What do powder skis, mountain tals, and Hoka running shoes all have in common? They’re all designed to provide a smooth ride over varying terrain. Founded in 2009 by French trail runners Nicolas Mermoud and Jean-Luc Diard, Hoka was born out of their desire to bring the cushioned, floating feeling of skiing powder or riding a flowy mountain tal trail to running.
After making some prototypes and working with a Chinese company to develop a new kind of EVA foam, Mermoud and Diard came up with the basic Hoka recipe: Shoes that are soft and well-cushioned to soak up impact forces but light enough to feel peppy. The idea caught on, and now Hoka makes some of the best running shoes around.
The best Hoka running shoes cover the full spectrum of running, so whether you need a dependable trainer, a rugged trail shoe, or a pair of speedy kicks for race day, the company has models to meet your needs. To help you pick the right pair for you, I’ll walk you through the main technologies used in Hoka shoes and explain what those features do. Then, I’ll highlight the best pairs the brand makes right now for every kind of runner.
A close-up look at Witherspoons Hoka One One sneakers: Best Running Shorts ● zapatillas de running HOKA ONE ONE mujer talla 37.5 ● Best Running Accessories
The Best Hoka Running Shoes
- Best Daily Trainer: Clifton 9
- Best Value: Torrent 3
- Most Cushioning: Bondi 8
- Hoka one one zapatillas hoka one one clifton 8 46 5750 anthracite castlerock: Mach 5
- Most Stable: Arahi 6
The Expert: I became a runner in middle school and have covered running and outdoor gear for years, both on-staff at Runner’s World and as a freelance journalist. Running shoes is the category of gear I’ve written about the most, and I have firsthand experience with models from a range of brands. To write articles like this, I talk with brand reps about the company’s latest shoes and tech, consult RW tester feedback, and draw on my own experience with the running shoe industry. With direction from RW editors, I combine all that info to choose what shoes make it onto this page.
What to Consider When Shopping for Hoka Running Shoes
Hoka develops its shoes around a few basic principles: Adding extra cushioning to absorb impact forces, using light materials, and creating a wide rocker sole to preserve momentum and create a smoother ride. If you like to really feel the padding underneath your feet when you run, Hoka is the shoe for you. To compare models and zero in on the right shoe for you, it’s helpful to know a little more about the brand’s key technologies.
Cushioning Foam
While some companies have moved on from ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) foam in favor of newer formulations, Hoka has stuck with its proprietary EVA foam padding. Its shoes use various blends of compression-molded EVA (CMEVA) foam, with small variations that fine-tune the shoes for either low weight or strong energy return.
CMEVA is found on shoes all across the lineup, including flagship models like the Bondi and Clifton. It creates the traditional cushioned feel that Hoka fans love.
zapatillas de running HOKA ONE ONE pie cavo Mach 5. To create these, Hoka exposes its standard EVA foam to supercritical fluids–chemicals like nitrogen or carbon dioxide that, with intense heat and pressure, take on the properties of both a liquid and a gas. The supercritical fluid permeates the EVA, making the foam more porous to create a lighter and more responsive cushion. It’s perfect for runners who want shoes with a snappy, lightweight feel.
Hoka also recently started using polyether block amide (PEBA) foam—the same material used in super foams like Nike’s ZoomX cushion. Hoka reserves its PEBA blend specifically for top-tier racing shoes like Rocket X 2. It delivers the ultimate blend of low weight, shock absorption, and resilience for a cushioned, peppy ride.
zapatillas de running HOKA ONE ONE hombre entrenamiento | Meta-Rocker
Meta-Rocker is a sole design that combines a low drop (most Hoka running shoes have drop measurements around 4mm to 5mm) and a rounded sole shape that complements your natural stride to encourage smooth transitions from heel to toe with each step. Every Hoka shoe features a variation on this design theme.
Right now, the Hoka lineup divides into two categories: Shoes with the “Early Stage” Meta-Rocker have soles that begin to curve up under the balls of your feet, which gets you onto your toes quickly for a speedier running experience. Shoes with the “Late Stage” Meta-Rocker have soles that curve up closer to the toe, creating a more stable feel.
