I see Hoka shoes everywhere—when I’m out walking, I see them on the feet of fellow hikers and runners, and I can always spy a few pairs at the gym.

I’ve tested several pairs of Hoka shoes for my guide to the best walking shoes and haven’t yet tried a pair I wouldn’t want to wear again.

My go-to pair are the Clifton 10, which I wear when walking my dog, at the gym and even on the occasional run.

When I next go on vacation, a pair of Hokas will be the first thing to go in my bag.

If comfortable footwear is your priority, Hoka covers all bases and then some.

What's more, Hoka has an ongoing sale, with up to 30% off some classic styles and bestsellers.

I've rounded up the best deals below for your perusal, sorted by terrain.

Road

Trail

Hoka is a firm favorite with runners, walkers and gym-goers alike.

I’m an unabashed fan. Every time a new shoe is announced, I’m counting down the days on my calendar.

I’ve tested several pairs of Hoka shoes for my guide to the best walking shoes and haven’t yet tried a pair I wouldn’t want to wear again.

What’s more, Hoka makes some great outdoor apparel, taking care of the question of what to wear with your nice new sneakers.

I’ve been through the sale section of the website with a fine-toothed comb and curated the best deals below for you.

I’ve chosen deals with the biggest discounts and the largest variety of sizes still in stock.

Many of the shoes are discontinued, so once they’re gone, they won’t be restocked.

All Gender Footwear

Men's Footwear

Women's Footwear

Men's Apparel

Women's Apparel

All Gender Apparel

I've tested loads of Hoka shoes over the past few years, with my current favorites featured in my guide to the best walking shoes.

I haven’t loved every pair that I’ve tried, but the ones I rate are hard to beat.

The Clifton and Bondi, in particular, hold a place in my heart. The bouncy soles make it feel like you’re walking on clouds and the energy return makes walking a pleasure.

The Transport has also been in the guide from day one. It’s been out for a while, but I’m yet to find a slip-in shoe to beat it for comfort and versatility.

Below, I’ve rounded up a mixture of the best discounts I could find in the Hoka sale today. I've snuck in a few of my favorite shoes as well as some with heavier discounts than I usually see.

If you’re looking for an excuse to treat yourself to a new pair of sports shoes, let this be it!

Women's

Men's

If you like to exercise, you’ll know that it’s best to do a range of activities, including weights and cardio. That’s why it pays to have a pair of versatile cross-training shoes that can handle whatever workout’s on the docket.

My colleague, who tests shoes for our guide to the best cross-training shoes, is a connoisseur of all things fitness footwear. When I spotted one of her favorites on sale, I couldn’t miss the chance to share it, and it’s from one of my favorites as well.

A shoe brand you’ll frequently hear both of us recommending is Hoka, a manufacturer famed for its marshmallow-like cushioning, making it a favorite for runners and walkers.

That quality is less than ideal in a workout shoe, because big stacks of foam underfoot can make lifting weights harder and can make you feel unstable—but Hoka’s top shoe for cross-training, the Hoka Solimar, swerves those problems, and it’s now 19% off at REI.

My colleague suggests using purpose-built shoes if you’re running long distances or lifting very heavy, but for a quick 5K followed by a kettlebell session, the Solimar is versatile enough to meet your needs.

Hoka tends to lean toward chunkier midsoles, but this isn’t the case with the Solimar. It is lightweight, with a modest heel-to-toe drop and a sleek profile.

My colleague noted that the shoe offers an excellent level of lateral stability, which is important for HIIT or fast-paced resistance training in particular. The reinforced heel keeps your ankle stable and the built-in rocker helps with a smooth toe off when running.

The Hoka Clifton 10 launched earlier this year, but there are still some pairs of the Clifton 9 available to buy. Now is the perfect time to get your hands on a pair for less with this last-chance offer from Hoka.

The men's shoes and women's shoes are both discounted through Hoka, with a good range of sizes and colorways available.

The Hoka Clifton 9 is also my favorite walking shoe for hard surfaces like concrete and features in one of the top spots in my best walking shoe guide.

I've also reviewed the Clifton 10, crowning it the best Hoka walking shoe, but as it is a fairly recent release, it remains at full price.

The Hoka Clifton 9 remains one of my favorite shoes from last year, excelling as both a running shoe, as well as a supportive shoe for walking.

