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Travel + Leisure
02-06-2025
- Health
- Travel + Leisure
We Asked Disney Cast Members for the Best Walking Shoes—and These Are the 11 Comfy Styles They Swear By
If anyone knows the importance of a good pair of walking shoes, it's Disney cast members. These pros easily clock tens of thousands of steps a day, whether they're working long shifts around Cinderella's Castle or spending a well-earned day off park-hopping with friends. So when it comes to finding the best shoes for walking all day at Disney, they know which styles actually hold up under pressure (and humidity). We asked current and former Disney employees to share the walking shoes they rely on most, both on and off the clock. From ultra-cushioned Hoka shoes that feel like "walking on marshmallows" to the supportive Asics pairs that can handle 35,000-step shifts, these are the shoes that Disney cast members actually wear. Whether you're planning a trip to Magic Kingdom or just need a pair of sneakers that won't quit halfway through your errands, these are some of the best walking shoes for Disney World and beyond. There's a reason Hokas are the go-to shoes at Disney parks, including for cast members. One current employee called the Hoka Clifton 9 Shoes 'a game changer,' adding that 'they're like walking on marshmallows from rope drop to fireworks.' They're lightweight, ultra-cushioned, and surprisingly supportive for long days on your feet. The Bondi 9 shoes are the second most popular Hoka pick among Disney employees. Fans say this version feels lighter than previous Hoka Bondi styles while still delivering plush support and a bit of extra lift, perfect for all-day wear, whether you're working a shift or hitting every park in one day. If you want a high cushion without bulk, the Hoka Rincon 4 is a standout, according to Disney employees. Designed with soft, springy foam and a snug fit, this ultra-light trainer is ideal for long walking days. Bonus: The breathable upper and sleek silhouette make it a stylish choice beyond the parks, too. With built-in stability and cushioned support, the Hoka Arahi 7 is a favorite among cast members who log serious steps. One park regular noted they hit 17,000 steps in these and still felt great. Amazon carries them in six color options—so whether you want to go neutral or bold, there's a pair for you. You might not think of Nike Air Force 1s as theme park shoes, but they're a quiet favorite among cast members. The classic style features Nike's signature lightweight air cushioning and a streamlined look that works just as well with Minnie Mouse ears as it will with jeans and a tee back home. While Asics might fly under the radar, plenty of Disney insiders swear by them, particularly the Gel-Nimbus 26s. One former cast member said, 'I averaged 25,000 to 35,000 steps per shift. These lasted longer than my Skechers and were lighter than most other options I tried.' The Gel-Nimbus 26 delivers soft cushioning and stability without extra weight. The Asics Gel-Cumulus 25 is a great option if you want a well-cushioned shoe without the premium price tag. One Amazon reviewer said they rival $200 shoes in comfort. With a smooth ride and breathable build, these sneakers are ideal for long walks and everyday wear alike. The latest version of Brooks' popular Adrenaline GTS 24 stability shoe is also this year's pick for the brand's DisneyRun collection. With nitrogen-infused foam and a GuideRails support system, these are built for comfort, stability, and high mileage—perfect for marathon park days. The Pegasus 41 is one of Nike's most beloved shoes for good reason. This latest version features a breathable upper and new ReactX foam for a more energy-returning, springy ride. Dual Air Zoom units add even more bounce, making them a great option for full days of walking (and snapping Disney pics for your Instagram). The New Balance 327 offers a great blend of comfort and style, especially if you're not used to being on your feet all day. A lightweight upper and grippy outsole make these breathable and great for hikes, too. One reviewer even wore them to an all-day golf tournament and said they felt amazing. Spotting On Cloud shoes at Disney parks has become common, and the Cloud 6 style is one of the most-worn styles. The newest version features a roomier step-in, a better heel fit, and the same signature cloud-like cushioning. They're comfy, supportive, and easy to wear straight from the teacups to a fireworks show, and dinner after. Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.
