The Hoka Gaviota 3 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models of 2026

The Hoka Gaviota 3 is a motion control running shoe designed for overpronators and heavier runners. With its substantial cushioning and support, this model features a notable 5/5 rigidity rating, making it particularly suitable for individuals seeking stability during their runs.

Lab data indicates that the firm foam structure provides a stable platform, enhancing overall performance. The shoe's design makes it ideal for daily running rather than fast-paced activities.


Pros

  • Cushioned for heavier runners
  • Tuned for overpronators
  • Super stable, wide platform
  • Extremely durable
  • Plush, padded upper
  • Roomy toebox

Cons

  • A bit too stiff
  • Heavy
  • Tongue bunches up

Key Features

  • Traditional EVA rubber for cushioning
  • Lighter pronation control that adapts to your stride
  • New soft upper with a gusseted tongue for added comfort

Specifications

  • Fabric type: Textile Synthetic
  • Sole material: Rubber
  • Shaft height: Alle caviglia
  • Outer material: Textile

Hoka Gaviota 3 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

Hoka Gaviota 3 Hoka Rincon 4 Mizuno Wave Horizon 7 Hoka Gaviota 5
Price $160 $125 $170 $175
Pace Daily running Daily running Daily running Daily running
Arch support Stability Stability Stability Stability
Weight lab Weight brand 11.2 oz / 318g 8.1 oz / 231g 11.6 oz / 329g 10.5 oz / 299g
Lightweight
Drop lab Drop brand 9.6 mm 9.4 mm 7.2 mm 2.2 mm
Strike pattern Heel Heel Heel Mid/forefoot
Size True to size Slightly small Slightly small True to size
Midsole softness - Soft Balanced Soft
Difference in midsole softness in cold - Big Normal Big
Toebox durability - Bad Decent Decent
Heel padding durability - Decent Bad Bad
Outsole durability - Bad Good Good
Breathability - Breathable Moderate Breathable
Width / fit Narrow Narrow Medium Wide
Toebox width - Narrow Wide Wide
Stiffness - Moderate Stiff Stiff
Torsional rigidity Moderate Stiff Stiff Stiff
Heel counter stiffness - Stiff Stiff Moderate
Rocker
Heel lab Heel brand 39.4 mm 36.0 mm 39.1 mm 34.9 mm
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand 29.8 mm 26.6 mm 31.9 mm 32.7 mm
Widths available Normal Normal Normal Normal
Orthotic friendly
Season - Summer All seasons Summer
Removable insole
Ranking Top 48% Bottom 18% Top 37% Bottom 30%
Popularity Bottom 22% Top 22% Bottom 19% Top 6%