Hoka Hopara 2 Review

Likes

It is hard to look at the Hoka Hopara 2 without noticing its thick, cushioned sole. Most sandals feature a thin foam or rubber sole, but Hoka stayed true to its nature and offered the thickest cushion we have seen on a sandal. The EVA midsole provides good arch support for longer walks and plenty of cushioning for rough terrain.

The rubber sole on the Hoka features 4mm lugs designed to manage tough terrain. These sandals grip dirt, mud, sand, and slick riverbeds and transition well to paved streets and grass. The lugs provide significant protection to the sole of the foot and don't trap debris like some competitors.

A knit upper with Cordura mesh overlays keeps the foot secure while protecting the top of the feet from pokes and abrasions. The material makes these sandals easy to clean and allows water and debris to drain from the sandals during aquatic use.

Dislikes

Since this sandal has the typical Hoka sole, it is noticeably heavier and bulkier than others on the market; in fact, these are more like a shoe with a mesh upper than a sandal. The sole, combined with a knit upper, isn't the most aesthetically pleasing and somewhat defeats the purpose of wearing a sandal. These aren't something we would wear to a casual dinner with friends. The Hopara 2 also has a higher price tag, which may deter some because of its niche use.

Should You Buy the Hoka Hopara 2?

The Hoka Hopara 2 is a great option for those looking for a water-capable shoe that delivers maximum cushion and support while adventuring. The tread provides better traction than most sandals, and the knit upper protects your foot from debris and underbrush pokes. They slip on quickly, and the bungee upper doesn't require adjustment once set. If you do venture into the water, these shoes dry very quickly, and your feet don't slip around very much. There is a slight break-in period with these sandals, and they are noticeably bigger than other sandal options on the market. However, if you want a sandal but also require a lot of support, these may be the best option for you.

What Other Sandals Should You Consider?

The Birkenstock Arizona Soft Footbed is another sandal that is very supportive and gets more comfortable the longer you wear them, but they aren't made for water use. The Keen Newport H2 is another sandal that provides a lot of toe protection while still being comfortable and supportive, and is very capable of handling adventures in and out of the water.