HOKA is a brand built on the mission to provide maximum cushioning, support, and innovation for all types of runners—whether you’re jogging around your neighborhood or trekking mountain trails. Unlike brands with endless variations, HOKA keeps its core collection lean, purposeful, and highly functional.
Choosing the right model can still feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve reviewed the latest and most popular styles to help you make the most informed choice for your goals—whether that’s speed, stability, comfort, or versatility. Each shoe in HOKA’s collection is engineered with unique features, so understanding these differences will help you find your ideal fit.
- Regular price
- £139.50
- Regular price
- £139.50
- Regular price
- £159.50
- Regular price
- £124.50
- Regular price
- £159.50
Let’s take a look at HOKA running shoes
Clifton 10
The Clifton 10 continues to be HOKA’s flagship neutral running shoe. Lightweight (approx. 227g) with a 8mm heel-to-toe drop that promotes a natural stride, it’s ideal for everyday runs, long training miles, and even casual wear.
One of the Clifton 10’s standout features is the new responsive midsole foam, which provides better energy return and durability than previous models. The new responsive midsole foam and an extended heel crash pad to soften each landing, offering a smooth transition through your stride. The breathable engineered mesh upper enhances airflow, and an updated rocker profile helps propel you forward with less effort.
Best for: Neutral runners, long-distance training, everyday running
Arahi 8
Where the Clifton 10 is a neutral shoe, the Arahi 8 is a stability running shoe which contains a J-Frame midsole support, unique to HOKA. The J-Frame helps prevent overpronation, where the feet roll inward when contact is made with the ground.
The cushioning within the Arahi 8 is low-profile which keeps your foot in closer contact with the ground and is extremely responsive as a result. The Arahi 8 strikes a perfect balance between cushion and solid support.
The shoe also boasts a roomy toe box, providing plenty of space for natural toe splay and comfort during longer runs.
Best for: Stability seekers, overpronators, runners needing structured support
Bondi 9
If comfort is what you are in search of in your running shoe, look no further than the Bondi 9. Known as HOKA’s plushest, it features a thicker midsole stack height and lighter feel than its predecessor, that absorbs impact on hard surfaces, making it perfect for recovery runs or walking. The new rear crash pad improves heel transitions, while the padded collar offers additional support to the ankle and Achilles tendon.
When it’s said that HOKA is about maximum cushion, the Bondi is the epitome of that idea. It’s a truly plush ride, that is comfortable, unbelievably soft, and balanced.
Because the midsole stack is so thick, any distance covered with the Bondi 9, is a smooth and stable experience – even if the shoe isn’t strictly categorised as a stability shoe. The Bondi has an emphasis on the plush collar that supports the ankle and Achilles alike.
All this cushion makes it one of HOKA's heavier shoes, at 263g. But for all this, the shoe doesn’t feel bulky. That said, wearers may find it difficult to achieve much speed in this shoe, as it’s simply so soft.
Best for: Recovery runs, casual wear, runners prioritising cushioning
Kawana 2
HOKA’s hybrid shoe, the Kawana 2 bridges the gap between running and training. It features an updated CMEVA foam midsole for better energy return and a wider base that adds stability during gym workouts or lateral movements.
The Kawana has a heel-to-toe drop of 5.00mm and has an engineered Jacquard mesh for optimal temperature regulation. Similarly, to the Clifton 10, its early-stage meta-rocker provides a very responsive toe-off for a quick change of pace.
The Kawana was developed to deliver on runs and in the gym. So if you’re looking for a do-it-all shoe, look no further.
Best for: Cross-training, gym workouts, short runs
Gaviota 5
The Gaviota 5 is HOKA’s premium stability shoe, delivering max cushioning with a supportive H-Frame™ midsole. It’s slightly plusher than the Arahi and better suited for runners who want structured comfort over high mileage.
It features a new EVA foam blend, an ultra-wide base for stability, and a redesigned upper for improved fit.
If you require extra support and want to log serious miles comfortably, the Gaviota 5 is an excellent option.
