I tried to stay away from the Hokas. They’re expensive, ugly and the complete opposite of my beloved light K-Swiss Quicky. A buddy of mine wears them (an ultra runner) and LOVES them, so I thought to give them a try because I had been dealing with some Metatarsal pain. I never wanted to try these marshmallows of a shoe, but I had the opportunity to test a pair and decided to try some miles with an open mind. They are awesome.
I’ve now done 1 half Ironman and a Full Ironman, and they have not disappointed at all. Even when I am running on trails, I still have no issues.
Function: Great on punishing technical terrain or if you’re going to be on your feet for a long time. The quick lace system is really easier to use, even with gloves on.
Fit: Hoka says these run big, and suggests ordering half a size down. I went with my usual 13 and found they fit just fine. My biggest complaint about the fit is the toe box is too snug. I’m used to a big, roomy toe box and the Stinson’s are just a tad too narrow. If I don’t have the right socks, I pay for it with my toe nails.
Cons:
- Hoka also calls these shoes “feather light.” At 10.7 ounces they’re pretty average, and more than 2 ounces heavier than my K-Swiss.
- When these get wet (you know, rivers, peeing during ironman) they feel even heavier. They dried fairly quickly, but all that cushion seems to hold water like a sponge.
- And there will never be any way that these don’t look ridiculous … and they’re almost double the cost of other shoes.
Verdict: I don’t plan to wear them for every run, but I will save them for long runs, trail runs, and overall when I need to look cool. 😉
Related articles
- The 10 Best Running Shoes for Ultramarathoners Available Now (sykose.com)
- RunBlogRun Interviews Jim Van Dine, Brand President of HOKA ONE ONE (coloradorunnermag.com)
- Hoka OneOne – the evolution continues (hokaoneoneaustralia.com)
- Review: Hoka One One (sprinklesontop.wordpress.com)
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