When it comes to buying shoes, you may feel overwhelmed by the number of brands and styles to choose from. There are many brands selling running and hiking boots which means there is a wide selection of products to choose from. If you're feeling a bit overwhelmed by the selection of running shoes and hiking boots and don't know which one to choose then read on.
Why choose Hoka?
Hoka is one brand that makes high-quality shoes for running, hiking, and walking. Founded in France by two runners, Hoka shoes are made with lightweight materials, chunky midsoles and a high level of cushioning. Due to the extreme level of cushioning and support built into the shoes, Hoka shoes make you feel like you can fly. Anyone who has ever tried on a Hoka will tell you it feels as though you are walking (and running) on clouds!
Let's run through some of the most commonly asked questions when it comes to Hoka and suggest some of our favourites.
Which Hoka shoe is best for me?
If you visit us in-store we can help you choose the right Hoka shoe using our special shoe-fitting technology (see our list of stores here). Our stores are fitted with a Sidas 3D Scan which provides us with a 3D image of your feet, arches, and common pain points. It will even suggest orthotics or footbeds if appropriate. The technology will also recommend what shoe would be the best fit for your feet. If visiting us in-store isn't an option for you, below we run through the options Hoka provides for running and hiking, so read on.
To select an appropriate running shoe, we first need to answer the question “What type of foot arch do I have?” Put simply, if you have a low arch your feet lean inwards towards the arch of your foot. If you have a high arch your feet lean outwards and there is significant space between the floor and the arch of your foot. If you have a medium arch your feet don't lean in or out, instead they sit flat and are considered an average arch.
Hoka Running Shoes vs Hoka Hiking boots
Hoka running shoes feature maximum cushion whilst being super lightweight. They are made for use on the road or on the treadmill. If you are looking for a shoe for running on trails look at their shoes for trails or hiking. Hoka Hiking boots use the same technology as their running shoes combining it with a durable design for any weather condition or tough terrain. Now we will dive a little bit deeper into the differences.
Top Hoka Running Shoes
Are you a runner in need of serious cushioning and support? We stock both the Clifton 7 and the Bondi 7 which are crowd-favourites. Let's take a look at each of the shoes.
The Hoka One One Clifton 7:
The Hoka One One Bondi 7:
Hoka Hiking and Trail Footwear
If you enjoy hiking in rough terrains or running on trails, choose from the Challenger, Speedgoat or Kaha styles.
The Hoka One One Challenger Low Gore-Tex Wide:
The Hoka One One Challenger Mid Gore-Tex Wide:
The Hoka One One Speedgoat 4:
- Makes quick work of any terrain
- Provides great grip in wet & dry conditions
- Offers great stability
- Suitable for all arch types
Shop Women's
The Hoka One One Speedgoat 4 GTX:
- Makes quick work of any terrain
- The waterproof technology means it's suitable for rainy conditions & snowy roads
- Provides great grip in wet & dry conditions
Shop Men's
The Hoka Kaha Low GTX:
- A soft & light trekking boot
- Provides great cushioning & support
- It will keep you dry in all conditions
Shop Men's
Now that you have all the information you need to choose the shoe that's right for you, we will answer one of the most asked questions.
How long do Hoka shoes last?
There isn't a simple answer! The wear of your shoes will depend on how frequently you run, the running surface, how you run, and even the climate of where you live.
As a general rule, it is best to retire Hoka running shoes after running 400km to 800km. Another way to know if it's time to retire your Hokas is to look out for these signs:
- The contours/patterns/tread of your sole disappears
- Holes in the upper mesh of the shoe
- The foam is deflated/lopsided
- You begin to experience soreness after running
When you retire your running shoes, you don't have to throw them out, instead, you can use them as gardening shoes or for another purpose.
Hoka makes a variety of styles of both running and hiking boots so there is a style for everyone. We hope this blog has provided you with some information to choose your perfect Hoka and remember if in doubt come and see us in-store. We can't wait for you to get your Hokas and know you'll love them as much as we do.
