At Marathon Sports, we know that shopping for running shoes can feel overwhelming. With so many different brands, models, and types of running shoes out there, how do you know which one is the perfect shoe for you?
Fortunately, we’re here to help you narrow it down.
When you’re researching running shoes, Asics and HOKA are likely two of the biggest names you’ll come across. Both of these brands have made a strong name for themselves in the running shoe world with their comfortable running shoes and highly trusted and reputable products.
Asics has spent decades building this reputation. Founded in Japan back in 1949, Asics was built around the goal of creating a “Sound Body in a Sound Mind”. While the brand started with a few pairs of simple basketball shoes, they’ve expanded to become one of the most well-known athletic brands around. Their running shoes can be seen on elite athletes, casual runners, gym rats, and everyone in between.
While HOKA was founded more recently in 2009, the brand quickly made a name for itself. From durable trail runners to pillowy, high-cushion distance running shoes, their unique, maximalist running shoes have earned HOKA a spot as one of the best running brands today.
It’s evident that both Asics and HOKA offer runners some fantastic products. But what exactly are the similarities and differences between HOKA and Asics running shoes?
Keep reading for an in-depth comparison to help you determine which brand might offer the perfect running shoe for you and all your running needs.
HOKA vs Asics Compared: A Quick Summary
Both HOKA and Asics are known for their innovative running shoe technologies and soft, plush, underfoot feel. While Asics may be more established in the running shoe world, HOKA burst onto the scene in more recent years. But despite HOKA being less established, both companies have created several well-loved running shoe lines that athletes of all levels swear by.
Like any other running shoe brand, both HOKA and Asics have a huge range of products designed for different purposes and types of runners. From the Asics Novablast 4 and HOKA Mach 6 – two light, fast, and responsive speed shoes – to the higher cushioned Asics Gel Nimbus 26 and HOKA Bondi 8, the two companies offer nearly every type of running shoe you could need.
The biggest differences between HOKA and Asics running shoes is in the technology and overall design. Asics has been around for a long time, and despite some pretty major design overhauls in recent years, their shoes continue to feel like reliable, traditional running shoes. They continue to innovate with new designs and technologies but overall maintain their status as a trusted, no-frills running shoe brand option.
HOKA, on the other hand, started out more recently as a direct counter to the barefoot running movement. Their high-stack, maximalist shoes incorporate lots of new running shoe technologies and offer a more non-traditional and unique overall feel.
HOKA vs Asics: An In-Depth Comparison
To truly understand the differences between HOKA and Asics running shoes, we need to dive into all the key features, technologies, and details that define each running brand.
Cushioning
Every running shoe brand has its own distinct style of cushioning designed to give every shoe a unique and individual underfoot feel. When it comes to the differences between Asics and HOKA running shoes, this cushioning will be one of the most noticeable distinctions.
The most prevalent element in any HOKA running shoe line is the maximalist, high-cushioned midsole. Some of their shoes do have a lower stack height, but when you slide a HOKA on your foot, you can be sure that you’re going to feel plenty of plush foam underneath.
Most of HOKA’s most popular daily trainers rely on an EVA foam that gives the shoes a signature plush feel. However, HOKA also has a high-end super-critical EVA foam used in their speedier shoes, which are designed to offer higher energy return and a snappier ride.
HOKA is specifically known for producing padded, high-cushioned shoes built for long distances. However, that doesn’t mean that Asics is slacking when it comes to offering plenty of soft foam and cushioning.
You’ll come across three main types of cushioning when browning Asics shoes – FF Blast, FF Blast Plus, and FF Blast Turbo. Most of their daily trainers have a FF Blast Plus midsole, designed to make each shoe bouncy, responsive, and lightweight.
Asics’ biggest draw is in their innovative PureGEL technology. Asics running shoes have gel strategically placed throughout the midsole for extra comfort, shock absorption, and cushioning. While the foam itself is more responsive, this gel technology gives their shoes a soft yet balanced underfoot ride that makes their running shoes perfect for daily training.
Design
Asics’ PureGEL technology is the heart of many of their most popular shoe models. This unique gel design gives each shoe a balanced feel and creates comfortable, soft landings.
However, HOKA also has its fair share of innovative design features that give its shoes a unique signature feel. One of their most noticeable design choices is their MetaRocker geometry.
Rocker shoes use a curved base to roll you through each step and create a faster, more natural stride. While the MetaRocker design is more pronounced in some HOKA shoes than others, this defined rocker shape is prevalent in the majority of their running shoe lines.
The MetaRocker design does offer some major benefits, including a more efficient stride, less strain and pressure on your body, and faster and smoother transitions. But this distinctive design isn’t for every runner.
Runners have a huge range of unique gaits, running styles, and preferences, and the non-traditional underfoot feel of a rocker doesn’t align with everyone’s running needs.
While some Asics shoes do have a slight rocker feel to them, the less aggressive rocker bottom has a more traditional running shoe feel that doesn’t alter your gait pattern as you run or walk. If you have any balance or stability challenges – or just prefer a shoe with a less pronounced rocker – Asics may be a better choice for you.
Another major design difference between HOKA and Asics shoes is in the heel-to-toe drop. HOKA shoes tend to have a lower drop, ranging from a 4-6mm offset between the heel and toe. In contrast, most Asics shoes have a higher drop of 8-10mm.
Fit and Feel
When it comes to comparing running shoes, a lot of decisions just come down to overall fit and feel. If a shoe just doesn’t fit right or feel comfortable when you put it on your foot for the first time, it’s not the right shoe to carry you to your running goals.
HOKA and Asics both have a huge range of running shoe lines, all of which fit and feel slightly different for every runner. With all these options, it’s important to try out different styles and see how each one feels for you.
