brand has earned its ubiquity not only for its emphasis on comfort — be it for running, walking, hiking, or anything in between — but for how it refuses to ignore our natural draw to what looks good. A couple of years ago, HOKA took notes from both Crocs and KEEN to make an attractive yet functioning foam sandal with an eye for the outdoors. While we’ve become used to Hopara, the flagship hiking sandal has just entered its second generation with the Hopara 2, changing up the look a bit.
For the new design, HOKA has opened up the drain slits on the side but has covered them this time with 100% recycled Cordura mesh overlays to keep out debris without preventing drainage or ventilation. Likewise, we see some material improvements for comfort with the 100% recycled knit uppers with water repellency treatment and the topsole and midsole, which are now made with 30% sugarcane EVA. Returning is the quick-lace system (though slightly modified) but we now get the inclusion of an adjustable heel strap for improved fit. The lug height looks similar on the rubber outsole but the heel-to-toe drop has increased to 6mm (from 5mm) and the weight has also increased by 0.9oz (now 12.9oz).
Hiking sandals are great in-between shoes for certain outings. The enclosed design provides protection against rock, sticks, and other trail hazards while the porous housing allows you to take these into rivers and streams without worrying about squishy socks or pruney toes. They also help prevent any odor buildup that would happen if shoes don’t dry properly.
If you want to check out the Hopara 2 hiking sandal, head over to HOKA’s website, where it’s available in three colorways and priced at $135.
