Hoka One One
HOKA ONE ONE (pronounced “O-nay O-nay”), has arrived! Since 2001, HOKA ONE ONE has been on a quest to bring new and elevated benefits to all runners and now it is the turn of New Zealanders.
HOKA ONE ONE shoes are based on the concept of oversized constructs in which a larger “sweet-spot” is utilized to aid performance. Hoka has engineered a unique performance midsole geometry that features a higher volume, softer density, and greater rebounding foam than standard running shoes. When combined with maximal cushioning, this provides runners of all types with an energizing, stable ride. Understanding that natural foot motion is extremely important for uniformity of stride, HOKA ONE ONE incorporates minimum drop geometry along with a rolling rocker design to promote consistent rhythm in the runner’s foot strike.
While from the outside, maximalist shoes appear to be the antithesis of their minimalist counterparts, in reality they have taken a lot from modern minimalist designs, including: materials that are as light as possible, avoiding excess materials and incorporating low to moderate heel-toe offsets (anywhere from 0 to 8mm).
Considered the go-to shoe for long-distance running, a conservative estimate at some of the United State’s biggest ultra races last year put HOKA ONE ONE usage at 40 to 60 percent of all runners. Why? Because that extra cushion is appreciated during long hours of pounding the pavements and trails. However, HOKA ONE ONE are by no means limited to ultra running circles and today can be found at races from 5km to 100 miles across the U.S and at numerous local running shops. HOKA ONE ONE is a shoe for all runners, from joggers to elite athletes looking to improve performance
HOKA ONE ONE was started on a wild idea by Frenchmen Nicolas Mermoud and Jean-Luc Diard, with the intent of making a modern trail running shoe for the rugged mountain races in the Alps, Pyrenees and Dolomites. After finding success early on, they then used a similar design ethos and technology to develop road running shoes as well.
