These Running Shoes Feel Like Legit Clouds Even When Pounding Pavement

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If you're a runner, you're likely familiar with the brand Hoka. Those who already own a pair (or a few...), know they're definitely worth the investment. So, which pairs are really the *best* of the Hoka running shoes on the market?

Founded in 2009 by creators Nico Mermoud, Jean-Luc Diard, and Christophe Aubonnet, Hoka was started to design a shoe with cushioning for less joint impact while maintaining world-class speed. Hoka has grown into a full line of sneakers with maximum comfort using EVA and PEBA foam and a signature curved sole. Those are just a few of the features that set Hoka running sneakers apart from other brands.

Jump right to shopping the top Hoka running sneakers:

"Hokas came at a time when the barefoot [running shoe] movement made its way through the community," says Erica Coviello, a level two certified RRCA running coach. "Hoka felt like an answer to that trend, and they went the opposite way by adding a lot more [cushioning]."

Something else to love about Hoka is the focus on sustainability. Many of the shoes made with vegan materials and the company joined the United National Global Compact (UNGC), which is the largest corporate sustainability initiative in the world, in 2016. Currently, over 97 percent of Hoka shoes contain at least one recycled, renewed, or naturally sourced material, according to the Hoka website.

Hoka also offers a wide range of sizes and shoe widths, so there's something available for every runner and foot shape. Not to mention the designs are typically vibrant and colorful.

No matter how many running sneakers you have in rotation, you're sure to find something from the brand that meets your needs. Read on for the 10 best Hoka running shoes to add to your wish list ASAP.

Meet the experts: Luciano Medina is a USATF level three certified track and field coach. Erica Coviello is a level two certified RRCA running coach.

Arahi 6

The Arahi 6s are go-tos for several runners Coviello trains for their ability to correct overpronation and prevent injuries. The quality of these sneakers makes them well worth the price. It provides stability while supporting feet with balanced cushioning.

Rave review: "I loooove these shoes. I am on my feet most of the day, and I can honestly say these shoes made a huge difference. My hips, knees, and feet feel supported. I can work longer hours in less pain!"

Mach 5

If you're up for a speed or tempo run, you'll need something like the Mach 5 to keep you light on your feet. These shoes have a good amount of room in the toe box, making them great to race in, Coviello notes. They're also super responsive and have a lower profile.

Rave review: "I run 5ks frequently and enjoy normal everyday runs throughout the week. These are incredibly responsive, comfortable, and form to your feet over time. It's literally like running on a cloud."

Clifton 9

The Clifton 9s are perfect for everyday training on everything from flat surfaces to hilly terrain. As someone who's been using these shoes for just under two years, I can confidently say that the cushion on these shoes keeps me stable without weighing me down. While wearing this style, my knee pain has vanished during long runs.

Rave review: "I use this for running on the treadmill, and it helped a lot with my calf pain. I couldn't run due to the pain, and now I can go at a speed of 6.9."

Bondi 8

Another editor-approved shoe on the list is the Bondi 8. These sneakers are packed with cushioning, which leaves runners feeling like they're on a cloud. "I love the cushioning of the Bondi 8s. As someone just getting back into running after an injury, they provide so much support, and I love walking in them too. They're the comfiest shoes I own!" says Women's Health editorial assistant Addison Aloian.

Rave review: "Perfect for running or walking. I feel snug around my heel and midfoot with room to wiggle my toes, which is required for any good running shoe."

Challenger 7 GORE-TEX

If you're a trail runner, consider these grippy kicks your best friend. "The Hoka Challenger 7 GTX is a versatile training shoe that is a good choice for runners who want sneakers that are waterproof, breathable, and durable with good traction," says Luciano Medina, a USATF level three certified track and field coach. They also have grips on the bottom, so you cant focus on your stride and not worry about slips.

Rave review: "I need to run on grassland, and the grass is almost always wet. These shoes are, in fact, waterproof, lightweight, and very comfortable. I had some low back pain and knee pain before that I have not felt since I bought these Hoka shoes."

Kawana

If you're a fan of long runs, you'll love the Kawanas. "It has a wide toe box to provide plenty of wiggle room for your toes and decreases the chances of blisters and other foot problems," says Medina. This style features meta-rocker technology that propels you forward and has CMEVA foam for extra protection.

