The History of Hoka
Former Salomon employees and trail-running enthusiasts Jean-Luc Diard and Nicolas Mermoud founded HOKA in 2009 in Annency, an Alpine town in the south-east of France.
Frustrated by the shoes currently available on the market, the pair decided to create a shoe that offered more support and cushioning without sacrificing speed and responsiveness while running trails.
The result was the maximalist HOKA shoe, complete with oversized midsoles and a chunky appearance. It offered incredible comfort, shock absorption, and performance over long distances and rugged terrain.
The brand quickly gained a cult following, growing in popularity thanks to their cushioned, rocker-shaped soles and stable platforms. Today, thanks to models like the Clifton, Bondi, Speedgoat, Arahi and Tor Ultra, HOKA serves everyone from top athletes to those simply looking for a comfortable walking shoe.
HOKA: Answering Your Questions
Where does HOKA come from?
HOKA is originally from France, founded in 2009 by Jean-Luc Diard and Nicolas Mermoud. Unsatisfied with their shoes while hiking in the French Alps, they decided to make their own.
Who owns HOKA?
Currently, HOKA is owned by Deckers Brands, an American footwear company that also owns UGG. HOKA was acquired by Deckers on April 1, 2013.
Where are HOKA shoes produced?
HOKAS shoes are designed in the United States of America, but primarily manufactured in Asia.
What does 'HOKA One One' mean?
The name 'HOKA One One' (Ho-kah Oh-nay Oh-nay) comes from the Māori language and roughly translates to 'Fly over the Earth'. This reflects the brand's mission to create shoes that make you feel like you're flying!
Are HOKA good running shoes?
HOKA sneakers are excellent running shoes. Thanks to the trademark thick midsole, which offers plush and responsive cushioning, shock is absorbed incredibly well. A lot of their models also have 'rocker' shapes that helps you roll smoothly from heel to toe with each stride.
The Ahari and Gaviota models offer arch support and guidance for overpronators, while the Clifton and Rincon are lightweight with soft cushioning. Take the Clifton, Bondi and Mach on the road, or the Speedgoat and Challenger for the trails.
How long do HOKA shoes last?
How long HOKA running shoes last varies. HOKA says: "There is no general rule for everyone. Shoe construction, body weight, biomechanics, running surface, weather, storage and care can all contribute to your running shoes wearing out faster." However, HOKA running shoes do have a guideline of between 400-800km.
How do you tie HOKA sneakers?
For guidance on tying your HOKA laces, check out our Ultimate Sneakerjagers Lacing Guide!
How do I clean my HOKA sneakers?
A HOKA sneaker should be cleaned by hand. For the best results, remove the laces, then use a toothbrush to remove obvious dirt from the surface. Mix a mild detergent with some water and use a sponge or cloth to gently scrub harder stains, or for suede, use a suede brush (water can damage suede). Use a damp cloth to wipe off the residue, then let them air-dry.
For a smelly sneaker, you can sprinkle baking soda inside the shoe, then leave overnight. The powder will absorb moisture and neutralise the smell. Shake out the excess before wearing again. Alternatively, you can use silica gel or activated charcoal bags for the same results.
Laces can be cleaned with a mild detergent and rinsed afterwards, or you can put white laces in a 1:5 bleach and water solution for a few minutes and then rinse thoroughly with clean water.
In addition, we do not recommend putting your shoes in the washing machine. Sneakers made of leather and suede can come out damaged. With shoes made of canvas or cotton, the risk is less, but the chance of damaged sneakers remains. So we recommend always washing your sneakers by hand. If you do put them in the washing machine, then place the shoes in an old pillowcase beforehand.
Where can I buy HOKA?
Do you have your eye on this brand? With our sneaker search engine, you can browse HOKA at different retailers and at different prices. Our release calendar also keeps you up to date on HOKA restocks and new releases!
