Hoka Road Shoes, Made Simple
Hoka Road Shoe Guide
Hoka, founded in 2009 by Nicolas Mermoud and Jean-Luc Diard in France, has become an incredibly popular brand in a short space of time. Hoka played a role in kickstarting the high stack running shoe trend with their signature max-cushioning and rocker ride. Hoka has expanded its lineup to cater to a wide range of runners, from daily trainers to race day super shoes.
This blog is here to simplify the Hoka running shoe lineup, breaking down each model and its ideal use. We’ll also highlight comparable models from other brands, making it easier to the shoe to fit for your needs.
Hoka Bondi 9
The Hoka Bondi 9 is the brands most cushioned daily trainer, offering maximum underfoot protection for those seeking ultimate comfort. With its thick tall slab of midsole foam it likes to go slow, designed for easy long runs, recovery days or for anyone spending long days on their feet.
Similar shoes to the Bondi: Asics Nimbus 27, New Balance More v5.
Hoka Clifton 9
The Hoka Clifton 9 is like the little brother to the Bondi, offering similar soft cushioning but in a lighter, more nimble shoe. As a result, it's more versatile for different paces compared to the Bondi.
Similar shoes to the Clifton: Brooks Ghost Max 2, New Balance 1080v14.
Hoka Arahi 7
The Hoka Arahi 7 is the stability version of the Clifton, offering similar lightweight cushioning with added medial support. Its J-Frame technology provides gentle guidance without feeling too firm, making it a great choice for runners who need a little extra stability.
Similar shoes to the Arahi 7: Asics Kayano 31, New Balance 860v14.
Hoka Skyflow
The Hoka Skyflow is a lightweight daily trainer that brings a snappier, more responsive feel. It can be easily confused with a Clifton, but with supercritical EVA foam, it feels like a faster, speedier Clifton.
Similar shoes to the Skyflow: Brooks Ghost Max 2.
Hoka Mach 6
The Hoka Mach 6 is a lightweight, responsive trainer built for runners who want a fast ride without sacrificing comfort. Using the same foam as the Hoka Skyflow, it’s designed for uptempo runs, daily training, or even race day if you're wanting a more traditional feeling experience.
Similar shoes to the Mach 6: New Balance Rebel v4, Saucony Endorphin Speed 4, Adidas Evo SL.
Hoka Mach X 2
The Hoka Mach X 2 is a super trainer that blends race-day tech with everyday versatility. It features a dual-layer midsole—bouncy race foam in the forefoot for speed and EVA cushioning for a smooth, balanced ride. Designed for long runs, tempo training and even race day.
Similar shoes to the Mach X 2: Asics Superblast 2, On Cloudmonster Hyper, New Balance Supercomp Trainer v3.
Hoka Skyward X
The Hoka Skyward X is a super trainer offering max cushioning with a protective stiff rocker feel. Unlike the Mach X 2, which leans towards faster efforts, the Skyward X is all about comfort and softness, designed for relaxed easy runs while still delivering an energetic ride.
Similar shoes to Skyward X: Brooks Glycerin Max
Hoka Rocket X 2
The Hoka Rocket X 2 is Hoka’s performance super shoe, built for speed workouts and race day. With a full-length carbon plate and a bouncy, responsive midsole, it delivers a fast ride. Thanks to its relatively wide midsole and supportive sidewalls, it’s also one of the more stable options among race day super shoes.
Similar shoes to the Rocket X 2: New Balance Supercomp Elite v4, Saucony Endorphin Pro 4
Hoka Cielo X1 2.0
The Hoka Cielo X1 2.0 is a more aggressive super shoe with extreme geometry designed for race day. Much lighter than the first iteration, it features a high-stack, super rockered design and responsive midsole for an ultra-fast ride. Best suited for midfoot and forefoot strikers looking to push the pace on race day.
Similar shoes to the Cielo X1 2.0: Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 3
About the author
Nathan Pope - Runner and Shoe Nerd
I'm really passionate about running footwear and how shoes can be used as a tool to get the best of your running, whether that be general fitness or performance.
My favourite event is the marathon. I feel as though the marathon is the ultimate test both physically and mentally! It requires careful planning both within the race and during the training block and it can be super satisfying when it comes together on race day