Yahoo
28-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
DECK Q1 Earnings Call: Sales Miss Expectations, Margin Expansion and Cautious Outlook
Footwear and apparel conglomerate Deckers (NYSE:DECK) fell short of the market's revenue expectations in Q1 CY2025, but sales rose 6.5% year on year to $1.02 billion. Its GAAP EPS of $1 per share was 66.9% above analysts' consensus estimates. Is now the time to buy DECK? Find out in our full research report (it's free). Operating Margin: 17.4%, up from 16% in the same quarter last year Locations: 181 at quarter end, up from 164 in the same quarter last year Constant Currency Revenue rose 7.5% year on year (21.1% in the same quarter last year) Same-Store Sales fell 1.6% year on year (20.6% in the same quarter last year) Market Capitalization: $16.28 billion Deckers' leadership attributed quarterly performance to the continued momentum of its two largest brands, HOKA and UGG, which each saw growth across channels and regions. While HOKA benefited from expanded wholesale distribution and new product launches such as the Bondi 9 and Clifton 10, direct-to-consumer growth in the U.S. was tempered by higher promotions on outgoing models and some softness in new customer acquisition. For UGG, strong wholesale demand for transitional and spring styles underpinned growth, though limited availability of key products in direct channels constrained sales. CFO Steve Fasching noted that gross margin improvement was driven primarily by higher levels of full-price selling within UGG and favorable product mix. Looking forward, management emphasized that macroeconomic uncertainty and new U.S. footwear tariffs are likely to weigh on results in the coming quarters. Steve Fasching explained, 'We believe there is potential to see demand erosion associated with the combination of price increases and general softness in the consumer spending environment.' The company anticipates that international growth—especially for HOKA—will outpace the U.S., while wholesale channels will drive more incremental gains than direct-to-consumer. Deckers also plans selective price increases and cost-sharing with suppliers to partially offset tariff impacts, but expects gross margins to face headwinds as a result. CEO Stefano Caroti reiterated a long-term focus on innovation and international expansion to support both brands despite near-term challenges. Management pointed to model transitions, shifting channel dynamics, and external trade policy changes as major factors shaping the quarter's financial results and longer-term strategy. HOKA wholesale expansion: The brand saw continued growth in global wholesale distribution, with management highlighting that expanded retail partnerships and strong sell-through of new models like the Bondi 9 contributed to overall gains even as U.S. direct-to-consumer growth slowed. Product upgrade cycle: New iterations of key franchises (Bondi 9, Clifton 10) received positive feedback from consumers and partners, but transition periods involved higher promotional activity and lower average selling prices, especially in the direct channel. UGG's diversification and men's growth: UGG drove growth through new product categories, including men's-focused styles and hybrid products. Management cited successes with men's campaigns and higher sell-through of spring products in China, reflecting progress in broadening the brand's appeal and seasonality. Tariff and cost pressures: Deckers is facing incremental costs from new U.S. footwear tariffs and higher freight rates. While only a small portion of production is sourced from China, management expects partial mitigation through price increases and supplier negotiations but anticipates some margin contraction. Inventory and supply chain management: The company intentionally increased inventory levels compared to last year to navigate potential tariff timing and a European distribution center transition, aiming to avoid supply disruptions during key periods. Deckers' outlook is shaped by planned price adjustments, macroeconomic headwinds, and a continued push for international and wholesale-led growth. Tariffs and pricing strategy: Management expects new U.S. tariffs on footwear imports to increase costs, prompting a staggered implementation of selective price increases and cost-sharing with factory partners. However, they