Are HOKA Shoes Waterproof? [2024]

HOKA shoes have become increasingly popular in recent years, especially among runners and athletes. Known for their thick, cushioned midsoles and unique design, HOKA claims to offer a smooth and comfortable ride.

However, one question that often comes up with these trail and road running shoes is – are they waterproof? Since HOKAs are marketed as performance shoes for various terrains and weather conditions, it’s reasonable to wonder if they provide protection against getting feet wet.

This article will dive into the waterproof capabilities of HOKA shoes. We’ll look at the various technologies the brand uses, analyze user reviews to see how the shoes hold up when wet, and provide tips for keeping feet dry when wearing HOKAs.

Key Factors That Determine Waterproofing in HOKA Shoes

When considering whether HOKAs are waterproof, there are a few key factors that come into play:

Materials Used

Like all shoes, the upper material is most important when determining waterproofness. Many HOKA shoes use mesh fabric uppers which allow drainage and air flow but also mean water can penetrate into the shoes. Some models do have water-resistant coatings but may not be fully waterproof.

Specialized membranes like Gore-Tex are found on select waterproof HOKA hiking boots and trail runners. This keeps the upper sealed while allowing vapor to pass through.

Midsole and Outsole

The signature thick midsole in HOKAs is not waterproof itself. While they provide plenty of cushioning, water and moisture will be absorbed if submerged. However, the outsole lug patterns are designed to provide traction and shed mud/debris.

Weatherproof Technologies

Some HOKA shoes have specialized coatings to deal with water and moisture. For example, the Clifton Edge has a water-repellent matte film upper while the Speedgoat 3 has a WeatherProtect membrane to seal out water.

Fit and Gusseted Tongue

A snug and secure fit ensures there are no gaps for water to enter the sides or collar of the shoe. Many trail HOKAs also have a gusseted tongue which connects to the upper for improved protection.

User Reviews and Tests on Wet, Rainy, and Muddy Runs

To complement lab data and marketing claims, it’s also helpful to look at customer reviews and first-hand experiences using HOKAs in wet conditions. Here are some key takeaways:

Clifton Series Road Running Shoes

The popular Clifton road shoes have a thin mesh upper without any waterproofing treatment. Users note that these shoes get soaked quickly in wet conditions from both the upper and insole taking in water. Traction is also reduced significantly.

These are performance road shoes best used in dry conditions. For cold and wet runs, they will hold moisture, heat will be lost quickly, and feet could end up numb.

Bondi Series Road Running Shoes

Similarly, the well-cushioned Bondi shoes lack any kind of waterproofing. The upper mesh absorbs liquid water rapidly. However, the outsole seems to retain decent grip even when wet.

Overall, reviewers recommend the Bondi for dry runs and suggest using alternative shoes like waterproof trail runners for cold and wet days.

Speedgoat Trail Running Shoes

The Speedgoat is HOKA’s flagship trail runner built ruggedly for challenging mountain runs. The WeatherProtect membrane on models like the Speedgoat 3 does seem decent at sealing out water in very muddy, slushy conditions.

Most users are happy with the water resistance for puddle splashes. But the mesh upper still lets in moisture during prolonged submersion in streams or heavy rain. Fully waterproof shoes would be better for those situations.

Tor Ultra Hiking Shoes

HOKA’s Tor Summit hiking shoes stand out with a Vibram outsole and support frames for carrying loads over rough terrain. The nubuck leather upper also repels water reasonably well for hiking trips in rain, snow, and some mud.

However, the Tor Summit shoes don’t seem fully waterproof either according to user reviews. The seams and tongue allow wetness to creep in eventually after hours of hiking in heavy rain. So periodic reproofing may be required.

Tips for Keeping Feet Dry With HOKA Shoes

While HOKA shoes range in their water resistance abilities, most are not designed to be fully waterproof like heavy-duty boots. However, you can take some proactive measures to enhance water protection with your HOKAs:

Waterproof Socks

Wearing high-quality waterproof socks adds an extra barrier to prevent liquid ingress into shoes. They keep your feet warm and dry without reducing breathability too much. Popular options are DexShell and Sealskinz waterproof socks.

Reapply DWR Coatings

Some HOKAs have a durable water repellent (DWR) coating which causes water to bead up and roll off the upper fabric. However, these coatings can wear off over time. Restoring water repellency using sprays helps extend the life of shoes.

Wide shoe trees can also be used to help maintain the shape and coatings too.

Gaiter Attachments

Many trail runners and hiking shoes from HOKA have gaiter compatibility hooks or loops. Wearing waterproof Gore-Tex gaiters covers more of the shoe upper and protects ankles too against mud or snow. They connect securely around the laces and collar.

Insole Inserts

While water may enter through the HOKA upper, preventing it from getting to your socks goes a long way towards keeping feet dry and warm. Using hydrophyllic insole inserts helps block internal moisture and drains it away out the outsole.

Thick Merino Wool Socks

Even if water seeps into shoes slowly over time, good moisture-wicking socks can delay the wetness reaching your feet. Merino wool hiking socks will regulate temperature and stay warmer even when damp too. Having spare pairs helps for longer adventures.

Conclusion

While certain HOKA models do have weatherproofing features, most HOKA shoes are not inherently waterproof out of the box. The lightweight mesh fabric uppers promote airflow but also absorb external water instead of repelling it.

HOKA’s trail running and hiking shoes can handle splashes or occasional puddles. But long term submersion in streams, heavy rain, or snow will eventually lead to wet feet. For full waterproof protection in those conditions, dedicated waterproof hiking boots or trail runners with Gore-Tex may be better options.

HOKA shoes make excellent performance shoes for roads and trails in dry weather. With some added precautions like waterproof socks and gaiters, they can handle lighter levels of moisture too. Maintaining the DWR coatings helps prolong water resistance as well over time.

So while casual users may expect all HOKA shoes to be waterproof based on the brand’s outdoor focus – the reality is that waterproofness varies greatly depending on the model and intended activity. Referring to the technical specifications, user reviews, and real-world wet weather testing helps provide a more definitive idea on how waterproof your HOKAs will be.

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