Best HOKA Running Shoes 2025

HOKA running shoes are known for their oversized midsoles and smooth rides, making them ideal for a wide variety of running and training.

The best HOKA running shoes share the same roots, but designers tune each model for specific attributes. Originally built to help carry momentum forward, the new generation of HOKA does that and so much more.

Here are the 8 best HOKA running shoes for every type of run:

[This article is part of the Fleet Feet Buyer's Guide for The Best Running Shoes 2025. Find all the best running shoes from the top brands for all situations.]

The HOKA Clifton 10 maintains its spot as the best HOKA shoe for everyday training thanks to its combination of big cushioning and featherlight weight.

HOKA made a few updates to the newest Clifton. Designers increased the stack height in the heel, shifting the drop from 5 mm to 8 mm for a slightly different ride. Extra cushioning provides even more impact protection, and the wider base enhances stability without changing the signature Clifton feel.

In our HOKA Clifton 10 review, wear tester Caroline said, “The Clifton 10 is a shoe just about anyone can enjoy, which is why it’s one of the most popular running shoes on the market. Not only is it a go-to for runners, but I also see my much cooler, non-running friends wearing them around town.”

Even with a few changes, though, the Clifton 10 remains a smooth-riding and lightweight running shoe that packs a generous bed of protective cushioning. So whether you're running a mile or a marathon, the Clifton is up for the challenge.

Read more in our HOKA Clifton 10 review.

The HOKA Bondi 9 isn't just the most cushioned running shoe in HOKA's formidable lineup—it's also one of the best-cushioned running shoes of all time.

HOKA built the Bondi 9 to prioritize cushioning above all else. The newest version of the shoe has an extra 2 mm of soft yet responsive, super critical EVA foam and a rolling sensation that propels you forward with less effort. The impressive stack height of ultralight and resilient foam keeps each step soft and bouncy.

Its seemingly endless cushion gives the Bondi 9 an extremely plush and cloud-like feel that won't bottom out. Plus, the early-stage Meta-Rocker shape with an extended heel geometry provides easy landings and quick, smooth transitions.

In our HOKA Bondi 9 review, wear tester Tom said, “This is not a shoe that’s going to help you shave seconds off your PR, but it will get you through your training to the finish line in comfort, which is what a lot of runners are looking for. Plus, the wide base and cushioning make it a great shoe for walking or standing on your feet all day.”

Read more in our HOKA Bondi 8 review.

We love the Mach 6 for long distances because of the new super critical EVA midsole foam that feels fast and peppy to help the miles fly by.

Its feather-light feel makes it great for the long haul, and the locked-down fit you get from the creel jacquard mesh upper stays breathable and comfy over the course of your run.

In our full review of the HOKA Mach 6, Kate, who’s currently training for a half marathon noted, “I tested the Mach 6 on an 8-mile run with 30-second pickups every mile. I noticed that it felt peppier and better for up-tempo runs than the Mach 5. I was able to get a good turnover going, and picking up the pace every mile felt smooth.”

Read more in our HOKA Mach 6 review.

The HOKA Rocket X 3 is the fastest running shoe in HOKA's lineup thanks to ultralight foam, a propulsive geometry and a carbon-fiber plate.

HOKA completely redesigned this shoe to make you as fast as possible. Designers added 2 mm of heel stack height while shaving 0.3 oz, creating a smoother ride with better rocker geometry. The new sticky rubber outsole and winged carbon plate enhance both traction and stability, while the warp-knit upper replaces synthetic mesh for improved breathability and support.

In our HOKA Rocket X 3 review, run tester Caroline said "The step-in feel was everything I'd want in a super shoe. It really comes to life while running and feels quite stable even over uneven pavement."

Outfitter's Tip: The HOKA ONE ONE Rocket X 3 is a unisex shoe. Men’s sizes are listed; women should subtract 1.5 from the listed sizes to find the right fit.

Read more in our HOKA Rocket X 3 review.

Want that signature HOKA cushion for the trails? Meet the HOKA Speedgoat 6.

The Speedgoat 6—named after professional ultrarunner Karl “Speedgoat” Meltzer—is an ultra-cushioned trail running shoe built to keep you comfortable over the long haul.

HOKA cushioned the Speedgoat with lightweight and resilient CMEVA foam which gives you tried-and-true cushioning for all-day trail runs, while the late-stage meta-rocker shape helps roll you through your gait. They mated it to an outsole with Vibram Megagrip and a Traction Lug system for enhanced grip in all conditions. A layer of rubber lugs gives you grip on uphills and downhills, and a durable, double jacquard mesh upper gives you stability and comfort on unpredictable terrain.

Our wear testers loved how dependable this trail running shoe is year after year. There’s nothing crazy about the shoe, it just works every single time.

Read more in our HOKA Speedgoat 6 review.

The HOKA Arahi 8 is a great shoe for overpronators thanks to HOKA’s H-Frame stability technology.

Some stability shoes use a medial post to create stability, which means shoemakers insert a firmer, more durable piece of foam or plastic in the arch of the midsole to help the shoe wear evenly. This eighth iteration delivers HOKA's softest Arahi yet, with added heel cushioning and innovative H-frame™ technology that supports every runner, regardless of their gait pattern.

In our HOKA Arahi 8 review, run tester Heather said "The word that kept coming to mind was 'balance.' This shoe has great, balanced support, balanced cushioning and just gave me an overall balanced feel as I ran."

Read more in our HOKA Arahi 8 review.

When you’re running fast, you want a shoe that won’t slow you down—the HOKA Mach X 2 is sure to keep up.

HOKA built their lightweight Mach X 2 for speed. The snappy midsole, Pebax® plate and early-stage Meta-Rocker construction are designed to deliver smooth transitions and quick toe-offs to propel you forward on race day or during speedwork.

In our HOKA Mach X 2 review, wear tester Travis said, “The shoe offers great ground contact and a smooth transition with the meta-rocker. It’s not a soft or cushy shoe, but it has a lot of energy that made me feel like I was just floating.

Read more in our HOKA Mach X 2 review.

Whether you are going for a hike or walking to work, the HOKA Transport will make the experience more comfortable. It has HOKA’s signature thick, soft midsole and Meta-Rocker geometry to make the trip fly by.

The shoe’s quick-toggle laces make it easy to slip off when you get to the office, and reflective elements give you extra visibility if you have to walk home after dark. Plus, the rugged outsole gives you extra traction for snowy or icy commutes and even lets you use these for weekend hikes.

The HOKA Transport is made for your active lifestyle.

How We Picked the Best HOKA Running Shoes

We used data from our fit id® outfitting process, interviews with designers and real-life wear testing to determine the best HOKA running shoes for most runs and the most runners.

You can shop with confidence at Fleet Feet: We offer free shipping on orders over $99, and you have 30 days to return any gear if you don’t like the way it looks, fits or feels. Plus, with our price-match guarantee, you can make sure you never pay too much for a new pair of running shoes.

Best Running Shoe Brands

HOKA makes some of the best running shoes in the business, but there are plenty of excellent shoes from other brands. See the best running shoe brands 2025 for more great shoes.

• Best Brooks running shoes
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