Hoka rolled out the latest version of this shoe, the Clifton 10, in April, but the Clifton 9 is still an excellent choice for everyday training based on editor testing. The Clifton 9s are a neutral shoe with plenty of cushioning, and remains one of the brand’s most popular options. These shoes are lightweight and good for both casual and serious runners. With 11 colorways on sale, you’ve got a lot to choose from.
Hoka recently released the Arahi 8, driving down the price of its predecessor. The Arahi 7 is a stability shoe that relies on the brand’s J-frame technology, a firm midsole that goes around the heel and supports the forefoot. The shoe is a great choice for overpronators and definitely has a more controlled feel than your average trainer. Men’s Health editors prefer this shoe and its firm support for long days on your feet. Heads up: It runs narrow, so you may want to choose a wide option.
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Hokas in general won’t weigh you down, but the Mach 6 is especially lightweight, clocking in at a mere 8.2 ounces. This shoe features a dual-density cushioning system that keeps EVA foam close to your foot for a responsive feel. It’s slightly firmer than some other Hoka models to be better for speed work, but still offers plenty of comfort. A meta-rocker sole makes transitions a breeze. Sizes are admittedly limited at the moment, but the under-$100 price tag still makes this worth a mention.
For fartleks and other speed work, reach for the Mach X2. The sleek trainer has lightweight PEBA foam for impressive energy return without weighing you down, along with an extended Pebax plate for added support. There’s also an aggressive rocker design for easier transitions. Just a heads up: This shoe tends to run about half a size small, based on our testing and online feedback.
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if you are a trail-runner who likes to rip into some hills, the Speedgoat 6 is a great pick. If jogging along the beach or through muddy water is more your speed, I’ve personally put the Speedgoat 6 through some rough hikes and they’ve done a great job at keeping my feet protected on difficult terrain.
Not every road-running shoe is good for trails, and vice-versa. The Elevon X combines elements of both, so you can seamlessly transition between the two surfaces on the same run. The shoe has a Pebax plate for support, along with a trail-friendly leather mudguard to protect your footwear. It doesn’t hurt that this shoe has a futuristic look, too.
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The Transport is a lifestyle shoe that still delivers the same level of comfort you’ll get with a standard Hoka trainer. These slip-ons have a toggle lace for a snug fit, along with a balanced feel to provide cushioning throughout your day. The upper’s water repellency is a nice pro when you get caught in the rain.
Standing all day can be murder for your feet. The Bondi B3LS is a lifestyle shoe that blends performance and comfort, with an extra-cushioned midsole to support your feet, whether it’s over long walks or extended workdays. The heel pull tab and toggle laces make it easy to get these shoes on and off fast.
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Hoka offers an arsenal of options for trail runs via its Mafate line, but the Mafate Speed 2 is a bestseller. It feels lightweight underfoot (for a trail shoe), with deep grooves in the outsole for superior grip. The brand’s Early Stage MetaRocker design promotes a more natural gait, even when you’re navigating uneven terrain. You’ll appreciate the exterior debris screen and its ability to keep out pebbles, too.
This sweatshirt was just marked down, and it’s already flying into carts. The Kaitoro Knit Crew is an incredibly soft sweatshirt with a slight stretch and roomy-enough fit, creating a lived-in feel from the start. We like the subtle kangaroo pocket with its internal zipper—it’s perfect for carrying around your essentials before or after a run.
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When recovery time hits, slide into these joggers. The Essential Jogger uses brushed-back fleece for an incredibly soft feel, making it even easier to kick back after a long run. The relaxed fit is a perk, too. Deep pockets in the front and a fold-over pocket in back give you plenty of options to carry around your essentials hands-free.
Socks can seem like an afterthought purchase until you actually try a high-quality pair. Hoka’s Trail Crew uses a blend of moisture-wicking merino wool, nylon, and elastane for a snug-enough fit to keep them in place during hikes and trail runs. The sock has a cushioned footbed, heel, and toe, along with targeted arch support for maximum comfort. Choose from two on-sale colors.
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Korin Miller is a freelance writer specializing in general wellness, sexual health and relationships, and lifestyle trends, with work appearing in Men’s Health, Women’s Health, Self, Glamour, and more. She has a master’s degree from American University, lives by the beach, and hopes to own a teacup pig and taco truck one day.
Charles Thorp is the Fitness and Commerce Editor at Men’s Health, where he shares the best product recommendations in gym equipment, recovery tools, supplements, and more. Following an early life in athletics, Charles became a NASM-certified trainer and began writing programs alongside the most respected coaches in the world.
Since entering the world of fitness content, Charles has had the opportunity to learn from and train alongside high performance individuals from the NFL, UFC, NBA, Formula 1, CrossFit, US Olympics, and Navy SEALs. When he’s not writing about training programs or gear, he can be seen at the gym or in the wild, putting them to the test.