I Put Nearly Every Hoka Shoe to the Test—These Are the Best Ones for Every Activity

Sizes: 4 to 12 | Widths: Regular, wide, and extra-wide | Weight: 8.8 oz | Drop: 8 mm | Cushioning:  Moderate | Recommended For: Running, walking, everyday errands

Clap it up for the Hoka Clifton 10, my go-to sneakers whether I’m cruising city sidewalks, logging treadmill miles, or dashing through the grocery store. The signature rocker geometry and wide toe box make every step feel smooth and efficient, while the balanced cushioning softens impact without interrupting my stride. The result: my feet feel fresh instead of fatigued, whether I’m on a two-hour hot girl walk or a six-mile run.

I’ve logged more than 250 miles in these since they hit the market, and they’ve kept my arches (and my plantar fasciitis) perfectly happy. This pair fits true to size and stays comfortable no matter how many steps I take. While I bench them for muddy trails or rainy-day workouts, their all-around comfort, versatility, and cool colorways make them the pair I reach for most often.

My Overall Score: 5 – In Perfect Shape! 

Sizes: 5 to 11 | Widths: Regular, wide | Weight: 6.7 oz | Drop: 5 mm | Cushioning: Minimal | Recommended For: Running, walking, gym-based training  

The Hoka Mach 6 is hands down the most versatile shoe in Hoka’s lineup. The snug-but-not-constricting upper comfortably cradles my foot, while the breathable mesh material keeps things cool even during long summer walks. I’ve worn these for everything from casual neighborhood strolls to tempo runs and 400-meter sprints, and the responsive cushioning delivers just the right amount of spring without ever disrupting my stride. It’s less cushioned than other options, but I found it just as comfortable.

What surprised me most was how well these Hokas perform in the gym. I’ve used them for CrossFit-style workouts (think: burpees, box jumps, and ski-erg intervals) and felt stable instead of wobbly, which isn’t something I can say for most running shoes. With some colorways priced under $115, these are a rare combo of versatile, stylish, and budget-friendly. 

My Overall Score: 5 – In Perfect Shape! 

Sizes: 5 to 12 | Widths: Regular, wide | Weight: 8.7 oz | Drop: 8 mm | Cushioning: Moderate | Recommended For: Gravel running, trail running, hiking

Mud runs, dirt trails, and gravel galavanting with my human and fur running buddies have nothing on the Hoka Challenger 8s. The grippy outsole lugs handle dirt, grass, and gravel with ease, giving me confidence on uneven surfaces without slipping. Trust me, for someone as naturally klutzy as I am, it’s a serious perk. 

Unlike other trail running shoes I’ve tried, this pair’s cushioned midsole softens the shock of roots and rocks underfoot, keeping my feet comfortable and protected even after hours outside. At $155, it’s priced in line with other Hoka models and is ideal for walkers and runners who stick to trails, gravel, or grass rather than mixed road routes. (Pro tip: If you live somewhere rainy, try the Hoka Challenger GTX, which adds waterproof protection.)

My Overall Score: 4 – Now We’re Talking 

Sizes: 5 to 12 | Widths: Regular, wide | Weight: 8.2 oz | Drop: 5 mm | Cushioning: Moderate | Recommended For: Trail running, light hiking, uneven ground walking 

If your runs take you off-road and into the wild, the Hoka Speedgoat 6 is built to keep up. Flip it over and you’ll find aggressive outsole lugs that grip dirt, gravel, and rocks with ease. My favorite part: even though the upper hugs my foot securely while I scramble, the roomy toe box still lets my toes splay naturally (goodbye, mid-run foot cramps). The protective cushioning feels stable rather than squishy, keeping me grounded on loose terrain. 

These shoes are truly trail-ready right out of the box. On my first run, I powered through five miles of dirt hills, roots, and gravel without a single hot spot, slip, or blister. At $155 (or $170 for the waterproof GTX version), these are a worthwhile investment for anyone who regularly tackles technical trails. Just keep in mind: this one really shines off-road — if most of your miles are on pavement, you’ll want a more road-friendly Hoka instead.

My Overall Score: 4 – Now We’re Talking 

Sizes: 4 to 12 | Widths: Regular, wide, extra-wide | Weight: 9.3 oz | Drop: 5 mm | Cushioning: Maximum | Recommended For: Everyday life, walking, running 

If you’re dealing with cranky knees, creaky joints, or plantar fasciitis, the Hoka Bondi 9 is my top pick. Thanks to its super-plush EVA midsole and high stack height, this shoe absorbs shock step after step, giving your joints a break. On long hot girl walks or all-day errand runs, my feet feel like they’re wrapped in a cushioned hug — and even my plantar fasciitis stays quiet. The soft-knit upper adds support without ever feeling stiff or stuffy.

