HOKA

HOKA built its name on one bold idea: a thick, lightweight, maximally cushioned midsole that makes every step feel softer. The brand started in 2009 in the French Alps, when two former Salomon employees, Jean-Luc Diard and Nicolas Mermoud, set out to make downhill running on rocky terrain gentler on the body. At the time, the running world was chasing minimalist shoes, and HOKA's oversized cushioning went completely against the trend. It has since become one of the most recognizable names in running and walking footwear, and Deckers Brands acquired HOKA in 2013.

At Sole Provisions, the HOKA collection covers everyday trainers, max cushion road shoes, trail runners, and lifestyle styles, so it works for runners, walkers, and anyone who spends long days on their feet. Browse it next to our wider women's sneakers and men's sneakers selections to compare fit and feel.

The Technology Behind the Cushioning

HOKA's signature Meta-Rocker is a curved sole shape at the heel and forefoot that helps the foot roll smoothly from landing to push off. That smoother transition is designed to reduce strain on the ankles, knees, and hips. Midsoles are often built with supercritical foam or PROFLY dual density cushioning, which pairs a softer landing layer with a more responsive layer underneath. The result is a ride that feels cushioned without feeling flat.

Everyday Cushioning: Clifton and Bondi

The Clifton 11 is HOKA's go-to daily trainer, with balanced cushioning that suits newer runners, walkers, and anyone who wants one dependable pair for most days. The Bondi 9 steps up to maximum cushioning, which makes it a natural choice for long runs or for people who want extra softness underfoot. If you are deciding between the two, think about how much cushioning you want: Clifton for a lighter, balanced feel, Bondi for the plushest ride. Our walking shoes collection is a helpful place to compare other cushioned options.

Trail and Off-Road: Speedgoat

The Speedgoat 7 is HOKA's flagship trail shoe. It keeps the same cushioned platform as the road lineup and adds aggressive outsole traction for dirt, gravel, and uneven ground. Trail runners and weekend hikers both reach for it, and it is available for women and men. If you need a waterproof layer on wet days, browse our women's waterproof shoes and men's waterproof shoes too.

Lifestyle Cushioning Off the Trail

HOKA is not only for running. The Transport 2 and Gaviota 6 bring that signature cushioning to casual, everyday styles that work for errands, travel, and long days at work. These are good picks when you want the comfort of a performance shoe in a cleaner, more versatile look. If you want a recovery option for after the day is done, look through our women's sandals as well.

Who Benefits Most From HOKA

HOKA tends to be a strong fit for high mileage runners, people who want extra cushioning for sensitive joints or while returning to activity, and anyone on their feet all day, including nurses, teachers, and retail workers. Some runners prefer a firmer, more ground connected feel, and that is a perfectly valid preference, so it can help to try a few styles. If you want more background on supportive sneakers, read our guide to sneakers for plantar fasciitis, or browse our arch support shoes and wide width shoes collections.

Fit, Sizing, and Replacement Tips

HOKA sizing generally runs true to size, with a thumb's width of room at the toe. If you use custom orthotics or want extra support, explore our shoe inserts, and pair your shoes with women's socks designed for cushioning and moisture control. Running shoes typically need replacing every 300 to 500 miles, depending on your weight, stride, and the surfaces you run on.

A Few HOKA Features Worth Knowing

• Founded in 2009 in the French Alps and owned by Deckers Brands since 2013.

• Meta-Rocker geometry creates a smoother roll from landing to push off.

• Supercritical foam and PROFLY dual density midsoles deliver cushioning with a responsive feel.

• Clifton 11 for balanced daily cushioning, Bondi 9 for maximum cushioning.

• Speedgoat 7 is the flagship trail shoe with aggressive traction.

• Transport 2 and Gaviota 6 bring HOKA comfort to everyday wear.

• Free 2 to 3 day priority shipping applies to the women's sneakers collection, see our shipping policy and returns page.

Explore More Cushioned Footwear

If you like HOKA, compare it with Brooks for reliable, well known running shoes, On Running for lightweight, modern cushioning, New Balance for a wide range of widths, or Altra for a roomier toe box. Check new arrivals for the latest colors and sale items for markdowns, or find a Sole Provisions store near you to be fitted in person.

Related Collections: Brooks · On Running · New Balance · Altra · Women's Sneakers · Men's Sneakers · Walking Shoes · Arch Support Shoes · Wide Width Shoes · Shoe Inserts