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Best Hoka Running Shoes (May 2025)

Written on 21st May by Brandon Law Marathon Runner and Shoe Expert
204 other reviews
Best Hoka Running Shoes
Started in 2009 as a trail shoe designed for faster downhill running - Hoka created a model with an oversized outsole that had more cushion than other running shoes at the time.

Although the world was still in the middle of the minimalist craze, the bold design and seemingly infinite cushioning stroke a chord with many runners. Just to put things into perspective, Hoka had revenue of ± $150 Million in 2018, while the last reported figures for 2024 talk about $1.8 Billion.

There are many Hoka running shoes in their range. Here, we’ve picked the best Hoka running shoes in various category and we'll explain exactly what they are and who they are meant for.

We run at least 50 miles in almost 100 pairs of Hoka shoes in the past few years, you can trust us!

Our favorite Hoka shoes, after hundreds of miles of testing

Keep scrolling or click on a shoe to find out why we chose it and what other shoes you should consider.

Hoka One One Skyflow

Best Overall
Weight: 10oz Drop: 5mm
Our Rating
9.0
Users Rating
8.7
The Skyflow is a terrific choice for anyone who is looking for a dependable daily trainer to rack up base mileage, or just run comfortable. ...
MSRP $159.95 $0 Best price today this will redirect you to Hoka ONE ONE

Hoka One One Bondi 9

Most Cushioning
Weight: 9.3oz Drop: 5mm
Our Rating
8.0
Users Rating
7.5
The Hoka Bondi 9 is a good max-cushioned trainer for easy or recovery runs. It has a firm and supportive ride that provides exceptional stability but it doesn’t posess much energy return. The 9th...
MSRP $170 $0 Best price today this will redirect you to Hoka ONE ONE

Hoka One One Mach 6

Light and Responsive
Weight: 8.3oz Drop: 5mm
Our Rating
7.0
Users Rating
8.4
The HOKA Mach 6 is an everyday shoe that has enough stack height in the midsole to give you that comfortable ride for those long runs and light enough to make you pick up the speed. If you're...
MSRP $139.95 $0 Best price today this will redirect you to Hoka ONE ONE

Hoka One One Mach X 2

Fastest Trainer
Weight: 8.9oz Drop: 5mm Carbon plate
Our Rating
8.0
Users Rating
10
The Hoka Mach X 2 is a great speed trainer with a versatile ride. It has a softer ride than most speed trainers but it has a high level of energy thanks to its layer of PEBA foam and its Pebax plate....
MSRP $189.95 $0 Best price today this will redirect you to Hoka ONE ONE

Hoka One One HOKA Gaviota 5

Best for Stability
Weight: 10.9oz Drop: 6mm
Our Rating
9.0
Users Rating
9.0
The HOKA ONE ONE Gaviota 5 offers top comfort and support, with an ultra-wide base and one of the brand’s highest stack heights, yet has dropped almost an ounce from previous models. This latest...
MSRP $174.95 $0 Best price today this will redirect you to Hoka ONE ONE

Hoka One One Stinson 7

Trail Versatility
Weight: 12.7oz Drop: 5mm
Our Rating
9.0
Users Rating
0.0
The HOKA Stinson 7 provides an exceptionally stable, reliable, highly cushioned ride for road to non-technical trails. For everyday training or longer efforts where the terrain varies between roads,...
MSRP $169.95 $0 Best price today this will redirect you to Hoka ONE ONE

Table of content

  Our Top 6 picks for all categories
 
 
What to consider
 
 
Best Overall
 
 
Most Cushioning
 
 
Light and Responsive
 
 
Fastest Trainer
 
 
Best for Stability
 
 
Trail Versatility
 
 
Quick questions you might have
 
 
Comments
 

Hoka Technologies - The Complete Breakdown

We’ve put together this comprehensive guide to help you understand what makes Hoka shoes unique. From their distinctive cushioning systems to their innovative stability features, these proprietary technologies are what give Hoka running shoes their game-changing ride quality and performance characteristics.

