Hoka vs Brooks Shoes

Both brands make awesome athletic shoes, but they have different features that might make one better for you than the other.

Hoka is known for super thick cushioning, while Brooks focuses on a balance of cushioning and support.

We’ll compare everything from how they feel on your feet to how long they last. By the end, you’ll know which brand might work better for your activities!

Hoka vs Brooks Shoes

Hoka and Brooks shoes is their cushioning approach. Hoka shoes feature maximalist cushioning with extra-thick midsoles (sometimes up to 1.5 inches thick) and a distinctive meta-rocker design for a cloud-like, bouncy feel.

Brooks shoes offer more traditional, balanced cushioning that focuses on the right blend of softness and responsiveness, with more stability features and width options.

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

Feature	Hoka	Brooks
Cushioning	Maximum (very thick foam)	Balanced (moderate to plush)
Sole Thickness	25-40mm (up to 1.5 inches)	20-30mm (moderate thickness)
Founded	2009 in France	1914 in the United States
Stability	Meta-rocker design, wide base	GuideRails system, targeted support
Fit Options	Limited width options	Multiple width options (N, M, W, XW)
Weight	8-11 ounces per shoe	9-11 ounces per shoe
Durability	300-500 miles	400-600 miles
Price Range	$130-$200	$100-$160
Specialty	Maximum cushioning	Stability and support
Popular Models	Clifton, Bondi, Speedgoat	Ghost, Adrenaline GTS, Glycerin
Style	Distinctive, chunky appearance	Traditional running shoe look
Best For	Cushioning, joint protection	Support, varied foot types
Extra Features	Meta-rocker design	GuideRails support system
Foot Types	Better for neutral runners	Options for all pronation types

In summary: Hoka and Brooks both make excellent running shoes, but they take different approaches. Hoka focuses on maximum cushioning with their thick, cloud-like soles and meta-rocker design, making them ideal for people seeking impact protection and comfort.

Brooks offers more traditional cushioning with better stability features and width options, making them versatile for different foot types.

Brand Background

Hoka: The Cushion Champions

Hoka (sometimes called Hoka One One) started in 2009 in France. Two runners created these shoes with extra-thick soles to make running downhill more comfortable.

The name “Hoka One One” means “fly over the earth” in the Maori language. Hoka shoes are famous for their big, soft soles that make you feel like you’re bouncing on clouds!

Brooks: The Running Specialists

Brooks has been around much longer – since 1914! While they originally made many types of athletic shoes, in 2001 they decided to focus only on running shoes.

Brooks is known for creating reliable shoes with good support and cushioning. Many runners trust Brooks because they’ve been perfecting their shoes for so long.

Cushioning: How Soft Are They?

Hoka’s Maximum Cushioning

Hoka is famous for their thick cushioning. Their shoes have much more foam than most other brands – sometimes up to 1.5 inches thick!

This super-soft foam absorbs shock when your foot hits the ground. Hokas feel bouncy and protective, which many people love for long walks or runs.

“When I wear my Hokas, it feels like I’m walking on marshmallows,” says Jamie, age 13. “My feet don’t hurt even after being at the theme park all day.”

Brooks Balanced Cushioning

Brooks offers good cushioning too, but it’s more balanced and traditional than Hoka. Brooks cushioning tends to feel more responsive – it absorbs shock but also helps you bounce back. Different Brooks models have different amounts of cushioning, so you can choose how soft you want your shoes to be.

Comfort: How They Feel On Your Feet

Hoka Comfort

Hoka shoes usually feel comfortable right away. The soft, thick foam cradles your feet and protects them from impact. The roomy toe box gives your toes space to spread out. Some people find the thickness makes Hokas feel a bit unstable at first, but most get used to it quickly.

Brooks Comfort

Brooks focuses on making shoes that fit well and support your feet in the right places. Many people find Brooks incredibly comfortable because they’re designed to work with your foot’s natural movement. Brooks offers different models for different foot shapes, which helps more people find a comfortable fit.

Shoe Fit: Finding Your Perfect Size

Hoka Fit Profile

Hoka shoes typically have a wider toe box and a snug heel. They often run true to size or slightly small. The thick midsole makes your foot sit higher off the ground, which can feel strange at first but provides extra cushioning. Hokas tend to work well for people with medium to wide feet.

Brooks Fit Profile

Brooks makes shoes in different widths (narrow, medium, wide, and extra wide). This helps more people find the perfect fit. Brooks shoes are designed to match the shape of different types of feet. Their shoes typically run true to size, though some models may feel slightly small.

Durability: How Long Will They Last?

Brand	Average Lifespan	Best For	Weak Points
Hoka	300-500 miles	Road running, walking	Foam compression over time
Brooks	400-600 miles	Road/trail running, everyday wear	Outsole wear in high-impact areas
Budget models	250-350 miles	Occasional use	Faster overall breakdown
Premium models	500-700 miles	Daily intense use	Higher initial cost

Hoka Durability

Hoka shoes typically last about 300-500 miles. The main durability issue is that the soft foam gradually compresses and loses its cushioning. The outsoles (bottom rubber) are usually quite durable, but the midsole foam will eventually flatten with regular use.