Rave review: "Aside from being really pretty and fitting perfectly, they have just enough plush to be comfy on my feet but not to the point where you feel unstable. Running in these felt amazing!"

Gaviota 5

Calling all overpronators, if you need something to help correct the smaller errors in your form, you'll appreciate the Gaviota 5. This heavy-weight shoe uses stabilizing H-Frame technology to make your stride as smooth and aligned as possible.

Rave Review: "These are my first Hokas, and I am not sorry I splurged on them. They fit perfectly and are great for walking and running. They manage to be soft, light, and supportive. "

Rocket X2

Many runners like to wear shoes that propel them forward on race day to help hit their PR goals. The Rocket X2s are sure to help you feel powerful while providing all the support you need. "It contains Meta-Rocker Geometry, which promotes a smooth and efficient rolling motion through the gait cycle, and consequently, reduces fatigue," says Medina.

Rave review:"This is the most comfortable race shoe I've ever worn! I've worn race shoes from other companies, and there is never enough cushion. These are cushiony, responsive, and super fast! Couldn't be happier."

Solimar

Looking for a shoe that can do it all? Look no further than the Hoka Solimar. You can wear these shoes during your next run or gym sesh. Medina points out that it comes with the added bonus of a lower price point than other styles. This shoe is extremely light but still has balanced cushioning for just the right amount of protection and responsiveness.

Rave review: "I have been running in these for a few weeks and really like them. The toe box is roomy enough for thicker socks in the winter. It's cushioned, but I can still feel the road."

Rincon 3

The Rincon 3s are lightweight, so you can feel free to run with these for a quick track workout or 5k.

Plus, this style sits at a lower profile than the Hoka Clifton 9, says Coviello. It doesn't provide too much bounce, making it a great option for your everyday runs.

Rave review: "This is the best running shoe! It is comfortable, yet light, and the soles provide durability for long-lasting wear and road running."

What To Consider When Shopping For Hoka Running Shoes

Cushioning: Many Hoka shoes are made with EVA and PEBA foam. Different types of foam can have various responses to the temperature, impact, and weight of the runner. Every step you take will compress the foam, so you want a shoe that will recover with you, says Coviello.

She recommends getting two pairs of shoes, so they can bounce back between runs and all of your miles aren't put on one pair continuously.

Stability: Shoe styles range from neutral to max stability. If someone overpronates, their foot may roll inwards too much, requiring a shoe with more stability.

However, if you don't overpronate, you'd want to avoid these kinds of sneakers. "You're not allowing your foot to move naturally, and it can negatively affect your gait," says Coviello. If you have access, try to get a gait analysis to determine what kind of shoe matches your personal stride.

Heel drop: Hokas have ample cushion, but they aren't known to have a high heel drop, which is basically the difference between the heel and forefoot of the shoe. Medina notes that this can provide a more natural running gate.

Weight: Take one look through your options, and you'll notice some shoes are heavier than others. A heavier shoe might provide more stability, but those extra ounces might not be the best option for speed training or to hit a PR in a race.

"Within the stages of running, you'll have to lift your foot off the ground, and it takes more work to do that with a heavier shoe," says Medina. "In competition, you'd want to have a lightweight shoe."

Surface: All Hoka running sneakers are developed for specific purposes, so think about what shoe would be best for the surface you like to train on to avoid injury and have the best traction and durability for your surface. What works for gravel or rocky trails isn't ideal for the track or a paved road, for example.

Overall fit: At the end of the day, you know what works best for you. If you have a wide foot that requires more room in the toe box, look for a style that can accommodate that based on other reviews and trying on your feet. On the flip side, if you have more narrow feet, something too wide might make you feel less secure in your running.

"Typically you don't want a very snug shoe," says Medina. "The general rule of thumb is that you want about half an inch between your longest toe and the front of the shoe." He adds that this is especially important for long-distance runners because your foot expands due to continuous impact from the ground.

Price: Running shoes and Hokas are an investment running shoes with most prices well above $100 and. Still, Medina notes that it's possible to find sales and discounts on popular models from previous years.

How We Chose The Best Hoka Running Shoes

Over the past few years, Women's Health editors including our editorial assistants, news and features editor Currie Engel, and fitness editor Jennifer Nied have been researching and testing a wide variety of styles of Hoka running shoes. Our team consulted two certified running coaches, including Luciano Medina and Erica Coviello, for recommendations.

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