Hoka Midsole & Cushioning Technologies

PROFLY

PROFLY Technology

A dual-density midsole system that combines a softer top layer for cushioning with a firmer bottom layer for propulsion. Often described as “intelligent suspension,” PROFLY provides a unique soft and marshmallow-like landing at the heel while delivering dynamic push-off at the forefoot. This versatile design makes it ideal for both daily training and performance runs, offering an excellent balance of comfort and responsiveness.

PROFLY-X

PROFLY-X Technology

An advanced iteration of PROFLY, this high-performance midsole incorporates highly resilient PEBA foam for enhanced energy return and lightweight performance. The PROFLY-X system is typically paired with a carbon fiber plate that curves under the toes, creating a propulsive springboard effect. Found in Hoka’s racing models like the Carbon X and Cielo X1, this technology delivers a trampoline-like, bouncy sensation that’s ideal for speed workouts and race day efforts.

CMEVA (Compression Molded EVA)

Hoka’s standard midsole material, Compression Molded EVA (CMEVA) offers excellent durability and cushioning. This reliable foam is found in many of Hoka’s popular models like the Clifton and Bondi series, providing the foundation for their characteristic plush yet responsive ride. CMEVA strikes a perfect balance between weight, cushioning, and longevity, making it ideal for everyday training shoes.

Stability & Support Features

J-Frame

J-Frame Technology

Designed specifically to combat overpronation, J-Frame technology utilizes a firmer density foam that runs along the medial (inner) side of the shoe and curves around the heel in a J-shape. This innovative approach provides targeted support without the rigid, intrusive feel of traditional medial posts. Featured in models like the Arahi, J-Frame helps guide the foot through a more neutral motion path while maintaining the cushioned comfort Hoka is known for.

H-Frame

H-Frame Technology

Introduced in models like the Gaviota 5 and Stinson 7, the H-Frame represents Hoka’s evolution in stability technology. This system features a firmer foam that interlocks with the midsole in an H-shaped (or figure-8) pattern that runs along both the medial and lateral sides of the shoe. Unlike the J-Frame, which primarily supports the medial side, the H-Frame creates balanced, inherent stability on both sides of the foot, allowing for the use of softer cushioning while maintaining excellent support for moderate overpronators.

Geometry & Transition Technologies

SwallowTail Heel

SwallowTail Heel Technology

The SwallowTail heel is one of Hoka’s most visually distinctive technologies, featuring a forked, split geometry at the rear of the shoe. This unique design creates a broader landing surface and improved impact distribution during heel strikes. Seen in models like the Kawana, the SwallowTail works in harmony with the Meta-Rocker to provide smoother landings and transitions throughout the gait cycle, making it especially beneficial for heel strikers seeking additional stability and impact reduction.

Meta-Rocker

Meta-Rocker is perhaps Hoka’s signature technology, featuring a curved, rocking-chair-like sole geometry that helps roll the foot through its natural gait cycle. This design reduces the height differential between heel and toe, creating a smoother transition and more efficient stride. Hoka offers two variations: Early Stage Meta-Rocker (positioned at the midfoot) for speed-oriented models, and Late Stage Meta-Rocker (closer to the toes) for daily trainers. This technology is what gives Hoka shoes their distinctive rolling sensation, reducing foot fatigue during longer runs.

Best Overall

Hoka One One Skyflow

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$160.00
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In short
The Skyflow is a terrific choice for anyone who is looking for a dependable daily trainer to rack up base mileage, or just run comfortable.
Pros
  • Versatile, smooth, max cushioned ride at a reasonable price.
  • Deep soft and and highly energetic foam.
  • Durable outsole coverage
  • Comfortable upper with good overall suppport
  • surprisingly stable for a neutral shoe
Cons
  • Upper can run a little warm
  • Wet traction has a lot to be desired.
  • Could use a touch more flex
Who should buy it

Any runner inn need of a highly cushioned yet stable daily trainer that excels at both long and short distance runs capable of faster efforts.

Who should not buy it

Runners with higher volume feet or those seeking an ultra plush running experience.

