Founded in 2009 by two French runners, Hoka is known for its lightweight, well-cushioned running shoes. The brand’s lineup has grown to include dozens of sneakers for all types of runners, with options for everything from short- and long-distance road running to trail running. Whether you’re a devoted fan or new to the brand, there’s one feature you’ll want to look for in each pair: Hoka’s signature rocker soles, which help you transition from heel to toe more quickly and efficiently for a smoother ride. To find the best Hoka running shoes, we turned to running coaches and other experts to learn which key features every pair should have. Then, we tested multiple pairs for ourselves in The Verywell Testing Lab and in the real world, prioritizing sneakers that look and feel great underfoot. Often, we have two testers wear each pair of shoes to see how they fit and feel on different foot types. Every shoe, whether we tested it or not, has been selected for its superior fit, comfort, stability, cushioning, responsiveness, and overall value. We also had an RRCA and USATF-certified running coach from our Review Board review this article for accuracy, including how to shop for Hoka shoes depending on your running style and foot type. Our Top Picks Best Overall: Best Cushioned: Best for Stability: Best for Trail Running: Best for Trail Racing: Best APMA-Approved Trail Shoe: Best for Narrow Feet: Best for Wide Feet: Best Lightweight: In This Article Our Picks We Also Tested What to Look For How We Tested Our Experts Frequently Asked Questions Why Trust Verywell Fit Our Ratings Fit 4.8/5 Comfort 5/5 Stability 5/5 Value 5/5 Pros Springy, responsive cushioning Flexible, breathable upper Excellent shock absorption Cons Pricier than some other options May run narrow Weight: 8 ounces | Drop: 5 millimeters | Materials: Recycled polyester and nylon upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Moderate | Our Overall Rating: 4.9/5 Best for daily runs and races on pavement or treadmills, especially if you have narrow feet. Hoka’s versatile Mach X takes our top spot thanks to its combination of cushioning, support, and durability. During testing, we found that it easily goes from the treadmill to the pavement, making it a great sneaker for daily training. We could definitely feel the shoe’s soft midsole absorb the impact of each stride, offering excellent protection for our joints. One of our testers even noticed that the shoe’s plush padding prevented her ankle and knee pain from flaring up. Another reason why we love the Mach X? The springy, responsive cushioning is still firm enough to provide an efficient push-off for a propulsive ride. It’s also light enough for speedwork, even though we found that it has the dependable support and comfort that’s needed for long-distance runs. Even better, the soft mesh upper hugs your foot for a custom-like fit but still feels flexible and breathable to prevent overheating. Also available in men’s sizes at Hoka and Marathon Sports. Our testers run a few times each week on concrete and pavement. One tester occasionally has mild ankle and knee pain after her runs. Both testers enjoyed running and walking in the Mach X due to its thick cushioning, especially underneath the heel. Our Ratings Fit 5/5 Comfort 5/5 Stability 5/5 Value 4.5/5 Pros APMA Seal of Acceptance Padded collar Breathable upper Cons Bulkier than some other options Weight: 8.9 ounces | Drop: 4 millimeters | Materials: Recycled polyester upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Maximum | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5 Best for runners with plantar fasciitis. One of our tried and true favorites, Hoka’s Bondi 8 features the brand’s thickest cushioning, plus additional padding in the heel for even more comfort and support. During testing, we loved this shoe’s plush feel and soft, forgiving landings on easy walks, long-distance runs, and all-day wear. The shock-absorbing sole is also ideal for runners with plantar fasciitis since it reduces the load on your plantar fascia, according to podiatrist Diana Levin Valencia, DPM. With a snug upper and a deep heel cup, the Bondi 8 kept our feet secure and stable during test runs. We also like the soft tongue and pillowy foam collar that provide a close, chafe-free fit. Made with recycled materials, the upper is extremely breathable, keeping our feet comfortable and dry on long runs. But you don’t have to take our word for it—this sneaker has also received the APMA’s Seal of Acceptance, meaning it’s also backed by podiatrists. Also available in men’s sizes at Hoka, REI, and Dick’s Sporting Goods. Our tester runs 30 to 40 miles a week—she often trains for long-distance races (like half-marathons). She usually runs on paved roads and paths but also likes to run on trails when the weather permits. With a history of plantar fasciitis, she prefers wearing highly cushioned shoes like the Bondi 8 to keep her symptoms at bay. Our Ratings Fit 4.9/5 Comfort 4.9/5 Stability 4.8/5 Value 4.9/5 Pros APMA Seal of Acceptance Ultra-responsive Wide platform Cons Too heavy for speedwork Weight: 10.9 ounces | Drop: 6 millimeters | Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Maximum | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5 Best for runners with flexible