It’s soft underfoot and streamlined. While not quite as plush as some of the other shoes in my guide, it’s still delightfully bouncy while maintaining its lightweight nature.

I’m a die-hard Hoka fan and the Transport has held a spot in my best walking shoe guide as the best slip-on walking shoe for over a year now.

The men’s shoe was discounted over Memorial Day and REI's 30th anniversary sale, with a 25% reduction on the oak/alabaster colorway. There’s still some stock remaining after these events and REI has yet to put the price back up again.

Hurry and snap this deal up before it goes away. It's only available in this colorway and stock is beginning to sell out, so if you want a pair for less, act now!

The toggle fastening and versatility of the shoe are its main two selling points. It’s aimed at commuters, but performs well both on the road and on the trail.

You can comfortably wear it all day, whether you work on your feet or sit in an office. If you want to go on a rainy walk on your lunch break, they’re water resistant, so can handle the odd shower.

Sold as a shoe built for commuters, this is one of my favorite Hoka shoes for its performance both on the road and on the trail.

The Transport holds a top spot in my walking shoe guide as the best slip-on walking shoe. The main selling point for me is the toggle fastening, which makes it quick and easy to put on.

If you struggle with fine motor control or have sore hands, this removes the need to tie laces and means shoes are easy to adjust one-handed. (It does come with a pair of laces, if you don’t want the toggle feature.)

The men’s shoe is discounted in REI’s 30th anniversary sale, with a 25% reduction on the oak/alabaster olorway. There are some reductions on the women’s Transport too, but stock is thinner on the ground.

The Transport is stylish enough to wear as an everyday sneaker, but with the performance of an athletic shoe.

It’s water resistant and has a tough outsole that grips well, so it can handle a trip off-road as well as city walks.

The Transport is one of Hoka’s flagship shoes since its release in 2023 and is rarely discounted despite being an relatively old shoe at this point.

I’ve just finished testing the Hoka Clifton 10, and it’s an excellent shoe, but is it better than the Clifton 9?

I think they’re both similarly good, with some minor improvements to the 10, but at $150 for the new generation, you might want to score a bargain and get the Clifton 9 while it’s still available.

The Hoka Clifton 9 was my favorite walking shoe for hard surfaces like concrete, and featured in my best walking shoe guide for most of 2024.

Now, with the release of the Clifton 10, some fabulous reductions have popped up as retailers try to shift the remaining stock of the Clifton 9.

There’s a discount of over $50 on the men's shoe and women's shoe at Zappos, with most sizes still in stock in a variety of colorways.

It is getting harder to find the Clifton 9, so if you were thinking of investing in a pair, now is the time to buy. It’s unlikely that prices will drop any further than they have already, and stock is already running low.

The Hoka Transport, my favorite slip-on walking shoe, spent most of 2023 leading the pack as the best walking shoe my colleagues and I tested.

It has since been supplanted, but it remains one of the top 15 and I always like to flag it when it's on offer, because it's such a good all-rounder.

Speaking of, the men's shoes are discounted by 25% in a subtle beige and blue colorway.

The great thing about the Hoka Transports is that they're really simple to get on and off, and if you have issues with your fine motor skills, they come with the option of a toggle fastening. If you don't like the toggles, you can just replace them with standard laces that come with the shoe.

Another great selling point of these shoes is that they can be worn anywhere. They're water resistant (although not fully waterproof) and sturdy enough to take you off-road. They also benefit from a medium level of cushioning and are supportive enough to be worn on concrete or other hard surfaces, and subtle enough to style with your normal clothes.

The Transport weigh a little over 11oz, which also makes them good for all-day wear—there's no point stomping around for extended periods in anything heavier.

Hoka is known for its exceptionally bouncy athletic shoes, but did you know they also make apparel to go with them? And did you know there's an always-on Hoka sale section of it's website with great discounts on everything from shoes to leggings to running gloves?

I've combed through the Hoka sale section and picked out my favorite offers. I've included items that have the best discounts and plenty of stock too, so you're less likely to be disappointed. There are discounts on Hoka shoes, but the reductions are better on items like winter coats as we head towards the warmer seasons.

