From running shoe to 'it piece' -this is probably the best way to sum up the story of the emerging brand 'HOKA'. We are talking about the running shoe designs with the spherical outsole that can increasingly be found on the streets (or on Instagram posts of stars like Bella Hadid and Britney Spears). But what does the brand actually stand for? And what is so special about the trainers? We answer these and many other questions today: welcome to the ultimate HOKA FAQ!
The history of Hoka
The story of HOKA One One (HOKA for short) began in 2009 in the French Alps, specifically in Annency, an Alpine town in the south-east of France. Founders Jean-Luc Diard and Nicolas Mermoud were both athletes who loved running in the mountains, but could not find suitable running shoes for mountainous terrain and decided to invent their own model for it.
The brand's trademark: the extremely thick outsole. At first, the brand was especially popular with hikers, but now the trainer is totally on-trend. From trekking shoe to 'it piece'!
You may not know these HOKA collabs yet
HOKA has been actively involved in collabs since 2019. One of the biggest and best-known collabs was the collaboration with Korean label thisneverthat.
HOKA x thisisneverthat
In 2021, HOKA and thisisneverthat joined forces for a collab to create the Speedgoat 4. The trainer appeared in an all-white colorway with blue HOKA accents. The silhouette is specifically designed for all terrains and features multi-directional studs.
HOKA x Bodega
In 2022, HOKA came up with its next hot collab, this time with Bodega. The duo designed the Tor Ultra 'The World at Large'. The sneaker combines outdoor performance with streetwear design for everyday wear.
Founded in 2006, the Bodega brand sees itself as an interface between fashion, community, art and counterculture, which is clearly recognisable in the design of the Tor Ultra.
HOKA x Moncler
The limited edition HOKA x Moncler Mafate Speed 2 was also released in 2022. The shoe especially impresses with a Vibram Megagrip sole, tricolour details and a felt patch by Moncler.
HOKA x J.L-A.L.
J.L-A.L. is the abbreviation of designer and HOKA founder Jean-Luc Ambridge Lavelle, who has since founded his own label. The trainer appeared in a low and a high variant and in two colorways.
What is Gorpcore?
Gorpcore is a fashion trend focusing on practical, functional outdoor clothing and equipment. The abbreviation 'GORP' stands for 'Good Old Raisins and Peanuts' and refers to a popular snack that hikers and outdoor enthusiasts take with them on their treks.
'Core' represents the essence of the trend, which consists of the feeling of adventure in nature and conveys this to the fashion world. Brands like HOKA play a big role in this fashion trend.
The ultimate Hoka FAQ
Below, we answer your most frequently asked questions about the brand in our ultimate HOKA FAQ. Still have questions about HOKA or any other brand that went unanswered in other FAQs? Feel free to reach out to us on Instagram - we'd love to answer all your questions!
1. Where does HOKA come from?
HOKA is originally from France, where the company was founded by Jean-Luc Diard and Nicolas Mermoud. As the two were not satisfied with their shoes while hiking in the French Alps, they soon decided to make their own shoe. You can read more about HOKA's history in the 'The history of HOKA' section above.
2. Who is behind HOKA?
Behind HOKA are founders Jean-Luc Diard and Nicolas Mermoud, who founded their company in Annecy, France. You can read more about HOKA's history in the 'The history of HOKA' section above.
3. What is so special about HOKA shoes?
The special thing about HOKA is definitely the super-thick sole, HOKA's trademark. Moreover, the sole is often curved, making it easier for the foot to move around. In addition, the running shoes are particularly cushioning and very light on the foot.
4. Who produces HOKA shoes?
HOKA is part of the Deckers Outdoor Corporation based in Goleta, California. Deckers is a shoe manufacturer that also owns UGG and Teva. Deckers acquired a minority stake in HOKA in 2012 and the company was then fully acquired by Deckers in 2013.
5. What does 'HOKA One One' mean?
The name 'HOKA One One' comes from the Maori language and means 'time to fly'. 'One One' on the other hand would stand for 'earth' and 'fly' - meaning that the shoes make you feel like you can fly over the earth. So a special double meaning!
6. Which HOKA shoe has the best cushioning?
According to HOKA itself, the best running shoe among road models is the HOKA Bondi 7, which offers a smooth, balanced running experience for any distance.
7. Are HOKA good running shoes?
HOKA is one of the manufacturers of the best running shoes. Thanks to the brand's trademark thick outsole, these running shoes offer great cushioning and comfort.
8. How long do HOKA shoes last?
How long HOKA running shoes last always varies. HOKA itself says: "There is no general rule for everyone. Shoe construction, body weight, biomechanics, running surface, weather, storage and care can all contribute to your running shoes wearing out faster." Roughly speaking, however, HOKA running shoes have a guideline of 400-800km.
And that's it for the ultimate HOKA FAQ. If you still have questions about the brand, feel free to ask us on Instagram. And otherwise, we'll always keep you updated via our Sneakerjagers news page.