Short version: I love them.
Long(er) version: Read on…
In the box you get two different inserts. You can use them separately or together for maximum support.
I’ve worn the same running brand and model for more than four years (Brooks Ghost) and I’ve been in the camp of “don’t fix what isn’t broken.” I loved, and still love, those sneakers and they aren’t going anywhere. They just have a new friend in the rotation now.
I first heard about Hoka One One in November after reading a review on Sarah’s blog. More recently, I’ve seen posts about them on other running blogs (Amanda and Monica). As they are all runners with a lot of experience, plus Sarah works at a running store, I decided to get a pair of my own. Positive peer pressure right there.
To say I am impressed is an understatement. What looks like a super chunky, heavy shoe is honestly one of the lightest and most comfortable shoes I have ever worn. Prime example of not judging a book by its cover.
I bought the Clifton model, which is a labeled a neutral shoe. Funny story: when I told my mom about them she thought I said I bought a “hookah” and was very confused. I have a very high arch (people think I’m a ballerina) and I was nervous to run without my normal inserts. But so far I haven’t had any problems or pains. In fact, I haven’t thought about my feet at all while running (is that normal? My feet are always on my mind…).
What I like:
-The comfort. The extra cushioning is new for me and it feels like a treat to run in something so comfortable.
-The weight. Other than my XC and track racing flats, I’ve never run in something so light.
-The strike. I’m not a heel striker but I am a heavy runner. I can already tell how the sneaker’s low heel-toe drop forces you to land on the mid foot (proper form). I think this could prevent the random knee pain I occasionally get.
What I don’t like:
-Limited color options. Not a huge deal but the colors are really bright.
-Not the most attractive. Let’s just say that I don’t plan to wear these with dress, at least until my wedding…
-That’s it.
Notes:
-These ran true to size, if not a bit small. I run in a 9 in Brooks and an 8.5 in the Hoka’s.
The longest run I’ve had in these is 5 miles so I’m hoping to do a longer run soon. Be prepared for a follow-up note after that happens. While I was skeptical leaving my literal and physical comfort zone, this experiment has proven to be very beneficial. It also leaves me wanting to try more products…but I’ll enjoy what I have for now.
while the brand isn’t entirely smitten with the fact I use them for walking races :-) I love them. I have them on right now.
Carla recently posted…Lets get HORIZONTAL!
I want to run errands in them because they are so comfortable, but I know I’m not “supposed” to use them for anything other than running/walking.
I was the same way as you with my wave riders. I read so many running bloggers that raved about them that I figured they would be a great shoe that I had to try out. Turns out they were all true! Maybe next I’ll have to try out a pair of Hokas ;)
Brie @ Lean, Clean, & Brie recently posted…Tropical Coconut Water Smoothie
That’s exactly what happened! Positive peer pressure and curiosity proved successful.
They look so comfy! I wear brooks ravennas and they are the most glorious green/blue/mauve colour :) I have pronated ankles so I wear an insole too.
Jessica @ kiwiyogirunner recently posted…The one with my flu-survival kit
So far I have been perfectly fine with their inserts but I wonder if using my own would be even better.
These shoes are amazing. I’m glad you fell in love with them too!
Sarah @pickyrunner recently posted…Birthday Celebrations
I credit you with introducing them to me! So thank you :)
They do look comfy and I love that bright color!
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine recently posted…Easy Homemade Ketchup
This was my favorite color option!
I’ve always been interested in the Hoka’s after hearing everyone rave about them. Next time I’m in the market for new shoes I’ll test these out!
I totally tried these because I wanted to see what the hype was about. In this case, there is good in wanting to be like the crowd ;)
Not going to lie…they are funny looking, but I appreciate your honest review. My running shoes are grey with a little bit of pink. I love them and not sure what I will run in next. Like you I don’t want to change something that works. I run in Zoots.
She Rocks Fitness recently posted…bACK On Track WIAW + Guest Post
I feel like they look like those heely shoes with wheels underneath. Grey and pink are much more appealing to the eyes I think :)
I totally need to give these a try. I am the worlds worst heel striker.
Christina Valenziano recently posted…Trending Tuesday #13
Yes! Order a pair! They have been awesome so far.
That’s interesting to hear they’re so light – I always assumed they would feel a bit heavier. I love my Mizunos because I feel like I can still feel the ground pretty well…did it feel like you were running on pillows with the Hokas?
Rebecca @ MyEagerFeet recently posted…Weekly Training Recap: 5/3 – 5/9
It wasn’t as soft as a pillow (for me at least) but it is pretty darn soft. It feels more effortless running.
Everyone has such good things to say about these shoes, so I really want to try them out! They do look pretty crazy but they also look pretty comfy.
Kristen recently posted…Some Midweek Awesomeness
Honestly, I only bought them out of curiosity because everyone raved about them. They weren’t lying!