Hoka, Men’s Gaviota 6
I am a person who has struggled for 2-3 years to replace my New Balance 1540’s and 928’s (they’ve gotten too slim). In the world of New Balance, I wore a 4E for 20-25 years, now neither the 4 or 6E’s feel true to size—any longer, too slim. I’m sure I’m not the only one fighting this battle.
I am currently trying the Hoka, men’s Gaviota 6 in the XW/4E—Hoka’s widest offering at this time. This shoe holds the promise of potentially being what those of us who have been crying for in a wider shoe. It is one of the nicer shoes I have tried in the past couple of years. There is a lot to build on with the Gaviota 6.
The Gaviota 6 4E is not quite wide enough yet, but widen the shoe all the way around the front and mid-foot (don’t forget the little toes, they need room too) would be helpful. Add a little more volume in the toe box and add a little more room in the lacing area for a wider foot. Before I forget, the cushioning is unusually comfortable in this shoe. Not too spongy, not too firm—just right.
I am a classic “Baby Boomer”, still walking daily at 73. We “Boomers” are the longest living generation ever. It’s known our feet flatten and splay as we age and we need wider shoes to stay active, social and alive in.
HOKA, I hope you’re listening, the Gaviota 6 is your perfect gateway into a wider shoe option and you’re already on your way. Launch it with 2-3 good colors with an XXW width and full last, and as they said in the film “Field of Dreams”, “build it and they will come”. Those of us with wide feet know what we need and we can’t do it without you!