Best for: Runners needing maximum stability and support, long-distance efforts
Anacapa 2 Low GORE-TEX
Introducing the HOKA Anacapa 2 Low GORE-TEX, a hiking shoe designed to leave a lighter footprint on the planet. Ideal for the avid hiker, this eco-conscious footwear combines sustainable materials with high-performance features. Crafted with recycled yarn meshes and a 30% sugarcane EVA midsole, the Anacapa 2 Low prioritises both comfort and environmental responsibility.
The Vibram Megagrip outsole ensures traction on diverse terrains, while the waterproof leather and GORE-TEX Invisible Fit technology keep you dry during unpredictable weather conditions. Metal eyelets, an abrasion-resistant toe cap, and a versatile, neutral ride make the Anacapa Low 2 a durable and Earth-friendly companion for your hiking adventures.
Weighing 352g with a 10mm heel-to-toe drop, this hiking shoe strikes the perfect balance between support and agility, making it a must-have for those who appreciate sustainable performance in every step.
Best for: Day hiking, wet conditions
Anacapa 2 Mid GORE-TEX
Sometimes more is more. The HOKA Anacapa 2 Mid GORE-TEX is a hiking boot with a sustainable soul designed for Earth-conscious adventurers. Engineered with recycled yarn meshes and a sugarcane EVA midsole, this hiking companion prioritises both performance and environmental responsibility. The Vibram Megagrip outsole ensures a reliable grip on various terrains, while the Leather Working Group Gold-Rated waterproof leather and GORE-TEX construction keep your feet dry in any weather condition.
The Anacapa 2 Mid boasts features like metal speed hooks, a rubber toe cap, and eco-friendly materials, making it well-equipped for any trail adventure. Weighing 416g with a 10mm heel-to-toe drop, this hiking boot offers a balanced and neutral ride, providing the perfect combination of support and agility for those who seek sustainability and comfort in every outdoor pursuit.
Best for: Technical hiking, ankle support, mixed-weather conditions
Which HOKA shoe is right for you?
Generally speaking, HOKA’s trainers are pretty adaptable, and no matter how or where you choose to wear them, you can bet you’ll feel more cushion than other brands. But these trainers do come into their own when performing in their lane.
So here’s where each HOKA running shoe shines:
- Distance and training runs: Clifton 10
- Stability shoe: Arahi 8
- Hybrid training: Kawana 2
- Casual runs and recovery: Bondi 9
- Hiking: Anacapa 2 Mid and Low
Are HOKA trainers true to size?
Before you take the plunge and buy yourself some HOKA running trainers, you want to know whether you need to get a size up, down or your usual size. Here’s all you need to know when it comes to sizing details.
- Clifton 10: Runs slightly large, so sizing down by half a size is usually best.
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Bondi 9: Tends to fit a bit snug, so consider going up half a size.
Arahi 8: True to size with plenty of room in the toe box for comfort. - Kawana 2: Runs a little small; sizing up by half a size will help.
- Anacapa 2 Low and Mid: These models come up a bit small—going up half a size is recommended for an ideal fit.
How to break in HOKA running shoes
No need to over complicate matters. HOKA generally don’t need breaking in. But if you’d like to ‘warm up’ your new kicks before putting them to the test, wearing your new trainers around the house, or going out for a short walk is a suitable way of breaking them in for when you decide to go out for your next five mile run or longer. Providing you drop on the right size, breaking them in should be easy.
Are HOKA running trainers sustainable?
HOKA is serious about their impact on the environment and have devoted time and effort to have a healthy impact on the planet. Over 96% of HOKA’s packaging is FSC certified, I.E. considered ‘gold standard’, from recycled and responsibly managed forests.
Up to now, HOKA has saved over 2.76 million lbs of packaging, they are also keen to reduce their Carbon Footprint and their impact on waterways.
Are HOKA running trainers ethically made?
Along with their commitment to the planet, HOKA is committed to safety, well-being and standard of life “From farmers growing the cotton, to employees stitching shoes, to the teammates in our offices.”
Strict guidelines are followed from the International Labour Organisation and third-party audits to ensure all products are manufactured ethically.
Conclusion
Options, quality, technology, sustainability and ethics, HOKA seems to have it all. It’s a brand which has established themselves as one of the front runners when it comes to developing the best for runners, whatever running means for you. Why not shop the collection now and find your newest cushioned ride?
