It’s hard to believe that Hoka was only founded in 2009. The brand doesn’t have a century of history behind it like Nike or Adidas, and yet, it’s already mentioned in the same breath as them as one of the best performance and casual footwear providers.
Hoka is taking off because they make some of the most comfortable and high-performing sneakers on the market. Whether you’re just getting into running and need shoes you can depend on for logging daily kilometres, or are simply someone who values all-day comfort in an everyday sneaker, chances are Hoka has a model for you.
But even with a trusted brand like Hoka, not every sneaker is going to be the right fit for your needs and style. A little research can go a long way when it comes to choosing your next shoe. Luckily, we’ve done the hard work for you.
These are our picks of the best Hoka sneakers, for running and everyday wear.
What are the best Hoka sneakers for running?
Hoka was founded by a bunch of trail runners who weren’t satisfied with the existing options for off-road running. With the Speedgoat 6, Hoka shows that it still has this consumer-oriented approach to the trail. Known for its exceptional Vibram Megagrip outsole, the Speedgoat 6 excels on rugged terrain, providing excellent traction and stability. The updated upper offers improved breathability, and the midsole balances cushioning with responsiveness, making it ideal for long trail runs.
Best for: Trail runners who need a grippy, cushioned ride.
The Rincon 4 is one of the lightest trainers in Hoka’s lineup, offering a smooth and breezy ride. It features a full-compression EVA midsole that delivers plush cushioning without adding weight. With a streamlined upper and responsive feel, it’s perfect for runners looking to pick up the pace during speed workouts or tempo runs.
Best for: Runners seeking a lightweight, cushioned shoe for faster training sessions.
The Mach 6 strikes a balance between comfort and speed, making it excellent for speedwork and longer runs. It features Hoka’s ProFly midsole, which provides a soft landing and a propulsive push-off feeling. This makes it a great option for runners who want one shoe that can handle everything from easy runs to up tempo efforts.
Best for: Runners who want a fast, versatile shoe for different types of runs.
A staple in Hoka’s lineup – and one of the world’s most acclaimed sneakers – the Clifton 9 impresses with its extremely soft cushioning and lightweight feel. The latest version features a slightly higher stack height for even more comfort while maintaining the responsive ride Clifton fans love. It’s a fantastic choice for runners who need a reliable daily trainer with long-lasting comfort.
Best for: Runners looking for a soft, cushioned daily trainer.
The Bondi 9 tops the list as the best Hoka running shoe, due to its supreme cushioning. With an ultra-plush midsole, the Bondi 9 absorbs impact exceptionally well. This means it’s perfect for long-distance runs and recovery days. And despite its thick cushioning, the Bondi 9 remains stable and supportive.
Best for: Runners who want the most cushioned ride possible.
What are the best Hoka sneakers for walking and everyday wear?
The Elevon 6 is a sleek, lightweight shoe that brings Hoka’s signature cushioning into a stylish design that’s more suitable for casual wear. With a dual-layer midsole, it offers all-day comfort, while its futuristic design uses Nubuck leather and microperf detailing for a look you won’t find anywhere else.
Best for: Those who want a sporty, cushioned sneaker for all-day wear.
The Stinson Evo OG is a throwback model with a cult following, offering a combination of plush cushioning, stability and unquestionable style. The wide base and rocker geometry make moving around effortless, while the durable outsole provides excellent traction. Plus, the Y2K-inspired design is just bold enough to not be tacky.
Best for: People who need a stable, cushioned shoe for long hours on their feet and love Y2K style.
The Transport is designed for urban environments. With a fashionable yet functional design, it features a grippy outsole, a durable upper and plenty of cushioning to keep your feet comfortable during long walks or commutes.
Best for: City dwellers who need a comfortable, stylish everyday shoe.
A slip-resistant version of the Bondi, the Bondi SR is a favourite among anyone who spends long hours on hard surfaces (think healthcare, hospitality and public transport workers). It features a water-resistant upper and the same plush cushioning that makes the Bondi line so popular.
Best for: Professionals who need all-day comfort and slip resistance.
The Bondi B3LS is the ultimate everyday sneaker for those who value comfort above all else. It takes the plush midsole of the Bondi series and adds a sleek, modern design suitable for casual wear. It gets style points for its retro hexagonal mesh underlay upper and Nubuck leather overlays. So, whether you’re walking all day or just need a stylish, ultra-cushioned shoe, this is the best option.
Best for: Anyone who wants the most comfortable shoe for daily wear.
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