Hoka vs Allbirds Shoes

Both brands make awesome shoes, but they’re quite different from each other. I’m going to help you understand what makes each brand special so you can pick the perfect pair for your feet!

Hoka and Allbirds are two popular shoe companies that focus on different things. Hoka is known for their super cushioned, thick-soled shoes that are great for running and walking.

Allbirds is famous for making comfortable, eco-friendly shoes from natural materials like wool and tree fiber. Let’s explore everything about these two brands – from how they’re made to how they look – so you can decide which one is right for you!

Hoka vs Allbirds Shoes

Hoka and Allbirds shoes is their primary design focus. Hoka specializes in performance-oriented maximalist running shoes with thick cushioning and technical features, while Allbirds emphasizes sustainability with eco-friendly materials like merino wool and eucalyptus fibers in minimalist, comfort-centric designs for everyday casual wear.

A Detailed Comparison Table: Finding the Best Choice for Your Comfort and Needs!

Feature	Hoka Shoes	Allbirds Shoes
Primary Purpose	Athletic performance, running, walking	Casual everyday wear, sustainability
Founded	2009 in France by runners	2016 in New Zealand/USA
Materials	Synthetic performance fabrics, technical foams	Natural wool, eucalyptus tree fiber, sugarcane foam
Cushioning	Maximum cushioning with extra thick soles	Moderate cushioning with standard thickness
Sole Design	Meta-rocker shape (curved bottom)	Traditional flat design
Eco-Friendly	Some sustainable practices	Major focus with certified sustainable materials
Price Range	$125-$200	$98-$135
Best For	Running, fitness, standing all day	Casual wear, comfort, everyday activities
Breathability	Engineered mesh with technical ventilation	Natural temperature regulation from wool/tree fiber
Width Options	Regular and wide in many models	Medium width only
Care	Spot clean, not machine washable	Many styles machine washable
Weight	Surprisingly light despite thick cushioning	Lightweight with standard cushioning
Appearance	Distinctive chunky, technical look	Minimalist, simple, clean design
Specialization	Athletic performance	Comfort and sustainability
Traction	Specialized rubber for various surfaces	Basic traction for everyday use

In summary: Hoka and Allbirds represent completely different approaches to footwear. Hoka specializes in maximum-cushioned athletic shoes with distinctive thick soles and rocker bottoms, designed primarily for running performance and all-day comfort for people on their feet.

Allbirds focuses on casual, everyday shoes made from sustainable natural materials like merino wool and eucalyptus tree fiber, with a simple design philosophy prioritizing comfort and environmental impact over athletic performance.

The History of Hoka and Allbirds

Hoka History

Hoka (pronounced “Hoe-kah”) started in 2009 in France. The founders were mountain runners who wanted to create shoes that would make running downhill easier and more comfortable. They made shoes with extra-thick cushioning that looked very different from other running shoes at the time.

The name “Hoka One One” (now just called Hoka) comes from a Maori language phrase that means “to fly over the earth.” This name fits perfectly with how their shoes feel – like you’re floating above the ground!

In just a few years, Hoka shoes became super popular with runners, and now many people wear them for walking and everyday activities too because they’re so comfortable.

Allbirds History

Allbirds has an even shorter history than Hoka! The company started in 2016 when Tim Brown (a former soccer player from New Zealand) and Joey Zwillinger (an engineer and renewable materials expert) teamed up. They wanted to create comfortable, simple shoes made from natural, sustainable materials.

The first Allbirds shoes were the Wool Runners, made from New Zealand merino wool. These shoes quickly became popular because they were super comfortable, machine washable, and better for the planet than many other shoes.

Since then, Allbirds has added more styles and materials, but they’ve kept their focus on comfort and sustainability.

Durability: Which Shoes Last Longer?

Hoka Durability

Hoka shoes are built to be durable, especially for running and walking. The thick midsole (the foam part between your foot and the ground) is made to last through many miles without getting flat. Most Hoka shoes have rubber in high-wear areas of the outsole (the bottom part that touches the ground), which helps them last longer.

On average, Hoka running shoes last around 300-500 miles of running before they need to be replaced. For casual walking, they can last much longer. The upper parts (the fabric that covers your foot) are well-made with strong stitching that doesn’t come apart easily.

Allbirds Durability

Allbirds shoes are reasonably durable for casual wear, but they’re not specifically designed for high-impact activities like running. The natural materials they use, like wool and eucalyptus tree fiber, feel great but may wear out faster than the synthetic materials used in many athletic shoes.

