Best Daily Trainer
Hoka Clifton 9
Best Daily Trainer
Hoka Clifton 9
Cons
I’ve had the chance to put the Hoka Clifton 9 running shoes through their paces, and I’ve got to say, they live up to the hype. If you ask me, they’re the most iconic of all the Hoka running shoes, and for good reason.
These shoes are all about balance–neutral stability and just the right amount of cushioning. They’ve become my go-to for everyday runs, no matter the distance. Plus, they won’t break the bank as much as some other Hoka styles, making them perfect for those curious about the Hoka buzz. Sure, $145 isn’t pocket change, but for what you’re getting, it’s a worthwhile investment whether you’re a casual jogger or a serious runner.
It brings even more cushioning to the table, ensuring a comfy ride with every heel strike. And it’s not just about plushness; they’ve managed to make it 4 grams lighter than the previous model, which is pretty sweet. Oh, and the color options are fun, with tons of fun and unique choices to suit your style.
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Weight8.70 ozHeel drop5.00 mmStabilityNeutralCushionPlush
Best for Short Distance Races
Hoka Rocket X 2
Best for Short Distance Races
Hoka Rocket X 2
I first got my feet into the Rocket X 2s the same week they launched in March 2023, and let me tell you, I hadn’t liked a running shoe so much in years. They’re all about speed, just as you’d expect. These shoes are the new and improved version of Hoka’s beloved racing shoe the Rocket X, and they feel like they’re better, cooler, younger sibling.
The Rocket X2 is a tad heavier than the previous Rocket X model, but it’s still incredibly light at just 8.30 ounces, and makes up for the extra weight with additional cushioning. It rocks an absorbent CMEVA foam midsole and a carbon fiber plate, making it comfy as heck for those short-distance races. The first time I wore these was for a short 10k through Manhattan, and in typical Hoka fashion, I felt the curved outsole practically propel me forward with every step.
Weight8.30 ozHeel drop5.00 mmStabilityNeutralCushionResponsive
Most Cushioned
Hoka Bondi 8
Most Cushioned
Hoka Bondi 8
Credit: Courtesy of RetailerCons
The Bondi is the brand’s top-of-the-line road shoe, and boasts an exceptionally thick midsole that prioritizes cushioning. The latest Bondi model falls in line with its predecessor with supreme cushioning for an incredibly plush running experience. In this version, the midsole foam also feels lighter and softer compared to earlier versions of the model.
Similar to previous iterations, it features an open mesh upper to enhance breathability, and a memory foam collar ensures a snug fit and a comfortable feel around the ankle. In our experience, this shoe feels comfortable and cloud-like when striking the pavement for relaxed road runs. However, if you’re seeking a faster ride, there’s the Bondi X option, which offers the same plush cushioning but incorporates a built-in carbon fiber plate for a livelier and speedier experience.
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Weight10.80 ozHeel drop4.00 mmStabilityNeutralCushionPlush
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Best Blend of Cushioning and Stability
Hoka Gaviota 5
Best Blend of Cushioning and Stability
Hoka Gaviota 5
As a terrific overpronator, the Hoka Gaviota 5 running shoes are at the top of my personal favorites list. If you’re in the same camp of inward rolling, listen up, because these kicks are designed with folks like us in mind.
What I really appreciate is their focus on stability and cushioning. They’ve got this thing called J-Frame technology, which is like a secret support system that wraps around the heel and extends through the midfoot. This feature works by guiding your foot into a more neutral position, which helps prevent overpronation. I’ve noticed a real difference in how my feet land and move.
Now, when it comes to comfort, these shoes don’t compromise (as most stability shoes do). They’ve got a dual-layer midsole with Hoka’s own foam, which feels just as cushioned as the plushy Clifton 9. The top layer is soft and responsive, providing a seriously comfy ride, while the bottom layer is denser and offers both stability and durability.
Weight11.40 ozHeel drop5.00 mmStabilityStableCushionPlush
Best for Speed Work
Hoka Mach 5
Speedgoat 5 for the most comfortable, quickest shoe.
For shorter, speedier races like 5Ks or sprints, you might prefer something lighter and more minimal. Hoka’s focus on sky-high stacks might feel a tad much in those situations where agility and speed are key—that’s where the Rocket X 2 comes in. Fitness and Commerce Editor Talene Appleton, NASM, took the Rocket X 2 out for a spin as she ran her first short race after a long hiatus from running. She loved running in the Rocket X 2s so much, she signed up for her next race that very same night just so she could have a reason to wear them again soon.
Why You Can Trust Us
At Men’s Health, we take great pride in providing our readers with reliable and trustworthy product recommendations. We believe that our readers deserve the best, which is why we always make sure to conduct thorough research and testing before making any recommendations. Our writers and editors thoughtfully select experts for collaboration on product recommendations, and are also experts in their own right, using their informed opinions to select products and ensuring that our content is of the highest quality.
Our product recommendations are purely editorial, and while we may receive free products to test and review, we only recommend the products we are most impressed by. We never let retailers or public relations contacts dictate our content or product coverage. Which is why you can trust us to provide you with reliable and unbiased product recommendations.
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How We Selected the Best Hoka Running Shoes
Men’s Health’s Fitness editors have spent years testing the top Hoka running shoes for everyday runs, trail runs, races, and everything in between. Experts including our senior fitness editor Brett Williams, NASM, put countless Hoka running shoes through the wringer to evaluate their fit and support, as well as the best activities each Hoka shoe model is suited best for. Aside from our personal favorites, we also delved into Reddit reviews to identify the Hoka running shoes that have garnered widespread popularity. The list provided above reflects our genuine recommendations for the best Hoka running shoes to consider for this year.
John Thompson
Gear and Commerce Editor
John Thompson is the Gear and Commerce Editor at Men’s Health, where he covers fashion, grooming, gear, and technology. He was previously the Style & Gear Editor at BroBible.com, and a commerce writer for TheManual.com. His interests include attending concerts, spending time outside, and following his favorite baseball team, the Kansas City Royals.
Fitness and Commerce Editor
Talene Appleton is a fitness and food writer and editor, certified personal trainer (NASM-CPT), and former professional dancer based in New York City. Passionate about both exercise and cuisine, she merges her fitness, nutrition and culinary expertise with the goal of motivating others to embrace balanced healthy living. Her work has appeared in Men’s Health, General Surgery News, The Food Institute, The Nessie, and more.
Dr Mark Mendeszoon is a board-certified podiatrist and foot and ankle surgeon at Precision Orthopaedic Specialties in Chardon, Ohio and owner of Achilles Running Shops in Willoughby , Ohio and Erie, Pa. He still enjoys working out, running and coaching runners of all ages.
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