Hoka Is Getting Into the Sneaker-Loafer Game With the Sole of Its Speedgoat 5
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New Balance’s 1906 Loafer has had a polarizing reception, but its supporters have spoken the loudest by making the new model sell out in each of its colorways since debuting last fall. Now, Hoka is trying to get in on the sneaker-loafer action with the debut of its Speed Loafer.
The Hoka Speed Loafer releases at the end of the month and counts the Speedgoat 5 as its base. The sole unit remains intact from the trail running shoe, packing compression-molded EVA foam above a Vibram Megagrip outsole with Traction Lugs. Up top, however, is an entirely new upper with few remnants of Hoka DNA.
Suede and leather are both used in a prototypical loafer shape, and what may at first glance may look like standard tassel is actually a “Speed Tassel” making use of speed lacing hardware and a grouping of lace tips. A rivet on the heel carries tiny Hoka branding, and the company’s whale tail logo appears in the insole in gold as the only deviation from black besides Vibram’s usual marking. Reflective piping will also offer more visibility at night than your baseline loafer.
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With men having become open to a wider variety of footwear silhouettes in the years after the pandemic, experimental sneaker designs have borrowed some familiar elements. Mule transformations have been particularly prolific in the space, including Jordan Brand and New Balance. The trend has also led to the revival of Nike’s Clogposite, which was reviled in its original run in the early aughts.
The Hoka Speed Loafer will make its debut in all-black January 31 with a release through Hoka’s website. Pricing is set at $185, which is $30 higher than the Speedgoat trail running shoes typical retail for.
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About the Author:
Ian Servantes is a Senior News Editor for Footwear News specializing in sneaker coverage. He’s previously reported on streetwear and sneakers at Input and Highsnobiety after beginning his career on the pop culture beat. He subscribes to the idea that “ball is life” and doesn’t fuss over his kicks getting dirty.
