HOKA Infini Hike TC Review: Super Comfy Trail-Ready Hiking Sandals

The HOKA Infini Hike TC is a hiking sandal that brings HOKA’s signature midsole cushioning to an open-toe design for those who want to hike trails, feeling more connected to the space around them.

It provides the comfort and midsole / outsole technology of a top trail running shoe but in a sandal form, suitable for hiking on various terrains or even in the city.​

Key Specifications

• Price: $140 at REI.com / £115 at Sportsshoes.com (For UK Readers)
• Weight: 10.2oz (289g) for a Men’s US size 9
• Drop: 5 mm
• Upper: Ariaprene® with recycled foam and 100% rPET webbing; quick-dry straps
• Midsole: Dual-density CMEVA with 30% sugarcane content; MetaRocker™ geometry
• Outsole: Vibram® Megagrip rubber with 3.5 mm lugs; designed for resoling
• Extra Attributes: Three points of adjustability (heel Velcro, toe Velcro, side buckle). Deep heel cup for foot stability. Life Natural® anti-odor technology with peppermint oil. Resoleable outsole via Vibram® cobbler network​

Sizing and Fit

The Infini Hike TC offers a roomy fit, making it ideal for those with wider feet or who prefer extra space.

However, if you have narrower feet you might find it challenging to achieve a snug fit, even with the adjustable straps.

I recommend sizing down by half a size to get a more secure fit and reduce strap flappage because you’re having to tighten them too much.​

Performance Review

From the first wear, the Infini Hike TC feels soft and light, and to be honest I’d expect nothing less from Hoka.

The cushioning is reminiscent of HOKA’s Clifton 10, offering plush, forgiving support that’s surprisingly stable on uneven terrain. I attribute this to the wide base and how the midsole walls cradle your feet.

At 10.2oz (289g) for my US Men’s size 9, they’re not particularly minimal, like some sandals can be but that extra weight is justified by how cushioned and supportive they feel underfoot.

There’s that same plush, slightly bouncy feel that HOKA does so well, but it’s toned down just enough to feel stable for hiking or longer wear.

The dual-density CMEVA midsole doesn’t feel overly soft, there’s structure and support built in, which is especially noticeable through the arch and that deep heel cup.

The MetaRocker™ geometry helps with smooth transitions and efficiency when walking, especially on longer walks.

Whether strolling our neighborhood with Seb and our dog, or standing for hours doing chores around the house and backyard, I don’t get any foot fatigue that tend to come with flatter sandals.

On trails, the Vibram Megagrip outsole does exactly what it’s designed for – stick to the trail and stop you slipping, it’s best in class for outsole traction right now on trail running shoes and hikers.

Although not hugely aggressive, the 3.5mm lugs give just enough bite without making the ride feel rough on road surfaces. You can think of the Infini Hike TC as a road-to-trail transition sandal for hiking.

This outsole also flexes naturally with my stride, which makes them feel more like a hiking shoe with airflow than a stiff sandal or hiking boot.

One of the obvious benefits most people will be looking at these for it their breathability, and drainability for that matter.

They’ll keep your feet feeling cool on hot days, and water will drain though ans evaporate should you get caught in a rain storm.

I recommend wearing them without socks for the best fit and comfort – there’s plenty of padding on the straps so there’s never any rubbing points.

Now, I’ll be honest, the fit wasn’t perfect out of the box, even with the 3-point strap adjustment but that’s only because I went with my usual sizing when I should have gone down a half size.

Sizing down half a size would likely fix that for me and offer a more locked-in feel.

On the comfort front, they’ve been great for recovery days after intense run training days. If you’re also into running, you HAVE to visit my ‘Alastair Running’ blog and Youtube channel – I review running shoes and gear on there.

I’ve worn them after long runs when I don’t want anything compressing my feet, while letting them breathe and they feel amazing.

And finally, while they’re clearly built for performance, they don’t look out of place casually, and I’ve found myself reaching for these more than I expected, since moving to Florida, even just for walking the dog or heading into town.

My Verdict

To me, the HOKA Infini Hike TC stands out for its comfort and versatility.

It’s well-suited for hiking, walking, or simply standing for extended periods, and the sandal’s breathable design, with cushioned support, makes it perfect for summer adventures.

You can grab a pair for $140 at the following trusted online retailers:

$140 at REI.com / £115 at Sportsshoes.com (For UK Readers)