caution that not all incremental costs will be offset, and higher prices may impact demand, particularly in the U.S. International and wholesale momentum: The company projects that international sales, especially in Europe and China, will grow faster than domestic sales. HOKA's expanding presence in overseas markets and additional wholesale partnerships are seen as main avenues for capturing new customers and mitigating U.S. softness. Product innovation and pipeline: Deckers is prioritizing ongoing product launches and upgrades across HOKA and UGG, including new performance models and lifestyle offerings. Management believes this will help maintain consumer interest and support growth across both established and emerging categories, even as the environment remains uncertain. In the coming quarters, the StockStory team will closely monitor (1) Deckers' ability to offset tariff-related cost increases through pricing and supplier negotiations, (2) trends in HOKA's U.S. direct-to-consumer segment as new models gain traction and promotions normalize, and (3) the pace of international and wholesale channel expansion—especially in key markets like China and Europe. The success of upcoming product launches and supply chain adaptations will also be important indicators of execution. Deckers currently trades at a forward P/E ratio of 17.4×. In the wake of earnings, is it a buy or sell? The answer lies in our full research report (it's free). Donald Trump's victory in the 2024 U.S. Presidential Election sent major indices to all-time highs, but stocks have retraced as investors debate the health of the economy and the potential impact of tariffs. While this leaves much uncertainty around 2025, a few companies are poised for long-term gains regardless of the political or macroeconomic climate, like our Top 6 Stocks for this week. This is a curated list of our High Quality stocks that have generated a market-beating return of 183% over the last five years (as of March 31st 2025). Stocks that made our list in 2020 include now familiar names such as Nvidia (+1,545% between March 2020 and March 2025) as well as under-the-radar businesses like the once-micro-cap company Tecnoglass (+1,754% five-year return). Find your next big winner with StockStory today. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Forbes
14-04-2025
- Lifestyle
- Forbes
The Best Hoka Shoes For Walking, Tested For Comfort And Support
Recently, I conducted an impromptu survey by asking friends and family about their favorite walking shoes. The brand that came up more than any other? Hoka. And so, I set out to find the very best Hoka shoes for walking that blend comfort, support and stability. Based on my findings, the Clifton 10 is the best shoe overall because it's lightweight and versatile. I also like the Bondi 9 for more cushioning, and the Anacapa Breeze Low if you prefer to walk on trails. Walk down the block or across town in comfort with the best Hoka shoes for walking. Known for its colorful, max-cushioned trainers, Hoka kicked off the chunky footwear movement over a decade ago, and while its catalog of shoes caters to running, hiking and even recovery, a lot of these styles are also easy to walk in. To properly evaluate Hoka's best-selling shoes, I compared specs like stack height and weight in addition to midsole support and cushioning, stability, traction and overall comfort. I also spoke with Caroline Bermel, head shoe tester and content marketing specialist at Fleet Feet for helpful buying advice. Here's how to shop for a pair that meets your needs. Hoka Weight (per pair): 19.6 ounces | Cushion: Plush | Stability: Neutral | Drop: 8 millimeters For years, the Clifton has served as my go-to running shoe because it's light, plush and versatile. But over time, I've started wearing it even when I'm walking—it's just that comfortable. The breathable upper is lightweight and perfectly snug to prevent overheating, but doesn't sacrifice durability. Padding around the ankle is soft and flexible to minimize rubbing. And while the Clifton has long been praised for its cushioning, it doesn't feel like you're sinking into the ground with each step. Rather, it's supportive and supple to absorb impact. Hoka considers the Clifton a neutral shoe, which means it isn't designed for stability, but it does contain the brand's Active Foot Frame