About HOKA
HOKA is a sportswear company that designs and markets running shoes. It was founded in 2009 in Annecy, France, and has been based in Richmond, California since 2013. Hoka first gained attention in the running industry by producing shoes with oversized outsoles, dubbed “maximalist” shoes, in contrast to the minimalist shoe trend that was gaining popularity at the time.
The shoes are named after the Māori language phrase “hoka nui,” which loosely means “fly over the earth.” The shoes were initially embraced by ultramarathon runners due to their enhanced cushion and inherent stability; however, they quickly gained popularity among other runners for offering maximum cushion and minimal weight. The brand’s original, highest-cushion models are now accompanied in the Hoka lineup by lighter-weight shoes that retain much of the brand’s signature cushion, and even lightweight training and racing shoes and track spikes.
Hoka shoes are known for their oversized midsoles, which are made of a soft, lightweight foam that provides a high level of cushioning. The shoes also have a wide base, which helps to improve stability. Hoka shoes are popular among runners of all levels, but they are particularly well-suited for runners who suffer from impact-related injuries.
Here are some of the things that make Hoka shoes great:
- Cushioning: Hoka shoes offer superior cushioning, which can help to reduce impact forces and prevent injuries.
- Stability: The wide base of Hoka shoes helps to improve stability, which can be especially helpful for runners who overpronate.
- Weight: Hoka shoes are relatively lightweight, which can help to improve running performance.
- Durability: Hoka shoes are made from high-quality materials and construction, which makes them durable and long-lasting.
- Style: Hoka shoes have a unique, bold style that sets them apart from other running shoes.
If you are looking for a comfortable, supportive, and stylish pair of running shoes, Hoka is a great option. The brand offers a wide variety of shoes to fit different needs and budgets.
Here are some of the most popular Hoka shoes:
Bondi: The Bondi is Hoka’s flagship model and is known for its extreme cushioning. It is a good choice for runners who suffer from impact-related injuries or who want a plush ride.
Clifton: The Clifton is a lighter version of the Bondi and is a good choice for runners who want a more responsive ride.
Speedgoat: The Speedgoat is a trail running shoe that is designed for off-road use. It has a rugged outsole and good traction.
Elevon: The Elevon is a lightweight racing shoe that is designed for speed. It has a responsive midsole and a carbon fiber plate.
Mach: The Mach is a versatile training shoe that can be used for a variety of activities. It has a balanced cushioning and support.
If you are interested in trying Hoka shoes, I recommend going to a local running store and trying on a few pairs to see which ones feel best for you.
Features
Here are some of the key features of Hoka shoes:
- Oversized midsole: Hoka shoes have a much thicker midsole than most other running shoes. This provides a high level of cushioning that can help to reduce impact forces and prevent injuries.
- Wide base: The wide base of Hoka shoes helps to improve stability. This can be especially helpful for runners who overpronate.
- Lightweight: Hoka shoes are relatively lightweight, even with their oversized midsoles. This helps to improve running performance.
- Durable: Hoka shoes are made from high-quality materials and construction, which makes them durable and long-lasting.
- Unique style: Hoka shoes have a unique, bold style that sets them apart from other running shoes.
Here are some of the specific technologies that Hoka uses in its shoes:
- PROFLY midsole: The PROFY midsole is a lightweight foam that provides a high level of cushioning and energy return.
- Meta-Rocker technology: The Meta-Rocker technology is a design feature that helps to create a smooth, efficient gait.
- Active Foot Frame: The Active Foot Frame is a sculpted midsole design that cradles the foot deeper inside the shoe for more stability.
- Vibram Megagrip outsole: The Vibram Megagrip outsole is a durable, high-traction outsole that provides excellent grip on a variety of surfaces.
Hoka shoes are a popular choice for runners of all levels, but they are particularly well-suited for runners who suffer from impact-related injuries or who want a plush ride. If you are looking for a comfortable, supportive, and stylish pair of running shoes, Hoka is a great option.
Materials
Hoka shoes are made from a variety of materials, including:
- Midsole: The midsole is the part of the shoe that provides cushioning. Hoka shoes typically use a lightweight foam called EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate) or PU (polyurethane) for their midsoles.
- Outsole: The outsole is the part of the shoe that makes contact with the ground. Hoka shoes typically use a durable rubber outsole that provides good traction.
- Upper: The upper is the part of the shoe that encloses the foot. Hoka shoes typically use a breathable mesh upper that allows the foot to breathe.
- Lining: The lining is the inner layer of the shoe that provides comfort and support. Hoka shoes typically use a soft, plush lining that helps to keep the foot comfortable.