Main Specs
Type
Cushioning
Weight
10 oz
Heel
39 mm
Carbon plate
No plate
Heel drop
5 mm
Toe
34 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
10
Build quality
10
Upper
9.0
Sole unit
10
Landing
9.0
Transition
10
Toe-off
10
Traction
8.0
Durability
10
Value / Price
10
Team review
The Skyflow represents Hoka's bold push into next-generation cushioning technology. Unlike the traditional EVA-based Bondi and Clifton 9, this newcomer delivers a noticeably more responsive and energetic ride while retaining that signature plush feel underfoot. We've found it hits that sweet spot between cloud-like comfort and peppy performance that many runners crave. What's particularly impressive is how Hoka managed to enhance energy return while actually dropping weight and keeping the price point accessible. During our extensive testing, the Skyflow truly shined on both recovery jogs and those long Sunday miles when fatigue typically sets in. If you've been curious about Hoka's max-cushion experience but wanted something with more bounce and less weight penalty, this model might just convert you.
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Most Cushioning

Hoka One One Bondi 9

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$170.00
$0.00
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In short
The Hoka Bondi 9 is a good max-cushioned trainer for easy or recovery runs. It has a firm and supportive ride that provides exceptional stability but it doesn’t posess much energy return. The 9th version features a new supercritical EVA midsole which is lighter than its predecessors and features an additional 2 mm of stack height, making it the most cushioned Bondi model yet. Notably, the irritating poking arch sensation has been eliminated, making this version suitable for runners with flat...
Pros
  • Gained 2 mm in stack height
  • Reflectivity on the upper
  • Extremely stable ride
  • Less prominent arch than v8
  • Lighter than v8
Cons
  • Overpriced for an EVA midsole trainer
  • Standard width is too narrow
  • Not much energy return
Who should buy it

If you’re looking for a stable, highly cushioned trainer for slow running, the Bondi 9 is the shoe for you.
If you’re looking for a firm-riding trainer that can double up as a walking or standing shoe, the Bondi 9 is a great choice.

Who should not buy it

If you have very wide feet, the narrow upper of the Bondi 9 will be too uncomfortable for you.
If you want a very soft, plush max-cushioned trainer, the Bondi 9 is not for you.

Main Specs
Type
Cushioning
Weight
9.3 oz
Heel
44 mm
Carbon plate
No plate
Heel drop
5 mm
Toe
39 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
9.0
Build quality
9.0
Upper
7.0
Sole unit
8.0
Landing
8.0
Transition
8.0
Toe-off
8.0
Traction
8.0
Durability
8.0
Value / Price
7.0
Team review
The Bondi 9 stands as Hoka's signature max-cushioned trainer, featuring their thickest midsole stack for superior impact protection and virtually zero ground feel. While substantial in cushioning depth, it delivers a firmer ride than the Clifton, prioritizing stability over softness. The new supercritical EVA midsole (reportedly the same compound used in the Mach 6) maintains a dense, controlled cushioning experience that feels noticeably softer during walking than running. Weighing in at 297g, the Bondi 9 serves its purpose well for easy and recovery runs, providing reliable comfort and protection without emphasizing energy return or speed-oriented performance. The substantial platform works efficiently up to moderate distances, though the weight becomes more noticeable during longer efforts beyond 20 kilometers.
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Light and Responsive

Hoka One One Mach 6

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$140.00
$0.00
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In short
The HOKA Mach 6 is an everyday shoe that has enough stack height in the midsole to give you that comfortable ride for those long runs and light enough to make you pick up the speed. If you're interested in a well-balanced midsole that is responsive underfoot this can be the shoe for you.
Pros
  • Responsive and smooth ride
  • Strategic and grippy rubber on the outsole
  • Durable jacquard upper material
  • Versatile shoe that can handle the distance and paces
  • Lightweight trainer
Cons
  • Upper very snugged on the midfoot section
  • Not a soft or bouncy ride as its predecessor
Who should buy it

If you were looking for a versatile shoe that can handle the workload this is a valuable option. It also has the durability to handle the milage with its new midsole foam.

Who should not buy it

If you are expecting the ride to be the same as the HOKA Mach 5; soft and bouncy. Well, unfortunately it is not. The Mach 6 uses a new type of midsole foam that is not plushy nor bouncy, but more balanced and responsive.