Active Foot Frame
Every Hoka shoe also features a sculpted sole design that cradles the foot deeper inside the shoe’s midsole to provide more stability as you run. Hoka likens the active foot frame to sitting in the secure, low bucket seat of a race car. The shoes have a snug, stable feel that keeps your feet from wobbling in your shoes, which is especially important given that Hoka shoes usually place a lot of foam under your feet.
zapatillas de running HOKA ONE ONE hombre entrenamiento | How We Evaluated the Best Hoka Running Shoes
The models below represent the best Hoka running shoes available now. To select them, I reviewed the Hoka shoe lineup and talked with a representative from the company to learn about its latest shoes. I drew on RW reviews, RW editor feedback, my own experience testing Hoka shoes, and my knowledge of the running shoe market to narrow the list down to the pairs below.
To create the most dynamic list and help the widest range of runners, I looked for performance running shoes that showcase the brand’s best foams, midsole tech, and other innovations.
For even more insight, check out our full-length shoe reviews (where available) to get detailed info on the performance of individual models.
Hoka Clifton 9 Running Sneaker
Hoka Clifton 9 Running Sneaker
Pros
- More cushioning than previous version
- Relatively light
Cons
- Not ideal for speedwork
Key Specs
| Weight | 8.7 oz (M), 7.3 oz (W) |
|---|---|
| Drop | 5mm |
The original Clifton is legendary among Hoka fans and marked a turning point for the brand—it proved that a shoe could provide maximum cushion without feeling clunky. The ninth iteration features even more cushioning–the stack height grew by 3mm–but it’s slightly lighter than the Clifton 8.
A new compression-molded EVA foam is tuned for responsiveness, a more streamlined upper helps save weight, and the Early Stage Meta-Rocker sole shape encourages smooth strides. It’s a solid pick for a neutral workhorse training shoe.
Shop Men’s Shop Women’s Full Review
Hoka Torrent 3 Running Sneaker
Hoka Torrent 3 Running Sneaker
Pros
- Lightweight
- Offers a good feel for the ground
Cons
- zapatillas de running HOKA ONE ONE hombre entrenamiento
Key Specs
| Weight | 8.7 oz (M), 7.5 oz (W) |
|---|---|
| Drop | 5mm |
Warning: The Torrent 3 might get you hooked on trail running. This affordable trail shoe is a solid pick for runners interested in venturing off the pavement and onto the dirt. It’s lightweight (especially for a trail model), and it boasts a lean cushioning profile that gives you a good feel for the ground.
The latest version features a apoyo outsole for improved traction on varied terrain, and Hoka swapped in a single-layer mesh upper for a boost in breathability. The upper also includes a gusseted tongue, so it won’t slide around when scampering over roots and rocks, and it’ll help keep out trail debris, too.
Hoka Bondi 8 Running Sneaker
Hoka Bondi 8 Running Sneaker
Pros
- all the Hoka One Ones
- Softer midsole foam
Cons
- Men’s model is heavier than the Bondi 7
Key Specs
| Weight | 10.8 oz (M), 8.9 oz (W) |
|---|---|
| Drop | 4 mm |
The Bondi is Hoka’s most cushioned road shoe with a downright beefy midsole. The latest version of the Bondi keeps the formula that has won this shoe such a devoted following: maximum cushioning for an ultra-plush ride. The midsole foam is lighter and even softer than the Bondi 7. Like with previous versions, an open mesh upper increases breathability, and a memory foam collar lends a better fit and feel around the ankle.
The eighth iteration also packs a new pillowy tongue. Lower down, Hoka extends and reshapes the heel to provide better shock absorption and stability. For a faster ride, consider the Bondi X, which provides a similar cushioned feel but includes an embedded carbon fiber plate for a snappier, speedier ride.