These aren’t built for speed and are chunkier than models like, the Mach 6 or Clifton 10. But while that makes it less ideal for gym workouts or racing, it’s exactly why it shines for walkers, recovery runners, or anyone seeking maximum impact protection. The shoe runs true to size and comes in both regular and wide widths, so everyone can find the perfect fit.

My Overall Score: 4 – Now We’re Talking 

Sizes: 5 to 12 | Widths: Regular | Weight: 9.2 oz | Drop: 5 mm | Cushioning: Maximum | Recommended For: Running, walking, everyday activities  

One of the plushest shoes in Hoka’s lineup, the Skyward X features the cushiony foam the brand is known for. But despite its pillowy look, the lightweight foam is surprisingly springy underfoot. Whether I’m walking or jogging, the midsole absorbs each impact — giving my joints a break without turning my stride to mush. 

The fit is slimmer than other Hokas, especially through the midfoot and toe box. I wear a size 7 in most Hokas and stuck with a 7 here, but runners on the cusp of width should consider the wide option. At $225, it’s one of the pricier models in the Hoka lineup and likely overkill for casual walkers. But if you’re racking up long-distance rucks or spending all day on your feet (looking at you, nurses), this performance-meets-plush shoe makes the splurge worth it.

My Overall Score: 4 – Now We’re Talking 

Sizes: 6 to 15 | Widths: Regular | Weight: 0 oz | Drop: 6 mm | Cushioning: Maximum | Recommended For: Running, walking, everyday activities  

The Hoka Ora Primo are hands-down the most comfortable shoes in my collection. Designed to support your feet post-workout, these no-lace slippers have a cushy underfoot that cradles my foot, giving them a break after a long day of bopping around town. And the textured footbed even adds a massage-like effect, which feels especially good when my arches are tired.

Visually, the puffer-style upper and zig-zag detailing give the shoes a funky, futuristic vibe. My bestie even calls them “worm shoes” because of the ridged, padded texture. Truthfully, I love that I can count on these clogs to be a conversation starter every time I wear them. Quirky looks aside, they’re so cozy and supportive that I find myself reaching for them well beyond recovery days.

My Overall Score: 5 – In Perfect Shape! 

Sizes: 6 to 15 | Widths: Regular | Weight: 8.10 oz | Drop: 7 mm | Cushioning: Minimal | Recommended For: Racing, speed work, tempo running 

On race day — whether it’s a 5K or a marathon — the Hoka Cielo X1 2.0 is the shoe we want on our feet. The exaggerated, banana-shaped rocker bottom propels you forward with every step, while the carbon-plated midsole, sandwiched between two layers of foam, delivers an extra pop of energy return. With the built-in bounce, each stride feels a little easier, saving energy over the course of a long run.

We also love the upper: the collar holds your foot securely, the rolled-back heel tab prevents Achilles rubbing, the tongue stays put, and the breathable mesh keeps your foot cool and dry. These aren’t the shoes for casual jogs, though, since we found that the ultra-thick sole can feel a little wobbly at slower speeds. But if you’re chasing a PR, lace these up and get ready to fly.

Sizes: 6 to 15 | Widths: Regular | Weight: 8 oz | Drop: 7 mm | Cushioning: Minimal | Recommended For: Racing, tempo runs, sprint intervals 

If you want to go far, go with friends. If you want to go fast, go with the Hoka Rocket X 3. These speed demons combine a full-length carbon plate with exaggerated rocker geometry, creating a snappy, propulsive feel that practically launches us forward. The dual-density midsole, concentrated in the heel, helps reduce impact on our knees when pounding harder surfaces.

Even the details deliver on performance: the ribbed laces stay tied tight, and we haven’t had a single mid-run slip — a small but welcome bonus. Light, responsive, and built for speed, the Rocket X 3 is our go-to for tempo runs, intervals, and race day. At $250, they’re an investment, but if shaving seconds off your pace is the goal, they’ll pay for themselves.

Sizes: 5 to 16 | Widths: Regular | Weight: 9.9 oz | Drop: 6 mm | Cushioning: Maximum | Recommended For: Recovery, lifestyle, walking

Meet your recovery shoe soulmate: the Hoka Ora Recovery Mule. This all-foam clog uses supportive, spongy EVA to cradle your foot in cloud-like comfort, while vented airflow channels keep your feet cool on warmer days.

The slip-on design makes it perfect for popping on right after a training session — because honestly, who wants to wrestle with laces post-workout? It’s so comfy, we often find ourselves slipping them on for errands around town, too.