Quick links

• Shop everything on sale at Hoka
• Hoka Outseeker Women's Down Jacket: was $258 now $154
• Hoka Elaro Knit Women's Tight 27": was $108 now $79.99
• Hoka ColdSnap Women's Jacket: was $228 now $134.99 
• Hoka Elaro 5" Women'sBike Short: was $54 now $39.99
• Hoka Women's Playsuit: was $98 now $69.99
• Hoka Glide 4'' Women's Short: was $78 now $59.99
• Hoka Hupana Women's Tight: was $88 now $59.99
• Hoka Essential Allgender Jogger: was $98 now $59.99
• Hoka Race Day Women's Bra: was $68 now $49.99
• Hoka Ridgetop Half-Zip Women's Fleece: was $128 now $99.99
• Hoka Bird Logo Gpx SS Women's Tee: was $34 now $19.99
• Hoka Skyflow Men's Jacket: was $118 now $79.99
• Hoka Glide Men's Singlet: was $42 now $22.99
• Hoka Skyglider Men's Short: was $84 now $59.99
• Hoka United by Movement GPX Men's Tee: was $40 now $29.99
• Hoka Outseeker Down Men's Jacket: was $258 now $154.99
• Hoka 7" Men's Short: was $68 now $39.99
• Hoka Women's Rincon 4:  was $125 now $99.99
• Hoka Women's Bondi 8: was $165 now $115.99
• Hoka Women's Kawana 2 : was $140 now $111.99
• Hoka Men's Mach 6: was $140 now $111.99
• Hoka Men's Clifton 9: was $145 now $115.99
• Hoka Men's Speedgoat 6: was $155 now $123.99
• Hoka Men's Bondi 8: was $165 now $115.99
• Hoka Hip pack 2.5L: was $58 now $44.99
• Hoka Lifestyle Athletic Crew Sock: was $18 now $9.99
• Hoka ColdSnap fleece beanie: was $28 now $19.99
• Hoka Airolite Run Gloves: was $34 now $24.99
• Hoka Trail Trucker: was $32 now $24.99

Women's apparel

Men's Apparel

Women's Shoes

Men's shoes

Accessories

Two weeks ago, I noticed that the Hoka Bondi 8 was reduced by 30%, which hardly ever happens. I didn't expect the sale to last long, because these are high-quality shoes and a discount of $51 is the best I've seen in a long time (even better than the 19% discount I saw over Black Friday). However, you can still save 30% on the men's shoes and women's shoes. Plus, the discount applies to all styles, not just a selection of unpopular colors that aren't shifting. So, if you've had your eye on a pair, now is the time to treat yourself.

I test many shoes for Fit&Well's guide to the best walking shoes and rated the Bondi 8 highly when I wore it, putting it in the number one spot for most of 2024.

I'm very picky with my walking shoes, so it's rare for a pair to earn a full five-star rating. I reserve that honor for real standouts that offer unparalleled comfort. I've tested several Hoka shoes and while I loved the Clifton 9 (also reduced at REI at the moment), and the Transport, the Bondi 8 remains my favorite.

Although it's designed as a road-running shoe, I much prefer it for walks, because the wide crash pad makes it a little heavier than I'd like for a running shoe. However, for those looking for a reliable companion for distance runs, the Bondi 8 suits this purpose too.

Designed to be the ultimate road running shoe, the Hoka Clifton 9 is also my favorite walking shoe for hard surfaces like concrete, and features in my best walking shoe guide. It lacks a fraction of the high stacks of cushioning of other road running shoes, like the Hoka Bondi 8 or Brooks Glycerin Max, but that's an advantage if you want something lightweight, and there's still plenty of plush cushioning and bounce to keep you striding forward.

The men's shoes and women's shoes are both discounted by 19% at REI, with a good range of sizes still available. You can also still get the Hoka Bondi 8 for 30% off and there are a few pairs of the Hoka Transport still available at half price.

When I reviewed the Hoka Clifton 9, I particularly liked how soft it is underfoot. It's not quite as plush as some of the other shoes I've tested, but for such a streamlined shoe, it's definitely pillow-like. The cushioning feels softer than that found in more high-stack shoes like the Bondi 8, and it's more lightweight too.

The high, curved back also makes them easy to pull on and kick off, and makes for a cool stylistic choice in my opinion. It also serves the practical function of preventing rubbing and pinching on the Achilles tendon, something I usually have trouble with.

It also has an editor's choice award from REI.

If you're looking for a pair of shoes that are as comfortable off-road as on, you can't go wrong with the Hoka Transport, my favorite slip-on walking shoe. They're firm enough to support you on uneven terrain, but light and soft enough to wear all day on hard surfaces, and the toggle fastening makes them quick and easy to put on.

