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More running shoes are delivered to my door than ever before. I’m almost ashamed to admit how big my collection has become, even if it’s in the name of testing. And yet, in spite of all the different brands at my disposal, I return to the best Hoka running shoes whenever I’m in need of a comfortable, predictable pair. From the Clifton to the Mach to the Rocket, I’m a self-proclaimed Hoka stan with years of experience testing the brand’s top shoes. Whether you’re looking to pick up your first pair or add another to your collection, my colleagues and I have logged hundreds of miles to find the best Hoka running shoes. Based on our assessments, the Clifton 10 is the top Hoka model overall: It’s supportive, surprisingly light and perfect for everyday runs.
Lace up a pair of Hokas to make every mile a bit more comfortable.
Illustration: Forbes / Photo: Retailers
While I’ve tested most of the styles in this guide by hitting roads, trails and treadmills, I’ve also tapped other runners in my life for additional insights. As the miles wore on, we surveyed shoes based on a set of criteria: cushioning and comfort; overall fit; support; stability; and durability. With these variables in mind, I’ve put together a guide to the best Hoka running shoes whether you’re training, racing, tackling trails or recovering.
Our Top Recommendations
Best Hoka Running Shoes Overall: Hoka Clifton 10
Best Hoka Running Shoes For Cushioning: Hoka Bondi 9
Best Hoka Trail Running Shoes: Hoka Mafate 5
Best Hoka Running Shoes For Tempo Runs: Hoka Mach 6
Best Hoka Shoes For Stability: Hoka Arahi 8
Best Hoka Running Shoes For Racing: Hoka Rocket X 3
Best Hoka Shoes For Recovery: Hoka Ora Recovery Slide 3
Think of the Clifton 10 as Hoka’s bread-and-butter running shoe. Whether you’re cruising through neighborhood loops, racking up long weekend miles or just spending all day on your feet, it’s ready to handle most pursuits. The upper is made from a breathable mesh fabric to keep things cool, and the gusseted tongue helps keep your foot secure and “locked in” when you run. But the real standout is the cushioning, made from molded EVA foam in the midsole—it’s light, forgiving and incredibly durable. From the moment I first laced up a pair of Cliftons over five years ago, my feet and legs fell in love with the softness and support.
With that said, the Clifton isn’t for everyone. If you’re after speed, they’re a little heavy and sluggish (I’d recommend the Mach 6 if you want to pick up the pace), and some runners who need stability may not love the high stack height. Still, if you’re looking for a versatile trainer for those comfortably paced daily miles, it’s hard to go wrong. Read my full Clifton 10 review for more insights that I gathered while marathon training.
If you’re after a shoe that fully embraces Hoka’s signature plushness, this is the one: I’d describe the Bondi 9 as the Clifton’s bigger, cushier cousin. With a towering 42mm stack height at the heel, it delivers one of the most cloudlike rides you can find in a running shoe. Like the Clifton, it has a breathable upper, and a molded heel collar and reinforced framing in the rear adds extra support and enables a more stable landing.
The midsole is made with extra durable super critical foam infused with nitrogen gas to soak up impact and minimize fatigue without adding a ton of weight. “I’ve never felt any soreness or pain while wearing these shoes, even after hours of standing and walking around,” reflects Forbes Vetted supervising editor Kara Cuzzone. “The style is extremely comfortable and supportive.”
Having said that, the Bondi 9 isn’t designed for speed. At 10.5 ounces per men’s shoe, it’s hefty and a little clunky, which makes it tough to get moving quickly. The extra cushioning also means it’s not the most stable option, so I wouldn’t recommend it for cross-training or workouts with quick movements; consider the Hoka Solimar if you’re looking for something more dynamic. If you simply find it too soft, the Clifton is probably a better fit. (And if you’re torn between the Clifton versus the Bondi, there’s plenty to explore in how they compare.) At the end of the day, the Bondi is all about plush comfort, which is why runners keep reaching for it, year after year.
The Mafate 5 is Hoka’s latest trail runner to hit the road less traveled. At just over eight ounces per women’s shoe, it’s incredibly light yet plush, with 44mm of stack at the heel, and 8mm of drop to keep you moving forward. Up top, Hoka uses a knit upper that’s plenty breathable, and the brand claims to have added an “anti-fray treatment” to help with durability, though long-term testing will determine if it truly works. Underfoot, the dual-density midsole uses nitrogen-infused super critical foam that makes it a bit more bouncy and supportive, and it’s finished with a Vibram Megagrip outsole for reliable traction.
The Mafate 5 is a well-rounded trainer, and that makes it hard to pick apart. Truth be told, I don’t have many complaints, but I think it’s worth noting this shoe is better for long, slow efforts as opposed to trail races or FKT attempts. It’s soft and forgiving to help you find comfort over the course of an entire day, but that doesn’t really translate to a speedy experience. I imagine Hoka may unveil a Mafate Speed 5 soon enough, so wait patiently for that release if you want a more responsive, locked-in feel. Otherwise, the Mafate 5 is a great trail-running shoe for those of us who love to explore at our own pace.
