Hoka Clifton 10
Pros
- Superb joint protection
- Wider toebox improves toe splay
- Comfortable upper
- Stable ride despite its high stack height
- Works well for heel strikers
- Ideal for long runs
- Versatile for daily walking or jogging
- Achilles-friendly heel collar design
- Traction improvements
Cons
- Needs a better foam ASAP
- Notable weight gain from v9
- Feels more Bondi than Clifton
- Non-gusseted tongue
Key Features
- Origin: Made in the USA or Imported
- Sole Material: Synthetic Rubber for enhanced durability and traction
- Outer Material: Synthetic Resin, contributing to lightweight construction
- Closure Type: Lace-Up for a secure fit
Specifications
- Rating: 3.9 out of 5 based on 17 reviews
- Weight: Lightweight, specifics vary by size
- Sizing: Available in various sizes for a better fit
The Hoka Clifton 10 is a lightweight, cushioned, and stable shoe that is well-suited for covering long distances, earning it the designation of our top daily trainer. Lab testing confirms its comfort across various distances, excelling particularly on days focused less on speed.
The thick midsole provides substantial protection with a stack height of 44.4/32.0 mm in the heel and forefoot, significantly dampening ground feel. Our durometer readings indicate a soft sensation at 17.1 HA, ensuring consistent comfort during use.
The fluid midsole enhances the smoothness of transitions, displaying a 6.7% increase in flexibility compared to average results from our bend test. Its lightweight construction contributes to an agile feel, with a weight of just 9.7 oz (275g), remaining below the 10-ounce threshold.
In laboratory measurements, the platform width was found to be greater than average at 116.9/94.5 mm. This feature promotes stability despite the shoe's height, while the midsole sidewalls assist in maintaining proper foot alignment.
Though the padded upper provides comfort and support, it offers limited ventilation, which may not be ideal for warmer conditions. We recommend using this shoe in cooler environments or combining it with thin socks during hotter weather.
Hoka Mach 6
Pros
- Really lightweight
- Fantastic outsole
- Exciting ride
- Highly cushioned
- Great for heel strikers
- Handles faster paces
- Superb lockdown
- Excellent value at $140
Cons
- Drop varies from stated
- Tapered toebox
- Thin tongue
Key Features
- Lightweight Design: The Mach 6 is Hoka's lightest model, allowing for swift movement during runs.
- Responsive Midsole: Equipped with a super critical foam midsole to enhance energy return.
- Durable Outsole: Features strategic rubber coverage to increase the lifespan of the shoe.
- Zonal Breathability: The creel jacquard upper promotes airflow to keep your feet cool.
- Comfort Fit: Internal gusset design provides a foot-hugging feel that enhances overall comfort.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Outer Material: Canvas
- Closure Type: Lace-Up
- Weight: Not specified but recognized as the lightest in its category.
The Hoka Mach 6 is a lightweight daily trainer, well-suited for runners seeking both responsiveness and comfort. Lab results confirm that the Mach 6 excels in providing a significant performance across various paces and distances, enhancing the overall running experience with its airy construction.
Weighing in at only 8.2 oz (232g), the Mach 6 is 12.5% lighter than average while maintaining a generous stack height. Its fluid midsole adapts to natural foot flexions, as evidenced by our 90-degree test, which shows it has 36.4% less resistance than typical models, thereby improving comfort during easy runs.
The midsole effectively balances responsiveness and comfort, with measurements of 36.0/26.4 mm and composed of a lightweight bouncy 20.4 HA foam that promotes quicker pacing. Additionally, the built-in rocker facilitates smooth forward transitions, contributing to sustained momentum throughout runs.
However, this focus on agility and weight reduction may lead to some compromise in midsole width. Runners with wider feet may want to consider alternative options for improved comfort during their runs.