The men's shoes and women's shoes are both discounted at REI, with limited sizes and styles left in stock. You can also still get the Hoka Bondi 8 for 30% off.

I rated the Transport 4.5 out of 5 stars and had nothing negative to say about them. My preference is for a more stacked, bouncy shoe, but that certainly isn't the case for everyone and these are probably the pair of Hokas of all the ones I've tested that would appeal to the widest audience.

The Hoka Transport dominated my guide to the best walking shoes for most of 2023 and the beginning of 2024 before it was supplanted by the Hoka Bondi 8 (followed by the Brooks Glycerin Max). It remains one of my colleague's top shoes, especially for a comfy commute.

I would argue that these shoes are stylish enough to wear as an everyday sneakers, with some of the benefits of wearing an athletic shoe. The style is quite muted and casual, meaning it pairs well with most outfits, but the performance is that of a built-for-purpose walking shoe. Hoka shoes fit true to size, so you can buy your regular size with no issues.

They are water resistant, (although not fully waterproof) so they'll keep you mostly dry during a rain shower.

The Hoka Bondi 8 was my top rated shoe of 2024, spending most of the year crowning our guide to the best walking shoes, despite the many other shoes I put to the test during this time.

Usually over Black Friday you'll see the best discounts across the board, because most retailers get involved. Over that period there was a 19% discount on this shoe, so imagine my surprise to see an even better discount of 30% on the men's shoes and women's shoes this weekend.

If you like stacking, cushioning and bounce in a walking (or running) shoe, then these are an excellent choice, and for over $50 off they're a bargain to boot (pardon the pun).

The Bondi 8 earned a rare five our of five stars that I reserve for real standouts. I've tested multiple Hoka shoes and the Bondi still reigns supreme as my ultimate favorite. It's now replaced in the top spot of the walking guide by the Brooks Glycerin Max, but it's a much more budget-friendly shoe, especially with a discount.

I'm not ashamed to admit that I'm a Hoka addict, having tested several pairs for Fit&Well's guide to the best walking shoes.

The Hoka Transport was the first I tested and is my favorite slip-on shoe. It's designed for hiking and running and is stylish enough to pair with your favorite outfit.

I also tested the Hoka Clifton 9 this year, which I rate as the best shoe for walking on concrete. It's a great option if you work on your feet all day, thanks to its lightweight cushioning.

My favorite Hoka of all time is the Hoka Bondi 8, which sat at the top of my walking shoe guide for a long time (it was replaced in November by my new favorite: the Brooks Glycerin Max, but it was a close run thing).

My colleague, a keen runner, also tested the Hoka Mach 6 earlier this year and gave it a glowing review. He recommends it as an everyday running shoe, great for easy runs and longer sessions.

You can find all these models at reduced prices, even though the Black Friday fitness sales and Cyber Monday discounts have officially ended.

December Hoka deals

Hoka makes excellent shoes that are perfect for all sorts of athletic activities. I've been fortunate enough to test several models, and every single one has made it into my guide to the best walking shoes.

The Hoka Bondi 8 topped the list for most of 2024, only recently supplanted by my new favorite the Brooks Glycerin Max. I also tested the Hoka Clifton 9, which I rate as the best shoe for walking on concrete, and the Hoka Transport, which is my favorite slip-on shoe.

All of these models have been reduced in the Black Friday fitness sales, which is excellent news if you need a new running or walking shoe. But which one should you choose?

Black Friday Hoka deals

Which Hoka should you buy?

Both the Clifton 9 and Bondi 8 are designed to be road running shoes, but if you're a keen runner, I think the Clifton 9 would be a better choice of the two.

When running in the Bondi 8, I found the wide crash pad (which I love as a walker) tended to clip the side of my leading leg. The Clifton 9 is a slimmer shoe and doesn’t have this problem. The Clifton 9 also comes further up the back of the heel and is marginally lighter than the Bondi 8, making it good for speed runs.

The Transport is a hybrid hiking and running shoe, with a more rigid sole and stiff upper, so it's well-suited to rough terrain. There's less cushioning in the shoe, but stacked sneakers (like the Bondi) can make you unstable when you're hiking, which is why it's better to opt for something with stability and grip like the Transport.

Despite having less cushioning and bounce, the Transport is still comfortable and the toggle fastening makes it easy to get on and off. It's more of an everyday sneaker than the other Hokas I've tested, too, with an understated style that some people might prefer.