technology that supports landings. If you need even more cushioning, you might consider the Bondi 9 and for a more responsive ride, the Mach 6 is also easy to wear. Hoka Weight (per pair): 21 ounces | Cushion: Plush | Stability: Neutral | Drop: 5 millimeters Think of the Bondi as the Clifton's bigger sibling. Technically, it weighs less than the Clifton 10, but more of its girth is found in the midsole, which increases the stack height. (By comparison, the Bondi 9 measures 42mm at the heel versus 38mm on the Clifton 10.) Hoka completes it with a breathable mesh upper, and the collar is soft to reduce friction. Active Foot Frame technology supports landings, and that's a welcome feature—a shoe this tall might otherwise feel unstable. Hoka devotees will know that the Bondi isn't the brand's cushiest shoe. That honor goes to the Skyward X—a model with a stack height of 46mm at the heel. If you try the Bondi and it's not cushioned enough, you've got options. But for most people who prefer more foam that doesn't muffle the walking experience, it's the way to go. If you're torn between this and the Clifton, read up on how they compare. Hoka Weight (per pair): 19.8 ounces | Cushion: Balanced | Stability: Stable | Drop: 5 millimeters If you overpronate (meaning your foot collapses inward as you step and puts strain on the muscles surrounding it) or suffer from flat feet, the Arahi 7 is designed to provide additional stability. Made with Hoka's 'J-Frame' technology, it features a firm strip of foam along the inside of the shoe that prevents inward rolling, but it won't overcorrect your gate. Instead, think of it as a gentle helping hand that keeps your foot upright and the surrounding muscles engaged. Beyond stability, the Arahi 7 is lighter than many other stability running shoes we've covered, but it's still fairly heavy at 9.9 ounces per shoe (men's). It probably won't be the style you reach for to get through speedy walks, but it's still comfortable thanks to balanced cushioning and a gusseted tongue. It's also a bit firmer than its predecessor (the Arahi 6) and other stability shoes like the Hoka Gaviota 5, so keep that in mind if you prefer more cushioning and flexibility. Otherwise, this is a great option if you're rebuilding your foundation due to overpronation or injury. Hoka Weight (per pair): 21.8 ounces | Cushion: Plush | Stability: Stable | Drop: 6 millimeters The Gaviota 5 is a stability shoe designed for longer walks or extended periods of time on your feet. Stiffer foam along the entire edge of the shoe keep you foot in place while softer foam in the middle maintains comfort. It's finished with a breathable upper, plush collar and MetaRocker—a design element that adds a slight curve to the base to help with heel-to-toe transitions as you walk. If you don't need a stability shoe, the Bondi or Clifton should meet your needs because they also come with added cushioning. And if you ultimately need less cushioning but want the stability and support, you can move down to the Arahi. Otherwise, this is a solid, balanced shoe that should meet your needs for long distances. Hoka Weight (per pair): 24.8 ounces | Cushion: Balanced | Stability: Neutral | Drop: 6 millimeters Most of Hoka's walking shoes are versatile enough to handle flat gravel roads, but if you need more grip, the Anacapa Breeze Low is a solid option. It features a layer of nubuck leather along the top for added durability, and receives a PFC-free DWR treatment to keep moisture at bay. But the star of the show is the outsole—it features 5mm lugs and Vibram MegaGrip rubber for best-in-class traction. That might be overkill if you're walking on a dirt path, but it really comes in handy around roots, rocks and wet obstacles. Keep in mind that what you gain in toughness, you lose in comfort. The shoe feels chunky and rigid, almost like a hiking shoe, so assess when and where you walk before deciding if it's worth sacrificing some of that support (it's also available in a low-top with Gore-Tex or a mid-top with a higher cuff.) Otherwise, the Clifton 10 should get the job done more often than not. Hoka Weight (per pair): 28 ounces | Cushion: Plush | Stability: Neutral | Drop: 6 millimeters On paper, the Bondi SR looks a lot like it's sibling, the Bondi 9, but unlike the classic Bondi, the SR adjusts key details to make it more suitable for the