Brand Overview – What Sets Brooks and HOKA Apart?
Brooks and HOKA are two of the largest brands in the running industry. While both provide a multitude of different options for different runners, they tend to be quite different in each shoe they release.
Brooks are going to be your classic, familiar running shoes known for their reliable structure and dependability . These are often runners' favorite, and the brand runners tend to come back to.
HOKA take on a more modern approach to designing and creating shoes. HOKA's identifying detail is their maximalist approach to cushion, the Clifton 10 and the Bondi 9, which are HOKA's most poplar options, are both max cushion, while also being lightweight.
Fit and Feel Comparison
When it comes to fit and feel, Brooks tends to have a snug and structured fit to give the runner a sense of security in their foot with each stride. Brooks likes to have a higher heel-toe drop averaging between 10mm and 12mm.
HOKA identifies themselves to have a wider toe box and wider design, and providing runners with a softer, more plush ride due to that soft cushion and high stack height they are famous for. HOKA are also known for having a lower heel-toe drop in their shoes with most of their shoes being 5mm.
Cushioning + Support: Which Feels Better on the Run?
While on a run, both brands offer different things. HOKA is a great option for recovery runs as well as overall comfort, this is due in part to the amount of midsole cushion in HOKA footwear, as well as the frame and rocker. The shoes are designed to take some pressure off of your legs by adding increased shock absorption, increased stability, as well as roll your foot forward.
Best Shoe Options from Each Brand
Some recommendations from each brands are:
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25: Versatile daily trainer made for support and stability. Contains Brooks' Go To Support Technology to provide a extra stability to those who overpronate
Brooks Glycerin 23: Neutral max cushion daily trainer made for smooth miles. Contains soft cushion throughout the midsole. This shoe also comes in a stability option containing GTS
Brooks Ghost 17: Neutral daily trainer good for people who want one shoe for everything. The structured cushion in the midsole lends itself well to multiple activities such as running, the gym, or an an evening walk.
HOKA Bondi 9: The HOKA Bondi 9 is the winner in recovery shoes. The soft maximum cushion takes a lot of the pressure off of the joins due to its superb shock absorption capabilities, while also having a close to neutral drop for a more natural feel. The Bondi 9 is also a leader when it comes to walking for very much the same reasons.
HOKA Clifton 10: Similar to the Bondi 9, The HOKA Clifton 10 is a little more down to earth. Keeping the max cushion the same, the Clifton 10 has 1mm less of stack compared to the Bondi 9, with 3 more millimeters of drop to combat the compression of the foam, to still keep the 5mm drop feel from the Clifton 9. With some added width and softer cushion, it has been dubbed the ultimate daily trainer.
HOKA Arahi 8: HOKA's leading stability option, feels a lot like the Bondi 9 and Clifton 10. What has been referred the stability version of the Clifton 10. The wider toe box feel, a higher stack height paired with a soft cushion feel is very much like the Clifton 10, except the Arahi 8 has an H-frame in it as opposed to a J-frame which contributes to the stability, keeping the foot in a central position.
Who Should Choose Brooks vs. Hoka?
Runners with overpronation who prefer a lower stack height and a more snug, secure feel should look more into choosing Brooks as much of their lineup caters to that market. Whereas HOKA is geared more toward the runners who want a wider, more bouncy, soft-cushioned feel. Whether it is for walking, recover, or preference.
Well which is right for you? The best way to find out is by trying our new Fit Experience at your local Fit2Run store! Testing measurements, pressure points, and gait analysis is the best way to Find Your Fit. Step into a pair of Brooks or HOKA today.
FAQs: Brooks vs. Hoka Running Shoes
Q1: Are Hoka or Brooks better for long-distance running?
Both work well, but Hoka’s max cushioning is ideal for long, easy miles, while Brooks offers more structure and support for tempo or daily training.
Q2: Which is better for flat feet: Hoka or Brooks?
Brooks shoes with stability features (like the Adrenaline GTS) are often preferred by flat-footed runners, but Hoka’s Arahi and Gaviota also offer excellent support.
Q3: Is Hoka or Brooks better for beginners?
It depends on what you want—Hoka offers plush comfort and a smooth ride; Brooks provides a more traditional, stable feel that some beginners prefer.
Q4: Which brand lasts longer?
Both brands make durable shoes that typically last 300–500 miles, but longevity depends on the model, terrain, and wear patterns.
Q5: Can I use Brooks or Hoka for walking?
Yes! Both brands make walking-friendly models. Hoka’s cushioning is great for joint relief, while Brooks offers support and structure for daily movement.
