The beauty of life is in being mobile. Not only does it help us reach places, but it also keeps us healthy. Something a sedentary life won’t offer.
Many health-conscious and fitness enthusiasts prefer running because of its benefits. Running improves cardio health, builds bones, strengthens muscles, and burns plenty of calories. When in doubt, you can just slide into your running shoes to break some sweat.
Check out the Hoka One One running shoes review in our blogs to learn more about how they can help with your form and cardio efficiency.
But keep in mind that ill-fitting and unsupportive running shoes can ruin your feet faster. If you want to make the most from your running or jogging exercise, you need to pick the right pair of shoes.
We’ve all had our share of poor-fitting shoes. But since we rely so much on our feet, it only makes sense to find that perfect pair that doesn’t bruise our toes or make us uncomfortable on the running track or treadmill.
You’re in luck because we’ve rounded up some of the best Hoka One One running shoes in this guide. These shoes are high-performance, high-quality and designed to perfection for regular and professional use.
About Hoka One One
Hoka One One is the manufacturer and distributor of top-quality footwear for people looking to get the most out of footwear. Pronounced O-nay O-nay in Maori, Hoka One One means “now it is time to fly”.
Founded in France by two runners in 2009, Hoka is famous for its consistently durable, comfortable and performative running shoes. The company sponsors many professional athletes such as Ben Bruce, Julia Kohnen, Alice Wright and Ryan Hill. Professional and novice runners appreciate Hoka’s shoes due to their design. The footwear offers a cradle and cushion for the feet.
Hoka pioneered in starting the “maximum cushioning and minimum drop” trend with its softly and thick-cushioned soles. The midsoles reduce pounding which makes them one of the most impressive running shoes on the market.
The thicker and wider sole prevent the shoes from being unstable. The Hoka midsole is thick enough to provide cushion but narrow enough for the “rocker” effect. This makes it easier to roll feet.
The Best Features of Hoka Shoes
Hoke manufactures running shoes using cutting-edge technology that’s unique to its brand. Some of the core features that make Hoka shoes special are:
Meta-Rocker
The Meta-Rocker technology features low heel-to-toe drop. It minimizes the height difference between the ball of the feet and the heel. Additionally, the rounded sole propels the runner forward.
Midsole Cushion
The midsole is the sheet between the insole and outsole running along the shoe’s bottom. Hoka manufactures cushioned midsoles to provide added comfort and shock absorbency to protect the joints.
PROFLY
Hoka also offers PROFLY – another form of the midsole. This midsole features firm foam in the toe and soft foam in the heel to allow powerful toe-off and extra cushion during landing.
Active Foot Frame
This frame is added at the back of the shoe to cradle the heel and cushion the foot into the midsole.
HUBBLE Heel
The HUBBLE heel feature creates a smooth transition from heel to toe and reduces landing impact.
Carbon Fiber Plate
This plate is attached to the PROFLY insole to ensure lightweight, smooth and comfortable propulsion during running.
J-Frame
J-Frame is an advanced manufacturing technology that offers extra stability to the medial and inner side of the shoes and prevents the feet from rolling inward while running.
How Did We Choose The Best Hoka Shoes?
Our experts selected the Hoka One One running shoes based on the following criteria:
- Reliability – Are the shoes consistent in delivering a supportive and comfortable ride regardless of numerous usage times?
- Durability –Are the shoes stable enough to withstand daily use and different weather conditions?
- Suitability for various needs –Do the shoes meet the specific needs of different runners such as supination and overpronation?
- Reviews –Are there more positive customer reviews about a particular pair of shoes?
Our Best Picks for Hoka One One Running Shoes
There are our favorite Hoka One One Running Shoes from trail running to cross-training:
Hoka Bondi X
Hoka Bondi X is one of the most expensive shoes but it’s also the most popular pair by Hoka. The shoe offers cushioning and neutral stability to ensure a smooth ride. Bondi X is suitable for standing or running for a long time.
Its EVA midsole is compression-molded to reduce the impact. This means Bondi X is also a great option for those with foot or joint pain. Additionally, this model features signature Meta-Rocker technology and a carbon fiber plate unique to Hoka. These features help you propel forward during the run.