- Eyelets: The eyelets are the holes in the upper that the shoelaces go through. Hoka shoes typically use metal eyelets that are durable and long-lasting.
- Laces: The laces are used to tighten the shoe around the foot. Hoka shoes typically use flat laces that are comfortable and easy to tie.
Hoka shoes may also contain other materials, such as leather, synthetics, and textiles. The specific materials used in a Hoka shoe will vary depending on the model and the intended use of the shoe.
Hoka is committed to using sustainable materials in its shoes. The company uses recycled materials whenever possible and is working to reduce its environmental impact.
Here are some of the sustainable materials that Hoka uses in its shoes:
- Recycled polyester: Recycled polyester is made from plastic bottles and other recycled materials. It is a lightweight and durable material that is often used in the uppers of Hoka shoes.
- Recycled rubber: Recycled rubber is made from old tires and other recycled materials. It is a durable and grippy material that is often used in the outsoles of Hoka shoes.
- Organic cotton: Organic cotton is grown without the use of harmful pesticides and fertilizers. It is a soft and breathable material that is often used in the linings of Hoka shoes.
- Hemp: Hemp is a sustainable and versatile material that can be used in a variety of ways. Hoka uses hemp in the laces of some of its shoes.
Hoka is constantly looking for new ways to use sustainable materials in its shoes. The company is committed to making its products as environmentally friendly as possible.
10 Bestselling HOKA Men’s Shoes
here are the 10 bestselling HOKA men’s shoes:
Hoka Bondi 8. It is the most cushioned shoe in the HOKA lineup and is a good choice for runners who suffer from impact-related injuries or who want a plush ride. It has a thick midsole made of EVA foam and a wide base for stability.
10 Bestselling HOKA Women’s Shoes
Here are the 10 bestselling HOKA women’s shoes:
These are just a few of the many great Hoka women’s shoes available. The best shoe for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. I recommend trying on a few pairs at a local running store to find the ones that feel best for you.
What Do Experts Think?
Hoka shoes generally well-received by experts. Many podiatrists and running coaches recommend Hoka shoes for their cushioning and support.
Here are some of the things that experts say about Hoka shoes:
- They provide excellent cushioning. The thick midsoles of Hoka shoes help to reduce impact forces and prevent injuries.
- They offer good stability. The wide base of Hoka shoes helps to improve stability, which can be especially helpful for runners who overpronate.
- They are lightweight. Despite their oversized midsoles, many Hoka shoes are surprisingly lightweight, which can help to improve running performance.
- They are durable. Hoka shoes made from high-quality materials and construction, which makes them durable and long-lasting.
- They are comfortable. Hoka shoes designed to comfortable and supportive, even for long runs.
However, some experts also point out that Hoka shoes may not be suitable for everyone. For example, runners who need a lot of flexibility may not find Hoka shoes to be as comfortable. Additionally, Hoka shoes can be more expensive than other brands.
The best way to decide if Hoka shoes are right for you is to try them on and see how they feel. There are many different Hoka shoes available, so there is sure to be one that is perfect for you.
Here are some specific examples of what experts have said about Hoka shoes:
- Dr. Jacqueline Sutera, a New York City-based podiatrist: “I personally own Hoka sneakers and do also recommend them to patients often.
- Dr. Miguel Cunha, podiatrist and founder of Gotham Footcare: “Hoka One One is one of my favorite sneaker brands and I frequently recommend them to patients — especially those with wide feet.
- The American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA): “The APMA Seal of Acceptance a voluntary program that recognizes products that found beneficial for foot health.” Several Hoka shoes have received the APMA Seal of Acceptance, including the Clifton, Bondi, and Gaviota.
Who Is HOKA For?
Hoka shoes designed for a variety of runners, including:
- Runners who suffer from impact-related injuries. The thick midsoles of Hoka shoes help to reduce impact forces and prevent injuries.
- Runners who want a plush ride. The cushioning of Hoka shoes can make running more comfortable, even for long distances.
- Runners who overpronate. The wide base of Hoka shoes can help to improve stability, which can be especially helpful for runners who overpronate.
- Runners who want a lightweight shoe. Despite their oversized midsoles, many Hoka shoes are surprisingly lightweight.
- Runners of all levels. Hoka shoes are available for a variety of running levels, from beginners to experienced runners.
However, it is important to note that Hoka shoes may not be suitable for everyone. For example, runners who need a lot of flexibility may not find Hoka shoes to be as comfortable. Additionally, Hoka shoes can be more expensive than other brands.