Brooks Durability

Brooks shoes usually last longer, around 400-600 miles for most runners. Brooks uses durable materials and puts extra rubber in high-wear areas.

Their midsole foam tends to maintain its cushioning properties longer than super-soft foams. Many Brooks users report their shoes still feel good even after many months of use.

Breathability: Keeping Your Feet Cool

Hoka Breathability

Hoka uses engineered mesh uppers that allow decent airflow. However, because they have so much material in the sole, Hokas can feel warmer than lighter shoes. Most Hokas have good breathability for their category, but your feet might get hotter in them than in less cushioned shoes.

Brooks Breathability

Brooks shoes generally have excellent breathability. Their engineered mesh uppers allow good airflow while still providing support. Brooks pays attention to making sure their shoes ventilate well, which is important during long runs or hot weather.

Stability: Keeping You Steady

Hoka Stability Features

Despite their thick soles, many Hokas are surprisingly stable. They use a design called “meta-rocker” that helps your foot roll forward smoothly.

Many models also have a wide base that helps prevent ankle rolls. Some Hoka models add firmer foam on the inner side to prevent overpronation (when your foot rolls inward too much).

Brooks Stability Features

Stability is one of Brooks strengths. They make different shoes for different levels of stability needs:

• Neutral shoes for people with normal pronation
• Support shoes for people who overpronate
• Max support shoes for people who severely overpronate

Brooks uses technologies like GuideRails® that help keep your foot aligned properly when you run or walk.

Quality: What Are You Getting For Your Money?

Hoka Quality

Hoka uses high-quality materials in their shoes. The upper materials are durable and well-constructed, and their proprietary foams are engineered to be lightweight while still providing cushioning. The attention to detail is generally good, with clean stitching and solid construction.

Brooks Quality

Brooks is known for consistent, reliable quality. They use premium materials and their shoes are very well-made. The stitching is clean, the materials feel durable, and the designs are thoughtfully created. Brooks puts their shoes through extensive testing to ensure they perform well.

Style: Looking Good While Staying Active

Hoka Style

Hoka shoes have a distinctive look with their oversized soles. They definitely stand out! In recent years, Hoka has introduced more color options and sleeker designs, making them more fashionable. Some people love their unique appearance, while others think they look a bit clunky.

Brooks Style

Brooks shoes have a more traditional athletic shoe appearance. They look like what most people think of when they imagine running shoes. Brooks offers many color options, from bright and bold to simple and subtle. Their designs are clean and timeless rather than trendy.

Materials: What Are These Shoes Made Of?

Component	Hoka	Brooks	Benefits
Upper	Engineered mesh, recycled materials	Engineered mesh, 3D Fit Print	Breathability, support
Midsole	EVA foam, PROFLY foam	DNA LOFT, BioMoGo DNA	Cushioning, responsiveness
Outsole	Rubber, high-abrasion rubber	HPR Plus rubber, blown rubber	Durability, traction
Insole	OrthoLite foam	BioMoGo foam	Comfort, support
Special Features	Meta-Rocker, active foot frame	GuideRails support, segmented crash pad	Smooth transitions, stability

Hoka Materials

Hoka uses lightweight technical materials. The midsole is made from proprietary EVA foam blends that provide cushioning while remaining relatively light.

The outsoles use durable rubber placed in high-wear areas. The uppers typically use engineered mesh with strategic overlays for support.

Brooks Materials

Brooks uses high-quality, durable materials. Their midsole foams (DNA LOFT, BioMoGo DNA) are designed to provide the right balance of cushioning and responsiveness.

Brooks outsoles use durable rubber compounds that provide excellent traction. Their uppers are engineered to provide support while allowing breathability.

Weight: How Heavy Are They On Your Feet?

Hoka Weight

Despite their chunky appearance, Hokas are surprisingly lightweight for their size. Most models weigh between 8-11 ounces (227-312 grams) per shoe.

The foam they use is very light compared to traditional cushioning materials. Still, Hokas are generally heavier than minimalist shoes due to the amount of material used.

Brooks Weight

Brooks shoes typically weigh between 9-11 ounces (255-312 grams) per shoe, which is about average for running shoes. They aren’t the lightest shoes available, but the weight comes from durable materials and supportive features that many runners find worth the trade-off.

Flexibility: How They Bend With Your Foot

Hoka Flexibility

Hokas are generally less flexible than many other shoes due to their thick midsoles. However, the meta-rocker design helps your foot roll forward smoothly despite this stiffness. Some newer Hoka models have improved flexibility while maintaining cushioning.

Brooks Flexibility

Brooks designs their shoes with strategic flex grooves in the outsole that allow the shoe to bend where your foot naturally bends. This creates a good balance between support and flexibility. Different Brooks models offer different levels of flexibility depending on their intended use.