Notable HOKA Collaborations
HOKA x thisisneverthat
In 2021, HOKA and Seoul-based streetwear brand thisisneverthat dropped a special-edition collection based around the Speedgoat 4. The model was given an off-white base with cyan blue accents, featuring technical details including a Vibram Megagrip outsole and a lightweight, breathable upper.
HOKA x Moncler
Also in 2021, the limited edition HOKA x Moncler Mafate Speed 2 was released, fusing HOKA's trail-running expertise with Moncler's luxury aesthetic. It showcased Moncler's signature tricolour detailing and iconic felt patch on the tongue, utilising a white and silver colorway with striking red and blue accents.
The shoe was built with a Vibram Megagrip outsole, a lightweight no-sew SpeedFrame upper, and an external monomesh debris screen for protection and breathability.
HOKA x Bodega
Boston-based streetwear boutique Bodega came together with HOKA in 2022 to release a limited-edition capsule that blended outdoor performance with urban style. The Kaha Low GTX and ORA Recovery Slide were both given an autumnal olive palette, inspired by New England's changing seasons.
A year later, the duo released 'The World at Large' collection, which reimagined the Tor Ultra silhouette in both low and high-top versions. Constructed with GORE-TEX, technical mesh and suede, with Vibram Megagrip outsoles, the collection drew its inspiration from the natural landscapes of the American Southwest.
HOKA x END.
In a debut collection called Overland, END. And HOKA joined forces in 2024 to release a two-piece capsule that took its inspiration from off-road adventure travel.
The appropriately rugged HOKA Kaha Low and Mafate Speed 2 models got an earthy makeover in greens and browns, and were also given durable Vibram Megagrip soles for optimal traction. As a result, the collection effortlessly transitioned from the city to off-road excursions.
Popular HOKA Models
Clifton
The Clifton is HOKA's neutral model, perfect for casual runners, long walks and recovery days. It has a near-perfect balance between plush cushioning and lightweight responsiveness.
The Clifton 9 is the current version of the model, lighter and firmer than its predecessors with an updated, breathable upper.
Bondi
The current version of this model, the Bondi 9, features a new EVA midsole that’s lighter, softer, and more responsive, offering the signature plush comfort the Bondi is known for.
A structured knit upper and 3D moulded collar enhance fit and comfort, with added durability and control thanks to updated geometries and an Active Foot Frame™.
Speedgoat
Made for trail running, the Speedgoat model is grippy, durable, and versatile, perfect for both hardcore runners and casual hikers.
The Speedgoat 5 features Vibram Megagrip outsoles, aggressive lugs, and a protective upper, while still being lightweight and breathable.
Arahi
Currently on the Arahi 7 version, this model offers stability without stiffness with a unique J-Frame support system. It's ideal for runners who overpronate or need arch support, but don't want a heavy shoe.
The Arahi is lightweight and more flexible than other stability shoes, offering speed and comfort when road running.
Tor Ultra
With a rugged, utilitarian look, the Tor Ultra is surprisingly popular on the streets, helped through collaborations with Bodega, Moncler, and more.
The hybrid shoe was originally created as a high-performance hiking boot, featuring a max-cushioned midsole, Vibram Megagrip outsole, and an upper made from leather and textile with GORE-TEX options.
Challenger
The HOKA Challenger is designed to transition effortlessly between road and trail. Its unique rubber outsole offers a versatile tread pattern that provides grip on uneven surfaces, while the mesh upper is lightweight and breathable.
The Challenger fits true to size, though if you have a wider foot, you might want to size up half a size for comfort.
Mach
The HOKA Mach is built for runners who want speed with cushioning. Its most notable feature is the lightweight, responsive supercritical foam midsole, which offers a propulsive feel without adding bulk. The clean upper design is minimal yet secure.
The Mach fits true to size, hugging the midfoot while allowing extra room in the toe box.
For more FAQs on your favourite sneaker brands and models, visit the Sneaker FAQ page.
