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

The HOKA Kaha 3 GTX is a reliable hiking boot designed for backpackers seeking a balance between comfort and stability. With a notable shock absorption feature, this boot is ideal for those who prioritize cushioning during long treks.

Lab results indicate that the shoe's weight may be on the heavier side, which could impact overall agility. However, its robust design and stability features make it suitable for challenging terrains.

For hikers willing to invest in their footwear, the HOKA Kaha 3 GTX provides a solid option, ensuring a secure and comfortable experience on the trails.


Pros

  • One of the best cushioned boots ever
  • Extremely comfortable for long miles
  • Highly stable and supportive
  • Excellent traction on smooth surfaces
  • Grips mixed and hilly terrain well
  • Contains sustainable materials
  • More streamlined than the Kaha 2

Cons

  • Lugs got much shallower
  • Heavier than average

Key Features

  • Cushy sockliner designed to combat foot fatigue during extended wear.
  • Dual density sugarcane EVA midsole for enhanced bounce and responsiveness compared to previous models.
  • GORE-TEX Invisible Fit technology ensures waterproof capabilities while maintaining breathability.
  • Durable toe cap provides extra protection against rocky terrain.
  • Achilles-friendly heel collar mitigates pressure for increased comfort.
  • Vibram® Megagrip outsole offers superior traction on loose and uneven surfaces.

Specifications

  • Origin: Imported
  • Sole material: Ethylene Vinyl Acetate
  • Shaft height: Ankle
  • Shaft circumference: 2 Inches

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

HOKA Kaha 3 GTX Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid GTX Zamberlan 320 Trail Lite Evo GTX KEEN Pyrenees
Price $240 $185 $300 $170
Trail terrain Moderate Moderate Light Moderate
Weight lab Weight brand 19.4 oz / 550g 15.4 oz / 437g 19.5 oz / 553g 21.7 oz / 615g
Lightweight
Breathability Warm Warm Warm Warm
Use Backpacking Backpacking Backpacking Backpacking
Orthotic friendly
Drop lab 11.5 mm 12.7 mm 11.2 mm 16.7 mm
Size Slightly small True to size True to size True to size
Midsole softness Soft Firm Firm Soft
Difference in midsole softness in cold Big Small Small Normal
Heel counter stiffness Stiff Flexible Moderate Moderate
Stiffness Moderate Flexible Stiff Stiff
Outsole hardness - - Average Very hard
Waterproofing Waterproof Waterproof Waterproof Waterproof
Material Leather Textile Leather Leather
Season Winter Winter Winter Winter
Toebox durability Decent Decent Good Good
Heel padding durability Decent Bad Good Decent
Outsole durability Bad Bad Decent Bad
Width / fit Medium Medium Medium Wide
Toebox width Medium Medium Medium Wide
Lug depth 3.2 mm 3.5 mm 3.3 mm 3.6 mm
Heel stack lab 41.9 mm 32.5 mm 34.9 mm 41.0 mm
Forefoot 30.4 mm 19.8 mm 23.7 mm 24.3 mm
Widths available Normal Normal Normal Normal
Technology Gore-Tex Gore-Tex Gore-Tex -
Cut Mid cut Mid cut Mid cut Mid cut
Removable insole
Ranking Bottom 14% Top 49% Top 25% Top 40%
Popularity Top 10% Top 5% Bottom 34% Bottom 19%