Homage to Hokas

So you just dropped off your worn out shoes at Health in Balance for the Soles for Jesus shoe drive.  You keep hearing about Hokas and are wondering what all the buzz is about.  Well, let's talk about Hokas.  I am a FAN of this brand, but know that I do not review shoes for a living.  I’m a PT, a middle aged runner, and tennis shoe aficionado.  Needless to say, these shoes have been a pleasant addition to my walking and running world.  I have one… ok fine, two pairs for everyday use and one pair for running.  I really have had good luck with the Rincon and Clifton, which are both neutral cushioned shoes and accommodate my custom orthotics seamlessly.  I have narrow feet and the standard shoe width actually fit my feet.  This may not be great if you have wider feet, but don’t worry, they come in wide widths too.  I also have a pair of Bondis (still neutral cushioned, but higher price point), which I like but they feel slightly heavier than the other two, and they get a little less wearing time in my rotation.  

Looking back over the trajectory of my running footwear, I have evolved through different brands.  In college, I ran in Nike, then Saucony, followed by Brooks.  I was a Brooks devotee for several years but then 2 years ago I took the recommendation of my boss, Kaite Van Laanen, and tried out Hokas.  “It was like walking on a cloud”... were the words I uttered the first time I tried them on.  Hokas are surprisingly lightweight for their bulky appearance.  They have cushioning that is balanced with stability.  Like I said, I'm a big fan.  My 15 year old patient who just got a pair of Hokas with the goal of providing more support than her beloved Converse informed me that she now, “looks like a mom”.  Ah, to be young.  Seriously, Hokas are a great shoe no matter your age or activity level.  Performance Running Outfitters offers Health In Balance clients a 10% off discount and have a great policy that allows customers to wear their shoes inside for 30 days to determine if they’re right for you.  They’re able to assess people’s walking or running form to determine what brand and type of shoe is right for you.   They also have an online store and will ship shoes for free when you spend more than $40.   

So bring in your tired, worn out shoes, go out and get a new pair of shoes (maybe some Hokas), and LET’S GET MOVING!  And of course, contact your friends at Health In Balance  if you need any assistance with your footwear questions and hopefully we can help make your goals a reality.