Hoka Bondi 9
Pros
- Endless cushioning
- New supercritical EVA midsole
- Amazing step-in comfort
- Doubles as a walking shoe
- Stable for its height
- Built to last
- Excels at slow-and-steady paces
- Well-designed heel collar
- Lighter than v8
Cons
- Not for wide feet
- Still feels heavy and clunky underfoot
- Drop measurement differs from stated
- Non-gusseted tongue
Key Features
- Engineered Mesh: Provides breathability and support.
- Durabrasion Rubber: Enhances durability in high-wear zones.
- Premium Foam Midsole: Offers excellent cushioning and resilience.
- Increased Stack Height: Ensures a plush ride over various terrains.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole Material: Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA)
- Outer Material: Polyester
- Inner Material: Textile
The Hoka Bondi 9 is designed for runners seeking exceptional cushioning and reliable support. Its notable durability makes it a strong choice among cushioned running shoes, as confirmed by lab tests that highlight its sturdy build.
Testing with our Dremel revealed that the Bondi 9 exhibits above-average wear resistance. It recorded a minimal 0.9 mm dent in the outsole, with durability scores of 4/5 in the toebox and 5/5 in the heel, demonstrating its ability to withstand multiple training blocks.
The shoe offers a plush interior, featuring a substantial 41.3/32.2 mm stack height, ensuring ample cushioning for extended runs. Shock absorption tests indicate effective foam performance, with scores of 146 SA in the heel and 133 SA in the forefoot, mitigating the impact of landings.
To promote stability, the midsole measures 123.2/100.9 mm, providing more space than average for centering feet and enhancing balance. Elevated sidewalls further contribute to this support, allowing for a secure fit during runs.
However, the increased height and width contribute to a weight of 10.7 oz (303g), making it 14.3% heavier than average. This added weight may not be suitable for runners who prefer a more agile experience.
HOKA Cielo X1 2.0
Pros
- Much lighter than v1
- Plush and responsive PEBA foam
- Top-tier breathability
- Forked plate adds heel flex
- Comfort-focused heel padding
- Outsole durability is not a concern
- Improved upper and laces
- Works well from 5K to the marathon
- Premium TPEE insole
Cons
- Pricier than most rivals
- Rocker can feel too aggressive
- Narrow-fitting upper
Key Features
- Synthetic upper: Provides a lightweight and breathable fit.
- Advanced Cushioning: Delivers superior comfort during long-distance runs.
- Running shoe: Designed specifically for performance and stability.
Specifications
- Sole material: Rubber, ensuring good traction and durability.
- Shaft height: Ankle Strap, providing added support.
- Outer material: Synthetic, which aids in flexibility and weight reduction.
- Inner material: Nylon, enhancing comfort against the skin.
The Hoka Cielo X1 2.0 is designed for runners who strike with their heels, emphasizing notable comfort and agility during runs. This shoe offers an impressive ride characterized by exceptional shock absorption and energy return.
In our measurements, the heel height is recorded at 38.8 mm, which effectively protects the feet from impact forces. The shoe demonstrated significant shock absorption capabilities with a 160 SA reading, indicating it can reduce stress on the legs by 26.0% more than average.
The energy return score of 75.9% reflects its capacity to enhance propulsion, compared to the average score of 58.3%. This high performance is further supported by the integration of a carbon plate in the midsole and a pronounced heel curvature that promotes forward motion.
Additionally, its lightweight design, weighing just 7.3 oz (208g), facilitates easier foot lift, aiding in maintaining speed and efficiency. However, this shoe has limitations in stability, as evidenced by its narrow 80.6 mm heel width, making it less suitable for runners who require additional support.
Hoka Gaviota 5
Pros
- Remarkably stable
- Breathable and comfortable upper
- Lightweight for its size
- Good stability option for forefoot strikers
- Ideal for wide feet
- Excellent for long runs
Cons
- Low drop might pose issues for heel strikers
- Performs poorly in colder conditions
- Not for narrow feet
- Midsole feels flat
Key Features
- Stability Support: Engineered to offer maximum support for overpronators.
