What is the most cushioned Hoka One?

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A quick look at the best Hoka running shoes

• Best high end: Hoka Bondi X
• Best value: Hoka Rincon 3
• Best for everyday training: Hoka Clifton 8
• Best for road running: Hoka Bondi 7
• Best for trail running: Hoka Speedgoat 5
• Best for distance running: Hoka Clifton Edge
• Best for extra cushion: Hoka Gaviota 4
• Best for extra stability: Hoka Arahi 6

Founded in 2009 by two runners in France, Hoka One One is known for producing high quality running shoes that are consistently performative, durable, and comfortable.

In particular, runners appreciate that each shoe is designed to cradle and cushion your feet.

The company offers a wide variety of products, so you may be wondering which Hoka shoe is right for you.

How we chose these Hoka shoes

We selected the best shoes for a variety of running styles using the following criteria:

• Durability: Is the shoe able to withstand regular use and varying weather conditions?
• Reliability: Does the shoe consistently deliver a comfortable and supportive ride, even after numerous wears?
• Reviews: Does it have mostly positive customer reviews?
• Suitability for specific needs: Does the shoe have benefits for certain runners, such as those with gait concerns like overpronation and supination?
• Vetting: The shoes on our list have been vetted to ensure that they align with Healthline’s brand integrity standards and approach to well-being. You can read more about our vetting process.

From cross-training to trail running, these are our 8 favorite Hoka One One running shoes in 2022.

A note on price

General price ranges with dollar signs ($ to $$$) are indicated below. One dollar sign means the product is rather affordable, whereas three dollar signs indicate a higher cost.

Generally, prices range from $125–$215, though this may vary depending on where you shop.

Pricing guide:

• $ = under $150
• $$ = $150–$175
• $$$ = over $175

We use “men’s” and “women’s” in this article to align with how products are sold on retail sites, but that doesn’t mean you need to stick to one or the other. Choose the product with the fit, style, and features that work best for you.

What’s so special about Hoka shoes? (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});

Hoka shoes are made with advanced technologies that are unique to the brand. Here’s a brief description of their core features:

• Cushioned midsole: The midsole is the layer between the outsole and the insole that runs along the bottom of the shoe. Hoka shoes have a cushioned midsole that offers shock absorbency and added comfort to help protect your joints.
• Meta-Rocker: The Meta-Rocker technology uses a low heel-to-toe drop — meaning the height difference between the heel and the ball of the feet is minimal — plus a rounded sole to help propel you forward.
• Active Foot Frame: The Active Foot Frame sits at the back of the shoe and helps cradle the heel and embed the foot into the midsole.
• PROFLY: PROFLY is another type of midsole offered by Hoka. It features soft foam in the heel and a firm foam in the toe, allowing for a cushioned landing and powerful toe-off.
• J-Frame: J-Frame technology offers added stability on the inner, medial side of the shoe to help prevent your foot from rolling inward.
• Carbon fiber plate: The carbon fiber plate is attached to Hoka’s Profly insole for smooth, comfortable, and lightweight propulsion.
• HUBBLE heel: The HUBBLE heel juts off the back of certain Hoka models. It helps reduce impact and creates a smooth heel-to-toe transition.

Pros

• extra cushioning helps with shock absorption
• offer good stability
• comfortable for long periods of time
• wider toe box is helpful for pronators or supinators

Cons

• expensive
• on the heavier side
• some find them too cushioned

Healthline’s picks for the best Hoka running shoes

Best high end

Hoka Bondi X

• Price: $$$
• Weight: women’s: 9 oz (255.1 g); men’s: 11 oz (311.8 g)
• Drop: 5 mm

While it’s one of Hoka’s most expensive shoes, the Bondi X is also one of the brand’s most popular models. With neutral stability and plenty of cushioning, it provides a smooth ride and is great for longer runs or standing all day.

The Bondi X has a compression-molded EVA midsole that helps reduce impact. That means this shoe may be a good option for people who experience joint or foot pain.

It also has Hoka’s signature carbon fiber plate and Meta-Rocker technology in the midsole to help propel you forward as you run.

Plus, Hoka extended the heel on this version of the Bondi, which makes for an even smoother heel-to-toe transition.

The Bondi X comes in multiple different colors, including black and white and a flashier white with bright orange.

Pros

• highly cushioned with an extended heel
• comfortable for long periods of time
• breathable upper

Cons

• expensive
• tongue is a bit short
• not available in wide or extra wide sizes

Shop for women’s shoes at HOKA

Shop for men’s shoes at HOKA

Best value

Hoka Rincon 3

• Price: $
• Weight: women’s: 6.5 oz (184.3 g); men’s: 7.7 oz (218.3 g)
• Drop: 5 mm

Weighing less than 8 ounces (226.8 g), the Hoka Rincon 3 may be lightweight and low on cost, but it’s not light on comfort or support.

This budget-friendly shoe features a symmetrical footbed and balanced cushioning to provide comfort and stability.

It also has an ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) midsole with the brand’s signature cushioning, which is balanced while still offering a forward push.

