Should you size up or down in Hokas?
Hoka specializes in running shoes and thus tends to be more consistent with its approach to sizing. Since running shoes require a bit more freedom for the toes, it may be necessary to go half-a-size to a full-size up from your regular casual shoe size.
- To find width, measure from just below the ball of your foot to the outside, below the base of the pinky toe.
- Repeat for both feet: the larger measurement represents your foot width. Round up or down to the closest size within 0.5mm.
Do Hokas stretch at all? With time the mesh does stretch a degree, but know that fit wise this shoe will work better for those with medium to narrow feet.
If you have wide feet, you know how hard it can be to find running shoe options that fit, and you may have avoided HOKA shoes due to their reputation for narrower sizing. Now, you won't have to compromise when looking for your next pair of running shoes.
Running shoe size is typically a half size larger than your typical shoe size. So, after determining the length and width and your true shoe size, try a running shoe that's about a half size bigger than your standard shoe size.
Is a Half Size in Shoes a Big Difference? A half-size represents a 1/8” difference. It may not seem significant but is enough to distinguish between comfort and discomfort. Because there is no standardisation for shoe sizing, a half size difference will also depend on the brand of shoe.
They looked to oversized technologies and designs in skiing, mountain biking and surfing, with the idea that excessive size in cushioning and a wider midsole can help a runner “float” over the ground. The Hoka features 1½ to 2½ times the cushioning of normal running shoes.
One of the biggest differences you'll notice with Brooks vs HOKA running shoes is how the shoes fit and are sized. Brooks recommends sizing up a half size from your street shoe, while HOKA running shoes are said to fit true to size.
Hoka's Clifton 7 fits true to size with a relaxed toe box. Overall, this is a snug shoe so look for a wide option if needed. As one expert said, it “envelops your foot and holds you snugly.”
The sizing on this shoe runs long, so you may need to go down about half a size . For example, if you normally wear a 7.5 in a Saucony or Brooks, you can easily be in a 7 or potentially a 6.5 in the Hoka Clifton 8.
What size Hoka Bondi should I buy?
The Bondi fits true to length: Testers felt like they had enough room in the toes in their normal sizes. But the shoe runs slightly narrow through the midfoot and forefoot, so runners with wider feet should try on the shoe first or consider sizing up to a wide width.