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Hoka was one of the fastest-growing brands of 2023, surpassing a billion dollars in sales as its chunky, comfy running shoes went mainstream. Now, maximally cushioned shoes are not just a trend, they are the norm — and Hoka has established itself as a major player in the running industry.

There are three main technologies that define a Hoka shoe: a cushioned midsole that absorbs shock, a frame that cradles the foot for stability and security, and that curved MetaRocker geometry that assists transition with every step. Each of those features can be dialed up or down to affect performance, depending on what you’re looking for.

And while the company is mainly known for its shoes, Hoka is also consistently improving its apparel since debuting its first collection in 2020. Add to that its fashion-forward collabs with brands like Satisfy and Moncler as well as partnerships with companies like Cotopaxi and FP Movement, and you have even more name recognition outside of the running and exercise world.

But at its core, Hoka will always be a running brand — and there are so many offerings to choose from, which can make choosing a running shoe tricky. To help you narrow down which of its products will serve you best, we rounded up our favorite picks, from daily trainers and racing shoes to trail sneakers and recovery slides, as well as men and women’s apparel.

Running shoes

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Hoka Bondi 8

Best all-around running shoe

Hoka Clifton 9

Best for running and walking

Hoka Mach 6

Best for training

Pick up the pace in the Rocket X 2, which feature the best race day tech from Hoka. The synthetic mesh upper, with an internal midfoot cage to keep your foot locked in, offers a much sleeker fit than the brand’s daily trainers. And sandwiching the carbon plate between two layers of high-performance PEBA foam creates a really propulsive yet stable ride whether you’re racing a 5K or a marathon.

Best for extra cushioning

Hoka was one of the first brands to embrace a rocker — a curved bottom that helps propel you forward — and you can really see that exaggerated profile on this new race day shoe. A winged carbon plate and two-layer PEBA midsole (featuring the most cushioning on a Hoka race shoe to date) also help make these shoes feel super speedy. At 9.3 ounces, they may be a little heavy for some runners who race but work just as well for long runs or recovery runs.

Hoka Skyward X

Best for distance

Trail shoes

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Hoka Tecton X 2

Best for speed

Hoka Speedgoat 5

Best for longer trail runs

Hoka Mafate Speed 4

Best for technical trails

Hoka Stinson 7

Best for stability

Lifestyle footwear

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Best for post-run

Runners swear by the Ora Recovery Slides when they’re not wearing their running shoes. The oversized sugarcane EVA midsole and MetaRocker geometry are pure Hoka, just reinterpreted for a cushy, supportive post-run experience. Science may not be able to prove that these actually “boost” recovery, but the design aims to take some pressure off your already tired feet — and if that feels good to you, that’s all that matters.

Hoka Anacapa Breeze Mid

Best for hiking

Best for everyday

The Transport X have a ton of running shoe tech in them — a carbon plate, a firm, responsive foam and the brand’s signature curved outsole — which means you could go for a jog in them, but they're more of a “running errands” type of shoe. If you’re on your feet all day and want a more stylish option that puts a little extra pep in your step, these crossover shoes pair better with streetwear than most of Hoka’s other comfort options.

Best for recovery

These slip-ons are a perfect example of Hoka pushing a more avant-garde aesthetic in the recovery category. Between the chunky elastic lace system and exaggerated toe bumper, they look weird, right? But the style grows on you, especially when you experience how comfy the soft knit collar and the insulated puff upper feel on your feet.

Performance apparel

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Hoka Skyflow Jacket

Best lightweight jacket

Hoka Airolite Run Short Sleeve

Best base layer

Hoka Race Day Split Short

Most comfortable running shorts

Best compression bra

For a relatively small piece of apparel, sports bras play a big role in comfort — and performance. The compressive fit and high neckline keep everything locked down even when you pick up the pace, while the mesh liner and recycled polyester fabric is engineered to allow air to easily flow through its threads (and there’s no excess padding to trap heat). The finishing touch: a brushed elastic band that helps prevent chafing.

Best bra for support

If you like to run sans shirt but prefer a little more coverage than a standard sports bra, this crop bra is it. With a higher neckline and curved rear hem, you’re covered where it matters while still allowing for cooling air to reach your skin — and this cut also pairs well with athleisure apparel. A built-in shelf bra with removable cups adds extra support, making this a sturdy option even for those with larger chests.

Best for visibility

Beat the heat in this updated staple. Constructed from 100% recycled polyester, this tank is designed to move air through the fabric, wick sweat and dry quickly (it also has a subtle texture to prevent bacterial growth). Smart reflectivity features on the front, back and side seams help keep you visible if you’re out on the road before the sun rises or after it sets.