Do Hokas Run Big, True To Size, Or Small?

Hoka One One is a well-known brand specializing in running shoes. But, do Hokas run big, small, or true to size? Should you go a half size down or half size up from your current shoe size? If you are about to get a new pair of Hoka for running, this article will help you have a glance at which Hoka shoe size best fits your feet.

Do Hokas Run Big, True To Size, Or Small?

The short answer is that it depends. The size of a Hoka shoe depends on two criteria – the size of it versus that of other shoe brands, and the Hoka shoe form itself. In other words, some Hoka shoes are either true to size, big, or narrow.

First, the size of Hoka shoes is similar to that of Brooks, New Balance, or Asics. Thus, if you have a pair of shoes from these three brands, you can say that Hoka shoes are true to size.

Second, besides the announced sizes, the size of Hoka shoes also depends on their shoe form. Almost all Hoka shoes are true to size. Some popular models to be named are Clifton 7, Rincon, Arahi 5, Carbon X, Mach 4, Rocket X, etc.

However, if you need more space for your toe inside the shoes (or vice versa), you should go for Hokas that are wide or narrow. This specification is called ‘toebox size’ on Hoka’s website. So, which Hokas run narrow and which run wide? And how big do Hokas run?

Many Hoka shoes have a narrow form. Hoka Clifton and Bondi for training purposes, Carbon X for high-speed runners, or Speedgoat for trail running are several models of this side. On the other hand, 18% of the current models from the Hoka family are available in the wide toebox option, including Rincon 3, Bondi 8, Clifton 8, etc. Some models with a wide-fit profile are available in size D (for women’s Hokas) and size 2E (for men’s Hokas).

You should check the shoe’s specifications and customer feedback to get the exact shoe fit for yourself.

Hoka Sizing Chart

Hoka excels in running shoes. Thus, it has a comprehensive product range for shoe sizing. You can find your shoe size in the following sizing chart.

Hoka men’s size chart

Hoka women’s size chart

Hoka shoe’s sizing vs some shoe brands

If you have running shoes from other brands like Asics, Nike, or Adidas, you might want to cross-check your shoe size in the Hoka sizing system to get your best-fit shoe size.

How To Find Your Hoka Shoe Size?

It is important to get your exact shoe size, especially in running. You should ensure that your Hokas fit perfectly. Wearing shoes that are too wide or too narrow can badly affect your performance, or even lead to severe injuries.

You know that you have chosen the right Hoka shoe size when:

• Proper toe fit: There is a thumb’s width between your toe and the shoe’s end.
• Heel and midfoot fit: You have a snug fit (but not too tight) at the heel and the midfoot.

Understanding your feet’ shape is also the key to getting your perfect shoe size. Hoka is known more widely for its extensive cushioned soles than other brands. More cushioning means that your feet have more space inside and won’t feel pressed while on the road.

Thus, Hoka shoes are great for wide feet or flat feet runners. Still, if you have narrow feet, Hoka shoes might not be the best option for you. Your feet will be pushed to the toebox and cause discomfort.

If this is the first time you get running shoes, you should go directly to the nearest store to get a real try-on experience. You know that your shoes are appropriate for you when they securely hug around your heel and midfoot but still have enough room for your toes. In some stores, there are treadmills to help new customers evaluate the shoes while running.

Should you size it up or down?

You should size up your shoes if you have any inconvenience or hurt while wearing them, like blisters between toes or on top of toes, bruised toes, or tingling/numbness in the toes. Hoka shoes are made to be ready to use out of the box. So, if you feel hurt or your toes are pushed too close to the front when wearing your shoes, they might be too narrow for you.

You should size down your shoes if you see any performance degradation while doing any activities that require foot portability.

Switching From Regular Sneakers To Hoka Shoes

Sneakers from Vans or Converse are flexible for daily, fashionable outfits. But they might lack support if you use them for training, walking, or running. You can consider switching from sneakers to Hoka shoes if you use your shoes for intense exercising purposes.

Hokas are not regular sneakers with cushioning. They are manufactured with maximum stability and shock absorption, which lessens the impact on your body while you are moving. Their provided extra support makes them slightly heavier than regular sneakers. You might feel them a little bit bulky at first, but you will shortly get used to them after a few runs.

Check more: Kuru vs Hoka Shoes In-depth Comparison

Other FAQs about Hoka Shoes

1. Are Hoka shoes good for running?

Hoka is one of the best brands for running shoes, competing with giants in the industry like Nike, Asics, New Balance, and Brooks. They provide innovative extra thick cushioning to absorb shocks and lessen the impact on your body. Plus, they are made of high-quality, durable fabrics, allowing them to maintain their shape and performance for hundreds of miles.

Thus, Hoka is the favorite choice of pro-athletes like Heather Jackson, Patrik Nilsson, Boris Stein, Tim O’Donnell, etc.

2. How do Hokas fit compared to Nikes?

While most Hokas are true to size, all Nike shoes are small. So if you switch from Nike to Hoka, you should buy your Hoka in 0.5 US size smaller than your Nike.

3. Do Hoka Clifton 8 true to size?

The Hoka Clifton 8 is true to size. Yet, it inherits the signature narrow fit of Hoka with a small toe box and midfoot. If you have wide feet, you should get the wide version.

Final Thoughts

Whether you are a starter or a professional runner, Hoka is a great option, provided that you pick up your appropriate model and size. After answering the question “Do Hokas run true to size?”, you have had more information to find the right size for your feet. Why wait any longer? Try a pair of Hokas and see how well it can elevate your performance!