Main Specs
Type
Lightweight
Weight
8.3 oz
Heel
37 mm
Carbon plate
No plate
Heel drop
5 mm
Toe
32 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
7.0
Build quality
9.0
Upper
7.0
Sole unit
7.0
Landing
7.0
Transition
7.0
Toe-off
8.0
Traction
7.0
Durability
8.0
Value / Price
7.0
Team review
The Hoka Mach 6 delivers a decidedly performance-oriented experience while maintaining the brand's signature cushioned ride. At first glance, it continues the Mach line's tradition of balancing lightweight construction with ample protection underfoot, yet this version brings notable updates to the running experience. The shoe's responsive character comes from its new SCF (Super Critical Foam) EVA midsole, which provides an energetic push-back sensation that propels you forward rather than simply absorbing impact. This responsiveness works in perfect harmony with the early-stage meta rocker geometry, creating smooth, rolling transitions from heel to toe. Stability remains impressive despite the substantial stack height (37mm heel, 32mm forefoot), with the wide platform base keeping things controlled through sharp turns and direction changes. The revamped durabrasion rubber outsole demonstrates excellent durability during testing while providing confident traction across both dry and wet surfaces. Overall, the Mach 6 successfully balances cushioning, response, and stability for versatile everyday training.
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Fastest Trainer

Hoka One One Mach X 2

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$190.00
$0.00
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In short
The Hoka Mach X 2 is a great speed trainer with a versatile ride. It has a softer ride than most speed trainers but it has a high level of energy thanks to its layer of PEBA foam and its Pebax plate. Version 2 has a more breathable upper, a more cushioned ride and a more aggressive plate than the original version. Its upper doesn’t feel as comfortable or as polished as v1 and it may cause heel rubbing problems for some runners.
Pros
  • More cushioning and long-distance comfort than v1
  • New plate design which is more aggressive
  • Thinner and more breathable upper mesh
  • Slight weight decrease
Cons
  • Low outsole rubber durability
  • Scratchy and rough tongue
  • $10 price increase
Who should buy it

If you’re looking for a soft, energetic trainer for long runs or uptempo runs, the Mach X 2 is a great option.
If you like the Hoka Rocket X 2 and you want a similar ride but with a more flexible forefoot, it’s also a good option.

Who should not buy it

If you have sensitive Achilles which easily get irritated, the Mach X 2 is not for you.
If you like a firm-riding speed trainer with a lot of ground feel, the Mach X 2 is also not for you.

Main Specs
Type
Lightweight
Weight
8.9 oz
Heel
46 mm
Carbon plate
Plate in other materials
Heel drop
5 mm
Toe
41 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
6.0
Build quality
6.0
Upper
6.0
Sole unit
9.0
Landing
9.0
Transition
9.0
Toe-off
9.0
Traction
7.0
Durability
6.0
Value / Price
6.0
Team review
The Hoka Mach X 2 stands as the premier fast trainer in today's competitive running market, brilliantly balancing speed and comfort in one versatile package. What truly sets this shoe apart is its masterful combination of responsive PEBA foam and a strategically designed Pebax plate with extended wings that delivers exceptional energy return without feeling harsh. While maintaining impressive cushioning with its generous stack height, the Mach X 2 remains remarkably nimble and responsive, making pace increases feel effortless during workouts. Its breathable, ultra thin upper sheds unnecessary weight while the refined geometry inspired by Hoka's elite racing models creates a smooth, rolling transition that feels natural at both marathon pace and during threshold efforts. The Mach X 2 particularly excels during those critical tempo runs and longer threshold workouts where other shoes often feel either too harsh or too sluggish, hitting that perfect sweet spot of cushioned responsiveness that keeps legs feeling fresh while maintaining performance. For runners seeking one versatile training companion that can handle everything from long runs to speedwork, the Mach X 2 delivers unmatched performance.
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Best for Stability

Hoka One One HOKA Gaviota 5

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$175.00
$0.00
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In short
The HOKA ONE ONE Gaviota 5 offers top comfort and support, with an ultra-wide base and one of the brand’s highest stack heights, yet has dropped almost an ounce from previous models. This latest Gaviota offers an enhanced stability, accommodating fit, comfort, lower weight, and a more smooth transition through the footplant over the past two models.
Pros
  • Wide, plush base
  • Comfortable, secure fit
  • Large heel loop
  • More accommodating toe box
  • Lighter than previous
Cons
  • Moderate outsole durability
  • Price
Who should buy it

Gaviota’s updated midsole supports runners who supinate (run on the outside of the foot) as well as overpronate (roll excessively in) and is especially suited for long and recovery runs; it is also a great shoe for walkers and those on their feet all day who need supportive shoes.

