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Take a stroll around any block in New York these days and you'll need two hands to count the number of fashionable New Yorkers wearing all black running shoes headed anywhere but the gym (Crocs are a close second). Alongside the Salomon XT-6 and many Samba iterations, HOKA dominates. And so, it's no surprise the maximalist running shoe brand has come to embrace the lifestyle category. The recently released TC 1.0 signaled a shift in brand positioning. The all-new HOKA One One Restore TC cements it.
Available today, 1 August 2023, the new gender-neutral HOKA Restore TC slip-on shoe is designed for daily wear and post-activity recovery. Its somehow both maximalist and minimalist with a sock-like knit upper and overtly cushioned outsole that checks all the boxes for easy-on, all-day comfort. A protective EVA toe cap and targeted stretch zones ensure long lasting wearability while the serious, lugged outsole—similar to the HOKA Hopara sandal shoe—provides serious traction on a range of surfaces.
When contrasted with the Tor Ultra hiking boot—my first ever pair of HOKAs—it's striking how far the footwear giant has come.
A closer look reveals a sustainability angle too—support is provided by a 30% sugarcane-based EVA insole and 20% sugarcane-baed EVA outsole. The unique and breathable knit upper is dope dyed too, a material dyeing technique that adds color before the fibers are made, reducing waste water and chemicals typically associated with traditional dye processes.
The HOKA Restore TC sells for $110 and is available in a range of unisex monochrome colorways including black, olive green, and tan. The latter of which is available now from HOKA directly, with the others dropping 15 August 2023 (though some speciality retailers are now taking pre-orders).
Published 08-01-2023
