The weather is finally getting to a place where you are don't need as many layers to keep warm just to go for a run, or you may just be ready to get back into running, it's the perfect time to invest in a new pair of shoes.
That's where this guide comes in handy.
We gathered testers from all over the country, including veteran runners at ACTIVE, to extensively test the shoes in this guide. All of our testers put their shoes through a minimum of 20 running miles (some way more than 20 miles) while paying attention to comfort, fit, weight, breathability, flexibility and ride.
From updates of old favorites that had our feet singing to new releases that will ensure you'll find something to motivate your miles well into summer, you're guaranteed to find a shoe you'll love. We know money might be tight, but if you can, treat yourself! You deserve it.
Spring Shoe Guides
Asics | Astral | Brooks | HOKA | Merrell | Nike | Reebok | Scarpa | Skechers | Under Armour
Why Trust Us?
ACTIVE.com's editorial team relies on the knowledge and experience of fitness and wellness experts including competitive athletes, coaches, physical therapists, nutritionists, and certified trainers. This helps us ensure the products we feature are of the highest standard. Collectively, the team has spent countless hours researching equipment, gear, and recovery tools in order to create the most accurate, authentic content for our readers. Customer satisfaction is also a key part of our review process, which is why we only feature products that are highly rated.
HOKA Arahi 7
HOKA Cielo X1
HOKA Hopara 2
HOKA Mach 6
HOKA SkywardX
HOKA Transport GTX
HOKA Arahi 7
About: The Arahi 7s are the stability sibling to the brand’s popular Clifton model. The shoes feature a J-frame in the midsole that helps provide medial support and prevent over pronation. The shoe’s midsole has stayed consistent with past versions while the mesh knit upper and tongue gusset have been updated.
The shoe offers a firm and stable ride , but it does so without adding a lot of extra weight. Both the men’s and women’s versions come in well under 10 ounces and the 5mm drop is on the lower side. The midsole foam doesn’t have a ton of bounce, but if you’re looking for a reliable every day trainer with support, these just might be it.
I'm not a die-hard HOKA fan like some, but the Arahi 7 have converted me.
Things We Liked:
"The Arahi 7s have a 5mm drop and a decently low weight for a stability shoe."
"These shoes never became uncomfortable, which isn't something I can say about a lot of other shoes, as even my most favorites can get a bit stick after so many miles."
"Being this is my first pair of HOKA's ever, I can see why some people really love this brand."
Areas for Improvement:
"I'd add a bit more pop and bounce to the midsole, the ride on these shoes felt a little flat."
"Toward the end of some longer runs, I experienced a bit of little toe numbness that wasn't the end of the world but wasn't the most enjoyable either."
"The break in period was short but it really hurt the tops of my toes, perhaps a bit more fabric or less shoe construction in that area."
Final Thoughts
HOKA's Clifton is beloved by many, and this is the brand's stability version for those that need a little extra support when putting in daily miles. It's a bit of a cliche, but everything about the Arahi 7 is Goldilocks-esque. The fit is just right, the cushioning is just right, and the responsiveness? Just right.
Specs:
- Drop: 5mm
- Weight: 8.1oz
- Price: $145
- Category: Stability
- Type: Road Running
- Fit: True to Size
- Ideal For: Recovery, Long Distances, Cross Training
Buy:
Women's | Men's
HOKA Cielo X1
About: Get ready to soar to new heights with HOKA's latest masterpiece—the Cielo X1! Bursting onto the scene with unparalleled innovation and cutting-edge technology, this road racing marvel is set to redefine your race day experience. Here at ACTIVE we are in the process of working up a full review.
A shoe that gives as much return as the energy you put in to it. Hands down my new favorite racing shoe!
Things We Liked:
"A new super shoe made for PRs and fun."
Areas for Improvement:
"The laces material is very usual and reminds me of material you would make holiday bows out of. You definitely have to double knot your laces to ensure that they don’t come untied mid-run."
Final Thoughts
Just when it seemed like HOKA had found their true super shoe platform, they switched things up and brought the world the Cielo X1. From the cutouts in the foam underfoot, to the barely there outsole, to the winged carbon fiber plate, and visible rocker, the X1 is made for speed.
The knit upper is minimal while still providing support and ventilation, while the streamlined tongue and unique laces aim to minimize weight and stay in place. If you’ve been looking for a new race shoe, make sure to give these a try. The shoe gives as much energy back to you as you put in, so remember to double knot the laces before you head out and have fun. These shoes are made for PRs!
Specs:
- Drop: 7mm
- Weight: 9.3oz
- Price: $275
- Category: Neutral
- Type: Road Running
- Fit: True to Size
- Ideal For: Races, Speed, Long Distances
Buy:
Unisex
HOKA Hopara 2
About:The Hoka Hopara almost look like a couple of different sandal companies had a collision in the shoe factory. This may sounds negative but in reality, this collision created a very comfortable pair of trail hiking sandals.