arches who want a super cushioned shoe. If stability and comfort are your priorities, we recommend the supportive, well-cushioned Gaviota 5. Like the Arahi, it has Hoka’s signature J-Frame inside to prevent your feet from rolling inward. Plus, it has a wide, stable platform. Strategically placed rubber in high-wear areas on the outsole adds to the shoe’s durability, while a plush, padded collar and tongue prevent blisters from forming. When we tested this pair, we found that the thick cushioning in the midsole provided cloud-like comfort and excellent shock absorption on all different terrains. We also noticed that the Gaviota 5 feels ultra-responsive, pushing us forward with each step and reducing leg fatigue. And like some other pairs on our list, the Gaviota 5 has also earned the APMA’s Seal of Acceptance for its smart design. Also available in women’s sizes at Hoka, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and REI. One of our testers runs four to five times a week. He usually runs on pavement and concrete but occasionally hits the trail or the treadmill. Although he used to deal with knee pain, he doesn’t experience symptoms anymore—as long as he runs in the right shoes. Our other tester recently injured her knees while working out and has had to adjust her running schedule as a result. She ran in these shoes twice a week outside on concrete or inside on a treadmill. Our Ratings Fit 5/5 Comfort 5/5 Stability 5/5 Value 5/5 Pros Excellent traction Stable and protective Waterproof Cons Heavy Weight: 11.5 ounces | Drop: 4 millimeters | Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Moderate | Our Overall Rating: 5/5 Best for trail runners with neutral arches. With the ideal combination of comfort, protection, and stability, Hoka’s Speedgoat 5 GTX is our recommendation for casual off-road running. With a waterproof upper and a durable rubber outsole, it has exactly what you need to keep your feet dry and stable on wet or uneven terrain. When testing this pair, we were impressed with their secure, comfortable fit—we didn’t experience any rubbing or blisters, even after many miles of trail running. We also found that the thick midsole feels responsive underfoot, providing excellent shock absorption on pavement, gravel, and other surfaces. Plus, the shoe’s rubber sole has 5-millimeter lugs and rubber toe caps for even more protection. Even with the shoe’s sturdy, durable design, the Speedgoat 5 didn’t feel too bulky and allowed our feet to breathe without overheating. Also available in women’s sizes at Hoka and REI. One of our testers runs 40 to 50 miles a week, mostly on trails. He also does sprints or interval training once a week on grass or turf. Our other tester runs 35 to 50 miles a week. She primarily logs her miles on the road but also likes to fit in some trail running and hiking when she can. She has patellofemoral pain syndrome, which causes discomfort in and around her kneecap and sometimes flares up after a run. While wearing the Speedgoat 5 GTX, she noticed a significant reduction in her usual knee pain. Our Ratings Fit 5/5 Comfort 5/5 Stability 4.7/5 Value 4.5/5 Pros Highly responsive Excellent traction Snappy carbon fiber plate Cons Pricier than other options Weight: 7.4 ounces | Drop: 5 millimeters | Materials: Synthetic upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Moderate | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5 Best for runners who want a lightweight, grippy shoe to keep them nimble and fast on trails. While some trail running shoes can feel bulky and heavy, Hoka’s Tecton X 2 is sleek and fast, making it an ideal option for racing or hard workouts on trails. During test runs, the lightweight design and grippy rubber outsole kept us quick and nimble on our feet. The shoe’s cushioning felt firm, comfortable, and not too thick, which helped us stay stable on uneven terrain. We could definitely feel the effect of the shoe’s embedded carbon fiber plate—it makes the midsole highly responsive and provides snappy strides. Although it’s designed for trails, we noticed that the Tecton X 2 also feels great underfoot on the pavement. The shoe’s upper is made with a synthetic material that’s durable, abrasion-resistant, and water-repellent for effective protection in cold, wet weather. At the same time, the shoe’s ventilation prevented our feet from overheating when we warmed up. Also available in men’s sizes at Hoka and REI. One of our testers runs five to six times a week, averaging anywhere from 50 to 60 miles. Our other tester runs three to four times a week on city streets, trails, and treadmills. Her knees tend to bother her on long-distance runs. Both testers noticed that the Tecton X2 fit them impeccably and loved the shoe’s sleek, stylish design. Our Ratings Fit 5/5 Comfort 4.8/5 Stability 5/5 Value 5/5 Pros Superior stability Great shock absorption Wide toe box Cons Bulky Not as responsive Best for overpronators, especially if your training schedule includes a mix of road and trail running. Not many trail shoes have earned the APMA’s Seal of Acceptance, which is why we recommend Hoka’s Stinson 7 for trail runners with flat feet or joint pain. These stability shoes have a spacious toe box that fit our wide feet well, even though they only come in one width. Hoka’s signature