Customer Reviews Hoka Sky Arkali

Finally…the perfect shoe for me. I do hiking and moderate bouldering in the Coachella Valley, which is very rocky territory. I’ve tried several other shoes, including Oboz Sawtooth II Low (excellent all-around trail shoe, and I kept them, but I wanted something with a stiffer, grippier sole and more substantial support for tougher outings), Keen Targhee III Waterproof (not enough ankle support), Vasque Talus AT Mid Ultradry (uncomfortable), Merrell Moab 2 Vent Mid (excellent, but impossible to get the high top closed, letting in debris and stickers) and Hoka Speedgoat Mid 2 GTX (uppers so stiff and unforgiving they shredded the tops of my feet on steep downhills; also very difficult to put on because of how high up the tongue is sewn in). Then I got the Hoka Sky Arkali, and these are wonderful. First, the Vibram sole is the best in the business. The grip on rock walls is excellent, and in combination with the same kind of cushioning that Hoka uses in its Clifton running shoes, small rocks disappear underfoot but there’s still plenty of feel for climbing. An elastic Velcro flap at the top of the laces is like a built-in gaiter, completely sealing the shoe from brush and other debris. There is also a Velcro strap behind the heel, which lets you snug up the fit without overtightening the laces. A bit of extra room in the toe box prevents my toes from getting smashed up during steep descents. I still don’t have all the ankle support I’d like, but it’s a small thing given how good the rest of the shoe is. I saw in these reviews where a few people complained that the shoes were too narrow and don’t come in a wider size. I’m a 10.5M with feet a little on the wide size, but the fit was perfect. I also saw some comments that the shoes don’t breathe enough, but I didn’t notice that, and the temp hit 102 on my last hike. By the way, major props to Zappos for their generous return policy that let me wind up with the right shoes.

Good support for feet and ankles. I work 12 shifts...

Was looking for a shoe as comfortable as a running shoe and as tough as a hiking shoe and preferably mid-height for work. I walk a lot during the summer months at our resort and swap out shoes every other day. These are the perfect shoe for me. Spendy, but they take care of my feet and I could use them as trail runners as well.

I buy 2 pair of shoes each year specifically for work at my business (cabin/motel/camping resort). I walk a lot every day (May-Oct). I switch shoes every day for the health of my feet. I am also a runner and a biker (in the off-season) so I'm not a novice with shoes. I specifically look for shoes that are light, durable, and comfortable. Something as tough as a hiking shoe, but as comfortable as a trail runner. This shoe is the near perfect shoe for me. Mid-height top, comfort, support, light weight, and after a full season, still in decent shape. This is a hiking shoe, but I could use as a trail runner. This is the only shoe I've re-ordered for the next year. Although I'll pay about anything for the right shoe, it is spendy. I'd like to find them on sale, but I don't think there is a lot of extra stock at the end of season.

I love these boots. They have rocker a bottom, good tread and sturdy construction + give when & where I need it. The boots have some detail & I feel comfortable wearing them out to eat, shop etc, so I can leave my other shoes at home. My orthotics and heel cup (atrophied heel pads) fit perfectly and with this combination, I can hike and climb for a few hours with no additional injury and minimal heel discomfort. 4 months ago I was told hiking was in the past. I love the fit, comfort and hike-ability of these boots.

My right heel pads have atrophied and I have to wear shoes & boots that minimize pain and support my feet. The construction of these books do that and allow me to hike for a few hours. The tread makes scurrying up banks and unsteady ground easy. They look like hiking boots. I’m happy with the shoes and the Zappos experience