Ease of Use

Hiking shoes aren’t much use without good traction, allowing the wearer to traverse various rugged terrains easily. This new Hoka design did not disappoint with incredibly grippiness. Navigating loose and rocky terrain is much more accessible by introducing the colossally thick and super-grippy Vibram® Megagrip hi-traction outsole. This beastly traction makes the Kaha GTX stable, sturdy and east they are to walk in.

Underneath this hulking monster of a sole, you’ll find 5mm multidirectional lugs that provide a superior grip on all kinds of terrain for either hiking or trail running. In addition, it’s hard to beat the high and soft ride that comes with the Kaha low-top GTX. Fans find the supportiveness of this shoe pleasingly ample with a thick sole and arch zone that’s unaffected by rocks or craggy areas.

With the optimum balance of traction, responsiveness, and durability, you should find any landscape a dream as the tractions grips any surface, wet or dry.

Comfort

The newest Hoka One One shoe is surprisingly comfortable to walk long distances. I was surprised to see some users efficiently doing 80 miles per week with no issues. As mentioned above, the Kaha low Gore-Tex provides incredible comfort due to its thick sole and deep lugs. As a result, no more rocks, stones and slips are causing you issues on the route. In addition, the balanced weight to cushioning ratio means this shoe is surprisingly light and won’t bog you down. Lastly, finding your footing is easy with superb stability and support, especially around the heel.

You can’t spend this kind of money on a hiking shoe for it not to be waterproof, and Hoka doesn’t disappoint with a highly watertight yet breathable Gore-Tex membrane. Furthermore, the two-layer midsole compromises a comfortable EVA foam and a rubberized foam underneath, adding extra cushioning and support. This thick sole also results in a reduced chance of arch pain and an increased chance of more comfortable hikes. Lastly, landings are more accessible with a thick, chunky sole that absorbs a higher level of shock than the average sole.

However, the one minor drawback about the Hoka Kaha is that you’ll never get close to the ground feel with this considerable sole, which might not be ideal for those who aren’t used to walking in hulking hiking shoes. But if you give them a try, I think you’ll be used to the sole in no time.

Secondly, it lacks a heel brake which can mean trickier downhill descents in some circumstances. But even the most beautiful rose isn’t without flaws, so I never expect perfection.

Materials

The use of sturdy material is essential in creating a supportive and durable shoe. Hoka uses an abrasion-resistant rubber toe cap to protect the wearer from rocks and stubbed toes, in conjunction with a rubberized foam bottom layer that provides robust padding and a supportive case.

This makes the shoe perfect for both hiking and trail running over rough landscapes. Everything about this hiking shoe screams plush comfort, which stretches to the EVA top layer that provides a soft and comfortable feel as it touches the floor.

The choice of Nubuck leather is a good choice, as it’s naturally durable and water-resistant to minimal rainwater. Whereas regular nubuck leather requires a waterproofing spray, the Kaha low top utilizes the famous Gore-Tex waterproof membrane to ensure your feet stay dry and cool.

Durability

As mentioned above, the high-quality materials comprising this shoe mean they should last you for ages. The intense strength and durability of the Vibram soles mean they don’t wear down as quickly as others. It should take a long time of extreme all-day hikes on technical terrain before you see even feathering on the soles.

Other materials such as Nubuck leather, durable GTX waterproof membrane, EVA top layer, and robust rubber toe cap allow for one hell of a rugged shoe.

The new Hoka hiking sneaker makes strict use of all the exact construction and materials as the original Hoka Gore-Tex bootie, but with an ankle-length cut. Breathable as well as waterproof, this shoe is the perfect low-top version of the high-top Gore-Tex. However, if you prefer a traditional walking boot, you can stick with the high-top boot.

If saving some money is essential to you, you can order the non-waterproof version. Both versions utilize the rugged benefits and mammoth grip of the Vibram sole and super thick cushioned bottom. Still, the low top is a little cooler and slightly less bulky than the high top, resulting in more flexibility of motion. However, for those adventurous kids heading off into the treacherous mountains or icy winter trail run, the GTX bootie might be better suited for perilous romps.

The high price of these shoes certainly didn’t put me off, but I would understand if this were a little out of your budget. However, if you’re looking for something similar but more affordable, you can try the Keen Venture WP. It is very similar but with a noticeably lower sole to the ground and a narrower tow box, potentially less comfortable.

Well, what can we say about the Kaha low-top GTX? Yes, it is expensive; yes, they do seem a bit on the bulky side. But they are tough to be beaten, and perhaps one of the best on the market.

You’ll not notice the hulky bottom with the extremely well-balanced weight to cushioning ratio, and you’ll be extra glad about the extra support the thick Vibram sole creates. I’m even more positive that you won’t mind the high price when you can hike or run comfortably in a shoe for hours and days, time and time again, without wear or discomfort.

The skies the limit. Ok, this shoe won’t make you fly, but you get the idea. Well, despite their thick sole and stoutness, the Kaha Low weighs in at a light 15.8 oz, so you never know, you might fly.