Comparison Review: Once you try them on, you won't want to let them go! We compare recovery shoes that gently soothe tired feet
Written by Outdoor Gearzine Editorial Department
Like most runners, I like to relax my feet in a hot spring after trail running. However, even after descending the mountain, I still have to start walking normally, and move around by car, train, go to restaurants, etc
It may be a bit of a burden, but if you can carry them easily, it's a good idea to bring recovery shoes. Not only will they reduce fatigue, but they'll also come in handy before you approach the mountain. You can even go straight to the beach!
table of contents
table of contents
- About the items tested this time
- Test Results & Spec Comparison Table
- Evaluation results for each shoe
About the recovery shoes we compared this time
Recovery shoes are shoes that are primarily designed to relax the legs and hips after activities, absorbing shock to the maximum extent possible and speeding up recovery from fatigue. In recent years, there are many brands to choose from, including specialist manufacturers, running shoe manufacturers, and outdoor manufacturers that specialize in trail running. This time, we've picked out models from specialist and outdoor brands, and used them after private trail runs (Hakone, Kamakura, Tanzawa) and after setting up courses for power sports. We'll evaluate them based on the following five points
- Comfort: Whether or not the shoes feel comfortable when worn is a key factor in determining whether or not a recovery shoe is suitable for you
- Weight: Recovery shoes should not be too heavy and increase fatigue. Lightweight is good
- Stability: The most important factor in stability is the grip of the outsole. We check whether it will not interfere with walking or driving a car
- Functionality: We focused on the characteristics of the material, such as breathability, shock absorption, cushioning, and the functionality of the material itself
- Ease of movement: Determine whether you can walk smoothly while wearing the shoes
Test Results & Spec Comparison Table
| evaluation | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ |
|---|---|---|---|
| item |  HOKA ONE ONE ORA RECOVERY SLIDE |  OOFOS OOahh |  SALOMON RX BREAK |
| Reference price | 8,640 yen | 6,264 yen | 7,560 yen |
| Weight (g) | Approximately 180 | Approximately 130 | Approximately 200 |
| Midsole | Unique oversized midsole with excellent cushioning | Unique OOfoam with excellent shock absorption | Unique injection EVA for excellent cushioning |
| Comfort | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| weight | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★☆☆ |
| stability | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ |
| Functionality | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ |
| Ease of movement | ★★★★★ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ |
Impressions of each model
HOKA ONE ONE ORA RECOVERY SLIDE
The thick cushioning that only Hoka One One can offer is comfortable, making this a great pair of shoes for everyday use
First up are recovery sandals from HOKA ONE ONE, known for their cushioning. When I put my feet in, I found they were slightly wider, giving me a perfect fit. They gently supported my arch, and the heel was held a little deeper. The midsole uses HOKA ONE ONE's unique "oversized midsole." The thick cushioning is comfortable. (It's like stepping on a bamboo pole with your feet.) It also seems to reduce the strain on the calves. The outsole is similar to that of trail running shoes. There's no sense of instability typical of sandals, and I can walk with firm foot control. These are great shoes for everyday use, not just when you're tired from running
OOFOS OOahh
The moment you put them on, your feet will feel like they're sinking in. The soft, enveloping fit will become addictive
OOFOS is a pioneer in recovery shoes. Their special feature is shock absorption. OOFOS products use a special material called OOfoam. Unlike typical EVA midsoles, this unique material reduces impact rebound by 37%. It reduces the impact on the soles of your feet when you land, minimizing strain on your knees, hips, and back. The foot head is ergonomically designed, allowing the entire sole of your foot to sink in slightly for a perfect fit. It's also soft enough to bend easily by hand. Because of its softness, you need to be careful not to let your toes come into contact with the ground and arch outward while walking (though this may just be down to my walking style). They're so light they float on water, and surprisingly, they're machine washable
SALOMON RX BREAK
A good balance of cushioning and stability allows you to walk comfortably while recovering
Although designed like flip-flops, these are also recovery shoes. When you put your feet in, you'll notice that they're less cushioned than the other two pairs. That said, the footbed's contours are quite solid, and the arch and heel cup are well defined, allowing for a relaxed fit. While they're slightly less lightweight, the heel cup offers an outstanding fit, even providing support for your posture, especially your lower back. You can walk comfortably and securely. The upper is made of a seamless material that feels pleasant against the skin, so you won't feel any chafing or tightness. They're also extremely breathable. The thong may feel tight when you first put them on, but don't worry; it will gradually become more comfortable
Kenji Okuyama
Trailist (trail photo writer, event management staff, apprentice lumberjack, mountain hut supporter, etc.). As a freelance trail writer, I write articles for trail running-related publications. As an event management staff member, I was affiliated with the Kita Tanzawa Mountains Center, then Power Sports (where I am now). Course maintenance led me to complete the Basic Forest Management Training and Training Forest Practical Course (which means I'm an apprentice lumberjack). I occasionally help out at Hirugatake Sanso, the highest peak in the Tanzawa Mountains
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