Plus, the shoe is durable, flexible, and breathable — great for long training sessions. However, some reviewers note that the shoe offers less stability control than other Hoka options.

The Rincon 3 is available in a variety of colors, including pink, black, blue, orange, and lavender.

Pros

• lightweight
• toe box is wider than previous models
• fun color options

Cons

• less stable than other Hoka options
• asymmetrical tongue is bothersome to some

Shop for women’s shoes at Hoka

Shop for men’s shoes at Hoka

Best for everyday training

Hoka Clifton 8

• Price: $
• Weight: women’s: 7.2 oz (204.1 g); men’s: 8.9 oz (252.3 g)
• Drop: 5 mm

The Clifton 8 is the best Hoka running shoe for everyday training, as it’s lightweight, flexible, durable, reliable, and — with Hoka’s signature EVA foam sole — comfortable.

The newest version of the shoe has an extended crash pad in the back for a soft landing and Hoka’s Meta-Rocker technology.

It also features a mesh upper (the part of the shoe that covers your toes) to keep your feet from getting too hot and sweaty.

What’s more, the shoe’s plush collar eases pressure on your Achilles tendon, making logging those miles a breeze. That said, some reviewers noted that the materials can feel flimsy.

The Clifton 8 is available in several colors, including all-white, black with a white midsole, and orange, among others.

Pros

• breathable upper
• balanced cushioning for a stable ride
• good outsole traction

Cons

• material may not be as durable as other models

Shop for women’s shoes at Hoka

Shop for men’s shoes at Hoka

Best for road running

Hoka Bondi 7

• Price: $$
• Weight: women’s: 8.9 oz (252.3 g); men’s: 10.7 oz (303.3 g)
• Drop: 4 mm

If you regularly run on hard surfaces like asphalt or concrete, you’ll love the Bondi 7.

It’s not only highly cushioned but also lightweight and breathable, making it a comfortable option for long-distance runs.

Other notable features include a compression-molded midsole, inner heel support, and Hoka’s Meta-Rocker technology, which is designed to propel you forward and encourage a more natural stride.

Plus, it’s available in a wide range of colors, including black, white, blue, silver, and orange.

Just keep in mind that this style is very high off the ground, which some runners may dislike.

Pros

• extra cushioning is comfortable for running on concrete and asphalt
• good style for heel strikers
• available in extra wide sizes

Cons

• thicker cushioning underfoot can feel unstable
• can feel bulky

Shop for women’s shoes at Hoka

Shop for men’s shoes at Hoka

Best for trail running

Hoka Speedgoat 5

• Price: $$
• Weight: women’s: 8.5 oz (240.9 g); men’s: 10.3 oz (283.5 g)
• Drop: 4 mm

Part of an award-winning family of shoes and named after a professional ultra-runner, the Hoka Speedgoat 5 is the perfect option for trail running. The newest version of this style is even lighter and has more traction than previous versions.

Designed to be stable, comfortable, and secure, the shoe features a Vibram Megagrip rubber outsole that provides a reliable grip in wet and dry conditions.

Additional features include a breathable GORE-TEX mesh upper, a slightly larger toe box, and extra midfoot support. It also has a toe cap to help protect your feet from rocks and sticks.

The shoe comes in several bright colors, including blue, red, and black with orange.

Pros

• versatile
• upper is more flexible than previous models
• Vibram outsole and lugs provide good traction

Cons

• can feel bulky
• some reviewers find the tongue too short

Shop for women’s shoes at Hoka

Shop for men’s shoes at Hoka

Best for distance running

Hoka Clifton Edge

• Price: $$
• Weight: women’s: 7.25 oz (205.5 g); men’s: 8.93 oz (253 g)
• Drop: 5 mm

If you’re looking for a durable, reliable, and comfortable long-distance running shoe, look no further than the Hoka Clifton Edge.

With just the right amount of cushioning and a light but stable construction, this shoe will keep you comfortable without weighing you down.

The Clifton Edge comes in several fun color combinations, including white with green and blue accents and a bright citrus yellow.

While it’s designed to be lightweight, some customers note that the mesh upper feels heavier and bulkier compared with some of Hoka’s other options.

Pros

• padded collar is comfortable on ankle
• lower profile than other Hoka shoes
• lightweight

Cons

• not made for wider feet
• may feel bulky

Shop for women’s shoes at Hoka

Shop for men’s shoes at Hoka

Best for extra cushion

Hoka Gaviota 4

• Price: $$
• Weight: women’s: 9.3 oz (263.7 g); men’s: 11.4 oz (323.2 g)
• Drop: 5 mm

The Gaviota 4 gets high marks from customers for how plush, comfortable, and supportive it is. Plus, Hoka updated the way the tongue connects to the upper for a more seamless, comfortable fit.

In addition to the brand’s signature Meta-Rocker technology, the shoe features Hoka’s J-Frame structure for even more stability and support, which helps with overpronation.

What’s more, the Gaviota is designed to be flexible and comes equipped with a rubber outsole for increased durability. It comes in several colors, including all black and blue graphite.

The Gaviota 4 is one of the heavier shoes offered by the brand, which may be a downside for some runners.