Ideally for those who like hiking but don't want the bulk of a shoe and also loves a stiff footbed, you might have just found your new bestie. Some may find the sandal to be “too heavy” but the comfort and the trail grip are there that make up for that. The demo environment is was extremely muddy but these provided a ton of grip so the wiggling in mud was minimal.
Comfort for days
Things We Liked:
"Great and more coverage substitute for a hiking sandal than my chacos."
"Breathable and comfortable and great for hiking around the trail."
Areas for Improvement:
"The lace drawstring is a little too long for my preference."
'The overall style wasn't my cup of tea, but the comfort is there."
Final Thoughts
This was a new test for us and the shoe seems not only very comfortable, but durable on first use. The breathability is great and perfect for popping in and out of the water mid hike. This could be used to run, but due to the open heel cup it might not be ideal as rocks and twigs could get in. The strap on the heel makes it look a little dorky, but overall this is a decent shoe. Adding some brighter colors could make this shoes a little more fun.
Specs:
- Drop: 5mm
- Weight: 12oz
- Price: $135
- Category: Stability
- Type: Walking/Hiking
- Fit: True to Size
- Ideal from: Walking/Hiking/Lifestyle
Buy:
Women's | Men's
HOKA Mach 6
About: For runners in search of a cushioned shoe that seamlessly blends lightness, responsiveness, and durability, the Hoka Mach 6 fits the bill. Often maximalist shoes sacrifice speed for comfort; however, the Mach 6 with its low profile cushion and innovative details result in a lightweight and responsive shoe that delivers exceptional energy return.
First and foremost is its weight. The Mach 6 is incredibly light, making each stride feel effortless and fluid, perfect for longer distances and races. The cushioning feels great underfoot without that sinking feeling or lag. This is due to its more glove-like design. Unlike other Hoka models, the Mach 6 has a more narrow construction: the heel cup fits snug with no slipping and the toe box is roomy without overcompensating– a definite plus for the race course! An all around winner, this shoe doesn't compromise on support either, providing a secure and comfortable fit throughout every run.
The standout feature of the Mach 6 is its responsiveness. Thanks to its super critical foam midsole, this shoe delivers an exceptional energy return with each step. Surprisingly, the arc design in the mid-foot has a rocker/ fulcrum feel, driving the foot forward, naturally increasing cadence and turnover. While comfortably logging miles on the pavement, you'll feel a noticeable boost in propulsion, helping you maintain momentum and reach your goals faster.
Durability from top to bottom is another area where the Mach 6 shines. In pleasing color combinations, the new creel jacquard upper offers zonal breathability without risk of rips and tears, keeping your feet cool and comfortable mile after mile, while underneath, the strategically reinforced outsole has more rubber coverage than previous versions; its resilience withstands the rigors of regular training sessions without showing signs of premature deterioration, ensuring long-lasting performance and value.
I've found my Swiss Army knife of a shoe. I always run when I travel, and I'm often tasked with bringing multiple pairs of shoes. I'd depend on the Mach 6's to let me confidently train for speed, distance, and hills. The Mach 6's are the most versatile and comfortable shoe I've owned.
Things We Liked:
"I'm excited to have found my perfect, versatile shoe that I can confidently rely on for fast runs, hard runs, hills, and longer runs."
"I love the total tailored fit (from heel to toe) that provides better propulsion while still having a cushioned shoe-- doesn't stay flat and boxy."
Areas for Improvement:
"While I haven't put them to the speed test on a wet road, the sole design gives me pause as I feel like they could potentially lack traction."
"The reinforced tongue bunches up and gets caught in the laces. It slides down after a few miles. "
Final Thoughts
The Mach 6 is the definition of a versatile, go-to shoe. Many would say that the Brooks Ghost is the everyday shoe. The Mach 6 puts the Ghost to the test. The Mach 6 is an amazing everyday shoe if you want it to perform and not just stand in for base or junk miles. They're light, responsive, fast, and stable. They're great for intervals, hills, and longer, easier miles. They're also a very responsive and nimble shoe without plating, carbon fiber or otherwise, so you can put in the work and reap the lower leg gains while still feeling strong and energized throughout your run.
Specs:
- Drop: 5mm
- Weight: 6.7oz
- Price: $140
- Category: Neutral
- Type: Road Running
- Fit: True to Size
- Ideal from: Speed, Recovery, Long Distance, Race
Buy:
Women's | Men's
HOKA Skyward X
About:For runners who want the ultimate ride of plush comfort and innovative design, the Hoka Skyward X delivers combining extreme softness with a strong capable delivery; in the world of training shoes, it's a testament to innovation and performance engineering. Showcasing a revolutionary suspension system featuring a convex carbon fiber plate and PEBA midsole foam, the Skyward X redefines expectations for maximum cushion and support.
