Lace-less slip-ons were super hot when the COVID-19 pandemic hit the globe, as every brand was pumping out foam-based EVA-injected clogs, mules, and lace-less designs. However, as we’ve returned to normalcy, the pendulum has slightly swung in the opposite direction, with consumers wanting more office-appropriate and traditional-looking footwear that still puts comfort above all. New Balance answered this question with the 1906L Loafer, a sneaker-loafer hybrid that debuted last year. Now, Hoka is getting in on the trend with their sneaker loafer dubbed the Hoka Speed Loafer.
Pairing the tooling of its Speedgoat 5 silhouette with the upper of a traditional leather loafer, the silhouette sports an all-black look for its leather paneling that covers the toe and profile. Adding reinforcement is a large suede panel separating the upper from the sole unit below. While serving no tangible purpose, the lace-lock tassel harkens back to traditional loafer designs.
The leather insole features a golden Hoka logo, one of the silhouette's only non-black hits. Hoka equips the model below with a blacked-out Speedgoat 5 foam midsole, maintaining its comfort-focused and chunky aesthetic. This is paired with a lugged Vibram rubber outsole.
The Hoka Speed Loafer Black will release on January 31, 2025, through Hoka online and in-store. Available in unisex sizing, the retail price is set at $185. Download the Sole Retriever mobile app to stay updated on the latest releases, raffles, news, and more in the sneaker and streetwear world.
Images via Hoka
Sneakerhead from South Florida who turned his passion into a career. Concerts, music, trying new restaurants, and catching the latest movies are some of the things I enjoy when not writing for Sole Retriever. Email: nick@soleretriever.com
