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Best Hoka Running Shoes
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Comfort
There was a study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine and it addressed what has been a long-standing theory amongst several shoe experts. While some may believe that the most important factor in determining the best running shoe is to find the best gait, this study actually lead researchers to conclude that how comfortable a shoe is, holds more importance. With that being said, what is it that makes a running shoe comfortable? The obvious answer is an optimal amount of cushioning and yes, this does play a key role (especially in motion control shoes).
But, the shock absorption technology is also paramount. The components of a shoe, including the insole and the midsole, need to protect your feet when you strike the ground. Due to the speed that you run, your feet will strike off the ground with a great amount of force and alleviating the shock that your feet endure is critical. Of course, you may also see a seamless construction and this can greatly reduce the chance of skin irritation.
Breathability
If you regularly participate in any form of physical activity, it is ideal that all of your garments and clothing be breathable. As your body builds up heat, it releases sweat and if your clothing absorbs this sweat and offers minimal airflow, the experience will be more dreadful. This same concept applies to running shoes and it is amplified when you take into consideration your feet have the most sweat glands in the human body. Along the same line as the comfort, how can a shoe be designed to be breathable?
It really comes down to two main components; that being the weight and ventilation. Wearing a shoe that feels like it is dragging you down is never fun and can cause your feet to sweat at a more rapid rate. This is especially important if you need motion control shoes as they integrate more cushioning and this can lead to excess weight. Although, the ventilation is just as important. This is where the design of the upper comes into play as it should be made with mesh material to accommodate for airflow.
Overall Fit
Part of the reason why finding the right pair of running shoes can be such a daunting task is because of the way they fit. See, as opposed to your everyday pair of shoes, a running shoe is probably going to need to be slightly larger. Due to the nature of their design, you need a little bit more room than you do in a casual pair of shoes. Of course, all you really need to do is keep in mind three key tips when trying to decide the right size for you.
First off, the fit throughout the midfoot should be secure but comfortable at the same time. Secondly, there should be little to no slipping off your heel when running. And, finally, between the end of your longest toe and the front of the shoe, there should be around a thumb’s width of the room. Okay, so, clearly, you can’t physically try on a pair of shoes when ordering them online. As such, look through user feedback to see how others claim the shoe fits.
Features
Besides the well-known features of "maximum cushioning, minimum drop," these shoes are also known for their design features. No matter how many shoe experts you interview around the world if you ask all of them if you should buy a shoe based on appearance they would respond with an emphatic no. There are so many other elements that supersede appearance such as comfort and fitting, that it should never be a priority.
However, the reason it is being focused on in this guide is that it is never a bad thing to desire running in a pair of shoes that you actually find appealing. The thing about Hoka, though, is they typically implement some crazy and outlandish color combinations. If this is not your thing, you may have to look long and hard for some more subtle designs. But, do not get it twisted; the performance will always be a higher priority.
Top 10 Picks
1. Gaviota
As a motion control and stability shoe, the Gaviota is actually quite light. Given the fact it integrates a superb amount of cushioning without adding excess weight, the results could not be sweeter.
Read moreComfort and Stability
While the last stage meta-rocker offers the stability runners crave, the thick underfoot foam is able to handle impacts very well and soften the blow every time you land from a foot strike.
Breathability
Motion control shoes can add a ton of weight as they typically implement more cushioning. Yet, this model defies that and is one of the lighter models out there. Plus, the upper is breathable.
Overall Fit
Most runners agreed that this shoe ran true-to-size. However, some users thought the toe box was roomy while others felt it was too tight. In theory, this is probably only going to be an issue with wider feet.
Features
The main component that adds durability to the Gaviota Stability Shoe is the RMAT J-Frame support.
A majority of those who have run in this shoe seem to be satisfied with the design. While there are some outlandish options available, most are pretty good.
Overall
Anyone looking for a top-of-the-line motion control shoe, it is tough to recommend one more than the Gaviota. It is quite astounding that Hoka was able to achieve the level of cushioning they did without adding excessive weight.
2. Vanquish 2
As opposed to the original Vanquish Shoe, the follow-up model offers a superior amount of cushioning. Plus, the construction as a whole is highly durable and should hold up over time.
Read moreComfort and Stability
In addition to the meta-rocker geometry construction, a dual-layer EVA midsole has been implemented to provide a substantial amount of support and stability.
Breathability
To enhance the breathability, the Vanquish 2 has an external web designed zonal 3D printing. Additionally, the air mesh upper also improves the overall ventilation.
Overall Fit
According to a number of user reviews, the Vanquish 2 is a shoe that tends to fit both tight and narrow. Because of this, you may need to order a size larger than you typically do.