At the heart of this new arrival lies its groundbreaking suspension system. Unlike traditional running shoes, the Skyward X's convex carbon fiber plate allows the mid-foot to compress and rebound with each stride, providing responsiveness and energy return. Combined with Hoka’s MetaRocker™ system, bolstered by the Super Critical EVA Rocker Frame, its unique design promotes a natural rolling motion from heel to toe, resulting in effortless transition through each stride. This stable yet smooth base not only reduces the strain on the joints but also enhances overall comfort, allowing you to push the limits without hesitation.
But innovation doesn't stop there. The Skyward X combines this cutting-edge technology with a carefully crafted design to deliver a ride that's as comfortable as it is responsive. A soft, highly resilient PEBA foam sits closest to the foot, cradling it in superior cushioning while maintaining a lively feel, and the The Flat Knit Upper with zonal engineering molds to the contours of your foot, delivering a sock-like fit. Nothing beats Hoka’s attention to detail when it comes to comfort during those long slow training miles.
These are the most plush shoes with a carbon plate I have ever tried. The ground felt way beneath me.
Things We Liked:
"The foam is present and active under all parts of the foot, keeping it smooth on the ground while the carbon plate keeps consistency."
"The unparalleled comfort and cushion combined with the carbon fiber plate and rocker make this an incredibly fun, forgiving ride, great for almost any type of run."
Areas for Improvement:
"I would lessen the stack height. it sits so tall that it reduces speed and diminishes the responsiveness of the carbon plate. I could not feel the desired return."
"I experienced a little heel slippage, but was able to easily remedy it by re-lacing with a heel lock pattern."
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the Hoka Skyward X is at the top of the list when it comes to the most plush cushion and original structural design. It easily elevates your run to new heights, allowing you to achieve your goals with confidence.
In fact, while the superior cushion makes the Skyward X the perfect go-to shoe for easy or longer efforts, it is easy to accidentally run faster than planned, and it can take a concerted effort to run slowly in. The combination of the EVA rocker frame and carbon fiber plate, especially for those more forefoot strikers, make the Skyward X an incredibly efficient and fun ride. This shoe is a great option for everything from recovery runs, tempo and threshold work, to ultra distance runs/races.
Specs:
- Drop: 5mm
- Weight: 9.2oz
- Price: $225
- Category: Neutral
- Type: Road Running
- Fit: True to Size
- Ideal from: Speed, Recovery, Long Distance, Race
Buy:
Women's | Men's
HOKA Transport GTX
About: A weather-ready ride for everyday adventures Conceived at the intersection of lifestyle and performance, this commuter-friendly style offers a multitude of sustainability features across the outsole, midsole, and upper. Designed with the city-dweller in mind, the Transport GTX employs a 35% sugarcane EVA midsole, Vibram® EcoStep Recycle EVO outsole that uses 30% regrind recycled rubber, and GORE-TEX Invisible Fit for enhanced moisture management, plus a quick-toggle lace and 360-degrees of reflectivity.
These walking shoes feel very comfortable right out of the box. I was able to walk around all day for several days with no problems.
Things We Liked:
"The fit was great right out of the box with no break in needed. I was able to wear these all day for several days in a row with no issues. Very comfortable."
"Great support and cushion as always with Hoka shoes."
Areas for Improvement:
"The bungee cord laces had to be cut off in order to use the other laces provided. You cannot use the bungee cord laces again. I would like to be able to switch them up if when I wanted to."
"For me, the shoe was a little tight in the toe box. This seems unusual for Hoka shoes and I've loved all the other features."
Final Thoughts
The fit of the HOKA Transport GTX is true to size, providing ample room in the toe box without feeling too loose or restrictive. However, one aspect that detracts from the overall experience is the bungee laces. Unfortunately, these laces cannot be removed without damaging them, which limits customization options and may not suit everyone's preferences.
"he Hoka Transport GTX is another great shoe from Hoka. The quality is superior and the comfort is top line. These shoes have great performance in terms of bounce and cushion.
Hoka shoes never disappoint! These are comfortable for walking, running, and even daily wear. They are lightweight, breathable, and provide great support.
Specs:
- Drop: 8mm
- Weight: 10oz
- Price: $175
- Category: Neutral
- Type: Walking/Hiking
- Fit: True to Size
- Ideal from: Walking/Hiking/Lifestyle
Buy:
Women's | Men's
Check out the other shoes in the Spring Shoe Guide.
Spring Shoe Guides
Asics | Astral | Brooks | HOKA | Merrell | Nike | Reebok | Scarpa | Skechers | Under Armour
About the Author
Stephen is the Editor in Chief for ACTIVE.com. He has been running been involved in the fitness industry for more than 10 years but has been running or playing sports for most of his life.
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