Hoka Mach 5 Running Shoe
Hoka Mach 5 Running Shoe
Pros
- Good energy return
- Versatile
Cons
- zapatillas de running HOKA hombre pie normal talla 30
Key Specs
| Weight | 8.2 oz (M), 6.8 oz (W) |
|---|---|
| Drop | 5mm |
Ténis HOKA Clifton 8 branco laranja mulher the previous version, and thankfully Hoka made only slight changes to version 5.0. The Mach 5 retains the dual-density cushioning setup, which places responsive supercritical EVA foam closer to your foot for a snappy ride, and the Early Stage Meta-Rocker sole shape helps you transition quickly from landing to toe-off. Although the shoe is designed to be firmer than the brand’s ultra-plush models, a molded EVA sockliner adds extra step-in comfort.
Hoka Arahi 6 Sneakers for Running
Hoka Arahi 6 Sneakers for Running
Pros
- Slightly lighter than previous version
- zapatillas de running HOKA ONE ONE distancias cortas talla 33.5 negras
Cons
- Not as plush as the Gaviota
Key Specs
| Weight | 9.3 oz (M), 7.6 oz (W) |
|---|---|
| Drop | 5mm |
Like the Gaviota, the Arahi combines stability features with cushioning, but it ups the ante with a more responsive ride at a lower weight. As with previous versions, the centerpiece of the shoe is the J-Frame; a layer of firm foam that runs along the inside edge of the shoe and curves around the heel in a “J” shape. The stiffer cushion supports your foot and helps counter overpronation.
It’s paired with bouncy, durable CMEVA cushioning for a responsive ride. Hoka trimmed some weight on the shoe thanks to a new mesh upper, and the tongue has extra cushioning for a more comfortable fit. It’s a great pick for recovery runs, and we think it’s zapatillas de running HOKA ONE ONE voladoras 10k talla 40 más de 100 of 2024.
Hoka Rocket X 2 Running Sneaker
Hoka Rocket X 2 Running Sneaker
Pros
- Roomy toe box
- Propulsive PEBA foam and carbon fiber plate
- Lightweight
Cons
- hoka elevon 2 chaussures de route pour hommes en blackdark shadow taille 40 1106477 bdsd
- Heavy for a racing shoe
Key Specs
| Weight | 8.3 oz |
|---|---|
| Drop | 5mm |
The Rocket X 2 is technically a follow-up to the 2020 Rocket X, but it’s a totally new shoe from top to bottom—the result of a development process that began in 2021. The beefy midsole features an all-new PEBA foam for excellent response and low weight. Underneath the cushion, a spoon-shaped carbon fiber plate creates a snappy feel and prevents the shoe from flexing too much.
Hoka slimmed down the mesh upper and heel collar for an improved fit: It allows your foot to sit farther back in the shoe, so you get more room in the toe box. For maximum performance on race day, this is the Hoka shoe to reach for.
Hoka Challenger Atr 7 Running Shoe
Hoka Challenger Atr 7 Running Shoe
Pros
- Lighter than previous version
- Plush ride
Cons
- Not ideal if you want a good feel for the ground
Key Specs
| Weight | 8.9 oz (M), 7.7 oz (W) |
|---|---|
| Drop | 5mm |
The Challenger is a do-it-all trail shoe that’s built to perform on dirt and pavement alike. The latest version is a significant revamp: Hoka increased the Challenger’s stack height and used a softer CMEVA foam to create a plusher ride and trim a little extra weight at the same time. The mesh upper is designed for breathability, and the rubber outsole features 4mm lugs for confidence-inspiring grip on mixed terrain.
