Do Hokas Run Big? [Complete Sizing Guide 2024]
Are you looking for a pair of running shoes that are comfortable, stylish, and perfect for your active lifestyle? If so, you may have heard about Hokas, the popular brand known for its cushioned and supportive shoes. Hoka One One is a popular running shoe company known for their oversized midsoles and maximalist design. Their shoes are beloved by runners who crave cushioning and support during their runs. However, before making a purchase, you may be wondering, “Do Hokas run big?”
So, do Hoka shoes run big or small? The short answer is both Yes and No. Like with any shoe brand, Hoka shoes sizing can vary slightly between different models and styles. According to some users, Hoka shoes run a bit small for people with wide feet, due to which they recommend going up a half size compared to normal running shoes. It is also important to note that everyone’s foot is different, so what works for one person may not work for another. You can measure your foot length and width and use the Hoka size chart to find your best fit.
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Do Hokas Run Big?
When it comes to Hoka shoes, it’s important to understand that the sizing can vary depending on the model. Some users have reported that Hoka shoes do not run big. Hoka shoes are true to size, meaning that their regular size fits them perfectly. However, other users have noted that Hoka shoes tend to run narrow. If you have wider feet, you might want to consider going for a wider option to ensure a better fit.
For instance, let’s consider two individuals with different foot sizes trying on the same Hoka model shoe. The first person has a narrow foot, while the second has a wider foot. Despite trying on the same size of shoe, the first person finds that the shoe fits true to size, while the second person finds that the shoe is too narrow in width. In this case, the second person may want to consider a wide option to ensure a comfortable fit.
Customers looking to buy Hoka shoes need to be mindful of this variability in sizing. It is not uncommon for buyers to face sizing issues when buying Hoka shoes for the first time. There are several reasons for this.
One reason is that customers may not be familiar with the brand’s sizing chart or how their feet would fit their models. Secondly, some customers may not know their exact foot measurements or shape, making it challenging to determine the right size.
Some users say that Hoka shoes are true to size, meaning that their sizing aligns with the traditional footwear sizing standards used in the industry.
However, others suggest that Hoka shoes run narrow, so if you have a wider foot, consider a wide option. Additionally, some users also recommend going half a size or full size up if you are not sure which size to buy. In some instances, customers suggest Hoka shoes fit them in the length but are tight in width, indicating a narrower fit.
In general, Hoka shoes’ sizing can vary for customers in the following ways:
- True to width but shorter in length: Customers with feet that are typical in size but have a shorter length may face this issue with Hoka shoes. This means that they will need to size down to avoid a longer fit.
- True to width but longer in length: Some customers have feet that are typical in size but have longer lengths. In this case, they would need to size up to avoid a tight-fitting shoe.
- Narrower in width but true to length: Finally, some customers may face issues with Hoka shoes that fit tightly around their feet. This may be because they have a wider foot size, and the model they bought has a narrow width. In this case, customers would need to buy a wide option or size up to avoid a tight fit.
Getting Idea Of Hoka Shoes Fit With This Awesome Feature
I found an amazing feature on the Hoka website, through which you can get an idea how a specific shoe model, having a certain size, would fit your feet. That feature is called “Augmented Reality (AR)”.
On your mobile phone, when you click on “View in AR”, it will show the shoe model in 3D model, and you will feel like the shoe is actually in front of you.
Now, make sure that you set the scale of the shoe to 100% as it will display the Hoka shoe model in the original size you selected.
In the picture below, you can see I set the scale of my selected Hoka shoe model to 100%. I did all this on my mobile phone by swiping my fingers. This is the same as you do to zoom in or zoom out the photos on your phone.
Now, I moved the shoe towards my foot, and properly aligned it as if I were trying it physically. You can see this in the picture below:
As you can see that I selected Hoka shoes with 9.5 size and standard width, and they completely fit my feet.
Do Hokas Run Wide?
With standard width, Hoka shoes may run a bit narrow and are a bit snug in the heel area. But, they hug your foot nicely and do not cause any irritation.
