The Hoka Kaha 2 Low Gtx Review & Lab Test of 2026

The Hoka Kaha 2 Low GTX is a supportive hiking shoe designed for long-distance treks. Ideal for multi-day hikes, this model features the same robust platform as its counterpart, the Kaha backpacking boot. With its construction, users can expect stability and comfort during extensive excursions.

The shoe's design is tailored for hikers who require durable support over varied terrains. If your needs are less demanding than a multi-day hike or a thru-hike, the Kaha 2 Low GTX may be more than necessary.

Pros

  • Complete isolation from the trail
  • Comfort-loaded interiors
  • Immensely stable
  • Secure foot lockdown
  • Exceptionally durable
  • Solid grip on varied terrain
  • Watertight upper

Cons

  • Expensive for a low-top
  • Midsole gets firmer in cold
  • Much heavier than average

Key Features

  • Waterproof GORE-TEX: Keeps your feet dry in wet conditions.
  • Cushioned Midsole: Provides superior shock absorption and support during long hikes.
  • Wide Toe Box: Allows for natural toe splay, enhancing comfort on uneven terrain.
  • Durable Outsole: Made from synthetic rubber for added traction and longevity.
  • Unisex Design: Suitable for all hikers, ensuring inclusivity in fit and style.

Specifications

  • Fabric type: Synthetic-and-rubber
  • Origin: Made in the USA or Imported
  • Sole material: Synthetic Rubber
  • Outer material: Synthetic Resin

Hoka Kaha 2 Low Gtx Review & Lab Test – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

Hoka Kaha 2 Low GTX La Sportiva Spire GTX KEEN Targhee III Waterproof Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX
Price $220 $209 $160 $160
Trail terrain Light Technical Technical Technical
Weight lab Weight brand 16.8 oz / 476g 14.8 oz / 420g 17.1 oz / 486g 13.3 oz / 378g
Lightweight
Breathability Warm Warm Moderate Warm
Use Backpacking Backpacking Backpacking Backpacking
Orthotic friendly
Drop lab 8.5 mm 16.0 mm 12.5 mm 10.9 mm
Size True to size True to size True to size True to size
Midsole softness Soft Firm Firm Firm
Difference in midsole softness in cold Big Normal Small Big
Torsional rigidity Stiff Stiff Moderate Stiff
Heel counter stiffness Moderate Stiff Moderate Stiff
Stiffness Stiff Moderate Moderate Moderate
Outsole hardness Average Average Average Hard
Waterproofing Waterproof Waterproof Waterproof Waterproof
Material Leather Mesh Leather -
Season Winter Winter Winter Winter
Toebox durability Good Decent Very good -
Heel padding durability Good Bad Bad -
Outsole durability Good Good Decent -
Width / fit Medium Medium Medium Medium
Toebox width Medium Medium Medium Medium
Lug depth 4.3 mm 4.3 mm 4.5 mm 4.5 mm
Heel stack lab 38.0 mm 39.1 mm 29.5 mm 30.9 mm
Forefoot 29.5 mm 23.1 mm 17.0 mm 20.0 mm
Widths available Normal Normal Normal Normal
Technology Gore-Tex Gore-Tex - Gore-Tex
Heel tab Finger loop Finger loop Finger loop Finger loop
Removable insole
Ranking Bottom 1% Top 35% Top 43% Bottom 22%
Popularity Bottom 34% Top 38% Bottom 45% Top 15%