Hoka Kawana Running Shoe
Hoka Kawana Running Shoe
Pros
- Hoka One One Sneakers Tor Ultra Hi Gore-Tex Nero
- Hoka One One x OC Bondi Opening Ceremony Black 1111597-BBLC
- hoka women s bondi
Cons
- Heavier than Hoka’s other workhorse trainer, the Clifton
- Not ideal for speedwork
Key Specs
| Weight | 10 oz (M), 8.4 oz (W) |
|---|---|
| Drop | 5mm |
The Kawana is a great choice for runners who need a single do-it-all pair of shoes: It’s a plush trainer that’s comfortable enough to wear all day. Hoka’s CMEVA foam absorbs impact and offers good energy return, and the early stage Meta-Rocker sole shape ensures smooth strides. The shoe also features Hoka’s SwallowTail crash pad geometry in the heel—the wide, asymmetrical shape and beveled edge promotes even, fluid landings. We named it one of zapatillas de running HOKA ONE ONE constitución fuerte talla 47.5 negras. As one of our testers said during the review process, “it made running on roads feel effortless.”
Hoka Speedgoat 5 Running Sneaker
Hoka Speedgoat 5 Running Sneaker
Pros
- Lighter than previous version
- Added protection and grip
Cons
- No stability features
Key Specs
| Weight | 10.3 oz (M), 8.5 oz (W) |
|---|---|
| Drop | 4mm |
An homage to ultrarunner Karl “Speedgoat” Meltzer, this is Hoka’s flagship trail shoe, and it’s ideal for long jaunts off-pavement. Hoka gave the fifth version of this racy trail shoe a hefty update. The outsole is equipped with a new Vibram Megagrip lug pattern for improved traction on loose ground, and a beefed-up double-layer jacquard mesh upper provides added protection from debris. Hoka also swapped in a new CMEVA foam in the midsole, which helps save weight—the Speedgoat 5 is about half an ounce lighter than the Speedgoat 4.
Hoka The Hoka One One Zinal arrives July 1 Running Shoes
Hoka The Hoka One One Zinal arrives July 1 Running Shoes
Pros
- zapatillas de running HOKA competición pie cavo talla 45.5 azules
- Grippy outsole sticks to rocks and dirt
- Roomy fit
Cons
- The design isn’t for everybody
Key Specs
| Weight | 10.4 oz (M), 8.5 oz (W) |
|---|---|
| Drop | 4mm |
In our review, we declared the The Hoka One One Zinal arrives July 1 to be Hoka’s best trail shoe. It serves up an excellent Shoes of strong traction that eats up steep, technical terrain along with a dual-density midsole design for a cushioned-yet-responsive ride. It’ll protect your feet from obstacles and keep them comfortable during longer efforts, but it’s also well-suited for going fast. In my testing, I found the shoe’s relatively firm ride created a good platform for picking up the pace. The only downside? The technicolor upper designs might not be your style.
Q+A With Running Shoe Expert Michael Charboneau
RW: I’m an overpronator. Will Hoka shoes work for me?
MC: Hoka’s Active Foot Frame design—a sculpted footbed that extends upward on either side of your foot—creates a relatively supportive, stable feel in all of its shoes. If you overpronate and need extra support, consider Hoka’s dedicated support models, most notably the Arahi 6. It uses a layer of firmer foam around the heel and on the medial side of the shoe to counter overpronation and keep your feet aligned as you run.
RW: Can I race in Hoka shoes?
MC: Absolutely. Lately, elite racing shoes have trended toward thick, lightweight, well-cushioned midsoles with embedded carbon fiber plates, and Hoka has embraced that trend with its own suite of race-oriented super shoes. The Rocket X 2 is currently the pinnacle racer in the brand’s lineup, and it features a generous wedge of foam, a carbon fiber plate for snappy response, and low overall weight to keep you pushing forward.
RW: Hoka One One Cavu Mens?
MC: While some runners feel that softer shoes with lots of cushioning are easier on the joints, research doesn’t really back that up. One study suggests that running in maximalist shoes actually encourages you to land harder with each step, putting more stress on your joints. Your shoes alone probably won’t be the pivotal factor in avoiding injuries. If you’re worried about running injuries or currently dealing with one, see our guide to treating common running injuries.
Michael is a freelance writer with years of experience covering gear and the outdoors for Runner's World and other publications; when he's not writing, he's usually biking, hiking, and running in the mountains around Los Angeles, where he lives.