J-Frame in the midsole helps gently align your feet, making this sneaker one of our top picks for overpronators. The Stinson 7’s ultra-thick cushioning absorbs shock well, leading to less joint pain and foot fatigue during testing. We were also surprised to find that this shoe protected us from feeling small pebbles and other debris underfoot while we ran for a smooth ride. The mesh upper is highly breathable to prevent sweat and odors from building up over time. And they’re very durable: After over 80 miles, they still look (and feel) like new. Also available in men’s sizes at Hoka and REI. One of our testers runs four to five times a week on pavement, concrete, treadmills, and trails. She overpronates a little and tends to experience some pain in her hips after a long run. Our other tester runs outdoors three to four times a week. He runs at least six or eight miles on sand, grass, and concrete. Sometimes, the pain in his knees and ankles flares up at the beginning of a run. Both testers noticed that their usual pain disappeared while running in the Stinson 7, thanks to the midsole’s extra-thick cushioning. Our Ratings Fit 3.8/5 Comfort 3/5 Stability 5/5 Value 4.2/5 Pros Reinforced sole Sleek silhouette Lightweight Cons Not as responsive Weight: 6.7 ounces | Drop: 6 millimeters | Materials: Recycled mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Moderate | Our Overall Rating: 4.2/5 Best for runners with neutral arches who prefer a more minimalist running shoe. If you have trouble with your feet sliding around in your sneakers, Hoka’s Solimar is our top pick. It has a streamlined silhouette that’s more slender than other Hoka models. Plus, we noticed during testing that the shoe’s stretchy, recycled mesh upper conforms to the shape of your foot for a comfortable, secure fit. With a lightweight design and moderate cushioning, this shoe offers great support and comfort without weighing you down. It’s also equipped with extra rubber in high-abrasion areas, creating a more durable sole that can stand up to daily runs. We also found during our runs that the Solimar feels very similar to Nike Free running shoes—but it's sturdier, making it a great choice for runners who want to try Hokas but like slimmer, flatter shoes. Also available in women’s sizes at Zappos, Hoka, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and REI. Our tester has flat feet and overpronates. He tested this shoe while running on a treadmill and felt that the Solimar is a protective, comfortable shoe for daily training. Although we haven’t tested these Hoka running shoes for ourselves yet, we still think they’re a solid buy. Many of these pairs have similar features and price points to our lab-tested favorites. Pros APMA Seal of Acceptance Lightweight Extra padding in the collar and tongue Cons High heel tab Weight: 7.3 ounces | Drop: 5 millimeters | Materials: Knit upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Moderate Best for neutral runners who run daily or anyone who enjoys the run/walk method. For some extra space in your running shoes (whether you have wide feet or wear orthotics), we recommend Hoka’s Clifton 9. It comes in wide sizes and has a spacious toe box with plenty of room for your toes to spread out. We love that these sneakers have earned the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance, which means a group of podiatrists has decided that the shoes help promote better foot health. Although we haven’t tested the Clifton 9 yet, we loved the previous model (the Clifton 8) for its springy midsole that felt extra responsive. And if you’re worried that Hoka’s signature soles might be too bulky or clunky, rest easy: After wearing the Clifton 8 all day long, we forgot we even had them on. Weighing just over 7 ounces, the lightweight Clifton 9 has additional padding in the collar and tongue for even more comfort and support. Wear them for short jogs, long-distance runs, or walks around your neighborhood—your feet will thank you. Also available in men’s sizes at Dick’s Sporting Goods and Hoka. Pros APMA Seal of Acceptance Great stability Supportive and well-cushioned Cons Traction could be better Weight: 7.6 ounces | Drop: 5 millimeters | Materials: Mesh upper and lining, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Maximum Best for overpronators who need a sneaker with extra stability. For a lightweight sneaker that’s also surprisingly stable, Hoka’s Arahi 7 is our top pick. This shoe contains Hoka’s J-Frame, a system of firm, dense foam on the inside of the arch that helps prevent your feet and ankles from rolling inwards as you run (also called overpronation). We also like its streamlined design and moderate cushioning—plus, like many other shoes on our list, this sneaker has received the APMA’s Seal of Acceptance. When we tested the previous version of this shoe (the Arahi 6), we loved how stable it was. It offered maximum comfort and balanced padding for a smooth, responsive ride. For a snug, secure fit and a significant reduction in knee pain, the Arahi 6 were our go-to shoes. The new and improved Arahi 7 has a similar design that’s ideal for overpronators who want a sneaker with a barely-there feel. Also available in men’s sizes at Hoka. We noticed during testing that the Arahi’s outsole doesn’t have