CHOOSE THE RIGHT HOKA

HOKA makes running shoes and walking shoes for a wide range of activities – from fast sessions on asphalt to technical trails, hiking, and long days at work.

But which model should you choose?

In this guide, we’ll help you find the right HOKA shoes based on how, where, and when you plan to use them.

What type of HOKA shoe are you looking for?

It’s easy to get caught up in model names. At The Running Company, we think your choice should start with what you’ll actually use the shoes for. Use the guide to find two or three models to compare – then we’ll be happy to help you with sizing and fit.

Mixed terrain
For those who like to vary their runs between asphalt, gravel roads and easy trails, and want a shoe that can handle a bit of everything.

Road and treadmill running
For those who mainly run on hard, even surfaces. Here you’ll find everything from comfortable, cushioned daily trainers to lighter, faster models.

Trail running
For running on trails and off-road terrain, where grip, stability and control are especially important.

Running shoes for hiking
More and more people are hiking in running shoes. Here we show you which of our models work well for walks, day hikes and longer hikes.

Work and everyday wear
For those who spend a lot of time standing and walking and prioritize comfort and cushioning for many hours.

Good to know about HOKA model names

When you look at HOKA shoes, you may come across a few recurring terms.

We list the names in the same order: model, version, optional GTX and fit, followed by who the shoe is made for – for example, Hoka Clifton 11 GTX Wide Women's.

Men are men's models.
Women are women's models.
Unisex models are suitable for everyone.
Big Kids and Youth are kids' models.
GTX means the shoe has a waterproof GORE-TEX membrane.
Wide means the model has a wider fit than the standard version.
X-Wide means the model is even wider than Wide.

HOKA for mixed terrain – road, gravel and trail

Not every run stays on the same surface. If your usual route switches between asphalt, gravel roads and easy trails, a hybrid shoe may be a better option than a dedicated road shoe or trail shoe.

HOKA has several models designed for exactly this kind of variety. The main difference between them is how much cushioning, grip and protection you want.

For those who want to be able to run just about anywhere

HOKA Challenger 8 is HOKA's versatile option for runners who don't want to limit themselves to a single surface. It sits somewhere between a classic running shoe and a trail shoe.

The outsole provides better grip when you leave the asphalt, without making the shoe as specialized for off-road running as a traditional trail shoe. This makes the Challenger 8 especially useful for routes that mix asphalt and gravel with forest roads and easier trails.

For wetter weather, the model is also available as the HOKA Challenger 8 GTX, with a waterproof GORE-TEX membrane.

For those who prioritize cushioning and comfort

HOKA Stinson 8 is for you if you want plenty of cushioning, even on varied terrain. The substantial midsole delivers a soft, comfortable feel, while the outsole is designed to handle more than just pavement.

This makes Stinson 8 an appealing option for longer walks and runs on routes that take you from pavement to gravel roads and light trails.

Stinson or Challenger – which should I choose?

Choose HOKA Stinson 8 if you prioritize plenty of cushioning and comfort on runs over mixed terrain.

Choose HOKA Challenger 8 if you mainly run and want to switch between roads, gravel and easier trails in the same shoe.

Choose HOKA Challenger 8 GTX if you like the features of the Challenger but also want a waterproof option.

HOKA running shoes for roads and treadmills

HOKA offers a wide range of running shoes for roads and treadmills – from softly cushioned models for easy distance runs to lightweight, responsive shoes for intervals and faster paces.

The best model for you depends mainly on how you train and which features you prioritize. Here, we’ll guide you to the right HOKA model based on how you plan to use it.

A versatile running shoe that’s lightweight and highly comfortable

HOKA Clifton 11 is a great choice if you're looking for a lightweight, comfortable and versatile running shoe. The soft cushioning makes it comfortable on hard surfaces, while its low weight makes it suitable for many different types of runs.

A great option for both shorter runs, longer-distance runs and treadmill running. Clifton also works well as a comfortable shoe for walking and everyday wear.

