If you’re heading to Disney World soon, chances are that you’ve got a pair of HOKAs in your bag ready to go.
Magic Kingdom
But it looks like thing may be changing as they seem to have some serious competition. For years, we’ve been practically shouting from the rooftops that HOKAs are the best shoes for walking miles around Disney World. They’re comfy, supportive, and a lifesaver for your feet after 12+ hours in the parks. But what if we told you there’s a way cheaper alternative that might just break every unspoken Disney World outfit rule we’ve ever shared? Buckle up, because these new shoes might just be the game-changer you never saw coming.
The HOKA Standard
We’ve always been team HOKA when it comes to Disney World footwear. And honestly, it’s hard to argue with the comfort level of these ultra-cushioned, podiatrist-approved sneakers. Whether you’re rope-dropping Magic Kingdom, hustling to catch a parade, or casually snacking your way through EPCOT, HOKAs have been our go-to recommendation. But there’s one big downside: the price.
©Amazon
Depending on the color and size, a pair of HOKA Clifton 9s could run you anywhere from $159.00 to $329.97. Yep, that’s a serious chunk of your Disney budget!
But now we may have found a shoe that delivers much of the same comfort without the jaw-dropping price tag. Enter: Skechers Women’s Max Cushioning Elite 2.0.
Meet the New Contender: Skechers Women’s Max Cushioning Elite 2.0
Listen, we’re just as surprised as you are. But after spotting these Skechers on Amazon, we had to investigate. With a price range between $54 and $95, they’re literally a fraction of the cost of HOKAs. They’ve got a breathable knit upper, solid arch support, and a lightweight cushioned sole (all things we look for in a solid park shoe).
©Amazon
So, do they really compare to HOKAs? Here’s the breakdown:
- Comfort: Max Cushioning Elite 2.0 sneakers are designed to keep your feet happy even after a long day of walking.
- Weight: Like HOKAs, these shoes are lightweight and breathable, making them perfect for long days in the Florida heat. Nobody wants to be dragging around heavy sneakers when you’re trying to power walk to your next Lightning Lane.
- Style: Okay, okay. We’ll admit that HOKAs have that trendy, chunky aesthetic that Disney parkgoers love. But if you’re not into the oversized sneaker trend, the Skechers might actually be a better option for you. They have a sleeker design that blends in a bit more with casual outfits.
- Price: This is where Skechers really win. You could buy three pairs for the price of one HOKA Clifton 9. That’s a whole lot of extra churros, people.
The Verdict?
Look, we’re not saying you need to dump your HOKAs in the trash. But if you’re looking for a more affordable option that still delivers major comfort and support, these Skechers are definitely worth considering. They may not have the same name recognition, but when it comes to walking 20,000+ steps in a day, your feet won’t care about the brand. They’ll care about the cushioning.
Hollywood Studios
So, have we officially broken our own Disney World outfit rule? Maybe. But hey, rules are meant to be broken especially when they save you money and keep your feet happy.
In the meantime, make sure to stay tuned to DFB for more.
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Skechers are the best- the only brand of shoe I buy! I will definitely be wearing both Skechers tennis shoes and sandals on my Disney trip in a couple months. Skechers even has a new line of waterproof shoes, which could be amazing for the infamous Orlando rainstorms. Haven’t had a chance to try them on yet though, so I don’t know how they stack up in terms of comfort and breathability.