HOKA BUYING GUIDE: IT'S YOUR TIME TO FLY

HOKA was born out of the unwavering belief that if you ignored the doubters, brushed off the critics, and poured your heart into a wild idea, it was possible to create a shoe that let people fly down mountains...

HOKA has made a name for itself with its distinctive oversized midsoles, but the brand’s appeal goes far beyond just looks. Today’s HOKA lineup delivers enhanced cushioning, inherent stability, and innovative features that address the needs of a diverse range of runners - from seasoned pros to those just starting out. 

• Enhanced cushioning: HOKA’s signature plush midsoles absorb impact and provide a soft, bouncy ride, ideal for both long distances and daily runs.
• Inherent stability: The wide base of HOKA shoes offers natural stability, reducing the need for stiff inserts or hard arches.
• Problem-solving design: Each model is crafted to address specific running challenges, whether it’s comfort, support, or performance. 

• Pro runners seeking race-day performance
• First-time runners looking for comfort and support
• Ultra-marathoners and mountain adventurers
• Neighbourhood walkers and everyday movers
• Wild trail runners tackling technical terrain

HOKA’s design philosophy is rooted in challenging convention - creating shoes that let you move beyond pure performance and experience running in a whole new way. Whether you’re chasing a new personal best or enjoying a walk around the block, there’s a HOKA model tailored for your needs. 

HOKA stands out in the running world for its commitment to making running easier and more enjoyable, thanks to a suite of innovative technologies and bold design choices. If you’ve ever slipped on a pair, you’ll know the HOKA difference is about more than just looks - it’s about performance, comfort, and a unique running experience. 

Here are some of the notable technologies that make the brand a unique proposition: 

• HOKA’s signature feature is its ultra-cushioned midsole, often described as “marshmallow softness.”
• The midsoles vary in thickness, composition, and design, tailored to different activities and running needs.
• These shock-absorbing foams cushion every step and spring back up, reducing the impact on joints and helping prevent overuse injuries.
• Despite their size, HOKA midsoles are surprisingly lightweight, offering comfort without weighing you down. 

• Functions like a bucket seat for your foot, embedding the heel securely into the midsole.
• The midsole walls are raised or lowered to cradle your foot, enhancing stability and comfort during every stride.

• The MetaRocker™ geometry is designed to drive runners forward by complementing the natural gait cycle.
• Its curved design can be fine-tuned for a faster transition (early stage) or more ground contact and stability (late stage).
• This “rocking chair effect” helps maintain stride momentum, reduces energy loss, and lessens joint impact - especially beneficial for long-distance runners. 

• The J-Frame™ innovation combats overpronation by adding a firmer, J-shaped foam on the medial side of the shoe.
• This delivers extended support where the foot typically rolls inward, offering stability without sacrificing freedom of movement. 

• The H-Frame™ is engineered for enhanced stability by interlocking with the midsole foam to create a secure base.
• This intuitive design helps keep your foot steady, especially on uneven terrain or during lateral movements.

• The forked SwallowTail™ heel adapts to uneven surfaces, allowing for smoother heel-to-toe transitions.
• This feature acts like independent suspension, adjusting to the ground for a more stable ride.

• The extended Hubble® Heel is designed to limit impact on your body and create smoother heel-to-toe transitions.
• Especially useful for runners seeking a softer landing and a seamless stride.

• ProFly™ uses a two-part midsole: a soft top layer for cushioned landings and a responsive bottom layer for energetic toe-offs.
• This intelligent cushioning delivers a uniquely soft yet snappy ride, perfect for runners who want both comfort and speed.

• ProFlyX™ incorporates midsole plates (often carbon fibre) for a propulsive, race-ready ride.
• These plates provide a durable, lightweight solution for dynamic energy return and aggressive forward motion.