Who should not buy it

Though Gaviota is lighter than in the past, it is not best for speed-focused runs or runners who prefer a light, quick feel underfoot. The midsole support is helpful for non-neutral runners, this outsole is not the most durable option for those with heavy wear patterns.

Main Specs
Type
Stability
Weight
10.9 oz
Heel
999 mm
Carbon plate
No plate
Heel drop
6 mm
Toe
999 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
10
Build quality
8.0
Upper
8.0
Sole unit
9.0
Landing
10
Transition
9.0
Toe-off
7.0
Traction
8.0
Durability
7.0
Value / Price
8.0
Team review
The HOKA Gaviota, meaning "seagull" in Spanish, represents the brand's premier stability offering within their maximal cushioning lineup. Now featuring even more cushioning than before, this fifth iteration comes with a modest price increase to $175 USD. The standout improvement in this version is the reimagined stability system that effectively accommodates both over and under pronation patterns, making it remarkably versatile for different foot mechanics. The shift to an early stage rocker from the previous late stage design creates noticeably smoother transitions through the gait cycle, delivering that signature rolling sensation underfoot that aids forward momentum. Despite its substantial cushioning, the Gaviota maintains reasonable weight at 9.1 oz for women's size 8 and 10.9 oz for men's size 10. This comprehensive package of stability, cushioning, and smooth dynamics creates a shoe that works exceptionally well for runners seeking maximum support without compromising on comfort or transition quality.
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Trail Versatility

Hoka One One Stinson 7

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$170.00
$0.00
See deal   >
In short
The HOKA Stinson 7 provides an exceptionally stable, reliable, highly cushioned ride for road to non-technical trails. For everyday training or longer efforts where the terrain varies between roads, grass, and gravel, the Stinson 7 goes the distance in plush comfort.
Pros
  • Exceptionally stable on road and non-technical terrain
  • Plush cushioning
  • High stack protects from underfoot hazards
Cons
  • Subpar agility in tight spaces and on rocks
  • Outsole can get slippery on rock when wet
  • Break-in period may be required before optimal comfort
Who should buy it

For a road-to-trail runner or non-technical trail runner or hiker looking for a stable, maximalist shoe to go the distance in comfort.

Who should not buy it

Trail runners who primarily run on technical, uneven terrain with tight rocks where a lot of agility is required or speed is the focus.

Main Specs
Type
Trail
Weight
12.7 oz
Heel
45 mm
Carbon plate
No plate
Heel drop
5 mm
Toe
40 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
9.0
Build quality
9.0
Upper
8.0
Sole unit
8.0
Landing
9.0
Transition
8.0
Toe-off
6.0
Traction
6.0
Durability
9.0
Value / Price
8.0
Team review
The Hoka Stinson 7 stands as the ultimate expression of maximalist running shoe design, offering an experience that's truly in a class of its own. While initially striking in its substantial proportions, this shoe delivers a remarkably stable and plush running experience once underfoot. Its exceptional protection, durability, and stability across mixed road-to-trail surfaces provide unmatched confidence for all-terrain adventures in any weather condition. The shoe may require a short break-in period before reaching its full comfort potential, particularly in the toe box, which becomes more accommodating with use. Though not ideal for technical trails or road racing where agility is paramount, the Stinson 7 excels as a versatile option for ultra-distance training, casual hiking, and everyday wear—combining functional performance with on-trend maximalist style in one comprehensive package.
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Quick Questions you might have

How do you pronounce Hoka?

As written: "ho-ka". The brand removed "one one" from the name a few years ago.