We are big fans of Hoka trail running shoes. It’s often our number one recommended shoe. Don’t get me wrong we are also fans of many other brands as we have tried and tested numerous trail shoes but it’s fair to say that this brand is probably our go-to shoe. The Speedgoat in particular. It may surprise you as to just how many Hoka trail running shoes there are and which ones are suited to which type of running. We give you a detailed overview of the range so that you can decide.
We are Hoka affiliates which may mean that we get paid a small commission should you choose to buy from any of our links. That said we are affiliates for many brands and completely unbiased.
Hoka Speedgoat 5
We lead with this as this tends to be the flagship shoe in the Hoka trail running shoes range. The Hoka Speedgoat is reviewed in great detail here but let’s take a quick look at the features and benefits of this shoe:
Named after ultrarunner Karl “Speedgoat” Meltzer, this shoe is designed for technical trails and long-distance running. It offers excellent cushioning, stability, and traction.
Cushioning: The Speedgoat 5 features Hoka’s signature cushioning, providing ample protection against impact while maintaining a responsive feel. This cushioning helps to reduce fatigue on longer runs and offers comfort on rough trails.
Stability: The shoe has a wider platform and a supportive midsole that helps provide stability on uneven terrain, making it suitable for technical trails and descents.
Traction: With a durable Vibram Megagrip outsole, the Speedgoat 5 offers excellent traction on a variety of surfaces, including wet and slippery terrain. The multidirectional lugs provide grip and traction for confident footing on the trail.
Durability: The Speedgoat 5 is built to withstand the rigours of trail running, with a reinforced upper and protective overlay in high-wear areas. This durability ensures that the shoe can withstand the demands of long-distance running and challenging terrain.
Fit: A comfortable fit with a roomy toe box, allowing for natural toe splay and accommodating wider feet or foot swelling during long runs.
Overall, the Hoka Speedgoat 5 is a versatile trail shoe that offers cushioning, stability, and traction for runners tackling varied terrain and distances. Whether you’re training for an ultramarathon or exploring technical trails, the Speedgoat 5 provides the support and performance needed to run the trails with confidence.
Best for – long miles on technical trails
Hoka Challenger ATR 7
The Hoka Challenger ATR (All Terrain) is a versatile member of the Hoka trail running shoes family designed to provide cushioning, traction, and stability on a variety of surfaces. Here are some key features of the Hoka Challenger ATR:
Cushioning: Similar to other Hoka shoes, the Challenger ATR stands out for its ample cushioning. Its thick midsole, crafted with Hoka’s renowned foam technology, ensures a luxurious and cozy experience, ideal for enduring long distances with ease.
Versatility: The Challenger ATR is designed to perform well on a variety of terrains, including dirt trails, gravel paths, and even tarmac. Its versatile outsole pattern and durable rubber material offer reliable traction and grip on different surfaces.
Lightweight: Despite its cushioned build, the Challenger ATR maintains a lightweight profile, making it ideal for quicker runs and races. Its lightness minimizes fatigue and promotes a more efficient stride, enhancing overall performance.
Durability: The shoe is built to withstand uneven terrain and rocky paths, with reinforced overlays and a rugged outsole that protects against rocks, roots, and other obstacles. This durability ensures that the Challenger ATR can handle the demands of long-distance running and varied terrain.
Comfort: The Challenger ATR features a comfortable fit with a spacious toe box, allowing for natural toe splay and accommodating wider feet. The breathable mesh upper helps keep your feet cool and comfortable, even on hot days.
Overall, the Hoka Challenger ATR is a reliable choice for trail runners looking for a versatile shoe that can handle a variety of surfaces and distances. Whether you’re tackling technical trails or logging miles on smoother terrain, the Challenger ATR provides the cushioning, traction, and stability needed to perform with confidence.
Best for – All-round trail running and road-to-trail
Hoka Tecton X2
The Hoka Tecton X2 is the second iteration in this, the first carbon plate shoe to hit the trail running shoe market post-lockdown. It is a stable trail running shoe designed to provide support and cushioning on rugged terrain. We absolutely loved the first version so were excited to see what version 2 had to offer. Here are some key features of the Hoka Tecton X2:
Stability: The Tecton is designed with stability features to combat overpronation and optimize stride efficiency on rugged trails. Its supportive midsole and secure fit work together to maintain foot stability on difficult terrain.