workplace. The upper, for example, is crafted with a water-resistant leather, and the collar has memory foam for long-lasting comfort. Underfoot, a slip-resistant rubber keeps you on your feet, and the tread pattern is designed to improve traction. Overall, this shoe is safe for kitchens, hospitals, warehouses and other workplace environments. The Bondi SR isn't as light as the Bondi 9, nor is it as breathable. And while you can technically exercise in it, it isn't a true athletic shoe. That said, it's a comfortable, durable style for professional use that keeps your feet happy, even if you're standing for hours at a time. The Forbes Vetted gear team consists of editors, writers and staffers who rely on everything from equipment to apparel to make the most of each day. Our footwear coverage includes not only Hoka walking shoes, but Hoka running shoes, workout shoes and even shoes for standing all day. We took many steps—both literally and figuratively—to find the best Hoka shoes for walking. Here's how we made our picks: At the heart of any good Hoka walking shoe is a cushioned midsole for long-term comfort, but the degree of cushioning varies from one shoe to the next. As Bermel notes, the right shoe "depends on the individual's preferences.' While it's difficult to gauge just how cushioned a shoe really is until you wear it, Hoka designates shoes as either responsive, balanced or plush based on the amount of cushioning they provide. Responsive cushioning uses firmer materials and foams to help your feet push off with efficiency; plush cushioning absorbs impact to create a forgiving ride; and balanced cushioning sits in the middle to deliver protective cushioning that maintains some responsiveness. If you prefer truly plush cushioning, consider the Bondi, Hoka's tried-and-true max-cushioned shoe. For balanced cushioning that supplies a best-of-both-worlds experience, models like the Clifton and Transport will better meet your needs. And if you're after responsive cushioning for faster walking, the Mach series and Mafate Speed 4 are great options, though both are a bit more aggressive. A walking shoe's stability refers to how it supports your foot through the gait cycle. While even neutral shoes contain some stability elements, true stability shoes are designed to address overpronation, which occurs when your foot rolls inward as you step. Not all walkers need a true stability shoe, but if you overpronate, it can really help. Again, Hoka classifies a shoe's stability as either neutral, moderate or stable. Neutral shoes feature a symmetrical bed of cushioning but don't add stability elements; stable shoes contain some form of intervention, like "J-Frame" or "H-frame" technology—forms of construction that prevent excessive inward rolling; and moderate shoes contain features that make the design inherently stable, like a wide base, to support neutral gaits. Understanding your natural gait can help you find a walking shoe that meets your needs. The Arahi, for example, improves stability because it contains a strip of foam along the medial side to prevent overpronation. Similarly, the Gaviota features 'H-Frame' technology that weaves firmer foam around the entire shoe. Other models, like the Clifton and Bondi, are neutral shoes, meaning they provide basic support via a symmetrical footbed. Most people use their walking shoes on hard, dry surfaces like concrete or asphalt, but that doesn't mean you should overlook traction. Again, Hoka makes different shoes for different purposes, so it's important to consider your needs. If you use your shoes to run errands, take the dog on a walk or travel, models like the Clifton, Bondi and Gaviota are great because they're made with a basic, durable rubber outsole for longevity and versatility. If you prefer to walk on local trails or dirt roads that require a bit more traction, consider the Anacapa Breeze Low or even the Speedgoat—both feature Vibram MegaGrip rubber to boost traction. And the Bondi SR has a true slip-resistant outsole, which is great for the workplace. Ultimately, the best Hoka walking shoe for you comes down to how you'll use it. A plump, squishy trainer like the Bondi isn't really suitable for trails, while the Anacapa Breeze Low isn't necessary for sunny sidewalks. Consider when and where you prefer to walk and narrow down your options from there.