For those who want plenty of cushioning

If comfort and plush cushioning are at the top of your wish list, the HOKA Bondi 9 is a model worth taking a closer look at. The generous midsole delivers a soft feel and plenty of cushioning on hard surfaces.

The Bondi 9 is especially well suited to easy runs, walks, and days when you want to prioritize comfort over speed.

HOKA for high-mileage training

HOKA Clifton Pro is designed for runners who want a shoe for everyday training while also appreciating a little more speed and energy in their stride. It works well for both easy miles and longer runs, as well as training at a slightly faster pace.

HOKA Mach 7 combines low weight with a more responsive feel. This makes it an interesting choice if you want to use the same shoe for both regular mileage training and faster workouts.

HOKA Skyward X 2 is the option for runners who want to combine plenty of cushioning with a more energetic running feel. Its high midsole combines PEBA-based foam with a carbon fiber plate and is especially suited to longer training runs where comfort is the priority.

For easy long runs and recovery runs

When pace isn't the most important thing, a soft and comfortable shoe can make running much more enjoyable. Here are two HOKA models that are especially well suited to easier miles.

HOKA Bondi 9 offers plenty of cushioning and is a great choice for easy long runs and recovery runs when you want to minimize the impact of hard surfaces.

HOKA Clifton 11 is a lighter option for those who still want good cushioning but prefer a more agile shoe. It works well for easy distance runs, while still giving you room to pick up the pace when your legs feel fresh.

HOKA for intervals and faster training sessions

For intervals, threshold runs, and other speed workouts, a lighter, more responsive shoe can be a better choice than the most cushioned models.

HOKA Mach 7 is a natural choice for faster training sessions. Its combination of low weight and a responsive midsole delivers a quicker feel as the pace picks up.

If you want even more propulsion in your stride, HOKA Mach X 3 is another option. The model combines PEBA foam with a Pebax plate, positioning it between a traditional daily trainer and a dedicated racing shoe. This makes it suitable for tempo runs, intervals, and faster distance runs, for example.

HOKA Cielo X1 3.0 is HOKA's more race-focused option for those seeking maximum responsiveness at high speeds. It combines PEBA foam, a carbon fiber plate, and HOKA's rocker geometry to create a propulsive running feel.

HOKA with extra stability

For runners who prefer more support, there are more stable alternatives to HOKA’s neutral running shoes.

HOKA Arahi 9 combines cushioning with extra stability and support. It’s ideal if you want a stable running shoe that doesn’t feel unnecessarily heavy or bulky.

HOKA Gaviota 6 is the option for those who want to combine plenty of cushioning with a high level of stability. Compared to Arahi, it has a more maximal feel, with a focus on comfort and support underfoot.

HOKA for walking on asphalt

For walks and longer days on hard surfaces, the HOKA Bondi 9 and HOKA Clifton 11 are two models worth comparing.

The Bondi 9 is for you if you prioritize plenty of cushioning and a soft feel. The Clifton 11 is lighter and more agile, making it a good choice if you want a more versatile shoe for both walking and running.

Waterproof HOKA shoes for road running

For rainy days and wet conditions, Clifton is also available in a waterproof version. HOKA Clifton 11 GTX combines the feel of the Clifton series with a GORE-TEX membrane to keep your feet drier when the weather turns.

An option for anyone looking for a waterproof shoe for walking and running, especially on harder surfaces.

HOKA for trail and off-road running

Trails demand something different from roads. Roots, rocks, mud and steep sections make grip, protection and control just as important as cushioning.

HOKA trail shoes mainly differ in the technicality of the terrain they’re designed for and how far - and how fast - you plan to run.

A trail shoe for most things

HOKA Speedgoat 7 is HOKA's best-known trail shoe and a reliable choice for most trail runners. The Vibram Megagrip outsole provides great grip on wet rocks, roots and soft trails, while the cushioning keeps the shoe comfortable even on longer runs.

If you need a waterproof option for autumn and winter, the HOKA Speedgoat 6 GTX features a GORE-TEX membrane.