The best way to decide if Hoka shoes are right for you is to try them on and see how they feel. There are many different Hoka shoes available, so there is sure to be one that is perfect for you.
Here are some specific examples of who might benefit from Hoka shoes:
- Ultramarathon runners: Hoka shoes are a popular choice among ultramarathon runners because they provide excellent cushioning and support for long distances.
- Trail runners: Hoka shoes are also a popular choice among trail runners because they offer good traction and durability for off-road running.
- Overpronators: Hoka shoes can be a good choice for runners who overpronate because the wide base helps to control the inward rolling of the foot.
- Beginner runners: Hoka shoes can be a good choice for beginner runners because they provide a lot of cushioning and support, which can help to prevent injuries.
- Experienced runners: Hoka shoes can also be a good choice for experienced runners who are looking for a comfortable and supportive shoe for long runs.
Alternatives
Here are some alternatives to Hoka shoes:
Brooks: Brooks is another popular running shoe brand that offers a variety of shoes for different types of runners. Some of the most popular Brooks shoes for cushioning are the Brooks Glycerin, Brooks Ghost, and Brooks Adrenaline GTS.
Saucony: Saucony is another good option for cushioned running shoes. Some of the most popular Saucony shoes for cushioning are the Saucony Triumph, Saucony Kinvara, and Saucony Endorphin Speed.
New Balance: New Balance is a well-respected running shoe brand that offers a variety of shoes for different types of runners. Some of the most popular New Balance shoes for cushioning are the New Balance Fresh Foam 1080, New Balance Fresh Foam 880, and New Balance Fresh Foam Vongo.
When choosing an alternative to Hoka shoes, it is important to consider your individual needs and preferences. Factors to consider include your running style, your foot type, and your budget. It is also a good idea to try on a few different shoes before making a decision.
HOKA Reviews: What Do Customers Think?
Hoka shoes have generally received positive reviews from customers. Here are some of the things that customers say about Hoka shoes:
- They provide excellent cushioning. Many customers say that Hoka shoes are the most comfortable running shoes they have ever worn. The thick midsoles help to reduce impact forces and make running more comfortable, even for long distances.
- They offer good stability. The wide base of Hoka shoes helps to improve stability, which can be especially helpful for runners who overpronate.
- They are lightweight. Despite their oversized midsoles, many Hoka shoes are surprisingly lightweight, which can help to improve running performance.
- They are durable. Hoka shoes made from high-quality materials and construction, which makes them durable and long-lasting.
- They are stylish. Hoka shoes have a unique, bold style that sets them apart from other running shoes.
However, some customers also point out that Hoka shoes may not be suitable for everyone. For example, runners who need a lot of flexibility may not find Hoka shoes to be as comfortable. Additionally, Hoka shoes can be more expensive than other brands.
Here are some specific examples of what customers have said about Hoka shoes:
- I have been running for years and I have never found a shoe that is as comfortable as Hoka shoes. The cushioning is amazing and I can run for miles without feeling any pain.”
- I used to overpronate and I found that Hoka shoes helped to improve my stability. I can now run without any pain.”
- I was skeptical about Hoka shoes at first because they are so bulky, but I am so glad I gave them a try. They are the most comfortable running shoes I have ever worn.”
- I love the style of Hoka shoes. They are different from other running shoes and I get a lot of compliments on them.”
Hoka shoes have received positive reviews from customers. They well-liked for their excellent cushioning, good stability, lightweight design, durability, and stylish looks. However, it is important to note that Hoka shoes may not be suitable for everyone. If you are not sure if Hoka shoes are right for you, I recommend trying them on at a local running store.
Is HOKA Worth It?
Whether or not Hoka shoes are worth it depends on your individual needs and preferences. Here are some factors to consider:
- Your running style: If you are a heel striker, you may find that Hoka shoes are not as comfortable as other brands. This is because the thick midsoles can make it difficult to get a good heel-to-toe transition.
- Your foot type: If you have wide feet, you may find that Hoka shoes a good fit. This is because Hoka shoes typically have a wider toe box than other brands.
- Your budget: Hoka shoes are typically more expensive than other brands. If you are on a budget, you may want to consider other options.
- Your goals: If you are looking for a shoe that will help you run longer distances, Hoka shoes may be a good option. This is because the thick midsoles can help to reduce impact forces and prevent injuries.
The best way to decide if Hoka shoes are worth it for you is to try them on and see how they feel. There are many different Hoka shoes available, so there is sure to be one that is perfect for you.