More Hoka Black Friday recommendations

I don't often give a pair of shoes the full five out of five stars, but the Hoka Bondi 8 deserved it. They are the best shoes I tested in 2024 for my guide to the best walking shoes and have held the top spot for over six months, despite the many other shoes I've tested during this time. I rarely see discounts on this shoe, so a 19% discount on the men's shoes and the women's shoes is worth snapping up while you can.

So, why are they so great? Well, they're plush. The bounciest, most well-cushioned shoes I've tried. They have a high stack of midsole foam, which is something I really like in a shoe, and means that the energy return on hard surfaces is great.

I still reach for my pair of Hoka Bondi 8 shoes, and after seven months of wear have shown themselves to be durable. The wide crashpad is a feature that I've found myself valuing more and more, as it distributes my weight over a wider surface area and takes some of the pressure off the rear of my foot.

The upper is soft and will keep your feet cool with its well-ventilated engineered mesh material. The upper doesn't feel stiff or restrictive either, which is the main downfall I've found with built-for-purpose walking shoes (the Bondi 8 is technically designed for road running), but like most running shoes, doesn't offer any water resistance.

The Hoka Transport topped my guide to the best walking shoes for longer than a year before being supplanted by the Hoka Bondi 8. I still think the Transport is a fantastic shoe, and it offers a stylish hybrid option described as commuter-friendly.

I rated the Transport 4.5 out of 5 stars and had nothing negative to say about them. The only reason the Bondi 8 holds the top spot is my own preference for slightly bouncier shoes.

There are deals on both the men's shoes and the women's shoes at REI, on the Harbor Mist/Lime Green colorway. While October's Amazon Prime Day and Black Friday are just around the corner, there are no guarantees you'll save by waiting. Reductions on top-of-the-range Hoka shoes are few and far between—you're more likely to find a cheaper shoe discounted.

Hoka shoes fit true to size, so you can buy your regular size with no issues. These shoes are great for walking, hiking, running or even just as sneakers, making them a great hybrid shoe. While they lack some of the stack height of the other Hoka shoes, they are more of a casual shoe.

The upper is rigid, making them good for walking on uneven terrain, for instance, if you want to wear them hiking. They are also water resistant, but not fully waterproof, so they're keep you dry during a rain shower, but not if you walk through deep puddles.

I test walking shoes for our best walking shoes guide and have been keeping an eye out for discounts on my favorites. Of my top nine in the guide, five are currrently discounted for Amazon Prime Day, including the shoe in the number one spot, the Hoka Bondi 8. 

Amazon Prime Day can be a great time to invest in some good footwear, as we often see discounts from big names like Adidas and Brooks. Unfortunately, there won't always be a deal in the size and style you're looking for, so it tends to be a game of Amazon shoe-roulette. 

I've rounded up the deals I've found with the best discounts below. Read on to see how much you can save on walking shoes this Prime Day.

Men's Prime Day walking shoe deals

Women's Prime Day walking shoe deals

How to choose the right shoe for you

Before you buy, consider how much cushioning you want from your walking shoes. I like to have a really high level of cushioning in my shoes, to relieve the pressure on my feet when walking. I also like it when this cushioning is cleverly zoned to provide extra comfort where I need it. 

Breathability and weatherproofing are especially important for walking and the ideal shoe design for you will vary depending on your climate. Consider if you need waterproof shoes, more grip to deal with wet pavements, or light, breathable mesh uppers to keep your feet cool in the heat.

You'll also want to think about getting a secure fit, ensuring that both the sole and the rest of your foot are able to move without sliding around inside the shoe. Several companies offer narrow and wide options so you can pick the model that's right for you. You might also want to consider a shoe that doesn't have intrusive seams to avoid chaffing and blisters. 

The HOKA Kawana is an innovative entry to the running shoe scene. HOKA designed this shoe with a vision for people to use it for running, the gym, and just for walking around in. 

This HOKA design is definitely a worthy contender for our best running shoes for women roundup, and maybe even one of the best cross training shoes, too. It’s the ideal running shoe for anyone who enjoys regular runs of around four to seven miles and wants to head to the gym as well.

This very much applies to beginner runners too, because the Kawana provides a suitable level of bounce as you find your stride on shorter runs, and is wearable for other forms of exercise as you increase your overall fitness abilities. These are great for any HIIT style training or treadmill workouts but I'm not convinced this shoe is best suited to weight lifting after my testing.

