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Arahi is a beloved member of Hoka’s increasing running shoe lineup. But in a group largely characterised by on a regular basis impartial sneakers and bouncy racers, it stands aside by offering additional stability. The shoe is unquestionably a Hoka—simply take a look at that chunky sole—however for a corporation that is at all times run in its personal lane, Hoka Arahi 7 treads a extra conventional path the likes of Asics, Brooks, New Balance, and Saucony have blazed earlier than.
If you are a runner who likes sneakers with additional assist, Arahi 7 is your entryway into Hokaland. And in case you’re already acquainted, know that the newest model of the shoe has an all-new higher that ups the consolation issue. After placing dozens of check miles right into a pair, I discovered Hoka Arahi 7 makes good on its promise of additional assist for on a regular basis running.
Related: The Best Running Shoes of 2024
Overall Impressions of Hoka Arahi 7
Tanner Bowden
Lots of people like Arahi; it is one among Hoka’s hottest fashions. Those folks will recognize not a lot has modified in the newest model, moreover the new flat-knit higher. I’m a fan of the new design, which has a pleasant look to it. But, extra importantly, because of that plush tongue and heel collar, the combo seems like a kind of snug airplane neck pillows however in your ankle. The higher locks the midfoot down however was roomy sufficient for my toes to splay. While different reviewers famous being slender, I did not discover that—and it is also out there in broad.
Although I discovered it to be somewhat clunky—I do not sometimes run in stability sneakers—I did not discover it as a lot once I picked up my tempo. When I made a decision to throw some strides into a straightforward run, Hoka Arahi 7 dealt with them simply high-quality. It would not be my alternative for pace, but when it is all you may have, it is succesful.
Arahi 7 is firmer than anticipated. In phrases of really feel, it falls between Hoka Clifton and Hoka Gaviota. It would not run like the impartial and everyday-oriented Clifton—it is not as responsive—however has an identical profile. Gaviota has the stability issue extra akin to Arahi. However, Arahi’s J-Frame system feels extra substantial and akin to conventional stability sneakers, whereas Gaviota has extra of the conventional Hoka rolling max-foam really feel. Looking past the Hoka catalogue, you would possibly evaluate Arahi to the Asics Gel-Kayano or Mizuno Wave Inspire, each of which offer conventional stability shoe experiences.
Pros
- Plush and cozy tongue and higher
- Roomy toe field with good midfoot lockdown
- J-Frame gives noticeable stability however is not overkill
- Great for strolling and on a regular basis put on
Cons
- Stiffer than anticipated of a Hoka shoe
- Can really feel clunky at instances
Specs
- Weight: 9.9 oz (dimension 10 males’s)
- Stack Height: 37 mm heel, 32 mm forefoot
- Drop: 5 mm
Final Verdict
With its built-in stability options, Hoka Arahi 7 is a strong alternative for runners who expertise overpronation, which is when the arch collapses and causes the foot to roll in. It’s additionally nice for runners preferring a firmer, extra secure journey.
Arahi 7 can be a strong alternative in case you solely run each infrequently and desire a shoe that is good for simply strolling round in, too. Hoka Arahi is available in colours acceptable for on a regular basis put on and, as we talked about, is on the market in broad sizes.
Key Features and Tech in Hoka Arahi
Hoka Arahi 7 is one among the few stability sneakers in Hoka’s lineup. It options the model’s J-Frame tech, which consists of a firm piece of froth formed like the letter “J.” The foam sits inside the EVA midsole, hooking round the heel to the medial facet of the foot, serving to mitigate overpronation.
While earlier iterations of Arahi had been fairly related, the latest model boasts a brand new higher with extra cushion in the tongue and gussets on both facet to cease it from sliding round. Hoka Arahi additionally has zones of grippy Durabrasion rubber and a swooping heel entry.
Why You Should Trust Me
I started running in center college. Since 2017, I’ve skilled for and run 5 marathons, qualifying for the Boston Marathon and incomes a private finest of two:56 at the 2023 Tokyo Marathon. I run year-round—practically 1,200 miles in 2023—in my house state of Vermont and throughout New England, the place there are many filth roads and trails along with paved paths. Conditions vary from sub-zero wind chill to 90-degree humid warmth.
In addition to running, I’ve been writing about running and running gear for practically a decade. That work has included reviewing street and path sneakers, attire, restoration gear, nutrition merchandise, in addition to the tradition that surrounds the assist. In doing this work I’ve been in fixed contact with manufacturers, athletes, designers, and different business professionals.
Recently, I examined practically each Hoka running shoe for Men’s Journal. I ran (and walked) in the Arahi 7 whereas training for the 2024 London Marathon.
How I Tested Hoka Arahi 7
I put 30-plus running miles on Arahi 7, together with some strolling miles. I ran totally on pavement and sidewalks, with just a few miles on filth roads and some on snow. I additionally examined them throughout a wide range of training runs throughout a marathon buildup, together with slow-paced restoration runs, easy-effort runs, and fast-paced intervals. Test run distances ranged from six to 10 miles.
Many elements go into evaluating a running shoe. I pay shut attention to step-in really feel upon first try to after just a few runs. I analyze match, as in how a lot room there’s in the forefoot; how good the lace lockdown is; and if there’s any heel slippage whereas running. I additionally verify to see if I expertise any bizarre pressure factors or sizzling spots. Finally, I consider responsiveness, cushion, assist, and grip.
Who Should Wear Hoka Arahi
The Hoka Arahi 7 is an efficient each day driver for runners who’re simply getting started or run at slower paces. However, in case you commonly incorporate pace workouts into your training, you would possibly go for a special Hoka shoe.
No two toes are alike—not even once they’re hooked up to the identical human. A shoe that works for one person could not work for one more. What’s extra, scientific research, like research printed in the British Journal of Sport Medicine, counsel that your singular notion of shoe consolation is a superb information for selecting a shoe. Fan Zhou, REI’s basic supervisor of running and footwear, says, “A good running shoe is one that, when you take your first steps and walk around, feels comfortable, supportive, and you get excited to run in it.”
If Hoka Arahi 7 appears like shoe to you, head to your native specialty running retailer and take a look at on a pair.
Related: The Best Nike Running Shoes of 2023
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