Here are some of the pros and cons of Hoka shoes:
Pros:
- Excellent cushioning
- Good stability
- Lightweight design
- Durable
- Stylish looks
Cons:
- Can be bulky for some runners
- More expensive than other brands
- Not suitable for all running styles
If you are considering trying Hoka shoes, I recommend reading reviews from other runners and trying them on at a local running store. This will help you decide if they are right for you.
HOKA Promotions & Discounts
Here are some of the promotions and discounts offered by Hoka:
- New customer discount: Hoka offers a 20% discount to new customers. To get the discount, you can sign up for the Hoka mailing list or use the code NEW20 at checkout.
- Sale: Hoka often has sales on select shoes and apparel. You can find the latest sales on the Hoka website or by following Hoka on social media.
- Referral program: Hoka offers a referral program where you can earn a $20 credit for every friend who makes a purchase. To participate, you can sign up for the program on the Hoka website.
- Military discount: Hoka offers a 10% discount to military personnel and their families. To get the discount, you can show your military ID at checkout or use the code MILITARY.
- Student discount: Hoka offers a 10% discount to students. To get the discount, you can show your student ID at checkout or use the code STUDENT.
- Employee discount: Hoka employees receive a 30% discount on shoes and apparel.
Hoka also offers a loyalty program called Hoka One One Club. Members of the Hoka One One Club earn points for every purchase they make. These points can redeemed for discounts on future purchases.
You can find more information about Hoka promotions and discounts on the Hoka website.
Here are some tips for finding the best Hoka deals:
- Sign up for the Hoka mailing list. This will give you early access to sales and promotions.
- Follow Hoka on social media. Hoka often announces sales and promotions on social media.
- Check the Hoka website regularly. Hoka often has sales and promotions that advertised elsewhere.
- Use a cashback website. Cashback websites like Rakuten and Honey can give you cash back on your Hoka purchases.
- Be patient. Hoka often has sales and promotions around major holidays, such as Black Friday and Cyber Monday.
Where To Buy HOKA
There are many places where you can buy Hoka shoes. Here are a few options:
Hoka website: The Hoka website is the official online store for Hoka shoes. You can find a wide variety of Hoka shoes on the website, as well as information about the brand and its products.
- Local running store: Local running stores are a great place to buy Hoka shoes. The staff at these stores can help you find the right Hoka shoe for your needs and feet.
- Online retailers: There are many online retailers that sell Hoka shoes. Some popular online retailers include Amazon, REI, and Zappos.
- Discount retailers: Discount retailers like TJ Maxx and Marshalls often carry Hoka shoes at discounted prices.
- Secondhand retailers: Secondhand retailers like eBay and Poshmark can be a good place to find Hoka shoes at a lower price.
When choosing where to buy Hoka shoes, it is important to consider your needs and preferences. If you are looking for the widest selection of Hoka shoes, the Hoka website is a good option. If you want to get help from a knowledgeable staff member, a local running store is a good choice. And if you are looking for the best price, an online retailer or discount retailer may be a better option.
Here are some tips for buying Hoka shoes:
- Try on the shoes before you buy them. Hoka shoes come in a variety of widths, so it is important to try them on before you buy them to make sure they fit well.
- Consider your running style. If you are a heel striker, you may want to choose a Hoka shoe with a more cushioned midsole. If you are a forefoot striker, you may want to choose a Hoka shoe with a more responsive midsole.
- Read reviews. Reading reviews from other runners can help you get an idea of how a particular Hoka shoe feels and performs.
- Buy from a reputable retailer. When buying Hoka shoes online, make sure to buy from a reputable retailer to avoid counterfeit shoes.
FAQ
Here some of the frequently asked questions about Hoka shoes:
What is the difference between Hoka and other running shoes?
Hoka shoes known for their oversized midsoles, which provide a lot of cushioning. This can be helpful for runners who suffer from impact-related injuries or who want a plush ride. Hoka shoes also typically have a wider toe box than other running shoes, which can be helpful for runners with wide feet.
Are Hoka shoes good for running?
Hoka shoes are good for running for a variety of people. They can be helpful for runners who suffer from impact-related injuries, runners who want a plush ride, and runners who have wide feet. However, it is important to note that Hoka shoes may not be suitable for everyone. For example, runners who need a lot of flexibility may not find Hoka shoes to be as comfortable.
How do I choose the right Hoka shoe?
The best way to choose the right Hoka shoe is to consider your individual needs and preferences. Factors to consider include your running style, your foot type, and your goals.
If you are not sure which Hoka shoe is right for you, I recommend trying on a few different shoes at a local running store. This will help you find the shoe that fits best and feels the most comfortable.