the best traction in wet conditions. In rainy weather, we recommend wearing them on the treadmill instead. We’re currently testing the Arahi 7 with two different runners. We’ll update this list with our findings as soon as testing is complete. We’ve tested 10 pairs of Hoka running shoes so far, but only nine scored high enough to earn a spot on our list. These sneakers ultimately didn’t impress us: We continue to test all of the Hoka sneakers on our list at home, and we’ll update our recommendations if we notice anything new that we haven't already documented here. We’re also currently testing Hoka's Transport X shoes—we'll add our insights once testing is complete. To find the best Hoka running shoes, we’ve tested 10 pairs and researched dozens more. For the pairs we select through research, we first ask our experts which features to look for in comfortable running sneakers. We then review key specs and customer feedback for top-rated Hoka shoes to find the best options on the market. In our Testing Lab, we often have two people test each pair of sneakers to see how they fit and feel on runners with different gaits, arch types, and foot conditions. As we continue to test and evaluate more Hoka shoes, we keep these key criteria in mind: We consulted experts at every stage while researching and reporting this article. Some, like Bell, helped us understand what sets Hoka shoes apart from other brands on the market. Others, like Valencia, provided valuable insight that shaped our testing process. We choose products independently, although we use input from experts to influence our decisions. With their plush cushioning, Hoka shoes are designed to absorb the impact of running, making them a great option for most runners—especially those who are running longer distances, says running coach Stacey Miller. Their superior padding also helps lessen the load on your joints and muscles, according to Bell. In general, most pairs of Hoka running shoes cost between $125 and $225. Some of the more expensive models have high-end features, like carbon fiber plates or waterproof uppers. Yes: Hoka running shoes can be great for your feet because they provide support and shock absorption that can protect you from injury. Some pairs are even approved by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA), so you can be confident you’re purchasing shoes that podiatrists trust. Christine Luff, ACE-CPT, is a contributing writer for Verywell Fit with more than 20 years of experience writing and editing health and fitness content and product recommendations. As a certified personal trainer, running coach, and avid runner, she’s always researching and testing running shoes. Her favorite Hoka running shoe models are the Clifton, the Bondi, and the Mach X because they have the perfect amount of cushioning and support to help prevent her plantar fasciitis symptoms from recurring.Best Overall
HOKA Mach X
Key Specs
Who They’re For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Meet Our Testers
Best Cushioned
Hoka Bondi 8
Key Specs
Who They’re For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Meet Our Tester
Best for Stability
Hoka's Men's Gaviota 5
Key Specs
Who They’re For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Meet Our Testers
Best for Trail Running
Hoka Men's Speedgoat 5 GTX
Key Specs
Who They’re For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Meet Our Testers
Best for Trail Racing
HOKA Tecton X 2
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Who They’re For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Meet Our Testers
Best APMA-Approved Trail Shoe
Hoka Women's Stinson 7
Key Specs
Weight: 10.8 ounces | Drop: 5 millimeters | Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Maximum | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5 Who They’re For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Meet Our Testers
Best for Narrow Feet
Hoka Solimar Running Shoe
Key Specs
Who They’re For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Meet Our Tester
Bonus Favorites
Key Specs
Who They’re For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Key Specs
Who They’re For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Editor’s Note
Hoka Running Shoes We Also Tested
What to Look for When Shopping for Hoka Running Shoes
How We Tested the Hoka Running Shoes
Our Experts
Frequently Asked Questions
What is so special about Hoka running shoes?
How much should I spend on Hoka running shoes?
Are Hoka running shoes actually good for your feet?
Why Trust Verywell Fit
FAQs
Which Hoka Running Shoe Is Right for You? We Tested the Top Models to Find Out? ›
We still recommend the Speedgoat 5 as Hoka's best overall trail running shoe, the Challenger 7 for spending time on roads and trails or for a gravel or dirt road shoe, and the Tecton X 2 as a trail racing shoe. But if you're looking for a shoe for super technical terrain, we recommend the Mafate Speed 4.
What's better, Hoka Clifton or Bondi? ›In summary, if you prioritize functionality, a streamlined design, and a shoe that's great for various running styles and durations, the Hoka Clifton may be your top pick. However, if you lean towards cushioned comfort and need a shoe that excels on longer, more leisurely runs, the Hoka Bondi is an excellent choice.