Featuring a lower stack height (the amount of shoe material between your foot and the ground) than other HOKA trainers, this model feels less platform-y and has introduced a swallow-tail design to the heel for reducing landing impact and aiding smoother transitions. The Kawana also features a new compression-molded EVA midsole, which I didn’t find to be as responsive as promised but if you enjoy a firmer running shoe you will enjoy this latest addition to the HOKA lineage. 

HOKA KAWANA REVIEW: PRICE AND FEATURES

Newer to the HOKA family, the Kawana arrived on the scene in January 2022 and currently is available in the US for around $140 and in the UK for £125. 

After testing this pair of running shoes I’d say this is a tad steep for a running shoe that doesn’t suit longer mileage. But I guess the Kawana makes up for this in being suitable for gym use and wearing out and about on errands, or on the way to work.

The asymmetrical swallow-tail heel provides a wide and stable landing base for any heel strikers out there and will assist in transitioning you to the midfoot easier. If your heel hits the ground first followed by the rest of your foot when you run, this means you run with a heel strike, and opting for a shoe like the HOKA Kawana could help you make your running more efficient and help to avoid injury. There’s a lot you can learn from understanding your running style better and why every runner should get a gait analysis.

The Kawana advanced design (which I’ll move onto in a moment) promises a lot and you have to credit HOKA for this ambitious hybrid shoe. However, I didn’t find the shoe delivered on the level of comfort advertised in the new design elements. I also didn’t find the shoe overly responsive or soft to land on but I know that many runners who enjoy a firmer ride will benefit from training in these.

For these reasons, I do find that HOKA hasn’t skimped on the finish of these shoes but I wouldn't splash out on this pair if you're a long-distance runner looking to run hefty miles. You'd be better off with something more forgiving like the ON Running Cloudflow shoe.

HOKA KAWANA: DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY

To begin with, the upper design was a real triumph for this shoe. The engineered jacquard mesh material above the foot feels good quality and is very breathable for stuffy runs and gym sessions - plus it has been made with recycled materials. It also features a nicely padded tongue avoiding any bruising or uncomfortable pressure on the talus bone.

HOKA has added a CMEVA foam sole to the Kawana model, this is meant to offer a ‘lively, responsive experience’. I did feel a bounce in these shoes, for example, when I tested these shoes on an easier run they did offer a gentle boost but I wasn’t overwhelmed at the response rate from this shoe. It didn’t feel like a lightly-padded bounce when I took my strides. Those who have owned other HOKA models will probably notice this heavier feel instantly. This firmer foam in the midsole is there to make the Kawana suitable across various training such as tempo runs, mid-length runs, recovery runs, gym workouts, and CrossFit.

The Kawana features the key ingredient of other HOKA shoes, which is a meta-rocker design. Essentially this combines a low heel-toe drop and a round shape to the sole assisting your natural stride and helping to move your forward easier. In testing, I felt assistance in my transitions but I wouldn’t say the rolling sensation was particularly memorable for me. However, other runners may find this supports their momentum more than others.

Runners will either love or hate HOKA for their signature high stack heights and depending on preferences many will be happy to hear the Kawana has a reduced stack height of 30mm. Stack height refers to the amount of material between your foot and the floor. From my experience of testing the Kawana, this was neither an issue nor a bonus for my training. It just did the job.

The firmer, more stable feeling is suitable for the gym, especially if you like to get your cardio complete at the gym. The slight rocker effect on this HOKA shoe wasn’t flat enough for me to feel stable when lifting but I can definitely see plenty of fitness enthusiasts jumping from a 5k into a HIIT workout or Cross-Fit session in this pair of shoes. 

HOKA KAWANA REVIEW: FIT, FEEL, AND COMFORT

I found these shoes were true to size. The UK-size 6.5 fit like a glove for me. I stepped out on my first test run feeling extremely supported. I felt a few niggles in my mid-foot on my first couple of runs but have put this down to wearing the shoe in.

I felt confident running in them, which of course has a large impact on overall training experience and performance. The laces are reliable, there’s nothing worse than stopping to retie or tighten your laces midrun unless you need an excuse to catch your breath (this we all do on occasion).

After trying the HOKA Kawana out on a short run, speed run, and long-run I have concluded that they aren’t the most forgiving running shoe. But there's still a suitable degree of cushioning and the firmer feel helps to avoid sloppy running. 

