I was wearing Altra and Sketchers for the wider toe box, for comfort. When I first felt like I was losing some balance, I started reading. The Hoka Clifton 9 and the Bondi 9 were the ones that were recommended most often for a woman my age for stability and balance while walking. Also the Hoka Arahi 7. Dick’s Sporting Goods only had the Clifton and the Arahi in stock. I walked around their store in both shoes, switching back and forth and liked the Clifton 9. I actually have two pairs, because I wanted an all black shoe too. I did not need to break them in. Now, my balance has gotten worse in just the last 4 months or so, and I cannot walk at all in the Altras or the Sketchers. I still like the Hoka Clifton. I walk very slowly until I can get a shopping cart in my hands. A cane would probably help, but I am not ready yet.
Today I wore the Zero brand natural shoe, Sunrise style, in the house, instead of socks with nonslip treads. Experimenting with training my feet to ‘feel’ the surface I am walking on. I did not have any weird sensations in my feet today, but will have to evaluate further to determine if they improve my balance.
I have tried insoles for a high arch but I don’t even notice my arches now that I have this balance problem. Every day I scroll and look for answers, and I want to hear what has worked for others in this group. I need to research stimulating insoles for use in my Hokas. It is a journey. If you bought your shoes in a store, you could go back and possibly compare with other models. Up until I bought the Hokas, I bought shoes online and returned them if they didn’t work out. But, getting in the store is a better way to compare. Dick’s was close to me and had the two models. But, I don’t believe they had anyone who could answer questions.
I hope you find some relief.