Hoka also extended the heel on Bondi X for a smoother heel-to-toe experience. You can find various colors in this model including bright orange, black and white.
Hoka Clifton 8
Hoka Clifton 8 is an affordable every day running and training shoe. Clifton 8 is flexible, reliable, lightweight and durable featuring EVA foam soles which make them comfortable.
The latest model has an extended pad for a softer landing and Meta-Rocker technology. Clifton 8 also comes with a mesh upper to keep your toes from getting too sweaty and hot.
Additionally, there’s a plush collar on the shoes that eases the pressure on the runner’s Achilles tendon so you can run for miles. Clifton 8 comes in several colors such as black with white midsoles, orange and all-white.
Hoka Rincon 3
Hoka Rincon 3 weigh less than 226.8g or 8 ounces. These are both low-cost and lightweight but may not offer similar support and comfort as other models.
Nonetheless, Rincon 3 is affordable and features balanced cushioning and a symmetrical footbed to offer stability and comfort. The shoe also has Hoka’s signature ethylene-vinyl acetate midsole to offer forward push and safe cushioning.
Rincon 3 is breathable, durable and flexible. These properties make this shoe ideal for long training sessions. Some customers noted less stability compared to other Hoka models.
Rincon 3 is a budget-friendly and safe option for those looking for a breathable pair of shoes. It comes in pink, lavender, blue, black and orange colors.
Hoka Bondi 7
Hoka Bondi 7 is the best running shoe for those who run on concrete, asphalt or other hard surfaces. Bondi 7 is highly-cushioned, breathable and lightweight making it a safe option for long-distance running.
Its other properties include inner heel support, Meta-Rocker technology and compression-molded midsole designed to propel forward creating a natural stride. Additionally, Bondi 7 is available in orange, silver, white, black and blue colors.
Remember that Bondi 7 is high off the ground. Some runners don’t like their shoes very high and if you’re one of them, this may not be for you.
Hoka Clifton Edge
Every runner looks for reliable, comfortable and durable shoes and if you’re a long-distance runner, you’ll absolutely love Clifton Edge. Its padded collar keeps the ankles comfortable.
Hoka Clifton Edge has the perfect amount of cushioning and stable but light construction to keep you comfortable without weighing down. The best thing about this shoe is its fun color combinations such as bright citrusy yellow, white + green and blue accents.
Hoka Speedgoat 5
This award-winning model is named after a famous ultra-runner. Hoka Speedgoat 5 is ideal for trail running. The newest model is lighter and offers more traction.
Speedgoat 5’s construction is secure, stable and comfortable and its outsole features Vibram Megagrip rubber to provide a durable grip in dry and wet conditions.
Other noteworthy properties of this model include a slightly large toe box, GORE-TEX mesh upper and additional midfoot support. The shoe also features a toe cap to protect feet from sticks and rocks during trail running.
Its colors include black with orange, blue and red.
Hoka Gaviota 4
This model gets more applause from customers due to its support, plush design and comfort. Hoka Gaviota 4 is updated for a seamless fit.
Besides the Meta-Rocker technology unique to the brand, this model also features a J-Frame structure for added stability to help with overpronation. Gaviota 4 is also equipped with rubber outside for increased flexibility and durability.
The shoe features seven colors including all blue and black graphite. Gaviota 4 is a heavier shoe which may be a turn-off for some customers.
Hoka Arahi 6
If you’re looking for more stability or you overpronate, this is the right option for you. Hoka Arahi 6 is designed with firmer padding to prevent excessive inward foot rolling.
The shoe also features a secure ankle collar, and a low-profile yet firm cushion for added security. The Meta-Rocker supports propulsion whereas the firmer midsole provides cushion.
Compared to other shoes, Arahi 6 offers additional support without being too heavy on the feet. It’s lighter than other Hoka running shoes thanks to the improved lacing system.
Final Words
There you have our favorite Hoka One One Running Shoes picks. We’ve made sure to include all the unique features of the models. If you’re unsure how to choose the right pair you can consider your intended use, stability, cushioning and how it feels when you try it.
Whichever pair you pick, we’re sure you’ll enjoy the comfort, stability and flexibility these shoes offer while running, standing long hours at your job, hiking or trail running.