Features
Due to the strategic high-abrasion rubber outsole that sports durable zonal rubber placement, a number of runners have appreciated the overall durability of this shoe.
This designer is known for designing running shoes that are extremely vibrant in color and the Vanquish 2 exemplifies that to a tee. As a bonus, there are plenty of color options to select from.
Overall
Those of you who struggle to find shoes because your feet are extra-wide, you may have that same issue with the Vanquish 2 Shoes. But, that is the extent of the problems that this shoe possesses.
3. Constant 2
Though there are some slight design flaws with the Constant 2 Shoes, they are ideal for those with wider feet and also sport an integrated meta-rocker to increase your overall stability.
Read moreComfort and Stability
Thanks to the active foot frame, your foot is allowed to relax and sick into the midsole unit. The result is an underfoot platform that provides an ideal amount of comfortability.
Breathability
On one hand, the air mesh fabric of the upper delivers an optimal amount of ventilation. However, there is the other hand which is dealing with the issue of excessive weight.
Overall Fit
The Constant 2 Shoes fit as well as any shoe on this list. Primary reasons for this are its TPU external heel counter and its wider toe box.
Features
There is an interesting dichotomy at play here because the combination of the EVA and RMAT technology is designed to add durable support. Yet, some runners shared that the outsole rubber began to wear after a few months.
Just with a quick glance, you can easily see that the Constant 2 Shoe sports a visual design that will probably appeal to the modern generation of runners.
Overall
With its exceptional fit for wide feet and superb ventilation properties, there are many reasons to love this running shoe. While the weight can be a red flag, this is still an excellent stability shoe.
4. Hupana
The Hupana Shoe sports the renowned Hoka cushion feel and because of this, the response and cushioning provided are above-average. In addition, the RMAT outsole adds a ton of traction.
Read moreComfort and Stability
According to the experiences of some buyers, the underfoot cushioning of the Hupana was firm while maintaining an optimal amount of response.
Breathability
Even though the knitted upper is designed to provide ventilation, a handful of testers agree to disagree. However, the lightweight nature has been vastly appreciated.
Overall Fit
The Hupana actually tends to run a little large but what is nice is that the upper actually locks in your feet and provides an ideal fit.
Features
Few elements of this shoe have been held in higher regard than the RMAT platform. This provides excellent traction capabilities and on top of this, it delivers longevity.
Funnily enough, some reviewers commented that this model was one of the only models to not look ridiculous. Honesty is a good thing, right?
Overall
Even if you wanted to utilize this shoe for more activities than just running, such as casual walking, you could. Overall, its unique and versatile design makes it worthwhile.
5. Clifton 4
Hoka updated the design of their Clifton Shoes and the 4th model, for most runners, offers superior comfortability, enhanced support, and high arch support.
Read moreComfort and Stability
As opposed to previous Clifton Shoes, this 4th model sports superior comfortability. The main reason why is because of the seamless SpeedFrame construction.
Breathability
The combination of the breathable mesh and the synthetic overlays comes into play with the optimal amount of breathability that is offered by the Clifton 4.
Overall Fit
A majority of the buyers that left a positive review noted that this shoe fit true-to-size. On top of this, the toe box is designed to be spacious.
Features
You take a chance with the durability of this shoe as one user noted they are made with high-quality, while another claimed the cushioning started to disintegrate after around 200 miles.
To be honest, these shoes can be hit or miss in terms of their visual design. Thankfully, the Clifton 4 definitely falls under the hit category.
Overall
There is no doubt about it; the Clifton 4 is a nice addition to the Clifton series of running shoes. While not flawless, it is certainly good enough to add to your collection.
6. Clayton 2
The overall consensus of the Clayton 2 is that the issue of blistering which was present in the original is not as prominent. Still, though, a few runners have still claimed blisters can result.
Read moreComfort and Stability
While the blistering issue is certainly improved in the Clayton 2, it can still be an issue. However, the midsole does offer a unique balance of protection and propulsion.
Breathability
In addition to the comfort, the upper of this model has been improved. On top of the lightweight nature of the shoe, the breathability as a whole has received a noticeable difference.
Overall Fit
Over time, the Clayton 2 Shoe will actually adapt to your foot and start to fit better. The no-sew lattice and form-fitting heel do assist with the fitting, though.
Features
Durability was clearly a point of emphasis when this shoe was being designed. The end result for you is a running shoe that is capable of handling high-tempo runs or simply short runs.
Let’s just say that this is not a conservative-looking shoe. In fact, most options available combine vibrant colors and the results may be too outlandish for some people.
