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.
Sneakerhead from South Florida who turned his passion into a career. When not writing for Sole Retriever, I enjoy attending concerts and catching the latest movies. Email: nick@soleretriever.com