Cushioning: Like other Hoka models, the Tecton offers ample cushioning to absorb impact and provide a comfortable ride on long runs. It features Hoka’s signature foam technology, which is lightweight and responsive.
Protection: The Tecton is engineered to tackle diverse trail terrain, boasting a robust upper and protective overlay that shields your feet from rocks, roots, and obstacles. Additionally, its reinforced toe cap provides extra protection for rugged terrain.
Traction: With a rugged outsole and multidirectional lugs, the Tecton provides reliable traction on a variety of surfaces, including mud, gravel, and rocky terrain. This helps you stay surefooted and confident as you tackle challenging trails.
Fit: Designed to provide a snug and secure fit, with a supportive heel counter and a roomy toe box for natural toe splay. It also has a breathable mesh upper to help keep your feet cool and comfortable during long runs.
In summary, the Hoka Tecton is a dynamic, durable, and supportive trail running shoe tailored for runners seeking enhanced stability and cushioning on challenging terrain. Whether you’re preparing for an ultra or venturing onto technical trails, the Tecton delivers the protection and performance required to conquer any adventure.
Best for – Rugged trails and speed.
Hoka Zinal 2
The Hoka Zinal 2 is a lightweight and versatile trail running shoe designed for speed and agility on a variety of terrain. Here are some key features of the Hoka Zinal 2:
Lightweight: The Zinal 2 is built with a lightweight design, making it ideal for faster-paced runs and races. Its minimalistic construction helps reduce fatigue and allows for a more efficient stride.
Agility: This Hoka shoe delivers agility and responsiveness on the trail with its low-profile midsole and reactive cushioning. Its close-to-the-ground design enables swift foot turnover and agile navigation across technical terrain.
Traction: Features a grippy rubber outsole with multidirectional lugs, providing reliable traction on a variety of surfaces, including dirt trails, gravel paths, and rocky terrain. This ensures confident footing and stability on challenging trails.
Breathability: Designed with a breathable mesh upper that helps keep your feet cool and comfortable during intense runs. It allows for optimal airflow, reducing the risk of overheating and moisture buildup.
Fit: Offers a snug and secure fit, with a supportive heel counter and a roomy toe box for natural toe splay. It also has a gusseted tongue to prevent debris from entering the shoe, keeping your feet protected on the trail.
Overall, the Hoka Zinal 2 is a lightweight and agile trail running shoe that’s perfect for runners who want to pick up the pace on varied terrain. Whether you’re racing on technical trails or logging miles on smoother paths, the Zinal 2 provides the speed, agility, and traction you need to perform at your best.
Best for – Speedy work over rugged terrain
Hoka Mafate Speed 4
The Hoka Mafate Speed 4 is a trail running shoe known for its maximum cushioning and protection, making it suitable for long-distance runs on rugged terrain. Here are some key features of the Hoka Mafate:
Maximum Cushioning: The Mafate is built with thick midsole cushioning using Hoka’s signature foam technology. This provides exceptional shock absorption and comfort, reducing fatigue and discomfort on long runs.
Protection: Designed to protect your feet from the impact of rough terrain, with reinforced upper and protective overlays. It also features a durable rubber outsole with multidirectional lugs for added grip and traction on varied surfaces.
Stability: Despite its cushioning, the Mafate offers stability and support on uneven trails. It features a wider platform and a supportive midsole to help prevent overpronation and promote a more efficient stride.
Durability: Built to withstand the rigours of the trails with rugged construction and durable materials that can handle the demands of long-distance running. It’s designed to hold up to the challenges of rocky terrain, mud, and other obstacles you may encounter on the trail.
Fit: The Mafate 4 provides a comfortable and secure fit, with a roomy toe box and a snug heel counter. It also has a breathable mesh upper to help keep your feet cool and dry during intense runs.
In conclusion, the Hoka Mafate Speed 4 proves to be a dependable trail running shoe, ideal for those desiring ample cushioning and protection during lengthy and demanding runs. Whether tackling ultramarathons or traversing rugged landscapes, the Mafate ensures the necessary comfort, stability, and durability to conquer any trail.
Best for – Long runs on rugged terrain
Hoka certainly has its finger on the pulse when it comes to trail running having established itself as one of the leading brands alongside inov-8, Nike, Salomon and other key players with a core range of Hoka trail running shoes. They are constantly evolving, making improvements, and releasing new and updated models to make them better, more comfortable, more responsive and giving trail runners all over the world what they need to enjoy running the trails with ease.
