A good shoe but not perfect
I bought the HOKA Arahi as a second pair of shoes (the other was the ASICS GT2000 -- a delightful shoe!), since I don't like to run in the same shoes on consecutive days. Preferences in running shoes are very personal and what works for one runner may not work for another. There even are variations in the same brand and model of shoes. That said, these shoes are quite good. The sizing was spot on, the material quality seems very high, they are comfortable and I can run ok in them. The cushioning is considerable, which is fine for some runners, but it feels somewhat overdone for me. Because there is so much cushioning, the motion control is a bit less than I expected. I tip the scale at 135 lbs and don't need a shoe with all that much shock absorption, but if you're ... MoreI bought the HOKA Arahi as a second pair of shoes (the other was the ASICS GT2000 -- a delightful shoe!), since I don't like to run in the same shoes on consecutive days. Preferences in running shoes are very personal and what works for one runner may not work for another. There even are variations in the same brand and model of shoes. That said, these shoes are quite good. The sizing was spot on, the material quality seems very high, they are comfortable and I can run ok in them. The cushioning is considerable, which is fine for some runners, but it feels somewhat overdone for me. Because there is so much cushioning, the motion control is a bit less than I expected. I tip the scale at 135 lbs and don't need a shoe with all that much shock absorption, but if you're 185 lbs maybe you do. The bottom line question is would I buy this shoe again. I can only say I might. I've only had them for two weeks, and maybe they will grow on me -- but maybe they won't.... Show more
JMG in NYC
originally posted on roadrunnersports.com
Amazing for people on their legs all day.
Apparently people use these for sport or running? Strange, I use them for walking and that's pretty fricken cool. I am actually an athlete, but also work on my legs all day. Needed something that was comfortable, supportive and gave me back energy. Very happy with this shoe. I wear orthotics and these work great for that. My last shoes quickly collapsed along the sides and lead to more leg pains than reduced so I'm curious to see how long these Hoka's stay supportive. I'm optimistic but cautious.... Show more
Cameron
originally posted on ewavedemo.com
Best Arahi yet!
I am a dedicated fast walker (retired marathoner due to back issues). I walk 4+ miles 6 days a week. I've been wearing Arahi's for a few years now. This new Arahi was comfortable right out of the box. It's got plenty of space in the wide size. It has one less lace eyelet so my speed laces were easier to set right. It's slightly more flexible with a softer impact than the previous versions. They feel so good that I've even done some slow jogging. I'm definitely going to stock up so that this can be my shoe for the next few years.... Show more
Shrimpie
originally posted on roadrunnersports.com
Extremely light and supportive
I’ve worn Hoka brand walking / running shoes for several years now and the fit, function, and feel of this brand is truly second to none. Unfortunately, this particular shoe doesn’t quite fit my feet as I’d prefer in comparison to other Hoka models, Bondi and Clifton. Although incredibly comfortable and supportive to my arch and heels, this model has tended to rub a blister on my left ankle bone and inside right heel. I’m planning to add some additional insoles to see whether that might correct the issue with blisters. Overall, Hoka offers amazing quality footwear at highly competitive and reasonable prices. Good luck and keep moving!... Show more
Crofolks
originally posted on dickssportinggoods.com
Game changer
Absolutely the most comfortable shoes period.I have bought just about all the top brands and styles and Hoka is by far the best! I’m on my feet all day.Once I bought a pair of these, I went out and bought two more…no joke. They make wide sizes too. Not to mention almost all the different models are also officially approved by the APMA for promoting good foot health. Nike and Adidas are not. So make sure you see that before you by a pair!... Show more
r2anderson
originally posted on dickssportinggoods.com
Good so far
So, I'm getting back to running after a break of several years due to a torn meniscus and MCL tear. I've been mostly cycling and weight training, but had previously run a couple marathons, and love 15-20km runs.Needed a new set of shoes to start back on a 5k running plan, and the Hokas got good reviews. Shoes are relatively light for so much cushioning, and are really comfortable. The drop is great, and about the same as my old trail shoes, despite the bulk of them. Midfoot strike is relatively easy to achieve, despite the high profile. Toe bed is wide enough for me, and it fits nicely in the heel with no slippage.Only downside is it isn't as flexible as my previous trail shoe or previous road shoes, but that is offset by the great cushioning, which has meant ... MoreSo, I'm getting back to running after a break of several years due to a torn meniscus and MCL tear. I've been mostly cycling and weight training, but had previously run a couple marathons, and love 15-20km runs.Needed a new set of shoes to start back on a 5k running plan, and the Hokas got good reviews. Shoes are relatively light for so much cushioning, and are really comfortable. The drop is great, and about the same as my old trail shoes, despite the bulk of them. Midfoot strike is relatively easy to achieve, despite the high profile. Toe bed is wide enough for me, and it fits nicely in the heel with no slippage.Only downside is it isn't as flexible as my previous trail shoe or previous road shoes, but that is offset by the great cushioning, which has meant that I'm not feeling that much soreness in the first half-dozen runs.... Show more
HSTO
originally posted on blacktoerunning.com
High price - poor quality