The soles of Allbirds shoes are made from sugarcane-based foam (which they call SweetFoam) and rubber, providing good durability for everyday use. However, if you use Allbirds for running or sports, they might wear out faster than shoes specifically designed for those activities.

For everyday casual wear, both brands can last a good while, but for athletic activities, Hoka shoes will typically last longer.

Breathability: Keeping Your Feet Cool

Hoka Breathability

Hoka shoes need good breathability because all that cushioning could potentially make your feet hot. To solve this, Hoka uses engineered mesh materials in the upper parts of their shoes. This mesh has tiny holes that allow air to flow through, keeping your feet cooler and drier.

Different Hoka models have different levels of breathability. Their trail running shoes might be less breathable but more protective, while their road running shoes typically have better airflow. In general, Hoka does a good job with breathability for athletic shoes.

Allbirds Breathability

Breathability is one of Allbirds’ strong points! Their Wool Runners are made from merino wool, which has natural temperature-regulating properties. This means the wool can keep your feet warm when it’s cold, but also cool when it’s hot. Wool also naturally wicks away moisture.

Their Tree line of shoes (Tree Runners, Tree Loungers, etc.) are made from eucalyptus tree fiber, which is extremely breathable and perfect for warmer weather. Many people find they can comfortably wear Allbirds without socks because of how well they manage temperature and moisture.

For overall breathability, especially for casual daily wear, Allbirds might have a slight edge. However, for intense athletic activities, Hoka’s engineered mesh works very well too.

Cushioning: How They Feel When You Walk

Hoka Cushioning

Cushioning is where Hoka really stands out! Hoka pioneered the “maximalist” approach to cushioning, with much thicker midsoles than traditional running shoes. When you put on a pair of Hokas, you’ll immediately notice how soft and pillowy they feel under your feet.

Despite all this cushioning, Hoka shoes are surprisingly lightweight. The foam they use is designed to be soft yet responsive, meaning it absorbs impact well but still gives you some energy return when you push off. This makes them comfortable for long periods of standing or walking.

Hoka’s cushioning is especially good for people with joint pain or those who need extra impact protection. The thick foam acts like a shock absorber for your feet, knees, and hips.

Allbirds Cushioning

Allbirds shoes provide good cushioning for casual everyday wear, but it’s different from Hoka’s maximum cushioning approach. Allbirds uses their SweetFoam midsole, which is made from sugarcane and provides comfortable cushioning that’s on par with many casual sneakers.

The cushioning in Allbirds is more moderate – enough to feel comfortable for walking and daily activities, but not as thick or bouncy as Hoka’s. The wool insoles in many Allbirds models add an extra layer of soft comfort that molds to your feet over time.

If you’re looking for maximum cushioning, especially for high-impact activities, Hoka wins here. If you want comfortable cushioning for everyday casual wear, Allbirds provides plenty.

Shoe Fit: Finding Your Perfect Size

Hoka Fit

Hoka shoes generally have a medium width in the heel and midfoot, with a slightly wider toe box (the front part where your toes go). This gives your toes some room to spread out naturally, which many people find comfortable.

Most Hoka models come in regular and wide widths, which helps more people find a good fit. Some people find they need to go up a half-size in Hokas compared to their usual size, but this varies depending on the specific model.

Hokas have a secure heel fit to prevent slipping, and many models have a meta-rocker design (a curved shape from heel to toe) that helps roll your foot forward with each step.

Allbirds Fit

Allbirds shoes tend to have a relaxed, comfortable fit. The wool and tree fiber materials have some natural stretch, which helps the shoes conform to your foot shape. This creates a custom-like fit that gets even better as you wear them more.

Allbirds only comes in whole sizes (no half sizes), and they recommend sizing up if you’re between sizes. They also only come in a medium width – they don’t offer narrow or wide options. The toe box is generally roomy and the overall fit is described as slightly loose rather than snug.

If you need specific width options, Hoka offers more choices. If you prefer a relaxed, more flexible fit, Allbirds might feel better to you.

Stability: Keeping You Steady on Your Feet

Hoka Stability

You might think that Hoka’s thick cushioning would make their shoes unstable, but they’ve designed them cleverly to provide good stability. Many Hoka shoes have a wider base than the upper, creating a more stable platform. This design helps prevent wobbling despite the height of the cushioning.

Hoka also uses their “Active Foot Frame” technology, where your foot sits slightly down into the midsole rather than on top of it. This gives a more secure, cradled feeling.

Some Hoka models are specifically designed for stability (like the Arahi and Gaviota), with features that help prevent overpronation (when your foot rolls inward too much). Even their neutral shoes offer decent stability thanks to their wide base and secure upper fit.