Hoka men’ shoes are available in three types of widths:
- Standard width
- Wide width
- Extra-wide width
One thing I would like to highlight is that at the time of writing this article, only Hoka Men’s Bondi 9 shoes are available in extra-wide width. So, the majority of Hoka shoes are available in standard and wide widths.
Hoka women’s shoes, on the other hand, are available in standard width and wide width.
Another important point is that women’s shoes’ wide width is not equal to men’s shoes’ wide width. Hoka men’s shoes’ regular width is labeled as ‘D’ width. On the other hand, Hoka women’s shoes’ regular width is labeled as ‘B’ width.
For men’s shoes, ‘B’ width is categorized as narrow width. Hoka does not make shoes in narrow widths. Due to this reason, some people with very narrow feet might find Hoka shoes a bit wider. Due to this reason, some people recommend going a half size down in Hoka shoes.
Similarly, Hoka men’s shoes’ wide width is labeled as 2E and Hoka women’s shoes’ wide width is labeled as ‘D’. To learn more, you can read my guide on men’s to women’s shoe sizes.
In short,
Men’s standard width shoes = Women’s wide width shoes
For example, from the Hoka shoe size chart, I selected men’s shoe US size 7.5 from the regular width section and women’s shoe US size 9 from the wide width section. From pictures of both sizes, you can see that the regular width of women’s shoes is equal to the standard width of men’s shoes.
I selected men’s shoe size US 7.5 because there is a difference of 1.5 between men’s and women’s shoe sizes.
Hoka Women’s Shoes Size Chart (Regular Width)
| Foot Length (IN) | Foot Length (MM) | Regular Width (IN) | Length (MM) | US | UK | Europe |
| 8″ 21/32 | 220 | 3″ 27/64 | 5 | 5 | 3.5 | 36 |
| 8″ 13/16 | 224 | 3″ 15/32 | 5.5 | 5.5 | 4 | 36 2/3 |
| 9″ 1/64 | 229 | 3″ 1/2 | 6 | 6 | 4.5 | 37 1/3 |
| 9″ 11/64 | 233 | 3″ 35/64 | 6.5 | 6.5 | 5 | 38 |
| 9″ 21/64 | 237 | 3″ 37/64 | 7 | 7 | 5.5 | 38 2/3 |
| 9″ 31/64 | 241 | 3″ 5/8 | 7.5 | 7.5 | 6 | 39 1/3 |
| 9″ 41/64 | 245 | 3″ 21/32 | 8 | 8 | 6.5 | 40 |
| 9″ 27/32 | 250 | 3″ 45/64 | 8.5 | 8.5 | 7 | 40 2/3 |
| 10″ | 254 | 3″ 47/64 | 9 | 9 | 7.5 | 41 1/3 |
| 10″ 5/32 | 258 | 3″ 25/32 | 9.5 | 9.5 | 8 | 42 |
| 10″ 5/16 | 262 | 3″ 13/16 | 10 | 10 | 8.5 | 42 2/3 |
| 10″ 33/64 | 267 | 3″ 55/64 | 10.5 | 10.5 | 9 | 43 1/3 |
| 10″ 43/64 | 271 | 3″ 57/64 | 11 | 11 | 9.5 | 44 |
| 10″ 53/64 | 275 | 3″ 15/16 | 11.5 | 11.5 | 10 | 44 2/3 |
| 10″ 63/64 | 279 | 3″ 31/32 | 12 | 12 | 10.5 | 45 1/3 |
HOKA Women’s Shoes Size Chart (Wide Width)
| Foot Length (IN) | Foot Length (MM) | D Width Length (IN) | US | UK | Europe |