Pros

• cushioned and comfortable
• increased padding on the tongue
• durable

Cons

• heavy
• toe box isn’t as roomy as other options

Shop for women’s shoes at Hoka

Shop for men’s shoes at Hoka

Best for extra stability

Hoka Arahi 6

• Price: $
• Weight: women’s: 7.6 oz (215.5 g); men’s: 9.3 oz (263.6 g)
• Drop: 5 mm

Whether you overpronate or simply prefer extra stability, the Hoka Arahi 6 is a great option.

Specifically, the shoe is designed with slightly firmer padding on the medial side to prevent your foot from rolling excessively inward.

It also features a firm, low profile cushion and secure ankle collar for extra security. It has Meta-Rocker technology for propulsion, and a firmer, responsive midsole.

Plus, unlike other running shoes built for stability, the Hoka Arahi 6 manages to offer extra support while still being lightweight and comfortable (it’s even lighter than its predecessor), and the lacing system has also been improved.

The Hoka Arahi 6 is available in several colors, including light blue, orange, fuchsia, and black.

Pros

• firm, protective midsole
• provides extra stability
• versatile for different types of runs

Cons

• not as durable as other options

Shop for women’s shoes at Hoka

Shop for men’s shoes at Hoka

How to choose the best Hoka running shoe

Looking to buy a pair of Hoka running shoes? There are several factors to consider, including:

• Intended use: The type of running you plan on doing is the most important consideration when shopping for shoes. For example, some are designed with extra stability for trail running, while others feature added cushioning to keep you comfortable on pavement.
• Cushioning: While all Hoka shoes are designed to be soft and comfortable, some offer more padding than others.
• Stability: Hoka shoes are specifically engineered to prevent ankle rolls. However, if you overpronate, you may want a pair that offers extra stability.
• Customer reviews: As running shoes are not cheap, it’s important to read customer reviews to ensure that you’re getting the best value for your money.
• How it feels: Keep in mind that the best way to evaluate a shoe is by trying it on in person.

Quick comparison

Here’s a quick look at how our top picks compare:

PriceWeightCushioningStabilityHeel-to-toe dropIdeal surfaceBondi X$$$• Women’s: 9 oz (255.1 g)
• Men’s: 11 oz (311.8 g)plushneutral5 mmroadRincon 3$• Women’s: 6.5 oz (184.3 g)
• Men’s: 7.7 oz (218.3 g)balancedneutral5 mmroadClifton 8$• Women’s: 7.2 oz (204.1 g)
• Men’s: 8.9 oz (252.3 g)balancedneutral5 mmroadBondi 7$$• Women’s: 8.9 oz (252.3 g)
• Men’s: 10.7 oz (303.3 g)plushneutral4 mmroadSpeedgoat 5$$• Women’s: 8.5 oz (240.9 g)
• Men’s: 10.3 oz (283.5 g)balancedneutral4 mmtrailsClifton Edge$$• Women’s: 7.25 oz (205.5 g)
• Men’s: 8.93 oz (253 g)balancedneutral5 mmroadGaviota 4$$• Women’s: 9.3 oz (263.7 g)
• Men’s: 11.4 oz (323.2 g)plushstable4 mmroadArahi 6$• Women’s: 7.6 oz (215.5 g)
• Men’s: 9.3 oz (263.6 g)balancedstable5 mmroad

Note that the prices listed above are based on the manufacturer’s suggested retail price, or MSRP. The actual price may vary by retailer.

Frequently asked questions about Hokas

Do podiatrists recommend Hoka shoes?

HOKA shoes are often recommended (and even worn) by podiatrists, especially for people with foot concerns.

Dr. Sarah Haller, DPM, FACFAS suggests HOKAs “especially for patients suffering from pain in the front of their foot since they have a rocker bottom sole. This allows for less pressure to go through the front of the foot which helps with pain. Additionally, they have a large sole which helps with impact for people with heel pain. This is particularly important for people who spend the majority of their day on their feet.”

How long do Hoka running shoes last?

“These shoes tend to last 6 to 8 months depending on how much you’re walking on a daily basis and if you participate in outside sports. You want to be cognizant of when you buy them. I encourage my patients to label the inner aspect of the shoe, under the tongue, including the month and year when purchased,” Haller says.

It’s also a good idea to periodically check the shoe’s tread, which is a good indication of when it needs to be replaced.

Do Hokas have good arch support?

Hokas do offer arch support, but the level of support depends on which model you choose. Hoka currently has three stability options: neutral, moderate, and stable.

“A neutral shoe will have the least amount of arch reinforcement, while stable will have the most,” says Dr. Alissa Kuizinas, a board certified podiatrist specializing in holistic and functional foot health.

The bottom line

Hoka offers comfortable, reliable running shoes with options available in a variety of fits and styles.

By considering the type of running you do and using the list above, we’re confident that you’ll find the perfect Hoka running shoe for you.

Which Hokas are the softest?

Which Hokas are best for foot pain?

Why do podiatrists recommend HOKA?

Which Hokas have the best support?