Verdict from +100 user reviews
6 reasons to buy
- Almost all of the owners rave about how comfortable the OluKai Alapa Li is for all-day wear.
- This pair of walking shoes is excellent for land, and water usage says a majority of reviewers.
- Many users are pleased that they can wash this trainer if it gets dirty or starts to smell.
- A good number of individuals love that this footgear has a light and breathable top, making it suitable for warm weather.
- The collapsible back appeals to multiple shoppers.
- According to a lot of people, the sporty look partners well with shorts, jeans, and even khakis.
3 reasons not to buy
- Some consumers have mentioned that the forefoot section of the Alapa Li feels tighter compared to other OluKai walking shoes of the same size
- A few folks are disgusted that this model developed an awful stink, and it doesn’t dry as fast they had hoped for.
- One commenter has complained that after a month of use, the upper separated from where it attaches to the sole.
Bottom line
The OluKai Alapa Li is highly lauded for the comfort it delivers. One of its sought-after features, the patented Drop-In Heel, gained the favor of consumers as it quickly transforms the look. On the other hand, despite having a mesh upper, there were reports that it developed an awful stink because it doesn’t dry fast enough. But overall, style- and performance-wise, repeat buyers recommend this trainer.
Tip: see the best walking shoes.
User reviews:
- 4.6/5 by Amazon (+200)
- 4.7/5 by Amazon UK (+200)
- 4.9/5 by Sun and Ski (+200)
- 4.6/5 by Zappos (+50)
- 4.7/5 by REI (+20)
Good to know
Who is it for? The OluKai Alapa Li is designed for men who lead an active lifestyle. Its sporty vibe pairs well with outdoor clothing, but it also goes well with smart casual attire. It’s a great companion for people who do so many things in one day that they do not have time to change into different shoes that will fit their next activity.
What is it for? This pair of slip-on walking shoes is crafted for almost all types of activities. It can be used in the office, for running errands, trekking, at the gym, and water activities. It features a sole unit that provides shock attenuation, and the upper is constructed to be breathable and easily washed.
Traction. The bottom of the OluKai Alapa Li is protected by a layer of Wet Grip Rubber. This compound is designed to provide grip on various surfaces, especially on wet ones like on boats. It also features siping, which amplifies its adherence to wet surfaces.
Shock attenuation. The midsole of the Alapa Li is made of ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA). This foam compound is known to dull the impact of foot landings to prevent discomfort.
Comfort. Atop the EVA foam is the single-density polyurethane (PU) footbed. Its anatomical shape delivers maximum underfoot coverage for all-day support. It is covered with a moisture-wicking fabric that has been treated with an anti-microbial agent to prevent odor formation. If it gets dirty, just remove that insert and wash it to restore its glory.
This model is orthotic-friendly. Those who need more arch support can simply remove the insert that comes with it to use their choice of insole.
Coverage. The OluKai Alapa Li employs an engineered air mesh top at the front. It is soft and breathable, which enhances the comfortable in-shoe experience. The back panel and the patch on the instep with the logo are made with antiquated full-grain leather.
As for the inside, it is lined with a single layer of soft fabric. It has moisture-wicking properties that prevent sweaty feel even if you’re not wearing socks.
Ease of use. Completing the sporty look of the Alapa Li is the elastic lace on the instep. It allows wearers to slip in and out of the footwear without having to tie or untie anything.
This model also features OluKai’s patented Drop-In Heel. This construction allows users to fold the heel panel, so the slip-on trainer transforms into sliders.
- Alapa Li is the Hawaiian term for active. The name suits what the shoe embodies as this pair of OluKais can be used for all sorts of activities. You don’t have to stop and change for you to enjoy whatever life brings you.
- Though this model lacks Polynesian prints on the outsole, the rubber pods are made to look like waves. The Hawaiian hibiscus print is used on the insert. Meanwhile, the Makau fish hook logo is placed in various parts of the trainer.