Buzz Feed
14-04-2025
- Health
- Buzz Feed
9 Podiatrist-Recommended Products For Relieving Plantar Fasciitis Pain
We hope you love our recommendations! Some may have been sent as samples, but all were independently selected by our editors. Just FYI, BuzzFeed and its publishing partners may collect a share of sales and/or other compensation from the links on this page. Shopping · These orthotic inserts, supportive shoes and topical anti-inflammatory creams can help keep that sharp, shooting pain at bay. The symptoms associated with plantar fasciitis can really interfere in your day-to-day life. It's also one of the most common types of heel and foot pain, according to Michael J. Trepal, professor of surgical sciences and academic dean at the New York College of Podiatric Medicine. Often accompanied by a stabbing or sharp shooting pain centered around the bottom of the foot, plantar fasciitis is an inflammatory, and in many cases, degenerative condition affecting the broad thick ligament on the bottom of the foot which helps to hold up the arch, Trepal told us. 'Plantar fasciitis is caused by tearing of this fascia from either the tightness of this posterior complex beginning to tear and or the torque of the foot mechanics,' explained podiatrist Louis J. DeCaro, president of the American College of Foot and Ankle Pediatrics. He added that some foot types are more prone to putting pressure or twisting the fascia than others, and suggested learning about your own specific foot type in order to determine the most effective way to treat your pain. Fortunately, DeCaro and Trepal said that plantar fasciitis can go away on its own, rarely requires surgical intervention and can be effectively managed with over-the-counter aids. However, both experts cautioned that if pain persists for more than a few weeks, you should seek professional advice; there's a chance you might need physical therapy or other guidance for the issue. Below, we laid out some of the products suggested by DeCaro and Trepal, plus their recommendations for how to integrate them in order to best manage plantar fasciitis pain. 1. A pair of arch support orthotic inserts Amazon Michael J. Trepal, professor of surgical sciences at the New York College of Podiatric Medicine, and podiatrist Louis J. DeCaro both said that arch support shoe inserts are worth trying, although in some cases custom orthotics might be necessary. These highly-rated insoles use a high arch and deep heel cup to offer support and maintain correct foot positioning so that the heel is better protected from impact. The inserts are available in both men's and women's sizing. Get them from Amazon for $19.99 (available in five colors). 2. An everyday running sneaker HOKA Dr. Jay Spector, an Atlanta-based podiatrist and 32-time marathon runner, previously recommended these everyday walking and running shoes by HOKA to us for plantar fasciitis. The Bondi 9 promises an ultra-cushioned and "billowed" footbed with a neutral level of support for the arch. The shoes are available in tons of different vibrant and neutral combinations, in both regular and wide options in women's sizes 5–12 and men's sizes 7–13. Get them from Nordstrom for $170 in women's and in men's. 3. A pair of podiatrist-approved recovery sandals Amazon Dr. Mark Mendeszoon, a multi-board certified podiatrist and expert in sports medicine and footwear, previously spoke to us about the benefits of recovery shoes for conditions like plantar fasciitis, and on Oofos recovery shoes in particular. These popular shoes — which have received the APMA seal of acceptance — uses a proprietary footbed and foam material in the construction of their footwear that's designed to absorb shock, reduce strain on joints and assist with active recovery. It's a technology that the brand claims absorbs 37% more impact than traditional footwear foam materials. 'Oofos is a brand of recovery shoes that has really focused on the science of foot and ankle by mechanics. They found their niche with materials to help with people with foot issues,' Mendeszoon said, adding that it's one of the two top brands that he personally recommends to his own patients. Get them from Amazon for $59.95 (available in women's sizes 5–18, men's sizes 3–16, and 10 colors). 4. A rocking foot stetcher Amazon According to DeCaro, "the best a [person] can really do is stretch the posterior column which runs from the hamstring down to the calf, to the Achilles and through the bottom of the foot to connect to the plantar fascia." DeCaro teaches his patients heel inversion stretches, which he said should be done "prior to all activities that involve running or long walks and should be done with the foot as neutral as possible." Although you don't need a device for the heel inversion or posterior column stretches that DeCaro refers to, many Amazon reviewers claim that this rocking foot stretcher has made "a world of difference" in treating their plantar fasciitis pain. The rocker design holds the foot in the optimal position for an accurate and efficient stretch and has slip-resistant pads to keep the stretcher in place while in use. Get it from Amazon for $23.49. 