Hoka reviews and discussion

4.4

89% of reviewers would recommend to a friend

Reviews mention

  • Plush cushioning comfort
  • Supportive arch structure
  • Lightweight, responsive midsoles
  • Versatile running performance
  • Bulky, polarizing aesthetics
  • Inconsistent sizing and widths
  • Premature heel liner wear
  • Limited narrow‑foot fit

Hoka draws fervent reviews as a high‑cushion performance brand that works: runners, walkers, nurses, and travelers praise Clifton, Bondi, Arahi, Mach, and Speedgoat for cloud‑soft comfort, arch support, and long‑mile impact relief, often easing plantar fasciitis, knee, hip, and back pain. Reviews also flag drawbacks—bulky aesthetics and polarizing colorways, inconsistent sizing and widths, heel slippage for narrow feet, hyper‑cushion feel too soft or heavy for some, and durability issues like heel liner wear, outsole separation, and trail fragility—making in‑store fit tests and model selection crucial before buying Hoka.

AI summary based on Thingtesting reviews

155 reviews and posts

  • Hoka shoes have truly transformed my running experience. The cushioning is exceptional, providing a soft landing that feels gentle on my joints, yet they still offer great stability. I've found that they’re perfect for long-distance runs as well as everyday wear. The lightweight design makes them feel almost weightless, while the impressive grip ensures I feel secure on various terrains. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or someone just getting into fitness, Hoka can provide the comfort and support needed to take your performance to the next level. Highly recommend!

  • I switched from ON, to HOKA a few years ago, and will never go back. I wear my HOKA sneakers to the gym, and for exercise walks almost every day, and love how they fit, how much support they offer, and the cloudlike sole makes it feel like I'mm bouncing around the gym. I wish they'd offer a few more colors, but they do seem to change the selection each season.

  • Pretty good shoes overall. I have difficulty with their sizing however and only one style fits me. I’m either an 8 or 8.5 but in all but one style the 8.5 is way too big and the 8 is too small. So I don’t see a long term use of this brand.

  • favorite brand for running shoes ! especially long distance so comfortable and supportive

  • I am on my second pair of Hokas. I really like them. They have great cushioning and stand up to wear and tear. My only complaint is they are not the most stable shoes, at least the version I have. I do a lot of trail hikes and walks over rocky ground and that is where I notice the stability the most. I purchased my Hokas from REI so I can't speak to ordering from the website.

  • Good shoes for the right person. Very soft high cushioned shoes. Cult following now, not only among runners. They are surprisingly light weight. A bit pricy but with the added cushion they last a while.

  • I'm a nurse so my shifts are primarily spent on my feet. I work 12 hour shifts, three days a week so shoes are VERY important. I jumped on the Hoka bandwagon with some skepticism. Nearly all of my coworkers wear (& rave about) Hokas so I knew I had to try them. I purchased the Clifton 8 and immediately felt like I was walking on clouds. It's been about a year of wearing Hoka's and I just purchased my third pair. I'm incredibly happy with the look and feel of my shoes and have preached to others about how comfy they are. I can't see myself going back to any other brand of shoe, for work at least.

  • Love my Hokas! I want so many more pairs lol

    Feedback

    More colors/sizing, sometimes I'm a 6 or a 6.5 or a 7 depending on style

  • LOVE LOVE LOVE my Arahi 5! I am not a serious runner but they are perfect! They have lasted way longer than my previous running shoes. Supper comfy and look great

    Feedback

    More fun colors PLEASE release more clothes

  • I have horrible plantar fasciitis. I’ve spent literally four months in physical therapy learning to walk correctly again. Nothing has helped me the way Hokas have helped my pain! My feet feel more stable and normal than they have in a decade!

  • i was a hater until i bought them ok not a hater... but i definitely didn't get the hype. plus, i prefer (generally) barefoot shoes (wildlings are my favorite) but... barefoot shoes arent great for 4+ mile walks. i actually forgot to pack sneakers on a recent trip out hiking (how, i know) and the hokas had the widest toe box in the store... and i am converted. LOVE them. usuallly when i'd walk 6+ miles a day, i'd get a hip pain -- with my hokas, i get none. total convert!!

  • Running shoes are tricky because of individual preferences and requirements, however I will always recommend checking out Hoka. I still remember the lush feeling of going on my first run in the Arahi 6 which truly felt like my feet were running on their own; great cushioning but still good responsiveness and lightweight. I have since retired them from running but still wear them on longer walks or on my way to a gym class. I have also purchased a pair of running tights a few months ago and whilst they were not cheap, they are worth every cent. The fabric is firm enough for them to stay in place (and hold my phone in the dedicated pocket) but at the same time super soft and comfortable.

  • As someone with horrible foot issues- hoka Clifton 8 and 9 and Bondis are such great options! I also love the colors they offer- and they go on sale sometimes so look out 😉! The quality promise is worth buying on their website!

  • After a diagnosis of plantar fascitis I went to a specialty shoe store and they heavily recommended Hokas. I can't believe the amount of change it has made in my foot comfort. They do have rather large soles which aren't always my favorite aesthetic, but comfort sometimes comes over looks. And in this case, these shoes still look cool enough and provide all the support my arch could ever ask for.

  • i'm on my second pair of hokas and my odd, weak ankles and feet like them a lot. they're great when you'll be on your feet for a long while. i've worn them on long walks (4-10 miles) and find them well cushioned and supportive. the color combos have improved over time too.

  • I'll be honest; I was a late adopter to Hokas. I previously wore Asics and Saucony for running shoes. When I saw versions come out that were not quite the cushioning of the Clinton or Bondi, I tried the Mach. LOVE! I'm on my third pair. Unfortunately, they are very pricey.

  • absolute favorite brand of running sneakers! I bought a pair in 2020 when Hoka did a collaboration with Outdoor Voices and they have lasted me years! I love the cushion, comfort and all around look. They never bother my knees or ankles when I run. Will continue to purchase from Hoka!

  • FUN CHUNKY SHOES. I have a pair of Bondi 7s (I think) and love them. I tried a pair of Arahi's first, and they didn't work for me and left blisters. Easy to exchange though. I like the look and feel of the Bondi's.

    Feedback

    Insole quality seems to be subpar.

  • I love Hoka. They are so freaking comfortable. I will say I prefer the Cliftons over the Arahis due to the difference in cushion size.

    Feedback

    A little expensive, but within the price point of comparable brands.