HOKA Steps Out With Rugged New Hiking Sneakers

Ready for practically anything.

The doldrums of winter seem an apt time to shake things up in terms of style, footwear very much included. While the right pair of boots is an essential, don’t overlook the style points and rugged appeal of sneakers—including the latest hiking-inspired kicks from HOKA.

Haven’t heard of HOKA? The buzzy French company debuted in 2009 and has made a name for itself with its ultra-cushioned, chunky and downright maximalist running sneakers prized as much for comfort as their standout looks.

Its sneakers, like the marathon-ready Cielo X1, are the purview of long-distance runners and casual outdoor enthusiasts, and the new HOKA Tor Summit fits the bill nicely.

The HOKA Tor Summit builds off the company’s penchant for comfort, distinctive looks and top-of-the-line performance: Surely, you’ve spotted plenty of HOKA sneakers around town, even outside of swift early morning training sessions.

And the new Tor Summit delivers in matters of both performance and style, as the brand notes it’s an “Alpine-inspired silhouette that pays homage to the classic hiker.”

A speed-lace design meets details like premium nubuck leather, but it’s the chunky, futuristic-meets-retro Vibram outsole that steals the show in terms of looks, superior comfort and grip on slick surfaces.

Rubber mud guards add to the utility of these sneaker-boots, which should be able to perform every bit as handily in slippery situations as your favorite pair of winter boots.

Meanwhile, a tonal “Oat Milk” color speaks to the trends of the day (which is fitting, seeing as the sneakers themselves debuted at Paris Fashion Week). A sleek black-on-black color, accented by fresh, bright yellow laces, also delivers sleek looks.

When the occasion calls for it, and when rain, sleet, snow or hail strikes this season (and beyond), consider these stylish hiking sneakers your new must-have for a change of pace.