Hoka's 'Impressive' Hiking Boots That Are as 'Lightweight and Well-Cushioned' as Running Shoes Are Finally on Sale
"I did a 6-mile hike to test them out and could not be happier."
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Hoka shoes have proven to be anything but a trend, with more runners and walkers becoming fans after finding the support and cushion their feet crave. Hikers are making the switch to the brand's trail shoes for the same reason. And though they don't go on sale often, a flurry of styles just dropped in price, including the brand's best hiking boots that are now under $200.
The Hoka Kaha 2 GTX Hiking Boots are on sale at REI for $180—a very rare 25% discount on the normal price of $240. These boots have earned over 300 five-star ratings from shoppers who say it's like a "rugged, high-top Bondi," which is one of Hoka's most well-cushioned running shoes, and it's sitting comfortably as the No. 2 bestselling men's shoe on the site. It's available in sizes 8 to 13 and with three adventurous colors to choose from, but sizes are almost certain to sell out soon so don't wait to get yours.
Hoka Kaha 2 GTX Hiking Boots in Castlerock/Harbor Mist, $180 (was $240) at REI
This Hoka hiking boot features an over-the-ankle design with a waterproof nubuck leather upper and waterproof, breathable Gore-Tex fabric. It has a wide sole design, complete with 5mm Vibram MegaGrip rubber with Traction Lugs that tear into the ground like claws, but what's even more impressive is the boot's midsole. Hoka running shoes are best known for their cushioning, and the brand didn't deviate when designing the Kaha 2 hiking boot, giving it one of the thickest, most plush midsoles we've ever seen on a hiking boot. Not only will this better absorb impact than a traditional hiking boot, but it does so without adding extra weight to the boot.
Many runners have already migrated into Hoka's shoes, but some hikers are starting to do the same. "Being an older hiker with thousands of miles on many different shoes and boots, I must say, these are some of the best I have worn," one shopper admitted. "They are lightweight and very comfortable. Surprisingly, they are very stable. I thought with all the cushioning I might roll an ankle, but the wide footprint seems to stabilize them effectively. I did a 6-mile hike to test them out and could not be happier."
Hoka Kaha 2 GTX Hiking Boots in Honey/Barley, $180 (was $240) at REI
Others have been wowed by how well a running shoe brand can take on hiking footwear. "Right out of the box, these boots are impressive," a shopper said. "The build quality is evident in the outer looks of the boot. The first training hike was around my neighborhood with moderate hills on asphalt for 8 miles. The boots are very lightweight and well-cushioned. My feet felt great throughout the hike and after as well."
One shopper who picked them for a long trek through Mount Rainier National Park even said they're the real deal. "The Hoka Kahas powered me through all 100 miles of the Wonderland Trail," a shopper exclaimed. "I had serious doubts…but I decided to take a chance because I needed some relief for my old bones from carrying a heavy backpack up/down mountains. They actually proved to be very stable, not squishy at all, while eating up jagged rocks."
It's safe to say that Hoka can hold its own in the hiking world, and that's largely due to the design of the Kaha 2 GTX Hiking Boot. Now that it's finally on sale, shoppers will be swarming to get a pair, so make sure to get your size soon before they sell out.