Hoka Solimar Review: weight, appearance, and mild cushioning appeal to me

The latest Hoka Solimar came out in January 2024. Since then, the shoe has been gaining attention for various reasons. For instance, it’s generously priced for a Hoka shoe. Plus, it has made quite a name for itself as an all-purpose shoe. 

When I tried out the new Hoka Solimar, several features impressed me. First, it has the most balanced midsole ever. It is not too soft or too stiff, which makes it ideal for a variety of activities. It also has a late-stage meta rocker design to reduce pain and inflammation in the feet. 

If I have to name one sports shoe for you to buy this year, it should be Hoka Solimar. The reason is simple: it’s fit for all activities, and it’s affordable. Find out more. 

Hoka Solimar Review: What Is It Good For? 

Do you hate keeping separate shoes for the gym and track? To me, it always felt like a hassle to maintain so many pairs. Finally, Hoka Solimar put an end to all the trouble. It also helps me run with plantar fasciitis and makes the next morning less dreadful. 

Great For Cross-Training 

I have always been at a loss when it came to choosing a shoe for cross-training. Typical running shoes have too much cushioning to reduce the impact of the runner’s strides. 

However, the soft cushioning also makes it hard to squat or deadlift in those shoes. The weight makes you feel like sinking. Meanwhile, typical lifting shoes are too stiff. You can’t run in them for long. 

Hoka Solimar has solved this problem for me. The shoes are designed specifically for cross-fit training. 

The compression molded EVA in the midsole doesn’t permit too much cushioning. But it’s still perfectly flexible for long runs. At the same time, this balanced midsole provides an unwavering platform for your lifts. 

No more Stabbing Heel Pain 

There are so many mornings after a long run where I have woken up with excruciating heel pain. It felt like someone was driving a blade through my feet. Doctors told me this is plantar fasciitis. It’s an inevitable consequence of running with bad technique and pushing too much over the limit over the years. 

Well, Hoka Solimar has helped me a lot in this case. It follows the late stage meta rocker design. Unlike early-stage meta rockers, the late stage places the heel-to-forefoot transition zone in front of the toe joints. As a result, the forefoot gets comparatively more support. 

This provides a better base for the forefoot, where the plantar fascia from the heel connects. The result is reduced stress and inflammation in the fascia, and no more stabbing pain in the feet when I wake up. 

Prevents Lower Leg Stiffness

Like many runners, I get tendonitis in my lower leg after marathons. It’s common for heel-strike runners like me, whose Achilles tendon is subjected to some undue stress. 

The Hoka Men’s Solimar running shoes solve this with their anatomical Achilles heel construction. It’s like a small indent in the shoe’s heel collar. The purpose of the indent is to offer the Achilles tendon more room. As a result, you don’t end up with lower leg stiffness after a heavy run.  

This design feature also makes the shoe more fitting for the runner. Plus, the heel collar doesn’t rub against your feet too much. Therefore, you suffer from less blistering of the heel. 

Saving the Environment While I Run 

Hoka Solimar is 88 percent recycled polyester. This means they didn’t burn any petroleum and increased the carbon load while making this shoe. 

Instead, they recycled the plastic that would’ve otherwise ended up in landfills. Being a supporter of the green movement, this fact motivates me to run in this shoe. 

Also, recycled polyester makes the shoe superiorly water resistant. It also wrinkles less and holds on to the color for a longer time. 

Hoka Ladies Solimar Sneaker 

I always get new shoes for my partner when I get a pair. The Hoka Ladies Solimar Sneaker was the perfect choice for her. The lady’s version is much narrower with a slightly pronounced arch. My partner chose the raspberry-colored one. Other color options include Butterfly, Citrus Glow, and Nimbus Cloud.

Hoka Solimar Vs Clifton 8 

The major difference between the Hoka Solimar and the Clifton 8 is their purpose. The Solimar is made for versatile training. In comparison, the Clifton 8 is made for regular running and walking

This difference is evident in their midsoles. The Clifton 8 has a much softer midsole compared to the Solimar. This makes it great for running but not for lifting weights. 

There is also a considerable difference between their rocker shapes. Unlike the Hoka Solimar, the Clifton 8 has an early-stage meta-rocker design. Which means it places the heel-to-toe transition zone behind the joints. Therefore, it’s not as effective in reducing forefoot stress as the Solimar. 

Who Is The Hoka Solimar Good For? 

Anyone who is into CrossFit or versatile sports training can rely on the Hoka Solimar. You will perform at your best in both lifting and moving. 

The Hoka Solimar is also great if you are suffering from conditions like mid-foot arthritis or plantar fasciitis. The late-stage meta rocker will provide the best forefoot support to soothe these conditions. 

However, you should note that the shoe doesn’t have the optimal cushioning for running. So, choose one of Hoka’s softer midsoles if you are only going to run. 

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