HOKA KAWANA REVIEW: USER REVIEWS

The HOKA Kawana is barely a month old at the time of writing this so user reviews are scarce right now. However, Fit&Well will update this as more people buy and wear the HOKA Kawana.

A few eager HOKA customers have left reviews on the brand’s website and here’s what we found. One user who likes to switch from short runs to workout exercises for their training found the shoe really functional for this. Another reviewer states how they enjoyed the lower stack height on the Kawana, this made them feel less like they were running on a platform like other HOKA models. Others collectively agreed they felt supported and comfortable wearing these shoes on both runs and walks. 

There was less negative feedback than positive which is always a good sign. One person said the Kawana felt a little narrow when they first wore them but this was quickly amended by loosening up the laces more. Others said they had to size up a half-size.

HOKA KAWANA: VERDICT

My concluding thoughts on the HOKA Kawana as a running shoe is that they are an ideal foot-to-ground companion for the 5K and 10K lovers out there. They will feel too heavy and restrictive for anything more than seven miles. However, all shorter distance runners and beginners can reap the benefits of the firm, yet cushioned sole, which provides a firm ride and is a stable entry for gym use too. 

They feel and look like a durable pair of trainers that will offer a lot of mileage and they perform well across various different activities. The shoe’s durability appeal certainly doesn’t sacrifice how the shoe looks either, I would happily wear these shoes for everyday wear. Just watch what color you opt for as puddles and mud might not be very forgiving on the pristine white  ‘Blanc de Blanc / Butterfly’ option.

HOKA KAWANA: ALSO CONSIDER

Brooks Ghost 13

Some may find the Brooks Ghost 13 slightly more comfortable for runs surpassing the seven-mile mark with a thinner sole and lighter feel than the Kawana offers. This comfortable neutral trainer is a safe pick for easy-paced daily runs and longer half to marathon runners. 

ON Cloudflow

The ON Cloudflow running trainers will appeal to those who like to mix up their road running with some trail runs. The alternative look to this shoe is what makes it deliver on optimal support and comfort when training in these shoes. And if you’re looking to race soon, the light and responsive design is perfect for fast running. 

The Hoka One One Rocket X sits within the “super shoe” category – the running shoe designed to add speed to the marathon distance. The secret behind these performance shoes is the carbon fiber plate within the sole that can propel the runner forward and onto a personal best. But they still require a hefty investment and take some getting used to for beginners. The Rocket X have been described as the perfect entry into carbon fiber plated shoes, so let’s see if it’s a small step or a giant leap. 

In this Hoka One One Rocket X review, we fill you in on whether this shoe is worth your money and whether it's a contender for the best running shoes for men.

Hoka One One Rocket X review: price and features

The stylish Hoka One One Rocket X are available for $200/ £140 which puts them at the higher end of the market. They were billed as the company’s fastest shoe yet and are the successor to the Evo Carbon Rocket, which arrived in 2019. They’re lighter, faster, more stable, and more affordable. 

As well as the headline-making 1mm carbon fiber plate, the super lightweight (210g) and breathable upper gives the shoes a barely-there feel. As does the slimline tongue that conforms to the foot. Hoka also promises its lightest foam yet with added durability from the rubber. It’s tactically placed to hit the main wear spots, so it doesn’t add to the weight of the shoe. The support is neutral to moderate, so it’s not too suitable for those who’re prone to overpronation. The heel-to-toe drop is relatively flat at just 5.0mm, which in theory aids a smoother transition. 

If you’re not sure about the tech and want to try, Hoka offers a 30-day test flight. If the bionic super shoes aren’t for you, then the company will offer a “hassle-free” refund.

Hoka One One Rocket X review: design and technology 

So, what are carbon fiber plated shoes? Here, the rigid and strong carbon fiber plate is shaped a little bit like a large cooking spoon or spatula, with the handle stretching back into the heel. It sits between the insole and the sole of the shoe.

Carbon fiber plated shoes have gained a reputation as record-breaking runners, thanks largely to the movement started by Nike’s Zoom and VaporFly tech. Together with Ethiopian legend Eluid Kipchoge, they came close to “Breaking2” hours for the marathon, back in 2017. The world record, meanwhile, was obliterated by 1 minute and 22 seconds at the Berlin Marathon in 2018 by Kipchoge, while rocking the plated shoes. 

