My Thrilling Adventure in Sydney: These Hokas Were My Sole Comfortable Footwear

Photo: Dinogo / Francesca Fasciglione

As a seasoned traveler, I constantly seek ways to simplify my journeys. One strategy is to pack lighter, but as an active explorer who enjoys hitting the trails, visiting national parks, and going on scenic runs, this can be challenging. Thus, I needed to find a sneaker that could handle all my adventures.

Earlier this year, I took on the challenge of minimalist packing: I traveled to Sydney, Australia, determined to bring only one pair of comfortable shoes. Despite having a collection of incredibly comfy and versatile footwear from brands like On, Merrell, and Adidas, I opted for popularity and chose my Hoka Kawana 2 sneakers. Having previously worn Hoka shoes on my travels, I was confident they could handle any terrain, so I felt assured they would perform well.

Hoka Kawana 2 Sneakers

Zappos

$140 at Zappos $140 at Bloomingdale's $140 at Hoka.com

What initially attracted me to these Hokas was their versatility: perfect for both workouts and light gym sessions. They’re also less bulky than other Hoka models, which meant they wouldn’t take up much space in my suitcase. Most importantly, their chic design ensured I wouldn’t look out of place wearing them at Bondi Beach, Sydney’s Darling Harbor, or while exploring the stylish shops on Oxford Street.

My Hoka Kawanas faced the ultimate challenge during my action-packed trip to Sydney. These shoes turned out to be the perfect travel companions: I strolled along Bondi Beach, scaled the iconic Sydney Harbor Bridge, interacted with kangaroos and koalas, canoed in the great outdoors, and even enjoyed a rave train experience (more details on that later) without switching shoes or suffering a single blister on my weary feet. I also happened to visit during Vivid Sydney, a spectacular 23-day arts and culture light festival featuring various activities and installations around the city.

Hoka Kawana 2 Sneakers

Zappos

$140 at Zappos $140 at Bloomingdale's $140 at Hoka.com

The diverse terrains around Bondi Beach were the first test for my Kawanas. Arriving at Australia’s most iconic beach early in the morning, I kicked off with a two-hour jog along the coastal path, tackling steep inclines and narrow downhill sections before concluding at the renowned Bondi Icebergs Club for a cocktail and lunch with stunning views. What I appreciated about these shoes was their cushioning for running on roads and pavements, paired with ample support for walking on grass and sand. Plus, the inner lining, functioning as a double sock, made it incredibly easy to slip the sneakers on and off—ideal for those who prefer to remove their shoes without fussing with laces.

The following day, I laced up my Hoka Kawanas once more for the ultimate Sydney adventure: climbing the Harbor Bridge. (I know it may sound touristy, but it was an absolute blast; I embraced being a tourist in my own country.) During the nearly two-hour ascent, I navigated steep steps and even tackled a vertical steel ladder before reaching the summit of this iconic Aussie landmark, soaring 440 feet above sea level. My feet never slipped during the entire journey, and I felt completely secure in my Kawanas. I was also relieved that blisters were the least of my worries, as these comfy, lightweight shoes felt almost like slippers throughout the climb.

To celebrate our accomplishment, my friends and I snagged tickets to Sydney's coolest annual event: Tekno Train. If you're a fan of DJ Paul Mac, plan your Sydney visit for June when it returns and hop on this unique train that takes you across the city past national landmarks, all while grooving to vibrant techno beats in a converted passenger train. Sporting my Hokas, I danced the “Melbourne Shuffle” and “Brisbane Stomp,” all while my feet remained comfortable and stylish.

Hoka Kawana 2 Sneakers

Zappos

$140 at Zappos $140 at Bloomingdale's $140 at Hoka.com

My Hoka Kawanas proved equally impressive in nature as they were in the city. Amidst the bushland and stunning parks, I wore them during morning runs around Morton National Park, as well as in the Southern Highlands and Blue Mountains. Running up and down steep inclines, exploring gorges and the “wishing well” rock formation, the midsole allowed me to tackle various terrains without losing speed, while the gum rubber outsole provided added stability.

Mornings in the Southern Highlands can be damp and slippery, but the Hoka Kawana shoes consistently felt stable. The best feature was the single-layer mesh that kept my feet feeling cool and dry. Their lightweight and responsive design was crucial for me, especially during my run in the national park where I spotted some kangaroos. I felt secure enough in these shoes to dash away from them straight to my forest lodge at Osborn House to rest my tired feet.

Other satisfied Hoka Kawana users have shared their positive experiences as well. “After extensive research, I finally decided to buy them. They are absolutely incredible for comfort, balance, and long-distance walking, running, and city exploration,” noted one reviewer from Columbia. Another customer from California echoed that the Hoka Kawana can handle significant mileage. “I love these shoes; I've really tested them, and they remain comfy and supportive,” they wrote. “I work in retail, clocking in at least 18,000 steps during an 8-hour shift.”

If you're looking for more comfy shoes to enhance your collection, here are a few additional pairs you might want to consider.