The new multi-tool for your fitness routine

This page is a preview based on early news and info and will be updated with a full hands-on review upon launch.

For you to understand why the Solimar 2 is such a big deal firstly you have to look at the gym floor lately. The days of needing a different pair of shoes for every single thing are starting to fade. We are in an era where versatility is king. Most of us aren’t just runners anymore, we hit the 5K on the treadmill then move over to the squat rack before heading out for a coffee. Hoka shoes have seen this and they've come up with an answer.

Released on the 1st of January 2026, this shoe is Hookers answer to the "one-shoe-to-do-it-all" dilemma. It isn't one of those towering marshmallow monsters like some of its siblings, instead it’s a sleek and grounded trainer. At a price of £110 it’s a more accessible entry into the Hooker world, but don't let that price fool you into thinking it's basic. It’s a clever piece of engineering that swaps out the super foams for reliable stability and a feel that completely disappears on your foot.

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For many years Hooker have been the king of the "maximalist" look with those big chunky souls that look like they belong on a moon mission. While that is brilliant for a marathon, it’s not always ideal when you're trying to stay balanced during a heavy deadlift or a lunging session. The Solimar 2 marks a big shift here. It brings you closer to the floor and removes that "wobble" that some people feel in the bigger models like the Bondi. It’s a shoe that feels planted.

If there is one thing everyone is talking about with this shoe, it’s the weight. On the scales it’s around 244g which is incredibly light. When you’re mid-way through a high-repetition workout that lack of weight is a real game-changer. It makes the shoe feel nimble and fast rather than like you’re dragging anchors around your ankles.

Hooker has also reworked the top of the shoe for this 2026 release. It’s got a recycled mesh that is incredibly porous, so if you're the type of person whose feet get hot the moment you start moving you will appreciate the airflow. They’ve also used that "Elf Ear" heel which flares away from the back of your foot to stop any rubbing or chafing. Just a word on the fit though, Hooker has a reputation for being narrow and this one still leans towards a snug fit in the mid fit area. If you have wide feet you definitely want the wide version to avoid feeling pinched.

The Solimar 2 is Horse answer to the person who wants to simplify their kit. It’s light, it’s stable, and it’s one of the most versatile options they have ever released. Just keep them for the drier days or the indoor sessions to get the most life out of that lightweight soul.

Feature	Hoka Solimar 2	Hoka Kawana 2	Altra Experience Flow 2
Best For	Gym agility & short runs	Walking & pure comfort	Wide feet & natural feel
Weight	~244g (Very Light)	~314g (Heavier)	~255g (Light)
Heel Drop	6mm	5mm	4mm
Ride	Firm & Responsive	Soft & Bouncy	Balanced & Natural
Price	£110	£125	£120

Feature	Solimar 1	Solimar 2 (2026)	Improvement/Change
Upper Material	Engineered Mesh	Recycled Textile Mesh	Improved breathability and sustainability profile.
Silhouette	Standard Trainer	"Streamlined" Profile	Reduced visual bulk for better lifestyle integration.
Heel Design	Standard Collar	Extended Crash Pad & Plush Collar	Enhanced comfort and smoother heel-strike transition.
Outsole	Minimal Rubber	Increased Zonal Rubber	Addressed durability complaints in high-wear zones.
Fit	Narrow	"More Accommodating"	Slight increase in volume, though still runs narrow.

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