Why HOKA Feels Different (And Which HOKA Is Right for You)
Choosing a running or walking shoe can feel overwhelming, especially when you want the perfect blend of cushion, support, and style. HOKA’s 2025 collection takes the guesswork out of “Which HOKA is right for me” by offering five distinct models tailored to specific needs. Whether you’re logging tempo miles, recovering on easy runs, tackling high-mileage training, or simply cruising through city streets and light trails, there’s a HOKA designed for you. Below, explore how to choose between Clifton 10, Bondi 9, Gaviota 5, Arahi 8, and Transport, each engineered with MetaRocker geometry, maximal foam, and precise support so every step feels effortless.
| Model | Stack (Heel/Forefoot) | Drop | Weight (W/M) | Support Tech | Use Case | Gender |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clifton 10 | 29 mm / 24 mm | 5 mm | 8.4 oz / 8.7 oz | MetaRocker® + Active Foot Frame™ | 5–15 mile runs | W & M |
| Bondi 9 | 38 mm / 33 mm | 5 mm | 10.9 oz / 11.1 oz | MetaRocker® + Active Foot Frame™ | Recovery & all-day wear | W & M |
| Gaviota 5 | 33 mm / 28 mm | 5 mm | 10.2 oz / 11.0 oz | H-Frame™ + Active Foot Frame™ | Overpronators, long runs | W & M |
| Arahi 8 | 30 mm / 25 mm | 5 mm | 9.4 oz (W) | Enhanced H-Frame™ + Podular Outsole | Mild overpronation, tempo runs | W only |
| Transport | ~30 mm / 25 mm | 5 mm | — / 10.5 oz (M) | Cordura® upper + Sugarcane EVA | Urban walk & trail crossover | M (W restocks) |
Who Needs Clifton 10?
- Neutral runners logging 5–15 miles weekly
- Anyone wanting a featherlight daily trainer for tempo runs or quick errands
Key Features & Tech
- CMEVA Midsole + MetaRocker® (5 mm drop) for smooth roll without bulk
- Jacquard Knit Upper with breathable, reflective accents
- Double-Lace Lock System + Active Foot Frame™ for secure fit
Why Clifton 10 Works
At roughly 8.4 oz (women’s 7) / 8.7 oz (men’s 9), Clifton 10 balances cushion and responsiveness. The 3 mm increased drop enhances forward momentum, while MetaRocker® ensures smooth transitions. If you log mid-distance miles and want protection without feeling weighed down, Clifton 10 is your shoe.
Styling & Use Cases
Pair with cropped leggings or tapered joggers and a lightweight hoodie. The sleek profile and Night Sky / Ultramarine colorway make it perfect for moving from dawn runs to coffee runs without missing a beat.
Who Needs Bondi 9?
- Runners on recovery days or covering long, easy miles
- Anyone standing all day, from retail staff to teachers to frequent travelers
Key Features & Tech
- Super Critically-Foamed EVA Midsole (38 / 33 mm) for maximum shock absorption
- MetaRocker® + Active Foot Frame™ for smooth roll & neutral support
- 3D-Molded Heel Collar + structured knit upper for sock-like fit and breathability
- Durabrasion® Rubber Outsole for long-lasting durability
Why Bondi 9 Works
At about 10.9 oz (women’s 7) / 11.1 oz (men’s 9), Bondi 9 feels like walking on clouds. Its plush foam stack absorbs every impact, making it perfect for recovery runs, long walks, or long shifts on your feet. MetaRocker® propels you forward to reduce fatigue.
Styling & Use Cases
Slip Bondi 9 on after a hard workout, or pair with tapered sweatpants and an oversized hoodie for a laid-back streetwear vibe. Its chunky sole pairs seamlessly with joggers or wide-leg pants, blending comfort and style.
Who Needs Gaviota 5?
- Overpronators needing cushioning for high-mileage training
- Runners tackling 10–20 mile days who require midfoot support
Key Features & Tech
- H-Frame™ Midsole + Active Foot Frame™ guides your foot back to neutral without feeling rigid
- CMEVA Bondi-Level Cushioning underfoot for plush comfort and rebound
- Creel Jacquard Mesh Upper + Durabrasion® Rubber Outsole for breathable, durable performance
Why Gaviota 5 Works
Weighing about 10.2 oz (women’s 7) / 11.0 oz (men’s 9), Gaviota 5 merges arch support with a generous foam stack. If you tend to roll inward and need stability plus cushioning for long runs, this shoe matches your stride.
Styling & Use Cases
Wear Gaviota 5 with slim joggers or leggings. Alpine Blue / Jadette pops against neutral gear, making it ideal for long runs on sidewalks, gravel loops, or weekend errands. Its stability platform also transitions easily to an athleisure look.
Who Needs Arahi 8?
- Female runners with mild overpronation seeking lightweight support for speed workouts
- Athletes who want a responsive, stable shoe under 10 miles
Key Features & Tech
- Enhanced H-Frame™ Technology for flexible, discreet support
- Dual-Density Compression EVA Midsole for soft underfoot cushioning and firmer arch support
- Podular Outsole Design with segmented rubber pods for natural flex and grip
- Jacquard Mesh Upper (62% recycled fibers) for breathable, sustainable coverage
Why Arahi 8 Works
At about 9.4 oz (women’s 7), Arahi 8 delivers enough stability to keep your gait aligned while staying nimble—ideal for 5K repeats, tempo runs, and shorter daily workouts.
Styling & Use Cases
Pair Arahi 8 with cropped leggings and a flowy tank for a polished athleisure look. The Rose Cream / Alabaster palette works beautifully with pastels or neutrals, making it a standout on and off the track.
Who Needs Transport?
- Urban commuters and weekend explorers looking for one shoe to handle sidewalks, bike rides, and light trails
- Eco-conscious shoppers seeking sustainable performance features
Key Features & Tech
- Cordura® Abrasion-Resistant Upper for city-proof durability
- Quick-Toggle Lacing plus extra lace option for easy on/off
- 360° Reflectivity & PFC-Free DWR Finish for visibility and water resistance
- Sugarcane-Based EVA Midsole (30% sugarcane) & Soy-Based PU Insole (50% soy) for eco-friendly cushioning
- Vibram® EcoStep™ Outsole (90% less petrochemicals, 100% natural pigments) for reliable traction
- Vegan construction for no animal products used
Why Transport Works
At about 10.5 oz (men’s 9), Transport merges trail-ready grip with city durability. Its toggle lace secures your foot for bike commutes, while Vibram® EcoStep™ outsole handles both pavement and packed gravel, so you don’t need to switch shoes.
Styling & Use Cases
Wear Transport with utility joggers or slim chinos and a technical jacket. The Varsity Navy / White palette blends effortlessly with earth tones—perfect for bike commutes, coffee runs, or weekend park adventures.
Still Unsure? Get a Custom Fit In-Store with Toeby
If you’re not completely sure which HOKA is right for you, stop by any Footwear etc. location. We’ll use Toeby, our 3D foot scanner, to measure your feet—length, width, arch height, and pressure points—so our experts can recommend the perfect HOKA model and size. Walk in any time, get scanned, and leave confident in your new shoes—no appointment needed. Check our locations page to find the store nearest you.
