Best HOKA Running Shoes
Standing at the start of any race—from 5ks to marathons, you’ll notice HOKA is one of the top brands runners choose to wear. Known for their innovative technologies to enhance cushion, cradle the foot, and offer smooth transitions, HOKA running shoes have become popular among the running community and beyond. Our Footwear Experts share the best HOKA running shoes for everyday running, trail running, race day, and beyond!
Best Everyday Running Shoes—HOKA Clifton 10
The HOKA Clifton is the go-to shoe for daily running.
Here’s why we love it:
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Engineered knit upper for breathability
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Early Stage MetaRocker™ for smooth transitions
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Balanced cushion absorbs impact but remains responsive for quicker turnover
Tech Specs:
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Midsole Drop: 8mm
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Support Type: Neutral
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Weight: 8.8 oz. (W) & 9.8 oz. (M)
Best Tempo Running Shoes—HOKA Mach 6
The HOKA Mach is designed for your faster, tempo runs.
Here’s why we love it:
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Versatile—great for speedwork or race day
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Early Stage MetaRocker™ for smooth transitions
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Responsive cushioning for a more efficient push-off
Tech Specs:
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Midsole Drop: 5mm
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Support Type: Neutral
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Weight: 6.7 oz. (W) & 8.2 oz. (M)
Why Our Experts Love the HOKA Mach 6
“The purpose behind my speed day is to run as fast as I physically can for a shorter distance, increasing pace and heart rate. The HOKA Mach 6 helps me achieve that as my speed day shoe because it’s very light weight and has a more responsive cushioning system than your typical shoe.”
Best Race Running Shoes—HOKA Skyward X
The HOKA Skyward X is designed with the elite runner in mind. Being a carbon fiber plate running shoe, it’s time to get a PR on race day.
Here’s why we love it:
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PEBA midsole foam for energy return
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EVA rocker frame for smooth transitions
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Deep Active Foot Frame cradles the heel for a secure ride
Tech Specs:
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Midsole Drop: 5mm
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Support Type: Neutral
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Weight: 9.2 oz. (W) & 11.3 oz. (M)
Best Trail Running Shoes—HOKA Speedgoat
The HOKA Speedgoat is ready to take on technical trails.
Here’s why we love it:
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Late Stage MetaRocker™ for greater stability
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Vibram® Megagrip with 5mm traction lugs for grip and traction
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Balanced cushion for a responsive feel while still absorbing impact
Tech Specs:
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Midsole Drop: 5mm
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Support Type: Neutral
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Weight: 8.2 oz. (W) & 9.8 oz. (M)
Best Road/Trail Running Shoes—HOKA Torrent 4
The HOKA Torrent is built for runners who love the road and trail—enjoy the versatility.
Here’s why we love it:
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Early stage MetaRocker™
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Strategic rubber wrap for durability and stability
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Provide protective cushion while maintaining a responsive toe-off
Tech Specs:
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Midsole Drop: 5mm
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Support Type: Neutral
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Weight: 8.4 oz. & 9.4 oz. (M)
Best Cushioned Running Shoes—HOKA Bondi
The HOKA Bondi is a must-have for those who want a plush, cushioned ride.
Here’s why we love it:
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Plush cushion absorbs impact and provides a soft cushioned feel
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Extended heel geometry for greater stability and impact absorption
Tech Specs:
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Midsole Drop: 5mm
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Support Type: Neutral
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Weight: 9.3 oz. (W) & 10.5 oz. (M)
Best Cross-Training Shoes—HOKA Solimar
The HOKA Solimar is built for gym workouts or everyday miles.
Here’s why we love it:
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Sleek upper design
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Late Stage MetaRocker™ for stability
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Extended crash pad to absorb impact
Tech Specs:
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Midsole Drop: 6mm
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Support Type: Neutral
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Weight: 6.7 oz. (W) & 8.5 oz. (M)
HOKA offers a wide range of running shoes designed to cater to every runner's needs. From everyday running shoes like the HOKA Clifton to the performance-driven HOKA Rocket X, and the versatile HOKA Challenger for road and trail enthusiasts, there is a perfect pair for everyone. If you have additional questions about choosing the right HOKA shoes, stop into your nearest SCHEELS to speak with a Footwear Expert.
How We Picked These Products
SCHEELS is focused on offering Expert-level knowledge about the products we sell, which is why we host our SCHEELS University alongside regular trainings where our associates learn directly from top brands to deepen their product knowledge. This experience combined with firsthand experience and feedback from customers is what helps us select these products to recommend as the best for the season ahead.
About our Experts
Wyatt grew up running with his brothers. After getting a serious ankle injury and being told he may never walk again, Wyatt was determined to prove this wrong. He began training little by little, eventually becoming strong enough to run. Since then, he’s completed 5Ks, a marathon, and is training for more competitions.