For long distances and maximum comfort

HOKA Mafate 5 is built for those who want as much cushioning as possible on the trails. It’s suited to long runs and ultramarathons where your legs need to keep going all the way.

HOKA Mafate X takes the same idea further with PEBA foam and a carbon fiber plate in the midsole. This gives you a more responsive feel if you want to keep up the pace even over long distances. The Vibram Megagrip outsole grips on both technical trails and gravel roads.

For fast training sessions and trail races

HOKA Tecton X 4 is designed for runners who want to run fast on technical trails. Two layers of PEBA foam and two parallel carbon fiber plates deliver responsiveness and efficiency, while Vibram Megagrip provides grip on wet, uneven terrain. A natural choice for trail races, mountain running and long-distance races.

HOKA Rocket X Trail is HOKA's racing shoe for faster terrain – gravel roads, packed dirt and smoother trails. It feels like a road super shoe, but with extra grip and stability.

Speedgoat, Mafate or Tecton X – which one should I choose?

Choose HOKA Speedgoat 7 if you want a versatile trail shoe with good grip and control across varied terrain.

Choose HOKA Mafate 5 or HOKA Mafate X if cushioning and comfort over long distances are your priority.

Choose HOKA Tecton X 4 or HOKA Rocket X Trail if speed is the focus – Tecton X for technical trails, Rocket X Trail for gravel and easier trails.

Hike in running shoes

More and more people are ditching heavy hiking boots and choosing to hike in running shoes instead. A lightweight, well-cushioned shoe helps your legs go further, and on most trails and gravel roads, a good trail shoe provides plenty of grip.

Here are the models in our range that work well for walks, day hikes and longer treks.

For hiking on trails and in the forest

HOKA Speedgoat 7 is one of the most popular shoes for hiking. The grip of Vibram Megagrip provides confidence on roots and rocks, and the cushioning keeps the shoe comfortable for many hours.

HOKA Mafate 5 is the option for those who want even more cushioning, for example on long day hikes or when walking many miles in a row.

For gravel roads and easy trails

If you mostly walk on gravel roads, forest tracks, and well-defined trails, a hybrid shoe is often enough. HOKA Challenger 8 is lightweight and nimble, while HOKA Stinson 8 offers more cushioning and a softer feel for long walks.

When it's wet outside

For autumn, winter, and wet trails, a waterproof shoe with a GORE-TEX membrane is a great choice. Take a look at HOKA Speedgoat 6 GTX for trails and off-road terrain, and HOKA Challenger 8 GTX for mixed surfaces.

When is a running shoe suitable – and when do you need something else?

A running shoe works well for most day hikes on trails and gravel roads, especially if you’re carrying a light pack. If you’re carrying a heavy backpack for several days or hiking in very rocky, steep terrain, you may want more ankle support than a running shoe provides.

Not sure? Tell us about your hiking plans and we’ll help you choose.

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HOKA for work and everyday life

Many of our customers buy HOKA for standing and walking—not for running. In healthcare, retail, warehouses, or during long days in the city, the cushioning makes a difference after just a few hours.

For those who spend a lot of time standing and walking

HOKA Bondi 9 is the obvious choice when you need comfort to last throughout the workday. The generous cushioning takes the sting out of hard floors.

HOKA Clifton 11 is a lighter alternative if you want a more agile shoe. If you need more support, HOKA Gaviota 6 is a great choice, with plenty of cushioning and high stability.

For work on slippery floors

HOKA Arahi SR is built for the workday. SR stands for slip resistance - an outsole that provides secure grip on wet floors and spills. The shoe is based on the Arahi stability model, with a well-cushioned midsole, and the upper is water-repellent yet breathable. Also available in Wide.

For recovery

After a long run or a long day on your feet, HOKA recovery sandals are a comfortable choice.

Not sure which HOKA is right for you?

A guide will only get you so far; it all comes down to how the shoe fits your foot. Visit us in-store and we’ll help you try on shoes and find the right size and fit.

If you have wide feet, several models are available in Wide and X-Wide. To see the full range, browse HOKA Women’s and HOKA Men’s.