The Hoka Arahi 8 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models of 2026

The HOKA Arahi 8 is a stable running shoe designed for heel strikers, featuring a significant 5 mm drop that enhances comfort during runs. Its updated foam composition provides a softer feel, while the wider fit accommodates various foot shapes effectively.

Equipped with the H-Frame stability system derived from the Gaviota, the HOKA Arahi 8 offers reliable support despite its tall stack height. Although users may notice a minor price increase and some limitations in breathability during hot weather, the modifications in this version are expected to appeal to a broader range of runners.


Pros

  • Impressively lightweight for its size
  • Strong shock absorption
  • Wider fit than previous versions
  • Outstanding durability across upper and outsole
  • Early-Stage Meta Rocker smooths transitions
  • Higher drop suits better heel strikers
  • Comfy and plush for everyday use
  • H-Frame stability system
  • Comfortable heel counter

Cons

  • Very poor breathability
  • Grip needs to improve
  • Still no supercritical foam
  • Minor price bump

Key Features

  • Double jacquard mesh construction (62% recycled Nylon, 25% recycled CDP, 11% recycled Polyester, 2% spandex)
  • Reflective details for visibility during low-light conditions
  • Stabilizing H-Frame™ technology for improved support
  • Dual density compression molded EVA for added cushioning
  • Super abrasion rubber outsole for durability
  • Podular outsole design for optimal traction and flexibility

Specifications

  • Origin: Imported
  • Sole material: Ethylene Vinyl Acetate
  • Outer material: Polyester
  • Inner material: Textile

Hoka Arahi 8 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

HOKA Arahi 8 Nike Structure 26 ASICS GT 2000 14 ASICS GT 1000 14
Price $150 $145 $140 $110
Pace Daily running Daily running Daily running Daily running
Arch support Stability Stability Stability Stability
Weight lab Weight brand 9.1 oz / 259g 10.4 oz / 296g 9.5 oz / 269g 9.6 oz / 272g
Drop lab Drop brand 11.3 mm 10.1 mm 8.7 mm 9.6 mm
Strike pattern Heel Heel Heel Heel
Size True to size Slightly small True to size Slightly small
Midsole softness Soft Soft Soft Soft
Difference in midsole softness in cold Normal Small Normal Normal
Toebox durability Good Decent Decent Decent
Heel padding durability Good Good Good Good
Outsole durability Good Good Good Good
Breathability Warm Moderate Warm Warm
Width / fit Medium Medium Medium Medium
Toebox width Medium Medium Narrow Medium
Stiffness Stiff Moderate Moderate Moderate
Torsional rigidity Stiff Stiff Stiff Stiff
Heel counter stiffness Moderate Moderate Stiff Moderate
Rocker
Heel lab Heel brand 39.4 mm 36.1 mm 36.9 mm 35.4 mm
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand 28.1 mm 26.0 mm 28.2 mm 25.8 mm
Widths available Normal Normal Normal Normal
Orthotic friendly
Season All seasons All seasons All seasons All seasons
Removable insole
Ranking Bottom 43% Bottom 31% Bottom 29% Bottom 17%
Popularity Top 8% Top 16% Top 24% Top 40%