It’s hard to remember a world before Hokas. Surely, the sneakers have not been around forever (the brand launched in 2009). But darn if those cushion-forward soles have not taken over the world of running shoes.
If you’re ready to get on the Hoka train or you’re a proud wearer and want another pair — we spotted three popular styles discounted at Zappos. The Mach 6, Challenger 7 and Clifton 9 are 20% off in a gang of colors — the lowest price they’ve been in months.
If you’re wondering which style is right for you, we broke it all down.
Looking for something light and quick on the feet? Try the sleek Hoka Mach 6′s.
It’s not a typo for “Match” — the “Mach” title of this shoe refers to a way of measuring speed, often associated with airplanes. Speed is the name of the game, as the Mach 6 is an everyday running shoe that’s light enough for race day. With a responsive, neutral cushion, they’ll give you that quick underfoot feel. You’ll get closer to the ground than with other more cushiony Hoka styles but still benefit from the brand’s celebrated comfort support. If you like something light on the feet, these are your kicks. Find them for 20% off in select colors in women’s sizes 5-11 and men’s sizes 7-14.
Promising review: “I work in healthcare and I’m on my feet 90% or more of the day. I’ve worn the bondi’s in the past but like how these are more sleek. Instantly comfortable and my feet don’t throb after a long day. They are also work well with orthotics inserts if that’s a need. The tongue is also a thin rubber layer with a comfortable mess layer underneath and an elastic band on either side that helps hold it in place. Always a hoka lover but definitely a Mach 6 convert” — The T
Want to hit the trails and feel stable on unpaved terrail? Grab the nature-ready Challenger 7′s.
With a sole inspired by gravel tires, the Challenger 7′s are an all-terrain, trail-running sneaker made to keep you steady. This model has a little more cushion than previous Challenger styles, for that “plushy” Hoka feel, while still giving you superior durability and traction. For what it’s worth, one reviewer says these kicks made them finally “get all the buzz about Hoka.” They work for road running, walking and city exploring too and the extended heel pull makes them easier to get on and off. Find select colors 20% off in women’s sizes 5-11 and men’s sizes 7-15.
Promising review: “I love these for everything I have used them for so far: road, mellow trails and technical trails in the wet and dry. They fit my foot better than the speedgoat and I like the cushioning and ground feel better than the Mafate Speed.” — MC
Craving a straightforward walking and running shoe with a cushion but not bulk? You need the Clifton 9′s.
The Clifton is one of the more classic Hoka styles, yet the model 9 is new and improved. The shoe comes with 3 extra millimeters of stack height (i.e. the distance between your foot and the ground), yet is masterfully designed to be lighter than previous models. It gives you extra plush in the heel while still keeping your stride smooth. Bonus points for the reflective heel strip, keeping you more visible when walking or running at night. Grab these for 20% off in certain colors in women’s sizes 5-12, and men’s sizes 7-14, both with wide options.
Promising review: “To compare the Clifton 8 to the 9, these new 9′s are a little bit wider in the toe box a tiny bit longer. Much more cushy in the heel. They feel excellent on my feet (heel spurs, severe toe arthritis). I am not a runner, I’m a walker, and these are perfect for my daily walks and all baking marathons in my kitchen.” — Jtap
The Real Deal: We use deal trackers and commerce experience to sift through “fake” hike-and-drop deals and other deceptive sales tactics. Products will usually be rated at least 4 stars with a minimum 15% discount. (And when there’s an exception, we’ll tell you why.)