5. Currex RunPro professional running insoles Amazon According to Dr. Miguel Cunha, a podiatrist and founder of Gotham Footcare, " these insoles help reduce plantar fasciitis, posterior tibial and muscle fatigue through motion control for optimal foot guidance and poron cushioning for maximal shock absorption with heel strike." They come in three different arch heights in sizes XS–2XL. Get them from Amazon for $54.95. 6. A pair of cushioned gel heel cups Amazon Heel cushions placed inside shoes might make plantar symptoms more comfortable, Trepal said. We found these heavy duty cushioned heel cups that feature a shock-absorbing design using a multi-cell and multi-layer construction. You can find them in three sizes. Get them from Amazon for $14.99. 7. A pair of gel ice pack socks Amazon Another remedy, according to DeCaro, is icing the feet, but only at night and only after your last step. "One of the most common mistakes is icing the foot during the day. Ice contracts soft tissue and thus exposes it to more tearing. If you ice after your last step for 10-15 minutes, then not only do you quadruple the healing process during the night but you avoid walking and tearing contracted tissue," DeCaro said. These therapy socks feature full-size freezable gel packs along the sole, top of the foot and behind the heel for all-over pain relief. One Amazon reviewer with plantar fasciitis said these socks are an easy and comfortable way to ice their feet. Get them from Amazon for $23.99 (available in nine sizes and three colors). 8. A topical anti-inflammatory gel Amazon Trepal also recommended applying topical anti-inflammatory cream to help with pain management. Our pick: Voltaren, a highly rated anti-inflammatory gel that is a non-steroidal and hydrating formula that imparts a cooling sensation when applied. It can help reduce stiffness and aches and improve mobility. 9. Amazon Both DeCaro and Trepal said that short term use of oral painkillers such as ibuprofen or naproxen can be useful. These are non-steroidal medications that can help reduce inflammation. Individuals with certain bleeding disorders, stomach ulcers, kidney disease or asthma should talk to their doctor before taking NSAIDs. Get it from Amazon for $4.46.
Yahoo
02-04-2025
- Lifestyle
- Yahoo
Celebrate Walking Day with comfort: I wore the Hoka Bondi 9s for a month and they're worth every penny
As a trail runner, I've put thousands of miles on pavement, dirt and everything in between. I've tried the best running shoes money can buy — and I've been let down. But even if you're just jogging around the neighborhood, walking the dog or standing on your feet all day, Hoka's new Bondi 9 shoes deliver next-level comfort. They're legit for serious runners, but at the end of the day, most people buy them because they're just really comfortable. And since it's National Walking Day, it's worth pointing out: You don't need to be training for a marathon to appreciate these shoes. To put them to the test, I wore them nonstop for 30 days. They became my go-to for everything from running to errands to chasing my toddler around the playground. They're cushioned enough for marathon training, but they're so plush that I find myself wearing them everywhere — yes, even when I'm not running. Related: Hoka Bondi vs. Hoka Clifton: Which cloud-like sneaker is best? There's something so satisfying about unboxing a fresh pair of running shoes — peeling back the tissue paper, catching that new-shoe smell and feeling the plush cushioning for the first time. As soon as I pulled the Hoka 9s from their signature blue box, I could tell they were built for comfort. The thick, pillowy midsole and soft, structured upper stood out immediately. Naturally, I took them for a spin — a 5-mile walk. I had no blisters, no hot spots, no foot or knee pain whatsoever. They were plush, not stiff, right out of the box. Hoka is known for its bright, eye-catching colors, but it's keeping things relatively neutral so far with the Bondi 9s. Options include all-white, all-black, blue and gray. I went with gray and white. I'm usually a size 9, and that held true for the Bondi 9s. If you have wider feet, good news: Hoka offers wide and extra-wide versions. The shoes have a snug midfoot and roomy toe boxes that let my toes spread naturally. Heel lockdown is solid — there was no slipping, even on longer walks and runs. If you wear orthotics, thicker socks or just like more wiggle