Head-to-head · Best Mens Wide Walking Shoes

Hoka Men's Transport CVO Wide vs New Balance Men's Fresh Foam Arishi v4 Wide

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

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The short answer

Hoka Men's Transport CVO Wide comes out ahead by a clear margin (4.5 vs 3.6). The gap is mostly about urban commuters needing traction — read the strengths below before deciding.

Higher ratedRanked #1 in Best Mens Wide Walking Shoes

Hoka Men's Transport CVO Wide

4.5

10 sources$150as of Sep 1

The Hoka Transport CVO Wide delivers excellent comfort and durability for daily walking and commuting. Reviewers praised its superior traction with Vibram Megagrip outsole, ideal for wet or trail conditions, and its spacious toe box that provides a comfortable fit. The bungee lacing system makes it easy to slip on and off, while the compression-molded EVA midsole offers good shock absorption. However, some users noted it can be warm in hot weather and may produce squeaking sounds during the initial break-in period. This shoe is best suited for urban commuters and casual walkers who value comfort and protection over breathability.

Strengths

— Well-cushioned for all-day wear
— Superior traction with Vibram Megagrip outsole
— Easy to slip in and out with bungee lacing system

Watch-outs

— Not great for warm weather
— Not ideal for warm weather

$150 · Buy at blueoxrunning.com Full review →

Ranked #4 in Best Mens Wide Walking Shoes

New Balance Men's Fresh Foam Arishi v4 Wide

3.6

5 sources$71.99as of Sep 1

The New Balance Fresh Foam Arishi v4 delivers exceptional comfort and versatility for daily wear, with RunRepeat calling it a 'reliable and versatile daily trainer' that excels in cushioning and flexibility. The shoe offers a plush, cloud-like feel that's ideal for easy runs, walks, and gym sessions, though reviewers noted it lacks arch support and has a stiff upper that may require time to break in. At under $100, it provides standout value for casual runners seeking a neutral daily trainer, though those needing stability support may want to consider alternatives like the ASICS GT 1000 12 or New Balance Fresh Foam X Kaiha Road.

Strengths

— Cloud-like cushioning with plush comfort for all-day wear
— Extremely flexible design that's great for easy/recovery runs
— Lightweight at 8.5 oz with a nice bounce

Watch-outs

— Lacks arch support which may not suit pronating runners
— Stiff upper construction that can feel unforgiving initially

$71.99 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

How they stack up

Hoka Men's Transport CVO Wide

The Hoka Transport CVO provides superior traction and a spacious toe box compared to the New Balance Arishi v4 and Skechers Arch Fit, which are less durable and offer less support. Unlike the Brooks Addiction Walker 2, it's more breathable and lightweight, though it lacks the corrective stability that the Brooks offers for overpronation and is less suitable for warm weather.

New Balance Men's Fresh Foam Arishi v4 Wide

The New Balance Fresh Foam Arishi v4 stands out for its plush cushioning and flexibility, making it superior for easy runs and casual wear compared to the Brooks Addiction Walker 2, which is heavier and stiffer, or the Skechers Go Walk Arch Fit, which lacks breathability. However, unlike the Hoka Transport CVO, it doesn't offer the same level of traction or a bungee lacing system, and it's less supportive for pronating runners.

Specs side-by-side

Spec	Hoka Men's Transport CVO Wide	New Balance Men's Fresh Foam Arishi v4 Wide
Weight	10.9 oz / 309g	8.5 oz / 242g
Width	Wide	Wide
Upper Material	Cordura	Breathable mesh, synthetic upper
Midsole	30% sugarcane EVA	Fresh Foam
Outsole	Vibram Megagrip	rubber outsole
Heel Stack	34.1 mm	28.1 mm
Forefoot Stack	26.1 mm	20.4 mm
Drop	5 mm	7.7 mm
Dimensions	—	12.7 x 7.9 x 4.5 inches; 2.1 pounds

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