Overall
Besides offering necessary improvements over the original Clayton Shoe, this is a shoe that will get better with age as the upper will conform to the shape and feel of your foot.
7. Bondi 5
Those of you who have been loyal to the Bondi Running Shoes over the years may be a little disappointed with the 5th version’s stiffer midsole. Then again, it is engineered to fit wider feet, which is nice.
Read moreComfort and Stability
A traditional EVA midsole is integrated and it delivers low-profile cushioning. Beyond this, the Ortholite insole provides additional cushioning and also arch support.
Breathability
Despite the amount of cushioning utilized, runners noticed that the overall weight was still surprisingly light. Also, thanks to the mesh upper, your feet are allowed to breathe.
Overall Fit
Not only are there extra width options available for those who have wider feet but the toe box itself is optimized for space. Finally, the 3D puff print frame delivers a secure fit.
Features
With the addition of more rubber on the outsole, the overall durability of this shoe gets a necessary boost. For a road shoe, also, the provided traction is a bonus.
The Bondi 5 definitely sports that “Hoka” appeal that so many runners have either grown to love or despise. No matter, there are a strong amount of options available.
Overall
This is another fantastic addition to the Bondi series of shoes. In spite of the fact that the stiffer midsole may not be a welcome sight, the wider toe box and wide size options are.
8. Arahi 2
Dynamic stability has been integrated into this next shoe and in the words of Hoka, when this was released, it was the future of the stability running shoe.
Read moreComfort and Stability
As a top-of-the-line stability shoe, it is no surprise that so many runners have raved about the cushioning system and its ideal combination of response and comfort.
Breathability
Stability shoes are notorious for being heavier as they are designed to implement more cushioning than normal shoes. Yet, buyers were surprised at the rather lightweight nature of the Arahi 2.
Overall Fit
For the most part, the sizing seems to be spot on here. Be wary, though, some users commented that the heel collar is insufficient at securing your foot.
Features
Even though there have been claims of this outsole being suitable for road running and trail running, it has been known to peel off quicker than it should.
The appeal of the Arahi 2 is one of the better ones, quite honestly. A majority of wearers concur that the color schemes are attractive.
Overall
As the so-called future of the stability shoe, the Arahi 2 does a pretty good job of living up to that audacious claim. Plus, for the amount of cushioning provided, it is surprisingly light.
9. Conquest 3
The Conquest 3 may be most memorable due to the support that it offers you when you run. Of course, the exceptional durability certainly does not hurt matters any.
Read moreComfort and Stability
As opposed to the Conquest 2, the Conquest 3 provides more cushioning and it is thanks to its EVA top layer and accommodating forefoot.
Breathability
To keep your feet cool and comfortable on the longest of runs, this shoe has been outfitted with an air mesh upper, which will deliver optimal ventilation.
Overall Fit
There were some runners who warned buyers that this shoe tends to run narrow in the midfoot area. Then again, others claimed that the upper kept their feet secure during runs.
Features
Even while running on more abrasive surfaces such as asphalt, the Conquest 3 seems to hold up very well.
While it does not appear that the Conquest 3 is much different than other Hoka shoes in regard to the visual design, it is far from appalling or ugly.
Overall
Arguably the greatest aspect of the Conquest 3 is the upper as it delivers a secure fit and exceptional breathability. Of course, the narrower fit could be an issue for some of you.
10. Stinson 3 ATR
For those who like running on uneven terrains, the Stinson 3 ATR Shoes will be ideal as they are trail running shoes. Because of this, the outsole has been engineered with longitudinal flex grooves.
Read moreComfort and Stability
As is a theme with other popular models from this manufacturer, the 3rd version of the Stinson ATR features more cushioning than previous models. Plus, the no-sew construction eliminates skin irritation.
Breathability
The previously mentioned no-sew construction also aids in reducing the overall weight of this shoe. In addition, the air mesh upper offers superior breathability.
Overall Fit
With the Lycra ComfortFrame and the active foot frame technology at work, you are provided a sock-like and secure fit and increased responsiveness, respectively.
Features
Even though some reviews alluded to the fact that the upper of this model tends to wear out quickly, the flex grooves of the outsole aid in traction and improved stability.
Despite the fact that the available color palettes are pretty good overall, some runners did not appreciate that the Stinson 3 ATR Shoes made their feet look awkwardly large.
Overall
Overall, it is easy to overlook the small flaws of this design when you assess its lightweight nature, superior fit, and above-average cushioning.
Sources
- , The 13 Best Hoka One One Running Shoes You Can Buy, Buying Guide
- , Hoka shoe comparison chart, Comparison Chart