20/01/23
the history of Hoka One One
OUR BRANDS
Hoka One One is a brand of running shoes that was born in France in 2009, thanks to the initiative of Jean-Luc Diard, former president of Salomon, and Nicolas Mermoud, also former Salomon group. The name Hoka means “to fly over land” in Maori, a name that reflects the aspirations of the brand to help runners go faster without getting tired during their sporting endeavors and in particular running which is the sport the brand has always been affiliated with. The company was helped by Christophe Aubonnet, responsible for research and development.
In 1997, the brand became part of the adidas group, which wanted to become number one in the world running ahead of Nike, the running market was at the time a niche, but adidas realized the potential of Hoka. Adidas then became one of the first major players responsible for the brand’s influence. Subsequently in 2013, it was acquired by Deckers, a footwear manager (UGG, Teva, etc.). The company has a high level of expertise in the mountain environment, thanks to Nicolas Mermoud, an assiduous practitioner of alpine skiing and running who has obtained honorable places in various trail competitions. The shoes of this company are characterized by their comfort and performance. They use CMEVA rubber to promote a stable stride and absorb impact points, carbon fiber in the midsole to promote a smooth transition throughout the stride, a Vibram Megagrip outsole for grip and adhesion, a PROFLY™ midsole that provides smooth impact and responsive momentum, Repreve® yarn from recycled plastic, and a technical mesh made from recycled polyester fibers.
Hoka One One proves that the running shoe market is not just for the giants Asics, Adidas and Nike, and that a brand born in Annecy can also succeed in this field. In 2016, Team Trail Hoka was the first team to win the UTMB in both men’s and women’s categories, with Ludovic Pommeret and Caroline Chaverot, and this was a consecration for the brand, which then enjoyed the best possible confirmation of the quality of their pairs. The invention of the sole was a key element in the success of the brand, being wider, it allowed runners to benefit from a better shock absorption and a more stable stride, helping them to go faster downhill. This innovation also helped reduce runner fatigue during long-distance races. HOKA has continued to innovate by using high quality materials for its shoes, such as CMEVA rubber, carbon fiber and Vibram Megagrip outsole. The use of these high-end materials has allowed the brand to offer running shoes that perform well and are comfortable. The brand has also implemented eco-friendly practices by using recycled materials and publishing a CSR report that provides information on their goals, progress and impact of their sustainability efforts which shows their transparency on the subject that might bother many other brands.
The Ultimate Trail Running Experience: which hoka to choose ?
The Clifton has a powerful propulsion thanks to a molded EVA foam midsole that allows you to run for miles with incredible efficiency. Designed for maximum underfoot cushioning, it effectively absorbs shock so you can hit the trail with ease. For unparalleled lightness, the curved sole profile starts below the meta near the instep for sensational fluidity. This incredibly lightweight model features a flexible mesh upper that keeps you healthy by providing constant airflow and coolness during exercise. The tongue is also breathable, welcoming you into a soft environment and paired with EVA padded ankles for ideal comfort. An outsole with anti-slip additives completes the package, providing the stability you need during your running sessions. The heel reinforcement provides excellent support and greatly increases durability. Some general information about the shoes
THE CLIFTON
Designed for wide open spaces, the Anacapa is a hybrid pair with a cutting-edge aesthetic and rugged construction. Perfect for hiking. The Anacapa features a Leather Workign Group certified nubuck leather upper, recycled polyester and mesh. Its overall structure is reinforced with GORE-TEX technology for better waterproofing. The key feature of this pair is the outsole that combines stability and cushioning with the heel extension and the Vibram® lugged rubber outsole.
THE ANAPACA
The Kaha 2 Gore-tex has a dual-density CMEVA midsole composition, which provides great cushioning to greatly enhance your progress. The geometry of the SwallowTail heel forms a reinforced base for total shock absorption on impact. The upper is made of waterproof nubuck leather combined with Gore-Tex technology. The anatomy of the sockliner protects the Achilles tendon, while the durable materials ensure that the shoe will stand up to the elements. According to many runners like Nicolas Mermoud, the sole allows for a real swinging motion that greatly reduces energy consumption during the race. This pair, according to Hoka one one is suitable for women as well as men and guarantees comfort to all. In view of the materials used, the quality-price ratio is praised by the critics.
THE KAHA 2 GORE-TEX
The Mafate Speed 2 shoe for men is a more accomplished version in terms of terrain domination. It offers trail runners looking for a dynamic pace a new level of performance on all types of courses. Its outsole features Vibram material in key areas of the forefoot. Its multi-directional lugs provide excellent stability and maximum grip. Your traction is secure when approaching dominant surfaces! The Mafate Speed 2 shoe features R-MAT cushioning combined with an oversized CMEVA midsole. The shock absorption supports your energetic and aggressive stride. Here again the price/quality ratio is very good considering the technologies used
Our Hoka one one selection
Some general information about the shoes
The HOKA ONE ONE brand uses the same sizing model for its products as the Asics or Nike brands, so you should choose your usual shoe size, rarely are the models that size differently.
The general rule of thumb for cleaning and maintaining HOKA shoes, according to the brand itself, is to hand wash them in cold water with a mild or neutral soap and air dry away from direct sunlight and heat.
Two factors present in Hoka One One shoes are superior to what other running shoes such as Nike can offer, firstly the lightness of the shoes, indeed Hoka shoes are very light. The second factor and not the least is the technological quality and quality of materials of the sole that makes it the perfect shoe for running or cycling.