Allbirds Stability

Allbirds shoes provide moderate stability suitable for everyday activities. They’re not specifically engineered for athletic performance or motion control like some Hokas are. The flexible, soft materials make Allbirds very comfortable but may not provide as much structure and support as more athletic shoes.

The SweetFoam soles provide a stable base for walking, and the wool or tree fiber uppers hug your feet gently. However, they don’t have the specialized stability features found in performance athletic shoes.

For activities that require a lot of side-to-side movement or technical terrain, Hoka provides better stability. For normal walking and daily wear, both brands offer enough stability for most people.

Comfort: How They Feel All Day Long

Hoka Comfort

Comfort is one of Hoka’s biggest strengths! Their shoes are designed to feel good from the moment you put them on, with no break-in period needed. The plush cushioning absorbs impact exceptionally well, which helps reduce fatigue when you’re on your feet all day.

Hoka’s meta-rocker design helps your foot roll through each step more efficiently, which can make walking feel easier and more comfortable. The roomy toe box allows your toes to spread naturally, and the secure heel fit prevents uncomfortable slipping.

Many people who stand all day for work (like nurses, teachers, and retail workers) love Hokas because they provide comfort that lasts through long shifts.

Allbirds Comfort

Comfort is also a major focus for Allbirds! Their shoes are famous for their soft, cozy feel – especially the Wool Runners, which feel almost like comfortable slippers but with more support. The natural materials mold to your feet and get even more comfortable over time.

The wool is soft against your skin, which is why many people wear Allbirds without socks. The material doesn’t cause blisters or hot spots, and it helps regulate temperature to keep your feet comfortable in various conditions.

Both brands excel at comfort, but in different ways. Hoka provides structured comfort with maximum cushioning and support, while Allbirds offers a more relaxed, natural comfort with soft, flexible materials.

Quality: How Well They’re Made

Hoka Quality

Hoka shoes are generally well-made with good attention to detail. The stitching is usually clean and secure, and the materials are high-quality. Since Hoka is focused primarily on running shoes, they put a lot of care into their designs and construction.

The midsole foam used in Hokas is specially formulated to be lightweight while still providing exceptional cushioning. This requires precise manufacturing to get right, and Hoka does a good job with consistency.

Hoka shoes aren’t the cheapest, but the quality matches their price point. They’re built to withstand the repeated impact of running, which means they’re more than durable enough for casual walking and everyday wear.

Allbirds Quality

Allbirds also makes quality shoes, with a focus on sustainable materials and ethical manufacturing. Their wool comes from ZQ-certified merino sheep farms that meet high standards for animal welfare, and their tree fiber is harvested from sustainably managed forests.

The construction of Allbirds is simpler than many athletic shoes – they have fewer parts and layers, which is part of their minimalist design philosophy. This simplicity doesn’t mean lower quality, but rather a different approach focused on comfort and sustainability rather than technical athletic performance.

Both brands make quality shoes appropriate for their intended purposes. Hoka focuses on technical athletic quality, while Allbirds prioritizes sustainable materials and simple, comfortable design.

Style: Looking Cool While Staying Comfortable

Hoka Style

Let’s be honest – when Hoka shoes first appeared, many people thought they looked strange! Their extremely thick soles and chunky appearance were very different from other running shoes. However, as chunky shoes have become trendy in fashion, Hoka’s distinctive look has become more appealing to many people.

Hokas are now worn not just for their comfort and performance but also as fashion statements. Celebrities and influencers have been spotted wearing Hokas, helping to increase their style credibility.

Hoka offers their shoes in a variety of colors, from subtle blacks and whites to bright, eye-catching combinations. Their unique silhouette is instantly recognizable, which appeals to people who want something different from standard athletic shoes.

Allbirds Style

Allbirds has a completely different style approach. They focus on simple, clean designs without flashy logos or unnecessary details. The Wool Runners have a distinctive, minimalist look that’s casual and versatile enough to wear with almost anything.

Allbirds shoes come in a range of solid colors, mostly in natural, earthy tones that reflect their eco-friendly brand identity. They don’t make shoes with bright patterns or bold color combinations like some athletic brands do.

The Allbirds look is more about understated style and versatility rather than standing out. They’re designed to look good with jeans, casual outfits, and even some work attire, rather than making a bold fashion statement.

Which style is better really depends on your personal preference. If you want something bold and distinctive, Hoka’s unique silhouette might appeal to you more. If you prefer simple, clean, versatile design, Allbirds might be more your style.

Material: What Are They Made Of?