| 8″ 21/32 | 220 | 3″ | 5 | 3.5 | 36 |
| 8″ 13/16 | 224 | 21/32″ | 5.5 | 4 | 36 2/3 |
| 9″ 1/64 | 229 | 45/64″ | 6 | 4.5 | 37 1/3 |
| 9″ 11/64 | 233 | 47/64″ | 6.5 | 5 | 38 |
| 9″ 21/64 | 237 | 25/32″ | 7 | 5.5 | 38 2/3 |
| 9″ 31/64 | 241 | 13/16″ | 7.5 | 6 | 39 1/3 |
| 9″ 41/64 | 245 | 55/64″ | 8 | 6.5 | 40 |
| 10″ | 250 | 57/64″ | 8.5 | 7 | 40 2/3 |
| 10″ 27/32 | 254 | 15/16″ | 9 | 6.5 | 41 1/3 |
| 10″ 5/32 | 258 | 31/32″ | 9.5 | 8 | 42 |
| 10″ 5/16 | 262 | 1/64″ | 10 | 8.5 | 42 2/3 |
| 10″ 33/64 | 267 | 1/16″ | 10.5 | 9 | 43 1/3 |
| 10″ 43/64 | 271 | 3/32″ | 11 | 9.5 | 44 |
| 10″ 53/64 | 275 | 9/64″ | 11.5 | 10 | 44 2/3 |
| 10″ 63/64 | 279 | 11/64″ | 12 | 10.5 | 45 1/3 |
Hoka Men’s Shoes Size Chart (Regular Width)
| Foot Length (IN) | Foot Length (MM) | Regular Width Length (IN) | US | UK | Europe |
| 9″ 1/16 | 230 | 3″ 25/32 | 5 | 4.5 | 37 1/3 |
| 9″ 7/32 | 234 | 3″ 13/16 | 5.5 | 5 | 38 |
| 9″ 13/32 | 239 | 3″ 55/64 | 6 | 5.5 | 38 2/3 |
| 9″ 9/16 | 243 | 3″ 57/64 | 6.5 | 6 | 39 1/3 |
| 9″ 23/32 | 247 | 3″ 15/16 | 7 | 6.5 | 40 |
| 9″ 7/8 | 251 | 3″ 31/32 | 7.5 | 7 | 40 2/3 |
| 10″ 5/64 | 256 | 4″ 1/64 | 8 | 7.5 | 41 1/3 |
| 10″ 15/64 | 260 | 4″ 1/16 | 8.5 | 8 | 42 |
| 10″ 25/64 | 264 | 4″ 3/32 | 9 | 8.5 | 42 2/3 |
| 10″ 35/64 | 268 | 4″ 9/64 | 9.5 | 9 | 43 1/3 |
| 10″ 45/64 | 272 | 4″ 11/64 | 10 | 9.5 | 44 |
| 11″ 29/32 | 277 | 4″ 7/32 | 10.5 | 10 | 44 2/3 |
| 11″ 1/16 | 281 | 4″ 1/4 | 11 | 10.5 | 45 1/3 |
| 11″ 7/32 | 285 | 4″ 19/64 | 11.5 | 11 | 46 |
| 11″ 3/8 | 289 | 4″ 15/32 | 12 | 11.5 | 46 2/3 |
| 11″ 37/64 | 294 | 4″ 23/64 | 12.5 | 12 | 47 1/3 |
| 11″ 47/64 | 298 | 4″ 29/64 | 13 | 12.5 | 48 |
| 11″ 57/64 | 302 | 4″ 13/32 | 13.5 | 13 | 48 2/3 |
Hoka Men’s Shoes Size Chart (Wide Width)
| Foot Length (IN) | Foot Length (MM) | 2E Width Length (IN) | 4E Width Length (IN) | US | UK | Europe |
| 9″ 1/16 | 230 | 3″ 15/16 | 4″ 3/32 | 5 | 4.5 | 37 1/3 |
| 9″ 7/32 | 234 | 3″ 31/32 | 4″ 9/64 | 5.5 | 5 | 38 |
| 9″ 13/32 | 239 | 4″ 1/64 | 4″ 11/64 | 6 | 5.5 | 38 2/3 |
| 9″ 9/16 | 243 | 4″ 1/16 | 4″ 7/32 | 6.5 | 6 | 39 1/3 |
| 9″ 23/32 | 247 | 4″ 3/32 | 4″ 1/4 | 7 | 6.5 | 40 |
| 9″ 7/8 | 251 | 4″ 9/64 | 4″ 19/64 | 7.5 | 7 | 40 2/3 |
| 10″ 5/64 | 256 | 4″ 11/64 | 4″ 3/8 | 8 | 7.5 | 41 1/3 |
| 10″ 15/64 | 260 | 4″ 7/32 | 4″ 13/32 | 8.5 | 8 | 42 |
| 10″ 25/64 | 264 | 4″ 1/4 | 4″ 29/64 | 9 | 8.5 | 42 2/3 |
| 10″ 35/64 | 268 | 4″ 19/64 | 4″ 31/64 | 9.5 | 9 | 43 1/3 |
| 10″ 45/64 | 272 | 4″ 3/8 | 4″ 17/32 | 10 | 9.5 | 44 |
| 11″ 29/32 | 277 | 4″ 13/32 | 4″ 9/16 | 10.5 | 10 | 44 2/3 |
| 11″ 1/16 | 281 | 4″ 29/64 | 4″ 39/64 | 11 | 10.5 | 45 1/3 |
