HOKA, formerly Hoka One One, was founded in 2009 in France and is loved all over the world by runners who appreciate the oversized midsoles that offer optimal cushioning and support for all-terrain running.
The brainchild of Nicolas Mermoud and Jean-Luc Diard, the original Hoka One One shoes were designed to enable faster downhill running, and the name was inspired by a Maori phrase, meaning ‘to fly over the earth’. Known by the rather unwieldy name for many years, the company rebranded in December 2021, dropping the ‘One One’ and becoming, simply, Hoka.
Hoka Running Shoes: Rebranded
The excellent range of Hoka running shoes has not changed, but the choice to drop the complex name is proving popular with runners who love the maximalist approach. The original name, Hoka One One, was always intended to be pronounced according to the Maori, ‘Ho-ka Oh-nay Oh-nay’, which was open to misinterpretation by customers outside the Maori culture.
Hoka has come a long way since its launch, from specialising in niche trail running shoes to becoming a globally recognised performance brand. It can be seen that the new name reflects a broader lifestyle and fashion appeal, and it’s not just runners who love these shoes! The responses from around the world have been overwhelmingly positive about the change of name, as it is easier to pronounce and to remember! This is a great move from Hoka, moving away from any confusion around the original name and enabling the brand to step into a leading role in the performance and lifestyle market.
Men’s Running Shoes by Hoka at The Edge
Here at The Edge, our range of running shoes gives you excellent options for every terrain and running style. We also stock all of the essential clothing and accessories you need to make every run a pleasure. Here are some of our favourite Hoka styles for men:
Men’s Bondi 9. This is an ultra-cushioned design that works harder so you don’t have to, delivering peak plushness for everyday miles. The Men’s Bondi 9 has been overhauled to improve performance and style, and the increased stack height and new premium foam midsole give you the soft, resilient ride you need. The Midnight Blue/Varsity Navy is a subtle, sleek design that works well with your casual wardrobe as well as your sportswear, so you can enjoy the highest standards of comfort whether you are walking or running.
Men’s Clifton 9. If you’re looking for a classic that will keep you dry and comfortable as you rack up the miles, you’ll love the classic Men’s Clifton 9. This is a popular choice for runners all over the world, especially in unpredictable climates such as ours here in Ireland! The design has been updated with GORE-TEX Invisible Fit and weather-ready traction pods, providing you with the waterproof protection you need, with superior 360-degree reflectivity and closed mesh construction for added protection. The Gravel/Eggshell colour combination will ensure that you stand out for all the right reasons, and your feet will feel the difference straight away.
Men’s Mach X 3. If you’re looking for something really special, the Men’s Mach X 3 in Hoka Neon Citrus and Neon Lime ticks all the boxes for you. Perfect for daily training and race day propulsion, you’ll love this stylish, high-performance design. The vibrant colourway ensures you’ll turn heads, and you can live up to this with the speed-centric MetaRocker design that ensures smooth, fast transitions and gives you the agility you need. The shoe is designed to provide lightweight breathability and optimal energy return, as well as excellent traction on any surface, and it’s certainly a stylish way to chase your personal bests!
Here at The Edge, we have a wide selection of men’s running shoes, and we can help you to find the best fit for your gait and your budget.
Women’s Hoka Running Shoes at The Edge
At The Edge, our range of running shoes for women includes several great designs from Hoka. The best options for you will depend upon the way your feet move when you walk and run, and finding the best support for your feet will help to prevent injuries and deliver a fast, comfortable running experience. Here are some of our favourites:
Women’s Speedgoat 6. If you like to stand out from the crowd, you’ll love the Women’s Speedgoat 6, with an eye-catching black/neon colour combination. This is a stunning shoe that can elevate your running to the next level, and you’ll love the aggressive traction and ultralight materials that combine to give you the perfect ride. This is a great choice for technical terrain and features a breathable woven textile upper, foot-hugging internal chassis and revised lug orientation – inspired by the hoof of a goat, of course! Ideal for trail running and hiking, this light and responsive shoe gives you the protection and support you need to stay comfortable all day long.
Women’s Arahi 8. When you want a little more stability from your running shoes, the Women’s Arahi 8 can deliver the perfect solution. This is a wide design that is specifically designed for road running, and it features stabilising H-Frame technology to give you the additional support you need. Made from dual-density compression-moulded EVA and super-abrasion rubber, this shoe cushions your feet in all the right places to ensure that you can smash your running goals in style this year. We love the Alabaster/Lingonberry colour combination, with the perfect blend of fun and high fashion appeal.
Women’s Challenger 8. For multi-terrain traction and smooth cushioning, you’ll love the Women’s Challenger 8, with reflective details. This classic shoe has been remodelled to provide a new last with increased drop and improved fit in the forefoot and instep, along with amplified traction, thanks to the new lug design. The Blush/Dark Cedar is an unusual and eye-catching colour combination, and this shoe looks as good as it feels. With extra foam cushioning and a plush collar, the Challenger 8 offers unbeatable comfort, and the durable rubber toe cap and recycled engineered mesh give you the strength and flexibility you need from your running shoes.
Find New Running Shoes at The Edge, Ireland
At The Edge, we are passionate about outdoor pursuits, and we know that the kit you use can make all the difference. Quality running shoes can transform the way your feet feel as you run and can help to prevent injuries to your feet, legs and back. Our range of running shoes for men and women includes the stunning Hoka designs, and we can help you choose the best options to suit your lifestyle and your budget.
We also stock all you need for swimming, cycling, triathlon and surfing, whether you are a beginner or a professional competitor. Come and chat with our professional team in store, or browse our catalogue on our website for all of your essential outdoor activities equipment.
