The Hoka Gaviota 5 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models of 2026

The Hoka Gaviota 5 serves as a new iteration in the category of stability running shoes. This model is ideal for runners seeking support and cushioning, particularly those who prioritize stability over energy return due to its 5 mm drop.

Lab results indicate that the refined weight contributes to an improved running experience, while the thicker midsole enhances cushioning capabilities. Notably, the firm foam structure translates to a stable platform, addressing the needs of runners requiring additional support during their runs.

With enhanced ventilation features, the Hoka Gaviota 5 effectively balances comfort and breathability, making it suitable for various running conditions. Overall, this shoe presents significant improvements for those focused on stability in their footwear choices.


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

Hoka Gaviota 5 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

Hoka Gaviota 5 On Cloudflyer 5 Altra Experience Form Saucony Tempus
Price $175 $170 $145 $160
Pace Daily running Daily running Daily running Daily running
Arch support Stability Stability Stability Stability
Weight lab Weight brand 10.5 oz / 299g 11.6 oz / 329g 9.2 oz / 261g 9.4 oz / 266g
Drop lab Drop brand 2.2 mm 7.9 mm 4.0 mm 8.5 mm
Strike pattern Mid/forefoot Mid/forefoot Mid/forefoot Heel
Size True to size True to size Slightly small Slightly small
Midsole softness Soft Balanced Balanced Soft
Difference in midsole softness in cold Big Normal Big Small
Toebox durability Decent Good Decent -
Heel padding durability Bad Good Decent -
Outsole durability Good Good Decent -
Breathability Breathable Moderate Moderate Breathable
Width / fit Wide Narrow Medium Narrow
Toebox width Wide Medium Wide -
Stiffness Stiff Moderate Stiff Moderate
Torsional rigidity Stiff Stiff Moderate Moderate
Heel counter stiffness Moderate Moderate Moderate Stiff
Rocker
Heel lab Heel brand 34.9 mm 33.2 mm 29.9 mm 33.9 mm
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand 32.7 mm 25.3 mm 25.9 mm 25.4 mm
Widths available Normal Normal Normal Normal
Orthotic friendly
Season Summer All seasons All seasons Summer
Removable insole
Ranking Bottom 30% Bottom 33% Top 8% Top 23%
Popularity Top 6% Top 48% Bottom 42% Top 34%