| 11″ 7/32 | 285 | 4″ 31/64 | 4″ 41/64 | 11.5 | 11 | 46 |
| 11″ 3/8 | 289 | 4″ 17/32 | 4″ 11/16 | 12 | 11.5 | 46 2/3 |
| 11″ 37/64 | 294 | 4″ 9/16 | 4″ 23/32 | 12.5 | 12 | 47 1/3 |
| 12″ 3/64 | 298 | 4″ 39/64 | 4″ 49/64 | 13 | 12.5 | 48 |
| 12″ 1/4 | 302 | 4″ 41/64 | 4″ 51/64 | 13.5 | 13 | 48 2/3 |
Do Hokas Run Big Clifton 8?
Hoka Clifton 8 shoes do not run big. They fit snugly if you order the correct size. I usually wear 9 wide but I was not getting wide width in that model. So, I ordered Hoka Clifton in the US 9.5 size and standard width. I have attached a picture below:
My feet are wide and I have a standard foot arch. Hoka Clifton 8 shoes fit perfectly lengthwise and widthwise in the toe box. I pressed the toe area of the shoes and it didn’t hurt me. There was enough space between my foot and Hoka shoes’ upper. The upper of my Hoka shoes was so smooth and slick that it didn’t hurt my toenails
However, if you have swollen feet or you are suffering from neuropathy and venous insufficiency in feet, I would suggest you go for a wider fit in Hoka shoes.
How Do Hoka Shoes Fit Compared To New Balance?
Hoka shoes are designed with a focus on maximum cushioning, making them ideal for long-distance running and walking. On the other hand, New Balance shoes are known for their versatility, catering to a wider range of activities such as cross-training, walking, and running.
New Balance shoes come in a range of widths, catering to individuals with narrow, standard, wide, and extra-wide feet. On the other hand, Hoka shoes only come in standard and wide widths. Moreover, Hoka shoes tend to run somewhat narrow with the standard-width fit. New Balance shoes often have a snugger fit in the midfoot and heel, providing better support and stability for those with narrow feet.
Also Read: New Balance shoes sizing
Hoka shoes are designed with a rocker sole and a high level of arch support, which can be beneficial for runners with flat feet or those who overpronate. New Balance shoes, on the other hand, offer a range of arch support options, so you can find the right level of support for your foot type.
Also Read: Best Hoka Shoes for Walking
New Balance has many stability and motion control shoes for runners who need extra control for overpronation, whereas Hoka has fewer options for this category like Hoka Arahi.
Hoka shoes are a clear winner with their maximum cushioning technology, providing a plush feel with every step. However, New Balance shoes are also known for their comfort features, such as their Fresh Foam midsole technology, providing a responsive and lightweight feel.