Since then, the tech has made its way to consumer-focused running shoes, albeit expensive ones like the Hoka One One Rocket X. Within competitive sport, the use of the tech remains controversial. Some call it “technological doping” because of the perceived advantage over past generations of athletes. When exactly does it become bionics? However, Kipchoge’s record stands, so why shouldn’t we all benefit from the added speed?

There are a few ways carbon fiber plated running shoes can, in theory, boost your speed over longer distances. The purpose of the plate is essentially to ensure more rapid contraction and expansion of the foam on each step, propelling you forward more rapidly. Some runners have said it replicates the feeling of continually running downhill. Hoka says it “maximizes the efficiency of every stride.” We’ll get to that later.

In terms of design, they’re an attractive shoe although the prominent branding won’t be for everyone. They’re available in fiesta red and white, as well as diva blue and white (the model we tested). The scuba blue and luminary screen with sunburst accents are great, as are the eggshell blue and black. The laces are longish and a little elasticated. Hoka’s website has recently added some new colorways, like the lush Blue Glass / Evening Primrose option.

Hoka One One Rocket X review: fit, feel, and comfort 

The Rocket X runs true to size. Personally, it’s one of the best-fitting shoes I’ve tested, with plenty of room in the toe box, while ensuring no forward movement. The shoes were just about wide enough, but the upper hugs the foot supremely well, even when unlaced. This is aided by the minimalistic tongue stretching across the tarsals. 

They’re lighter than their Evo Carbon predecessor at just 7.4oz, so the added spring in your step isn’t bogged down by unnecessary weight. 

The carbon plate tech does take a little getting used to. It was a little while before I became accustomed to the extra arch support and the way your foot naturally transitions forward once the heel is planted, but you soon realize what all the fuss is about because it does feel like you’re naturally being propelled forward, almost as if you’re wearing blades.

Initially, I felt the shoes were carrying me a little faster than I was ready for, as I continue to rehab a serious knee injury, but the easier ride made me feel comfortable pushing a few miles on than I had before. I can see these retaining their comfort level over much longer distances than I put them through (10km). 

It provides one heck of a smooth ride and there’s plenty of grip, despite the smooth appearance of the soul. which I needed on those often-slippery South Florida sidewalks, lubed superbly by the summer rain. The upper mesh was perfectly breathable, which was certainly appreciated with the temperatures still around the 80s here. 

It can be a little disconcerting using these on the trails as the carbon plate tends to crunch on rocky terrain, initially leading me to believe I’d broken it. That wasn’t the case, but still, they’re better suited to the roads. 

I’ve also taken to wearing these while walking the dog or moseying around town as they’re comfortable, supportive, and look sharp too. Because the tongue is so minimalist and has handy side wings, I didn’t have any problems with it sliding off to the side and having to straighten it mid-run. Some people might miss a substantial tongue though. 

Hoka One One Rocket X review: support

Historically, I have a neutral running gait, and these shoes suited that well. However, post-injury my running style has changed somewhat leading to slight over-pronation when testing shoes like the Brooks Ghost 13 earlier in 2021. I felt my big toe was collapsing inwards with that shoe, but that wasn’t the case with the Hoka One One Rocket X. It accommodated my form rather than the other way around. I’ve been using these for six months now (infrequently) and haven’t noticed any degradation in the support offered.

Hoka One One Rocket X review: verdict

A wonderful entry point to the revelatory carbon-plated running shoes. While the pros debate the ethics of this near-bionic addition to the foot, the rest of us can enjoy the benefits of an incredibly responsive ride that often seems like it’s doing the work for you. It’s a comfortable, smart-looking, and supportive shoe that’ll help you take meaningful time off your PBs. Beware though, once you’ve experienced this high-end, tech-forward shoe it’s going to be difficult to return to LBCP – life before carbon plates. 

Also consider

Nike Zoom Alphafly Next%

The Nike Zoom Alphafly Next% is considered the gold standard carbon-plated running shoe for distance runners. There’s more of that ZoomX foam than in previous iterations, it’s got dual Air-pockets as well as a full-length plate. Ultimate propulsion meets ultimate support. 

New Balance FuelCell RC Elite V2

Sitting between the Hoka and Nike price points is this NB option, which also includes a full carbon plate. There’s a massive foam heel to offer comfort to go along with the propulsion. The sequel shoe is a more accessible option for those adopting carbon shoes for their distance-running endeavors.