- Cushioning: Advanced cushioning technology reduces impact during runs.
- Breathable Mesh Upper: Keeps your feet cool and comfortable even during long runs.
- Durable Outsole: Made from synthetic rubber for enhanced traction and durability.
- Wide Fit: Specifically designed to accommodate wider foot shapes for added comfort.
Specifications
- Fabric Type: Synthetic-and-rubber
- Origin: Made in the USA or Imported
- Sole Material: Synthetic Rubber
- Outer Material: Mesh
The Hoka Gaviota 5 is a highly recommended stability wide walking shoe, ideal for individuals seeking reliable support, ample dimensions, and notable comfort during walks. Lab tests indicate that its spacious base, H-Frame, and dual-density midsole significantly enhance surefootedness.
We measured the midsole at 125.1/106.6 mm, surpassing the average of 114.1/90.6 mm. This additional space contributes to secure footing, while the rigid H-Frame helps maintain proper alignment and stability.
The midsole delivers a pleasant experience with a plush feel that maintains structural integrity. Our durometer assessment reveals a dual-density configuration: a soft 12.9 HA primary cushion for comfort and a firmer 22.0 HA layer in key areas, promoting both support and durability.
The upper provides a refreshing fit and measures 99.7 mm at the widest part of the toebox, which is 4.4% larger than average, making it suitable for wider or swollen feet. Breathability is excellent, as demonstrated by a perfect score of 5/5 in our smoke test, allowing for effective temperature regulation.
However, it's important to note that the Gaviota 5 is 36.5% stiffer than average, which may detract from the light and natural feel preferred by some users.
Hoka Rincon 4
Pros
- Reasonably priced
- Enhanced stability
- Improved midsole over v3
- Superior breathability
- Still really lightweight
- Increased stack height
- Suitable for everyday activities
- Good traction
Cons
- Poor durability
- Low volume upper
- Weight increase
Key Features
- Lightweight Design: Weighing in at just a few ounces, these shoes won’t slow you down.
- Exceptional Cushioning: Featuring HOKA’s signature foam, they offer a plush feel underfoot that absorbs impact effectively.
- Synthetic Upper: The upper is made of durable synthetic materials, ensuring breathability and longevity.
- Responsive Sole: The synthetic rubber sole provides excellent traction while maintaining flexibility during your runs.
- Versatile Use: Ideal for both running and casual wear, making them a great addition to your wardrobe.
Specifications
- Fabric Type: 100% Synthetic
- Origin: Made in the USA or Imported
- Sole Material: Synthetic Rubber
- Outer Material: Synthetic Resin
The Hoka Rincon 4 is a versatile running shoe best suited for individuals seeking comfort and protection during short runs and gym sessions. Priced at $125, it provides significant value compared to the average cost of Hoka road running shoes, which is $163. As our top budget-friendly option, the Rincon 4 delivers impressive performance without compromising on quality.
Weighing only 8.1 oz (231g), the Rincon 4 is notably lightweight, making it 12.8% lighter than the average running shoe. Its flexible construction enhances its natural feel, achieving near-average bendability in lab tests. This design contributes to an agile experience across various workouts with an effortless ride.
Despite its moderate stack height, the shoe achieves above-average shock absorption ratings of 134/114 SA, making it suitable for long-distance training. The upper material provides a commendable combination of comfort and durability, allowing for excellent breathability and a soft feel against the foot. We rated the Rincon 4 at 4/5 in both breathability and durability assessments, showcasing exceptional results given their typically inverse relationship.
However, the outsole’s performance was a drawback; it registered 6.5 mm of damage in our Dremel test, compared to the 1.1 mm average. Runners intending to use this shoe as a daily trainer may want to consider a more durable option. Overall, the Hoka Rincon 4 excels in comfort and performance but may not be ideal for those requiring extensive outsole durability.