Hoka Materials

Hoka uses modern, technical materials in their shoes. The upper parts are typically made from engineered mesh, which provides breathability while still offering structure and support. Some models use more robust materials for trail running or poor weather conditions.

The midsole – which is the star of any Hoka shoe – is made from specially formulated EVA foam or a blend of foams designed to provide maximum cushioning while still being lightweight. These proprietary foam blends are a key part of what makes Hokas unique.

The outsoles use rubber in strategic areas for durability and grip, with exposed foam in other areas to reduce weight. Some trail models have more aggressive rubber lugs for traction on rough terrain.

Allbirds Materials

Materials are what make Allbirds truly unique! Instead of synthetic materials, they use natural, renewable resources:

For their Wool collection, they use ZQ-certified merino wool from New Zealand. This wool is incredibly soft, naturally moisture-wicking, and temperature-regulating.

In their Tree collection, they use TENCEL™ Lyocell, a fiber made from eucalyptus trees. This material is breathable, silky smooth, and uses much less water to produce than cotton.

The insoles in most Allbirds use a combination of merino wool and castor bean oil, which provides cushioning while reducing the use of petroleum-based foams.

For the midsoles, Allbirds uses SweetFoam, made from sugarcane. The outsoles use natural rubber, and even the eyelets and laces are made from recycled plastic bottles.

The materials are a major difference between these brands. Hoka uses high-performance synthetic materials optimized for athletic use, while Allbirds prioritizes natural, sustainable materials optimized for comfort and environmental impact.

Weight: How Heavy They Feel On Your Feet

Hoka Weight

One of the most surprising things about Hoka shoes is how lightweight they are despite their thick cushioning! The specially designed foams are much lighter than they look. For example, the popular Hoka Clifton weighs only about 8.9 ounces (252 grams) for a men’s size 9, which is quite light for a cushioned running shoe.

Hoka’s philosophy seems to be adding cushioning without adding significant weight. Their shoes don’t feel clunky or heavy on your feet, which is important for comfort during long walks or runs.

Allbirds Weight

Allbirds shoes are also relatively lightweight, though not specifically engineered for minimum weight like performance running shoes. The Wool Runners weigh approximately 8.5 ounces (241 grams) for a men’s size 9, which is similar to the Hoka Clifton despite their very different designs.

The lightweight SweetFoam midsole and simple construction help keep Allbirds from feeling heavy on your feet. The natural materials don’t add unnecessary weight, making them comfortable for all-day wear.

Both brands offer lightweight shoes that won’t weigh you down, though Hoka’s ability to provide maximum cushioning while maintaining a low weight is particularly impressive from an engineering perspective.

Flexibility: How They Bend With Your Foot

Hoka Flexibility

Given their thick soles, you might expect Hoka shoes to be stiff, but they’ve engineered them to provide adequate flexibility. Many Hoka models use a meta-rocker design (a curved shape from heel to toe) that reduces the need for the shoe to flex as much. This rocker helps roll your foot forward through each step.

Hokas do have flex grooves cut into the outsole to allow natural foot movement, but they’re generally less flexible than minimalist shoes. This moderate flexibility works well with their cushioning design and actually helps provide stability.

Allbirds Flexibility

Allbirds shoes tend to be quite flexible, especially after you’ve worn them for a while. The natural materials mold to your feet and move with them, rather than restricting them. This creates a comfortable, natural feeling when walking.

The SweetFoam sole is designed to be flexible enough for natural movement while still providing cushioning and support. The wool and tree fiber uppers have natural stretch that accommodates foot movements and different foot shapes.

For natural flexibility that moves with your foot, Allbirds has an advantage. If you prefer a shoe that guides your foot motion with a rocker design, Hoka’s approach might work better for you.

Water Resistance: Keeping Your Feet Dry

Hoka Water Resistance

Most standard Hoka shoes aren’t designed to be waterproof, but they do offer some models with water-resistant features. Their trail running shoes often have more water resistance than their road running models, with treated uppers that repel light rain and morning dew.

Hoka does make some specialty models with waterproof membranes (like GORE-TEX) for wet weather conditions. These keep your feet much drier in rain and puddles, though they’re typically more expensive and slightly less breathable than non-waterproof versions.

Allbirds Water Resistance

One of the cool things about wool is that it has natural water-resistant properties! The Allbirds Wool Runners can handle light rain or dew without getting soaked immediately. While they’re not waterproof, the wool can absorb up to 30% of its weight in moisture before feeling wet against your skin.

Allbirds also makes a weather-resistant collection called the Mizzle series, which adds a bio-based water repellent shield to their wool and tree shoes. These provide better protection in wet conditions while maintaining the comfort Allbirds is known for.