Which Hoka is best for seniors? ›When it comes to the best cushioned shoes for walkers, we always recommend Hoka's Bondi Sneaker. The thick, full-length midsole offers a plush yet supportive feel and protective shock absorption. And despite its ample cushioning, we found that the mesh upper still offers great breathability and blister prevention.
What is the difference between Hoka Clifton and Arahi? ›Due to the nature of the firmer section of midsole, the J-Frame, the Hoka Arahi 7 will feel a bit firmer than the Clifton 9, as you don't sink into the cushioning quite so much. It actually makes the ride is smoother, which feels better when you pick up the pace if you fancy doing so!
Are Hoka Bondi good for bad knees? ›Healthline's review
One of HOKA's most cushioned styles, the Bondi 8 has favorable reviews from people with foot, back, and knee pain.
The Bondi 7 is the most cushioned shoe in HOKA's road-shoe lineup. An opened engineered mesh construction optimizes breathability and comfort especially extra space around your forefoot. The Bondi 7 also has a redefined early-stage meta-rocker for a smooth ride and decreased forefoot pressure.
What HOKA style is best for walking? ›Best Hoka Shoes For Walking Overall
The Clifton 9 scored highest in our review for many reasons. The vegan mesh upper features molded EVA foam in the midsole for pillowy comfort, a gusseted tongue keeps out dirt and debris, and a thick rubber outsole and MetaRocker technology put spring in your step.
Plenty of doctors and podiatrists have recommended Hoka for its beneficial design and enhanced cushioning. Tim Dutra, DPM, M.S., MHCA, says, "Hoka offers a variety of shoes with a wide range of cushioning and support and width options, and Hoka shoes are a favorite of runners, walkers, and hikers."
What shoes do orthopedic surgeons recommend? ›- Klaw 528. Best orthopedic shoe overall. ...
- More options. Dansko Fawna Mary Jane for Women. ...
- More options. Cole Haan Men's Original Grand Shortwing Oxford. ...
- Hoka Bondi 8. Best orthopedic walking shoe. ...
- More options. Puma Deviate Nitro 2 Running Shoes. ...
- More options. ...
- Vionic Karmelle Oxford Casual Sneaker. ...
- Kuru Atom.
“For seniors, Vionic and Naturalizer are good options. There are many other options of dress shoes that would be appropriate for longer standing/walking. For women who plan to be in dress shoes for more than a couple hours in a day, they should wear a shoe that is not pointed in the toe with excessive high heels.”
Are Hokas good for walking all day? ›
According to Mendeszoon, Hokas are an excellent choice for everyday walking shoes in terms of comfort and foot health. However, the long-term durability can vary depending on specific models and the way you use them.
Which HOKA is best for arthritis feet? ›Hoka Bondi SR
“I recommend the Hoka Bondi for patients that need max cushioning, such as older patients that have fat pad atrophy (where the fat on the bottom of your foot thins) or arthritis,” says Parthasarathy.
Stability shoes like the HOKA Arahi provide support for runners who overpronate, which is the excessive inward rolling of a runner's feet after impact with the ground. The HOKA Arahi 7 offers gentle guidance for your feet, just like the inspiring incantations of your favorite supporters during a tough race.
What brand compares to HOKA? ›Both Hoka and Brooks make top-tier running shoes designed for a variety of activities. The price point of each brand is comparable, so consider what type of cushioning and stability you prefer before making your final shopping decision.
Which shoes are better for running HOKA or on? ›Long story short? Both Hoka and On make great running shoes. If you're someone who appreciates a firmer midsole with more responsiveness, On shoes are an excellent choice. And if you prefer stacked cushioning or want to test a stability shoe out, Hoka is your best bet.
What is the Clifton Hoka good for? ›The Hoka Clifton 9 is best for runners looking for a neutral daily trainer, running shoes designed for those with a neutral pronation pattern, where the foot only slightly rolls inward. They're also great for covering long distances at a slow pace and for building mileage while training for a longer run or race.
What are the HOKA Bondi for? ›It's a shoe for runners who aren't too fussed about speed and want an enjoyable, comfortable running shoe.
Which Hoka is most durable? ›Hoka's versatile Mach X takes our top spot thanks to its combination of cushioning, support, and durability. During testing, we found that it easily goes from the treadmill to the pavement, making it a great sneaker for daily training.
Which Hoka is best for nurses? ›The Hoka Gaviota 5 is a favorite among multiple podiatrists for its comfort level. It combines Meta-Rocker and H-Frame™ Technology to help stabilize your stride. Willkom, Spector, and Sharkey all love this style and recommend it for nurses who are looking for extra support and control from their shoes.