• Hoka's record $653 million in quarterly sales boosted Deckers' earnings for the first quarter of 2026.
• Deckers' international revenue surged 50%, driven by Hoka and Ugg's sales.
• CEO Stefano Caroti told investors to expect price increases to partially offset tariffs.

Hoka is on the move and reaching a new personal best.

The running brand had the "largest quarter in its history" in the first quarter of its 2026 fiscal year with $653 million in revenue, parent company Deckers reported on Thursday. The brand's sales grew 20% sales year over year.

The footwear giant highlighted its international growth as it navigates tariff-related challenges in the US. Hoka, along with Ugg, drove a 50% increase in Deckers' international revenue for Q1. Hoka got a shoutout for its success in the Asia-Pacific region, specifically its performance in retail stores in China.

"The strength of our business continues to be driven by the remarkable growth in our international markets," CEO Stefano Caroti said on the company's earnings call, adding that it was "navigating a choppy US consumer environment."

Deckers' total revenue was $965 million for the first quarter, surpassing analysts' estimates of $901 million.

Caroti told investors he expects the fast-paced growth to continue in the second quarter. Ugg and Hoka are among the "most consumer-loved brands in our industry," he said.

However, he said that Deckers plans to continue increasing product prices during fiscal year 2026 to "partially offset tariff headwinds." The company raised prices on some Hoka products in July.

The company attributes much of Hoka's success to its wholesale partnerships, marking an ongoing shift from online deal-hunting to in-person shopping for US consumers, Caroti said. The brand is known for its ultra-cushioned running shoes that have become popular among athletes.

Meanwhile, it's expanding its own retail store locations "on a much smaller scale." Leaning into the direct-to-consumer business at the expense of wholesale relationships has cost some competitors like Nike, which is trying to course-correct.

"Over time, we expect our DTC business to benefit from the conversion of newly acquired consumers to loyal, repeat purchasers," Caroti said.

• We spoke with stylists about which shoe trends are in and out this summer.
• According to the pros, backless shoes like mules and clogs will be popular.
• However, chunky sneakers, flip-flops, and ballet flats are being replaced by trendier styles.

Whether you're packing for a weekend away or heading out for a casual day in the sun, the right pair of shoes can make all the difference.

To help you navigate what's worth buying, Business Insider asked stylists to share the summer shoe trends they love and those that will soon be retired.

Backless shoes like mules and clogs are in this summer.

Patrick Kenger, lead personal stylist and founder of Pivot Image Consulting, told BI that backless shoes like clogs and mules are having a moment thanks to their effortless fit and breathable design.

"A great quality about these shoes is that you can easily slip them on and off," he said.

Clogs bring a retro, chunkier look, while mules have a more streamlined feel. Both offer a practical mix of comfort and style for the season.

Metallic shoes are having a moment.

Shimmery finishes are stepping into the spotlight this season, showing up on everything from sneakers and heels to flats. And according to fashion stylist Hailey Genevieve, gold, silver, and bold metallic tones aren't going anywhere.

"Metallic colors are the perfect way to add a statement pop to any outfit," she told BI.

Low-top sneakers go with just about anything.

Low-top vintage sneakers are trending across fashion circles, worn by everyone from street-style stars to everyday trendsetters.

Kendra Sharpe, stylist and founder of Kendra Sharpe Styling, told BI, "Low and retro is the moment right now."

Kenger said that another bonus of these sneakers is their versatility, making them ideal for a range of summer outfits.

Woven flats and sandals are a summer wardrobe staple.

Woven styles are everywhere right now and will likely continue to be very popular this summer.

"The woven design gives these shoes a textured look, plus added breathability," Kenger told BI.

Their airy construction and laid-back look make them easy to pair with just about anything, from casual shorts to dressier outfits.

Jelly sandals are having a grown-up glow-up.

The jelly shoes that were popular in the 90s are back with sleeker shapes and grown-up colors that feel playful but polished.

Available in all different colors and styles, they're sure to be the life of the pool party. Sharpe suggests trying the look as either a sandal or flat.

Cross-strap leather sandals can take you from the beach to a night out.

According to Kenger, cross-strap leather sandals are an elegant choice that pair well with summer fabrics like linen.

He said the sleek, structured design is ideal for dressing up casual outfits, making these a solid pick for everything from city strolls to dinner out.

However, bulky shoes are giving way to lightweight styles.

Chunky sneakers and heavy platforms are taking a backseat as fashion shifts toward lighter, more wearable options.

Kenger recommends opting for more refined silhouettes like canvas shoes, which offer a clean, breathable, and easy-to-style alternative that pairs well with everything from denim to linen.

Flip-flops should stay poolside.

Classic plastic flip-flops may have had a brief moment, but Genevieve said they're best reserved for the beach or pool.

To keep your look elevated, the stylist recommends opting for a thong micro-heel, which is a sleek blend of a flip-flop and a kitten heel. It's an easy upgrade that works for brunch, lunch, or a night out.

It's time to say goodbye to flashy branded sandals.

Sharpe told BI that overtly branded sandals are on their way out. Instead, she said to take your quiet luxury vibe into summer with sleek sandals that have minimal branding.

"This creates a more timeless look and an added level of chicness to your looks," the stylist said.

Ballet flats are losing momentum.

As wonderful and classic as ballet flats are, according to Genevieve, they're a bit too safe for this season. For a more exciting and trendy replacement, she suggests a woven style instead.

Or, for something more casual, Kenger said a more breathable and lightweight mesh flat will do the trick.

A San Diego startup says it's made the world's first 100% biodegradable sneaker — and that most of the competition is greenwashing.

But what does it mean to be "biodegradable"? And are biodegradable plastics really better for the planet?

We tested seven shoes brands to see if they would biodegrade and whether they're truly bio-based. And we explore why it's so hard to make an environmentally friendly shoe.