Both brands offer options for wet weather, but in their standard models, the natural wool in Allbirds might provide a slight edge in light rain situations.

Sole: What’s On The Bottom Of The Shoe

Hoka Soles

The sole is a defining feature of Hoka shoes! Their midsoles are much thicker than traditional running shoes, providing that maximum cushioning they’re famous for. The actual outsole (the bottom layer that contacts the ground) uses rubber in high-wear areas, with exposed foam in other spots to reduce weight.

Hoka’s meta-rocker geometry gives their soles a distinctive curved shape that helps roll your foot forward through each stride. This design helps compensate for the thickness of the sole by promoting smooth movement.

For trail models, Hoka uses more aggressive lug patterns on the outsole to provide traction on loose or slippery surfaces. Their road shoes have smoother outsoles designed for pavement and indoor surfaces.

Allbirds Soles

Allbirds soles are much simpler in design than Hoka’s. They use their SweetFoam midsole, made from renewable sugarcane, which provides cushioning without the extreme thickness of Hoka shoes. The outsole uses natural rubber with a simple traction pattern suitable for everyday wear.

The sole design of Allbirds focuses on everyday comfort rather than specialized athletic performance. It’s flatter than Hoka’s rocker design, providing a more neutral platform for your foot. The sole flexibility allows for natural movement rather than guiding your foot motion like Hoka’s meta-rocker design.

The soles represent the different philosophies of these brands: Hoka’s technical, performance-oriented approach versus Allbirds’ simple, sustainable, comfort-focused design.

User Reviews and Ratings

Brand & Model	Overall Rating	Comfort	Durability	Style
Hoka Clifton 9	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐☆	⭐⭐⭐☆☆
Allbirds Wool Runners	⭐⭐⭐⭐☆	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐☆☆	⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Hoka Bondi 8	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐☆	⭐⭐⭐☆☆
Allbirds Tree Runners	⭐⭐⭐⭐☆	⭐⭐⭐⭐☆	⭐⭐⭐☆☆	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Price Comparison

Brand & Model	Regular Price	Sale Price (Common)	Best For
Hoka Clifton 9	$145	$110-$130	All-day comfort, road running
Allbirds Wool Runners	$110	Rarely on sale	Casual wear, cooler weather
Hoka Bondi 8	$165	$130-$150	Maximum cushioning, walking
Allbirds Tree Runners	$105	Rarely on sale	Casual wear, warmer weather
Hoka Speedgoat	$155	$120-$140	Trail running, hiking
Allbirds Wool Runner Mizzles	$135	Rarely on sale	Wet weather, casual wear

Pros and Cons

Hoka Shoes

Pros	Cons
Super thick cushioning that feels like walking on clouds	Usually cost more money than Allbirds
Great for running and sports activities	Not made from natural materials
Extra support helps with foot and knee pain	Look very chunky with thick soles
Come in regular and wide sizes for different feet	Not as environmentally friendly
Good for standing or walking all day	Not machine washable
Made specifically for athletic activities	Not as stylish for everyday outfits
Extremely comfortable for long walks or runs	Can look too sporty with some clothes
Special curved bottom helps you walk and run	Limited color choices compared to some brands

Allbirds Shoes

Pros	Cons
Made from natural materials like wool and tree fiber	Not good for serious running or sports
Better for the environment and planet	Only come in medium width
Many styles can be cleaned in washing machine	Less cushioning for long walks
Simple style that looks good with many outfits	Not as supportive for foot problems
Can be worn comfortably without socks	Wear out faster with heavy use
Naturally control temperature and smell	More expensive than regular casual shoes
Super soft and cozy feeling materials	Not good for rainy weather (except Mizzles)
Company cares about being eco-friendly	Not designed for athletic performance

Conclusion

After looking at all these features, which brand should you choose? It really depends on what you need and prefer in a shoe!

Choose Hoka if:

• You want maximum cushioning and impact protection
• You’re looking for shoes primarily for running or fitness walking
• You have joint pain or foot issues that need extra support
• You’ll be on your feet all day and need serious comfort
• You want shoes specifically designed for athletic performance
• You need wide width options

Choose Allbirds if:

• You want comfortable casual shoes for everyday wear
• Eco-friendly materials and sustainability are important to you
• You prefer natural materials against your skin
• You like simple, minimalist style that goes with everything
• You want shoes you can wear without socks
• Temperature regulation and breathability are priorities

Both Hoka and Allbirds make excellent shoes, but they’re designed for different purposes. Hoka excels in athletic performance and maximum cushioning, while Allbirds focuses on sustainable materials, simple style, and everyday comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions