I’ve found that the extra “lip” on the back of the heel, which is meant to protect the Achilles, actually very much bothers my Achilles. It did not improve or get better. I eventually went to the store and picked up the first pair of Hokas that didn’t have it and landed in the Bondi 7 which I’ve stuck with until now (Bondi 10). Achilles not happy so I’m now in Altras 🤷🏻♀️ All of which is to say, trust your gut.
Hey everyone,
I’m looking for a new pair of running shoes and would appreciate some input.
**Background**
6’0”, 195 lbs, Wide/flat feet, Injury history: left plantar fasciitis and right meniscus tear, Running: 3–6 miles at an easy pace about 3x per week
My injuries heavily influence what I can tolerate in daily footwear and running shoes.
**Shoes I’ve tried**
**Hoka Bondi 7 (4E) — Prior Shoe**
Width was mostly adequate, but still slightly narrow through the midfoot.
Occasionally irritated my low/flat arches.
Felt heavy, especially during tempo efforts.
**Altra Torin 7 (Wide) — Current Shoe**
Excellent midfoot width and roomy toe box. Fit my foot shape well.
Couldn’t adapt to the 0mm drop. It slowed my pace and I recently developed Achilles discomfort.
**On Cloudsurfer Next (Wide) - Recent return**
Slightly snug toe box and mid foot width, but manageable.
Lightweight and noticeably improved pace.
Firmer foam + aggressive rocker aggravated my plantar fasciitis. This caused me to return them.
**Shoes I’m Considering**
1. Nike Vomero Plus (Extra Wide)
2. Puma ForeverRun NITRO 2 (Wide)
3. Hoka Gaviota 6 (4E)
I’m unsure whether I should be in a neutral or stability shoe given my flat feet and injury history.
Open to other recommendations that balance spacious width (especially mid foot), moderate drop (not 0mm drop), cushioned but not overly firm.
Appreciate any and all feedback! Thanks!
Arahi 8s are what I went with and they’re awesome! Stability and cushioning feels great! The Arahi is definitely lighter than most shoes in this similar category. Also, this shoe is more spacious than other Hoka 4E options. It can accommodate my entire foot even in the foot arch/mid foot area. That’s where I typically have most of my issues. I can’t recommend them enough!
Update: I went with the Arahi 8 in 4E and it has been the best running shoes I’ve had in the last 2-3 years! Cushioning is awesome and the stability is great! It helps manage all my injuries! Also, the mid foot is very wide and accommodating. My prior Bondi 7 and the new Gaviota 7 were too narrow in the mid foot even in the 4E sizing. The Arahi 8 is very spacious and I highly recommend them for those with wide feet!
Not a runner but do a lot of walking around my suburb on concrete paths. Used to be ASICS but started getting a lot of hip and knee pain (I'm over 50). An older acquaintance recommended Hokas as he'd been put on to them by an OT post hip surgery. Love my Hokas. Have had Bondi mostly - 7, 8 & now 9. Also have a couple of pairs of Cliftons. When I wear other brands for casual, knees and hips protest loudly!
I have a wide toe box and love my Hoka Bondis. I also have plantar fasciitis and they help relieve most of that pain. I would say if you have a REALLY wide toe box they may not work. If you can, go to your local running store to try on a few different shoes.
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