Customer Reviews Hoka Gaviota Leather

I ordered these because I wanted a leather shoe for winter, so my feet would'nt be cold. I live in the Midwest. I ordered a 10 wide because I have another Hoka size 10 wide. I had to return these and get a half size smaller, they were big. I don't mind the white soles, I like the gray leather rather than the black leather. But as other reviewers have stated I wish they made a better looking shoe. They are not cushy compared to my other Hoka shoes, they are much firmer.

From everything I've read n line about these shoes over the past several months, and from the description, and from the reviews, I HONESTLY expected these shoes to be an absolute DREAM to walk in. The only reason i had held off ordering them for so long was because of the obnoxious colors they come in. I don't think any of the Hoka One One shoe line are good looking shoes, but apparently they only make the most obnoxious ones in my size. So when I got the email saying these particular ones were in stock in my size in the color I wanted I figured it was time to give them a try. They are super lightweight especially for such a huge shoe. They keep me from feeling the ground - which I really like - but I so not understand why the word "cushy" is always used to describe it. It's not rock hard. But it's not cushy. For that reason, I am returning them.

I have several foot issues (PTTD, overpronation, bone spur); therefore I need to use custom orthotic inserts. After trying practically every brand of supportive/athletic-type shoe available, I found MY perfect pair - Hoka One One Gaviota 2. I understand why some people are disappointed that it isn’t quite as cushy as they want; however, the whole design of the shoe is to support the foot which this shoe does admirably. The Gaviota is designed for those who overpronate (roll the foot to the inside) and have lower to flat arches. If you supinate (roll the foot to the outside) or have very high arches, this shoe is being asked to do something it’s not really built for. That’s not to say it won’t work for you as every person is different - but the Arahi or Clifton may feel better. While working with a Physical Therapist, I purchased the Gaviota 2 fabric version which allows me to walk again (a very big deal for me), keeps my feet in the correct position, and relieves the strain from my knees and back. The PT recommended I find a shoe with an inflexible sole as all my comfortable slipper-type shoes were just exasperating my problems. Trial and error and research led me to Hoka One One Gaviota 2. I also purchased the leather version as I wanted a more water-resistant shoe. The Gaviota leather does have a bit of a different feel, but I think it is more due to the fact that it provides a sturdier ‘box’ for the foot. I usually wear a 9.5, but the 10 Gaviota in both materials works very well with my custom inserts. Due to the bone spur, I also need a wide for comfort, which the Gaviota offers. The only quibble I have with this shoe is the stitching line across the vamp (at the base of the toes) rubbed a bit. As the shoe is leather, I was able to use my liquid leather stretch across the inside vamp, paying special attention to the side stitching. After wetting the leather, then wearing the shoe for several hours, it’s almost like I now have custom shoes along with custom inserts. It is not the most feminine shoe, but to me, it is a beautiful shoe.

fit and size were great. I've struggled with finding the "right" shoes for my aching feet while I am at work. I walk on concrete my entire shift, and these were so different from any other shoe that I have tried. Though I struggle with arch support for one of my feet (not sure if it is related to a current hip issue or just my arch in that foot), I HIGHLY recommend these shoes for those who have tried nearly EVERY shoe possible. The leather is soft enough that my feet don't feel like they are in a straight jacket, insoles were cushy, and my ankles didn't hurt when I wore them to work for the first time. Kinda pricey, but I'd rather spend a bit more money on shoes than to have prolonged foot issues without relief.

AMAZING! I have literally looked at every shoe out there that claimed to help with my foot pain but this is the one and only tennis shoe I will ever buy for me again. I love that Hoka offered a neutral color with this line of shoe. I am not a fan of anything multi colored or bright. The design along the heel of the shoe helps to disguise the height. This shoe fits true to size. Highly recommend trying these out especially since Zappos has such an amazing return policy!!

Perfect! Bought them for my mom. She no longer get has leg, knees or lower back pain.

I wish Hoka would bring back this exact shoe! The leather material looks so much better compared to styles with mess or cloth. These shoes not only lasted longer than any other pair of Hokas I own/owned, but the neutral colors worked with everything!! I purchased this shoe 3 times before they stopped selling it. Hands down recommend this specific style for anyone who needs support. I tend to walk more on the outside of my foot (based on what I’ve seen when I look at the bottom of my shoes) and this shoe I found really helped me to distribute my weight more evenly when walking. The support is top notch and comfort level is off the charts!! The toe box is wider than usual but the fit is true to size. I wear a 9.5 in this shoe and loved how spacious they were. I have long toes (weird, I know) so I will size up to a 10 sometimes if a shoe is narrow but that’s not a problem with this shoe!