I would give these shoes a 5 star for comfort and stability but unfortunately when it comes to the longevity of the product, I wouldn't give it more than 1 star. This is most likely due to the materials used in this product, especially the bottom sole of the shoe & the heel area are extremely weak. I had my Hoka Arahi 6 for just under 2 months and they already show significant damage in both the heel & bottom sole of the shoe. I take extreme care of everything I own and have never had this with any other pair of shoes after just 2 months of casual use. After getting in touch with Sigma sports and providing pictures, they simply shift the blame to me telling me the damage is due to how I have worn and treated the shoe even though I have only worn them casually(for ... MoreI would give these shoes a 5 star for comfort and stability but unfortunately when it comes to the longevity of the product, I wouldn't give it more than 1 star. This is most likely due to the materials used in this product, especially the bottom sole of the shoe & the heel area are extremely weak. I had my Hoka Arahi 6 for just under 2 months and they already show significant damage in both the heel & bottom sole of the shoe. I take extreme care of everything I own and have never had this with any other pair of shoes after just 2 months of casual use. After getting in touch with Sigma sports and providing pictures, they simply shift the blame to me telling me the damage is due to how I have worn and treated the shoe even though I have only worn them casually(for commuting only). I don't think anybody would like to pay 130 pounds for a pair of trainers that do not last them for more than 6 months. They are not even willing to give a partial refund which would merely pay for the repairs.Very disappointed.... Show more
Steve
originally posted on sigmasports.com
HOKA ARAHI 6.
Hoka's Arahi just keeps getting better with each iteration of the series. I've been running on Arahi shoes from the 3 onwards.The exoskeletal heel cup is a neat feature on the 6. It offers slightly more padding internally for the heel - though this has never been an issue anyway. Nice to see the 6 tongue is a bit more substantial than the minimalist tongue first featured on the 5. Once again this was never an issue either. I set a PB 5k on the first run in the 6. For me this says they will go a little faster again when broken in. I get a good 400~450 kms running out of my Arahis before they are retired to a house / walk / gardening shoe. Never had one come apart, fail or stretch anywhere at all. I've never had any discomfort or blisters in any Arahi (And I've had a ... MoreHoka's Arahi just keeps getting better with each iteration of the series. I've been running on Arahi shoes from the 3 onwards.The exoskeletal heel cup is a neat feature on the 6. It offers slightly more padding internally for the heel - though this has never been an issue anyway. Nice to see the 6 tongue is a bit more substantial than the minimalist tongue first featured on the 5. Once again this was never an issue either. I set a PB 5k on the first run in the 6. For me this says they will go a little faster again when broken in. I get a good 400~450 kms running out of my Arahis before they are retired to a house / walk / gardening shoe. Never had one come apart, fail or stretch anywhere at all. I've never had any discomfort or blisters in any Arahi (And I've had a few!) I have a medium / wide foot and wear an 11 / 2E.... Show more
Brad
originally posted on ewavedemo.com
Probably will be getting these again
This is the best fitting Hoka I've tried. I've had 4 pairs of Bondis (2 6s, 1 each of 7 & 8), 3 pairs of Cliftons and a Rincon. These aren't exactly in my wheelhouse since I'm a neutral runner that likes a lot of cushion, but in terms of fit these are by far the best. All the other Hokas I've tried even though I love the cushioning the shoes run narrow even in a wide and make them less than ideal. I'd like more cushioning in these, but they're good enough. I've only got about 50 miles on them but if they hold up I'll probably order 6 or 8 pairs since manufacturers tend to change designs and ruin the shoe. I'm an older runner (late sixties) that still runs halfs - run about 20-25 mi / week.... Show more
df
originally posted on roadrunnersports.com
These have made a difference in my life
I am a heavy runner that has run for years. I have high arches and should be in more of a neutral shoe according to the experts, but I have found I need a stability shoe. My feet are curvy and I tend to push toward the outside of the shoe. I have run in Brooks for years and really liked them but have noticed more pain as I have gotten older. I recently got fitted with a pair of these at my local running store and noticed a difference immediately. My knee pain that has been an issue is almost gone and I don't have the soreness I used too after long runs. These provide support slightly differently (From what the guy at the store said) and it has made a difference for me. All I can say is try them and see of they feel right for you. Even in the store I noticed a huge ... MoreI am a heavy runner that has run for years. I have high arches and should be in more of a neutral shoe according to the experts, but I have found I need a stability shoe. My feet are curvy and I tend to push toward the outside of the shoe. I have run in Brooks for years and really liked them but have noticed more pain as I have gotten older. I recently got fitted with a pair of these at my local running store and noticed a difference immediately. My knee pain that has been an issue is almost gone and I don't have the soreness I used too after long runs. These provide support slightly differently (From what the guy at the store said) and it has made a difference for me. All I can say is try them and see of they feel right for you. Even in the store I noticed a huge difference. Even now when I mow in the old shoes I can tell cause my knees hurt and I'm sore for a day or two.... Show more
Scott
originally posted on roadrunnersports.com