Read my review on New Balance 1080v11 vs Hoka Clifton 8.
Factors Affecting Hoka Sizing
Foot Shape
One of the most significant factors that you should consider when choosing the right Hoka shoes is your foot shape. Every foot is unique, and Hoka shoes come in a variety of sizes and shapes to cater to all types of feet. I have encountered many runners who ignore this factor and end up having shoe-related discomfort. I used to be one of them.
When buying Hoka shoes, always take measurements of your feet to ensure that you choose the right size. I prefer to leave a thumb’s width of space between my longest toe and the end of the shoe for maximum comfort. It is also important to note that Hoka shoes are made in both standard and wide widths. Furthermore, you should choose Hoka shoes that align with your foot shape for maximum support and comfort.
Arch Type
Another critical element to consider when fitting Hoka shoes is your arch type. My feet are flat, so I discovered that Hoka shoes with stability are ideal because they provide more support and stability to prevent overpronation.
Hoka also offers neutral arch types like Clifton or Bondi that are best suited for neutral runners.
A simple test at home can help you determine your arch type by wetting your foot and stepping onto a piece of paper.
If you see a complete footprint with no curved line on the inside of the foot, then you have flat feet like me. If you see a curved line on the inside, you have neutral arches, and if you see a narrow curve, you have high arches.
Running Style
When looking for Hoka shoes, the first thing I have always considered was my running style. Hoka shoes are designed for different running styles, making it essential to choose the perfect shoe that best fits your needs. If you’re a road runner, go for shoes with extra cushioning to help absorb impact. However, for trail runners like me, shoes that provide more traction for uneven terrain are a must-have.
Additionally, when selecting Hoka shoes, remember that your running style will also affect the sizing. If you are a heel striker like I am, you should consider Hoka shoes with more cushioning at the heel to absorb shock and prevent injuries. Sizing up is also necessary to avoid hurting your toes. But, if you are a forefoot runner, you may require less cushioning and may need to size down to get a comfortable fit.
Should I Break in My Hoka Shoes?
When you first put on a new pair of Hoka shoes, they may feel some initial tightness. However, the upper of the shoe is made from a smooth and supple material that is designed to mold to the shape of your foot. This means that after a short period of use, the shoes will start to feel more comfortable and provide a snug, supportive fit.
The design of the Hoka shoe is intended to eliminate any potential irritation or blistering that could result from wearing shoes that are too tight or poorly fitting. The shoes have a roomy toe box that allows for natural movement of the toes, while the upper of the shoe is designed to provide a secure and comfortable fit that does not rub or cause any discomfort.
Tips for Finding the Right Hoka Size
Now that you understand the nuances of Hoka sizing, how do you find the right size for your feet? Here are some tips to help you get the perfect fit:
1. Measure Your Feet
Before purchasing any running shoe, it is essential to measure your feet to ensure that you are getting the correct size.
You can measure your feet at home using a measuring tape by following these steps:
- Stand on a piece of paper, making sure your heel is against a wall or other flat surface.
- Trace the outline of your foot onto the paper, holding the pen or pencil perpendicular to the paper.
- Use a ruler or measuring tape to measure the length of your foot from the longest toe to the heel.
- Use the measurement to find the corresponding shoe size in the size chart of the brand you are interested in buying.
2. Check the Sizing Chart
Once you have your measurements, check the sizing chart for the Hoka shoe you are interested in. This will give you an idea of which size to try on.
3. Try on Multiple Sizes
Since Hoka sizing can vary, it is a good idea to try on multiple sizes to see which one feels the most comfortable. Walk around in the shoes and make sure that there is enough room in the toe box and that the heel is secure.
4. Consider Your Intended Use
If you plan on using your Hoka shoes for long-distance running, you may want to consider going up half a size to accommodate any swelling that may occur during your run. However, if you plan on using your shoes for shorter distances or for walking, you may want to go down half a size for a snugger fit.