However, we can give you a general overview of what to expect when you try out shoes from these two brands.
For the most part, shoes from both brands fit relatively true to size. The biggest difference between the two brands will be in terms of shoe width.
Asics shoes tend to run on the narrow side. Most of their daily trainers use a stretchy mesh upper, which hugs and wraps your foot for a secure and snug fit. However, if you tend to need a wider toe box or prefer an overall roomier fit, Asics regular-width shoes may feel too snug. Luckily, they do offer several daily trainer models in a wide width to accommodate more foot types.
On the other hand, HOKA typically runs wider than most other popular shoe brands. The breathable knit uppers and more padded designs still offer a secure fit around the foot with plenty of width and space within the shoe and around the toe box. HOKA also incorporates a wider midsole and platform into their designs, offering more room for your feet and a more stable landing with each step.
Like Asics, many of HOKA’s running shoes are available in a wide width, and the Bondi 8 is even available in an extra wide.
Stability Features
Both Asics and HOKA offer several running shoe options for people who overpronate, meaning their arches collapse and ankles roll inward when walking or running.
There’s nothing more frustrating as a runner than chronic or nagging pain and injury, and overpronation can quickly lead to misalignment and pain in your ankles, shins, knees, and more. A stability running shoe will help control this overpronation and keep your body aligned with every step you take.
When you’re browsing stability running shoes from HOKA, you’ll come across two main technologies – a J-Frame and an H-Frame. The J-Frame, found in shoes such as the Arahi 7, uses a firmer, J-shaped foam in the midsole and along the medial side of the shoe to prevent excess overpronation. Their newer H-Frame technology, seen in the Gaviota 5, uses strategically placed cushioning to guide your foot forward without rolling inward.
And while HOKA’s neutral running shoes don’t have this specific guiding technology, the company incorporates several other stability elements into their running shoe designs. From the wider platform to raised midsole walls to cradle the foot, HOKA offers plenty of inherent stability in their running shoes, making them a versatile option that can work for nearly every running gait.
Similar to HOKA, Asics relies on support and guidance technologies that guide and support the foot without feeling too stiff, heavy, or intrusive during runs. Their stability shoes, such as the GT-2000 v13 and Gel-Kayano 31, rely on the brand’s 4D Guidance System to control for overpronation.
This subtle support has four main features designed to prevent overpronation and keep you injury-free, including:
- A wider base for added stability
- A strategically sculpted midsole for controlled landings
- An increased heel bevel to guide you through smoother transitions; and
- Medial foam for extra arch support and guidance
Both of these brands use individual patented technology to offer support and provide stability to runners who need it. However, in a role reversal, HOKA relies on more traditional technology while Asics uses a more modern, subtle approach to stability. If you significantly overpronate, the stiffer medial support of HOKA’s J-Frame might be for you, while Asics’ 4D guidance system offers more minimal support that can be more versatile for neutral runners and overpronators alike.
Purpose
When you look through both brands’ extensive running shoe lines, you’ll see shoes that can meet a huge range of running and exercise needs. From reliable daily road running or trail running shoes to carbon-plated super shoes, both Asics and HOKA truly have products for nearly everyone.
But there are a few things to keep in mind as you’re debating between a HOKA and Asics running shoe. If you’re looking for a no-thrills, highly trusted daily shoe, Asics has some of the best choices on the market. With years and years of experience in the running shoe world and consistent and reliable designs, countless people turn to Asics when they’re looking for a daily driver.
HOKA also has plenty of options when it comes to gym shoes, daily trainers, or comfortable walking shoes. But with the unique, maximalist design and pronounced rocker shape, these daily trainers offer a less conventional daily running or walking shoe underfoot feel. Their high-cushioned options are perfect for injury-prone runners who want extra padding for long runs or anyone who spends long hours on their feet throughout the day.
Where HOKA really shines, however, is in its trail shoes. HOKA started as a trail running company, and its roots are evident in its wide selection of dependable and established trail running and hiking shoes. From light and fast trail running shoes to heavy-duty, durable mid-height boots, HOKA’s got you covered for any technical trail run or lengthy hiking trip.
Price
When searching for the right running shoe, you don’t want to experience any sticker shock or end up paying more than you have to. Fortunately, both Asics and HOKA are pretty comparable when it comes to price, with both shoes aligning with the industry standard for running shoes.
When purchasing running shoes, you can typically expect to pay around $140-$180 depending on cushioning and type of shoe, and both Asics and HOKA shoes are no exceptions. And while they are similar in price, Asics does come out slightly ahead in this category, with their shoes ranging from $5-$10 cheaper than their Hoka counterparts.
Final Verdict: Asics vs HOKA Running Shoes
Overall, HOKA and Asics are two fantastic brands that offer a wide range of comfortable running shoe options.
When comparing which one is best, the answer really comes down to your own individual preferences and running needs. Looking for a traditional running with a balanced cushion for daily runs? Turn to Asics. Want lots of plush padding underfoot for your runs? Try out a HOKA shoe.
HOKA shoes typically offer a less conventional feel with lots of cushioning, a defined rocker shape, and a wider overall fit, while Asics shoes are consistent, reliable, and established in the running shoe game. You can’t go wrong either way – but which one might work best for you?
The best way to find your next running shoe is with a visit to your nearest Marathon Sports. With locations all across New England, our experts will use the Right Fit process to get you into the perfect pair of shoes.
Whether you go with a HOKA, Asics, or one of the other amazing brands we carry, the right running shoe can make a huge difference. No matter what you choose, the right running shoe can make every run more comfortable and fun and help you reach all your running goals!
