The Hoka Anacapa Mid GTX is a hiking boot that offers an over-the-ankle height and protection, while also maintaining a decently lightweight design. It boasts excellent cushioning and a smooth ride, which are trademarks of the running brand.
The fit is snug in the heel and spacious in the toe box, making it comfortable for on-trail hikers who prioritize comfort.
However, there are durability concerns with premature wear along parts of the outsole, and the thick cushioning gives it a polarizing look.
Despite these issues, the Anacapa Mid remains a quality choice for those seeking comfortable hiking boots.
Who Should Buy Hoka Anacapa?
The Hoka Anacapa is a hiking boot that is known for its comfort and flexibility. It is suitable for hikers who prioritize comfort and want a shoe that is runnable. The shoe is more expensive than some other hiking boots on the market. Anyone who enjoys hiking and wants a comfortable shoe that can handle various terrains may consider buying the Hoka Anacapa.
Who Should Not Buy Hoka Anacapa?
Individuals who are seeking hiking boots that prioritize aesthetics over comfort, or those who require exceptional durability and protection against harsh terrain, may not find Hoka Anacapa Mid GTX to be their ideal option.
Rating Breakdown
Comfort – 7.0
Build quality – 8.0
Upper – 7.0
Sole unit – 8.0
Landing – 8.0
Transition – 8.0
Toe-off – 8.0
Traction – 8.0
Durability – 8.0
Value / Price – 6.0
Facts/Spec
Size/Fit
Cushioning & Ride
Usage
First Impression
So I just got my hands on the Hoka Anacapa Mid GTX and wanted to share my first impressions after using them for 5 days. First off, unboxing these bad boys was a treat. The sleek design caught my eye immediately, and the boots felt surprisingly lightweight in my hands.
As soon as I slipped them on, I could feel the cushioned midsole working its magic. It’s like walking on clouds! And the rockered shape of the sole really did make it easy to roll from one step to the next. I’ve had some issues with over-flexing on rocky trails in the past, but the thick EVA foam seems to have solved that problem.
In terms of weather protection, I can say that the GORE-TEX membrane does seem to be doing its job. I’ve gone through mud, puddles, and even snow without any moisture seeping into the boots. Plus, they’re breathable enough that my feet don’t get too sweaty during longer hikes.
Overall, I’m really impressed with the Hoka Anacapa Mid GTX so far. They’re comfortable, and supportive, and seem to hold up well against various terrains and weather conditions. Can’t wait to keep putting more miles on them!
Upper Mesh
The Upper Mesh of the Hoka Anacapa Mid GTX is definitely worth talking about. It’s made with a waterproof Gore-Tex material that keeps my feet dry even when I’m trekking through wet terrain. The mesh itself is breathable and doesn’t make my feet feel too hot or sweaty, which is important on longer hikes.
Plus, it’s durable enough to handle some serious wear and tear without falling apart. Overall, I’m really impressed with the quality of the Upper Mesh on these boots.
Sole Unit
So let’s talk about the sole unit of the Hoka Anacapa Mid GTX. As I mentioned earlier, these boots don’t have a stiff TPU shank or chassis like most hiking boots. But what they do have are thick EVA foam midsoles that provide great protection against rocks and roots. And if you’re worried about rolling your ankles, the torsional rigidity of the soles should give you some peace of mind.
Now, I know some hikers might be skeptical of a boot without a hard shank, but trust me, these soles get the job done. They offer plenty of support and cushioning for long hikes, and I’ve never felt like my feet were over-flexing on uneven terrain. Plus, the fact that they’re made from lightweight materials means you won’t feel weighed down on the trail.
Of course, it’s worth noting that the ankle collars on these boots aren’t super rigid. While there is some nubuck leather in there for support, don’t expect them to be as sturdy as a full-on backpacking boot. That being said, I’ve never had any issues with my ankles turning over while wearing the Anacapa Mid GTX. And with the locking laces, you can always adjust the fit to make sure your ankles are snug and secure.
All in all, I’d say the sole unit of the Hoka Anacapa Mid GTX is definitely up to par for day hiking purposes. It’s not going to be the right choice for everyone, but if you’re looking for a comfortable and supportive boot that won’t weigh you down, this is a solid option.
Conclusion
Overall, I think the Hoka Anacapa Mid GTX is a solid lightweight hiking boot option. It’s surprisingly supportive and cushioned for its weight, and the waterproofing and traction are top-notch. However, it lacks the ankle support of traditional hiking boots and may not be as cushioned as some other options out there.
Some hikers may experience irritation in their Achilles tendons while wearing these boots. That being said, if you’re looking for a reliable lightweight option with a standard-roomy fit, the Hoka Anacapa Mid GTX could be a good choice for you. Just keep in mind that it’s priced at an average value point.