#5 HIT PEAK FORM
Top tech for any trek up mountain or down dale
[Words Daniel Nielson]
HOKA ONE ONE SKY ARKALI
Price £155 / hokaoneone.eu
The Sky Arkali doesn’t look like any other walking boot we’ve ever seen – and we’re not just talking about the not-very-traditional ‘go-faster’ yellow and blue styling.
That’s because they riff off Hoka One One’s unique ‘maximalist’ running shoe design, to create a new shape of hiking boot with an oversized heel. And it works, delivering an extra-plush ride.
The abundant underfoot cushioning means all-day comfort on the trail, particularly noticeable when you’re donkeying along with a big heavy backpack. The uppers also hug the foot like a sock and a strap around the heel ensures a perfect fit.
Although they’re not waterproof – these are summer hikers – the abrasion-resistant uppers handle dew and light rain with ease, while the aggressive lugs on the Vibram outsole are designed for rough, wet terrain. Each pair weighs less than a kilo; so while they challenge what you expect from a standard hiking boot, they’re the most comfortable our feet have been treated to.