Shoe Review: HOKA Challenger 7
Tackle the terrain with confidence in the multi-purpose HOKA Challenger 7.
HOKA Challenger 7
Features
The all-terrain HOKA Challenger 7 gives you road performance with trail traction, so you can run wherever life takes you.
HOKA improved the Challenger by re-engineering the 4 mm lug pattern to provide a smoother road running experience while still giving you great grip for trail runs. The durabrasion rubber outsole extends the longevity of the shoe no matter what surface you run on. Designers also added more cushioning in the midsole to increase the stack height and allow you to run comfortably for longer.
A brand-new upper provides plenty of breathability as you put in the miles. New engineered mesh fits better around your feet and is made with recycled material. esters noticed that this shoe was not as narrow as the previous version in our HOKA Challenger 7 review. Plus, there is an extended heel pull for easy entry if you are changing shoes during an ultra marathon, or trying to quickly put your shoes on as you dash out the door for your run.
Whether you are hitting the roads, trails or both, do it in comfort with the HOKA Challenger 7.
Tech Specs | HOKA Challenger 7 |
Drop | 5 mm |
Stack Height | Heel 31 mm / Forefoot 26 mm (M) Heel 29 mm / Forefoot 24 mm (W) |
Weight | 8.9 oz (M), 7.3 oz (W) |
Category | Neutral |
Use | All-Terrain, Trails or Road |
What’s New
HOKA made significant changes to the HOKA Challenger 7 to improve its road-running performance while still being able to handle the trails with ease. Designers updated the lug pattern for a smoother ride on pavement that also provides plenty of grip for the trails. The increased cushioning and stack height of the shoe give you extra comfort on long runs, hikes and long days on your feet.
The new upper incorporates more recycled content and makes the shoe more breathable. HOKA also removed the pull tab on the heel and extended the heel collar itself to make it easy to put on your foot. All of these updates led to an overall lighter shoe.
Who It’s Best For
The HOKA Challenger 7 is a great shoe for runners and walkers that want one shoe for both roads and trails. It is also a great shoe to wear in the winter because the lugs give more traction on snow-covered sidewalks or roads.
Why You’ll Love It
You will love the cushion and comfort of the HOKA Challenger 7. Plus, with more traction than a traditional road shoe, you won’t be limited to only roads or trails during your run.
Star Rating is 5 / 5
Hoka running shoe!
Luv them! Had to get used to them at first bc I usually buy Brooks. Very comfy, thank you!
Star Rating is 1 / 5
Disappointed
This was my third pair of challenger 7 in Just a few months. I’m amazed at how different this latest pair is compared to the other two. I have arthritis in my feet and use them for walking. This pair is severely lacking in cushioning. I don’t see how anyone could do trail running in these. The first two felt fine right out of the box, but there is a distinct difference in cushioning between these two as well. The toe box is narrower than other styles as reviewers have mentioned. This pair is going back.
Star Rating is 4 / 5
A little stiff however love the grip of the bottom
I have enjoyed this shoe so far. It is a bit stiffer than the other Hoka shoes I have tried (Clifton, SpeedGoat, Skyflow, Mach); a big however is that it has the same grip as the SpeedGoat and a wider toe box like the Clifton. We have been getting more rain these days and with the Clifton, Skyflow and Mach my feet slide too much on wet pavement. If I could find a shoe that has amazing grip on wet/muddy pavement and feel like the Clifton/Skyflow I would buy it. This is so far the best I can find.
Star Rating is 3 / 5
Great looking shoes
I I am a little disappointed in these. They are comfortable in the toe area but along the side and heel they are very uncomfortable. I am hoping I just need to break them in. I love Hoka shoes but after washing and air drying, they seem to shrink. I had to get rid of two pair after washing as they aggravated my toes
Star Rating is 5 / 5
She loves them...so I am Happy.
I bought them for my wife. Just wonderful. A word of advise...don't make cheaper versions or you will be selling at #WalMartians.
Star Rating is 2 / 5
Iffy Materials
This is my first pair of Hokas. I like the feel of these shoes but the foamy inside of the heel starting breaking down within 2 weeks of wearing them. I'm covering the hole with duct tape to prevent it from getting bigger. I've never had this happen with other brands of running shoes.