room, you may want to size up. Hoka offers a 30-day try-on period, so you can order two sizes and return the one that doesn't fit. A family member who runs ultramarathons first clued me in about Hokas. "They're like pillows for your feet," he said. And he was right: I have never worn shoes with more cushioning than the Bondi 9s. These have a stack height of 43 millimeters in the back (42 for the women's shoes), 2 millimeters more than the Bondi 8s. What does this mean for comfort? Well, there's loads of it. If you're coming from a shoe with minimal or even medium cushioning, the difference will be night and day, in a good way. It usually takes me a few miles to get used to a new shoe, but that wasn't the case with the Bondi 9s. They were my feet's best friend from mile one. The Bondis' thick foam doesn't just soften impact — it adds a surprising bounce. With each stride, I felt an unexpected responsiveness that propelled me forward rather than sinking me into the shoe. The Bondis delivered plush comfort without sacrificing speed, truly the best of both worlds. Related: Want truly comfy walking shoes? Here's what to look for, according to podiatrists It's hard to gauge long-term durability after a month of testing, but here's what I can say. I am not gentle on my running shoes. I've worn these on gravel-strewn trails and to the gym; I've chased my toddler around in them. So far, they've handled it all without major signs of wear. The outsole still has plenty of tread, and the midsole hasn't compressed or lost that signature Hoka cushioning. That said, Hokas have never been known for having the most resilient outsoles. Previous versions of Bondis and Speedgoats, a Hoka trail runner, tend to wear down faster, especially for midfoot or forefoot strikers. If you're using these primarily on pavement or putting in high mileage, you might notice some wear sooner than you would with a stiffer, less cushioned shoe. As for breathability, the engineered mesh upper does a solid job of keeping things ventilated, at least in cooler weather. My feet never felt overly warm, but the real test will come in the summer. Given the amount of foam underfoot, they may run a bit warm, but that's the trade-off for maximum cushioning. If you're on your feet all day — whether pacing hospital halls, chasing kids or grandkids, or running errands — these are the most cushioned shoes you'll find. They also make an excellent recovery shoe for runners logging high mileage. Are these a magical cure for plantar fasciitis or a bum knee? No‚ but no shoe is. Still, Bondi 9s offer exceptional cushioning and support, helping reduce impact stress and providing a smoother ride for those with aches and pains. The curved sole encourages a smooth transition from heel to toe, which may ease joint strain. No shoe can replace proper recovery and strength training, but these are a great option for anyone looking for extra comfort underfoot. The only time I leave these shoes at home is when I hit the gym for strength training. The thick cushioning is great for running and walking, but for weightlifting — especially squats and deadlifts — I prefer my grippier, more grounded Nike Metcons. Related: These are the best Hoka shoes for walking If you loved the Hoka Bondi 8, don't worry — the 9s will feel familiar, with a few key upgrades. The midsole is softer and more responsive, and the upper got a refresh with a more accommodating fit that hugs your foot without feeling restrictive. The Bondi has never been lightweight, but the 9 shaves off 0.3 ounces, making for a slightly less clunky feel. If you're comparing the 9s to the Bondi X, that's a different story. The Bondi X takes that plush cushioning and adds a carbon plate, making it more performance-oriented. It's still a Bondi — well-cushioned and built for long miles — but with extra propulsion for those who want more speed. If you're mostly walking, working on your feet or prioritizing maximum comfort, the Bondi 9s are the better pick. If you want something with more zip, the Bondi X might be worth a look. How do they compare with other shoes? Well, they offer more cushioning than anything I've worn. Even Nike is playing catch-up, adding more foam than ever before (the Nike Vomero 18 now has a 46-millimeter stack height, 3 more than the Bondi 9). Will I be throwing away all of my previous pairs of running shoes? No. (That would be wasteful!) Plus, different shoes serve different purposes — some are better for speed work, others for trails and still others just fit my mood on any given day. But will the Bondi 9s become a go-to in my rotation for walking, easy runs and recovery days? Absolutely. The plush, bouncy cushioning, improved fit and surprisingly smooth ride make for one of the most comfortable shoes I've tested in a long time.
