The latest flagship of this series is Arahi 6, which has some aesthetic changes to its previous version. People fond of Arahi 5 are now confused about the best among Hoka Arahi 5 vs 6.
The Arahi 6 is almost exactly like the Arahi 5 in terms of ride quality, fit, and overall feel. There is no difference in weight and drop between the Arahi 5 and 6, both weighing 7.8 oz (W) and 9.7 oz (M).
The major changes that Hoka Arahi 6 has to its previous version are in the upper unit. Let’s see what we can find in the other parts as well.
Sole Unit: Arahi 5 Vs 6
In Arahi 5 and 6, you’ll get a rubber material in the outsole. Both shoes have a J-frame that deals with dryness and wetness and is much lighter than 5. The dual-density rubber foam and additional grip of the J-frame will provide you with secured rides under any condition.
In the midsole, Arahi 5 has cushy material that feels comfy on the feet. Yet, Arahi 6 comes with CMEVA foam. This traditional foam is Hoka’s modern feature that offers a firm and bouncy ride. Cushy material will also provide the same comfort while running, but we can’t say about its durability. But in the case of flexibility, Arahi 5’s midsole undoubtedly wins.
Both these shoe has Meta-Rocker Geometry. This rocker-shaped midsole smooths the running transition and reduces your effort during the adjustment period. This is a win-win situation for you, regardless of your chosen shoe.
Winner: Both
Upper Unit: Arahi 5 Vs 6
The biggest difference is visible in the upper unit of these shoes. Arahi 5 has a standard outlook with the traditional breathable mesh, while Arahi 6 changes its appearance with a thinner recycled mesh material. The standard design of Arahi 5 may bore you, but if you go for Arahi 6, you’ll find its upper unit is much narrower. Yet, this won’t be a problem if you have normal-size feet.
Both upper units are breathable in these shoes; however, the breathability zones in Arahi 6 are hard to notice. Arahi 5 has some slits with long laces, while Arahi 6 is just fine with its meta-rocker geometry.
Winner: Arahi 6
Stability: Arahi 5 Vs 6
Both these shoes are a safe choice in the case of stability. If we compare, Arahi 6 will win because of its rigidness. However, its forefoot area is flexible, as usual. But if you don’t want the rigid part, Arahi 5 is a winner.
Winner: Arahi 6
Drop: Arahi 5 Vs 6
With a stack height of 35 mm and the forefoot height of 30 mm, both these shoes have a heel-to-toe drop of 5 mm. This is an appropriate drop size for a running shoe that provides balanced rides.
Winner: Both
Cushioning: Arahi 5 Vs 6
With the EVA midsole, both shoes have the same cushioning. You won’t find much difference wearing these shoes. But since the Aroshi 6 is the latest model, you can pick it as the winner.
Winner: Both
Ankle Support & Others: Arahi 5 Vs 6
Arahi 6 has significant changes in ankle support as it has a thicker ear pull tab. You will have some smooth and silky fabric on your ankle area to protect and give you a far kinder touch.
Arahi 5 lacks this smoothness in the ankle area but is soft enough to provide comfort. However, its heel area is softer than Arahi 6, which balances its feature in the ankle area.
Winner: Arahi 6
Overall Opinion
Arahi 6 is a smart choice for longer use as this shoe is stiffer and has great stability. However, Arahi 5 is the best fit for you if you prioritize comfort rather than longevity.
The things that make Arahi 5 comfy yet less stable are its flexible heels, thinner cushioning, and lightweight structure. For performance in marathons or any sprint races would be a great event to wear this shoe.
But if you wish to run daily and continue with the same shoe for a long, nothing can be better than Arahi 6. Yet again, these shoes are worth your money and can satisfy you with their performance.