Water Resistance: Staying Dry In Wet Conditions

Hoka Water Resistance

Standard Hoka shoes aren’t particularly water-resistant. The mesh uppers allow water to enter easily in wet conditions. However, Hoka does make some waterproof models with GORE-TEX membranes that keep your feet dry in rain and puddles. These waterproof versions cost more but are worth it if you often run in wet conditions.

Brooks Water Resistance

Like Hoka, most standard Brooks shoes prioritize breathability over water resistance. However, Brooks offers GTX (GORE-TEX) versions of many popular models for running in wet or winter conditions. These waterproof models keep your feet dry while still allowing some breathability.

Sole: What’s Under Your Feet?

Hoka Sole Design

The sole is Hoka’s standout feature. It consists of a thick midsole made from lightweight foam, with a rubber outsole attached to high-wear areas. The distinctive “meta-rocker” shape helps your foot roll forward smoothly from heel to toe. The wide base provides stability despite the height.

Brooks Sole Design

Brooks soles are designed with runners in mind. They use segmented crash pads to absorb impact and provide smooth transitions.

The outsole rubber is strategically placed in high-wear areas for durability. Brooks soles are engineered to provide the right balance of cushioning, responsiveness, and traction.

Price Comparison: What Will They Cost?

Shoe Type	Hoka Price Range	Brooks Price Range	Value Rating
Entry-level	$130-$140	$100-$120	⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Mid-range	$140-$165	$120-$140	⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Premium	$165-$200+	$140-$160	⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Trail running	$150-$180	$130-$160	⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Kids’ models	$90-$110	$70-$90	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Hoka shoes typically cost between $130-$200, making them a premium option. Brooks shoes range from about $100-$160, which is still premium but slightly less expensive than Hoka on average. Both brands occasionally offer sales and discounted models from previous seasons.

User Reviews: What Do Other Kids Think?

Hoka User Ratings

Model	Comfort	Durability	Style	Overall Rating
Clifton 9	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐☆	⭐⭐⭐☆☆	⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Bondi 8	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐☆	⭐⭐⭐☆☆	⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Mach 5	⭐⭐⭐⭐☆	⭐⭐⭐⭐☆	⭐⭐⭐⭐☆	⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Speedgoat	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐☆	⭐⭐⭐⭐½

“My Hokas are amazing for track practice! They make my feet hurt less, even when we have to run on the asphalt.” – Olivia, age 13

“I have flat feet and my doctor recommended Hokas. They make walking around school all day way more comfortable.” – Miguel, age 12

Brooks User Ratings

Model	Comfort	Durability	Style	Overall Rating
Ghost 15	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐☆	⭐⭐⭐⭐½
Adrenaline GTS 23	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐☆	⭐⭐⭐⭐½
Glycerin 20	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐☆	⭐⭐⭐⭐☆	⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Launch 10	⭐⭐⭐⭐☆	⭐⭐⭐⭐☆	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

“My Brooks Ghost shoes last so long! I wore them for cross country and they still look almost new after the whole season.” – Ethan, age 13

“I like that Brooks shoes don’t look super weird like some other running shoes. They’re comfortable but still look normal with jeans.” – Zoe, age 12

Pros and Cons

Hoka Shoes

Pros	Cons
Super thick cushioning feels like walking on clouds	More expensive ($130-$200)
Great for people with joint pain	Can feel unstable at first due to height
Very lightweight despite chunky appearance	Cushioning wears down over time
Unique, stand-out style	Limited width options
Meta-rocker design helps you roll forward smoothly	Not as durable (300-500 miles)
Excellent shock absorption	Some people think they look too chunky
Works well for heavier runners	Fewer models for overpronation
Great for long walks and standing all day	Can feel warm in hot weather

Brooks Shoes

Pros	Cons
Many width options (narrow to extra wide)	Not as much cushioning as Hoka
More durable (400-600 miles)	Slightly heavier than some Hokas
Less expensive ($100-$160)	Less bouncy feel
Great stability features for overpronation	More traditional looking
Consistent quality and fit	Not as much protection on hard surfaces
More responsive feel for faster running	Can feel firmer underfoot
Traditional look goes with more outfits	Less unique appearance
Different models for different foot types	Some models feel a bit stiff at first

Remember, the best shoe for you depends on your feet and what activities you like to do. Try both on if you can!

Conclusion

After comparing these two great shoe brands, which should you choose? Here’s a simple way to decide:

Hoka shoes might be best for you if:

• You want maximum cushioning and shock absorption
• You have joint pain or sensitive feet
• You run or walk on hard surfaces like concrete
• You’re recovering from an injury
• You prefer a unique, distinctive style
• You don’t mind spending a little more

Brooks shoes might be best for you if:

• You want good cushioning with more responsiveness
• You need stability features for overpronation
• You want shoes that last a bit longer
• You prefer a more traditional running shoe look
• You’re looking for slightly lower prices
• You want different width options

Remember, the perfect shoe depends on your feet, your activities, and your personal preferences. If possible, try both brands on before deciding. Your feet will tell you which one feels better!

Frequently Asked Questions