I don’t think Hoka is wrong to call the Mach 6 an “everyday run” shoe, but that doesn’t quite tell the whole story. In reality, it’s a responsive, dynamic trainer that landed in my rotation when I needed something snappier than the Clifton—and I quickly realized it’s a solid option for tempo runs. The supercritical foam midsole delivers excellent rebound and responsiveness and, surprisingly, feels comfortable and supportive on longer runs as well despite its firmness. If you find more aggressive racing shoes like the Cielo X1 2.0 or Rocket X 3 uncomfortable, the Mach 6 is a great alternative. It’s light, a little punchy and streamlined enough to push the pace without overcomplicating things.
The only potential drawback is the narrow toe box—it tapers toward the front and might feel a bit snug if you have bunions or wider feet. I’ve never had an issue with the fit, but if you typically go for wide shoes, it’s something to keep in mind. Otherwise, this is a fantastic daily trainer built to help you lock in to a smooth, effortless rhythm.
The Arahi 8 is a solid shoe for runners who suffer from overpronation (a gait pattern where your foot collapses inward with each step and puts strain on the muscles surrounding it) and need stability. Hoka’s “H-Frame” design—a firm foam that wraps around the inner perimeter of the arch and heel—gently guides your foot into alignment without feeling intrusive. “The shoes are super sturdy but somehow still feel like running on clouds,” says Forbes Vetted associate director of operations, Kayla Sigaroudi. “They fit like a glove, but still have plenty of toe room, which has been really helpful on longer runs when my feet start to swell.”
Unlike the Gaviota 5, which takes a more structured approach to protect from inward rolling, the Arahi 8 strategically positions its support to keep your surrounding muscles engaged, rather than forcing gait changes to happen in the foot alone. Think of it as a guide, not a drill sergeant—it helps you stay on track without micromanaging your stride.
That subtle stability also makes the Arahi 8 lighter and leaner than most stability shoes, but it’s still on the clunky side as far as shoes go and doesn’t provide a ton of energy return. This probably shouldn’t be your go-to shoe for doing speed work or running personal bests. That said, if you’re coming back from an injury due to overpronation or are working on gently strengthening your mechanics, this is a good shoe to lace up while rebuilding your foundation.
The Rocket X 3 is Hoka’s latest take on the now ubiquitous carbon-plated racing shoe, and it’s as fast and aggressive as they come. At just 8 ounces per shoe, it’s one of the lighter options in Hoka’s lineup, employing feathery and responsive PEBA foam that propels you forward. A carbon fiber plate adds even more snap, while small patches of rubber are strategically placed underfoot (instead of lining the full sole) t0 help shave weight without sacrificing grip.
Of course, a $250 racing shoe isn’t for everyone. It’s expensive, less durable than a daily trainer and you can’t wear it on every run (or, at least, you probably shouldn’t). Some runners may love it, while others might struggle to find comfort in its aggressiveness—it’s not a highly cushioned shoe by any means. The Rocket X 3 is also only available in all-gender sizing, meaning that the fit (and specifically the wideness of the shoe) isn’t fully adapted for women’s feet in particular. But if you’re after one of Hoka’s most explosive options for race day, this is it.
Whether you swear by recovery footwear or think it’s just clever marketing, there’s no denying the instant, relief-inducing comfort of Hoka’s Ora Recovery Slide 3. The injection-molded sugarcane EVA midsole is soft and forgiving—almost like stepping onto a plush standing mat—and built-in air channels help keep your feet cool and dry. Honestly, there’s not much more to this sandal, but that’s exactly the point—recovery footwear should be simple. If you’re looking for a recovery shoe instead, the Bondi 9 delivers a similar level of cushioning and support.
The Hoka Clifton 10 (left) compared to the Clifton 9 (right).
Cam Vigliotta For Forbes
Why Trust Forbes Vetted
The Forbes Vetted team tests and reviews many of the best-selling running shoes each year, from daily trainers to high-performance racers. To ensure our recommendations reflect real-world use, we put running shoes to the test in a variety of environments, from neighborhood sidewalks and city streets to rugged backcountry trails far removed from the beaten path.
Author of this guide and Forbes Vetted gear editor, Cam Vigliotta, has over six years of experience testing outdoor, wellness and fitness products. With a background in kinesiology, he’s worked with both casual and semi-professional runners alike who rely on comfortable, supportive footwear to meet their goals. When he’s not testing Hoka running shoes, he’s logging miles in a few of his own favorite pairs, including the Clifton 10, Mach 6 and Rocket X 3.
Forbes Vetted staffers helped test many of Hoka’s latest styles. Supervising editor Kara Cuzzone tested the Bondi 9, while associate director of operations, Kayla Sigaroudi, tested the Arahi 8.
This guide was reviewed by Forbes Vetted editorial director, Brinda Ayer, a three-time marathoner and longtime distance runner who’s on her fourth pair of the Hoka Mach 6.
We believe that evaluating running shoes from one perspective doesn’t always paint an accurate picture. That’s why we gather feedback from multiple testers and experts to produce well-rounded recommendations. Experts we tapped include: Caroline Bermel, product marketing specialist and head shoe tester at Fleet Feet; and Dr. Chloe Costigan, PT, of Mobility-Doc.
By combining real-world testing with professional insights, we’ve put together a Hoka running shoe guide that caters to every kind of runner—from beginners looking for their first pair of shoes to seasoned marathoners in need of reliable performance. Our goal is to recommend Hoka shoes that aren’t just comfortable but also responsive, durable and built to meet different running needs.
We strive to keep our content accurate and relevant. This article was last updated in August 2025.
How We Chose The Best Hoka Running Shoes
We put every Hoka running shoe in this guide through real-world testing to see how they perform across different conditions. Our decision process focused on the key factors that matter most to runners:
Some runners love ultra plush shoes, while others prefer a firmer, more responsive ride. We tested shoes on different types of runs—long, slow miles, tempo workouts and recovery jogs—to see how the cushioning held up and how comfortable they felt over time.
Everyone’s feet are different, which is why we looked closely at the toe box, midfoot and heel to make sure each shoe didn’t feel too tight or too loose, especially on longer runs when discomfort often presents itself.
Whether you have a neutral stride or need a little extra support, we tested the stability of each shoe by running on sidewalks, trails, wet roads and beyond. This helped us understand which models provided the ideal balance of structure and flexibility.
We took these shoes out on pavement, grass, dirt and uneven surfaces to evaluate their grip and durability. The goal was to determine how well the outsoles perform and if they provided enough traction on different terrain, depending on how each shoe is designed to perform.
Not every running shoe is built for the same purpose. Some are made for daily training, others for speed workouts and some for rugged trails. We tested Hokas in different settings to see which models worked best for each type of runner and running environment.
How To Shop For The Best Hoka Running Shoes
Cushioning And Comfort
Hoka is perhaps best known for its cushioning, but not every model offers that cloudlike plushness. If you love a soft ride, the Bondi is about as cushioned as it gets—it’s great for long runs or recovery days. The Clifton provides a similarly plush feel, but with less cushioning and weight, making it more versatile. According to Bermel, “While the Bondi and Clifton both offer smooth, plush experiences, the Bondi delivers more cushion underfoot than the Clifton. This means the Clifton is a little bit lighter and more flexible.”
If you prefer a firmer, faster shoe, models like the Mach, Rocket X 3 and Cielo X1 2.0 may work for you. In terms of daily trainers, “The Mach 6, Skyflow and Mach X are great if you’re seeking a bouncy experience,” Bermel suggests. “Hoka’s racing shoes—the Rocket X and Cielo X1—deliver a fast experience.” Think about what kind of feel you prefer and how that translates to your preferred running style.
Fit
The right fit can make or break a running shoe. Generally speaking, Hoka shoes run true to size, but some models fit tighter than others. For example, the Bondi has a more generous toe box, but if you have wider feet, consider models available in wide sizes, like the Clifton 10 wide.
Bermel emphasizes that finding the right shoe depends on individual needs: “Finding the right Hoka shoe depends on many factors, including your foot shape, support needs and preferences. That’s why we always recommend heading to your local [running store, like Fleet Feet] for a custom outfitting experience.” A professional fitting can help determine the best Hoka model based on foot width, arch height and other key factors.
Support
Understanding your gait can help you pick the right model to keep your feet happy and your body injury-free. Not all runners need the extra support, but if you overpronate (meaning your foot rolls inward with each step), a stability shoe can help. The Arahi is a great option for mild to moderate support, thanks to its H-Frame technology, while the Gaviota offers even more structure.
“Runners seeking a structured experience might reach for the Arahi or the Gaviota,” Bermel explains. “Both shoes deliver a stable base and supportive geometry that ensures an even wear pattern despite differences in gait.” On the other hand, if you have a neutral stride, the Clifton is likely a better option.
Durability
Hoka shoes hold up well compared to competitors, but proper use is key to longevity. “Runners and walkers can make their Hoka shoes last longer by wearing them only for their intended purpose,” Bermel explains. “For example, if you bought a pair of the Bondi 9 to wear for your easy and long runs, pick a different shoe to hit the gym in.” Rotating between shoes based on activity can extend their lifespan and maintain performance.
Other Considerations
In our research, we found that two major misconceptions about Hoka shoes often come up. First, many assume they’re heavy and bulky. “This couldn’t be further from the truth,” says Bermel. “Hoka shoes first became popular with their chunky midsoles that appeared much larger than competitors’ models. Today, they offer just about the same stack height as other popular brands. The best part is that they feel a lot lighter than they look.”
Another misconception is that Hoka only makes cushioned, easy-mile shoes. “That may have been true six years ago, but now they have super shoe options that can compete with the very best models on the market,” Bermel points out. The Cielo X1 2.0, for example, is a favorite of hers for hard tempo workouts and race day.
