Hoka is known for its extra cushioning and the breathable upper unit, while Kuru is nothing short regarding breathability. Hoka provides excellent cushioning, while Kuru brings you more smoothened flexibility. So, how can you select the best one? We’ll help you find it.
Among many excellent features, we’ll let you know which specialty will help you and which will not. Besides this, we’ll also let you know about some downfalls of these shoes. So, let’s begin with our impartial analysis.
Kuru Vs. Hoka
Hoka or Kuru are the brands you’ll find people talking about when you want to have a perfect pair of shoes. Considering the cushioning, arch support, and durability, you must want to have the best of them. This is why we will discuss every little potion of them to ensure your best footwear among them.
Sole Unit
One of the major differences between these shoes is in the sole unit. Kuru brand offers Ultimate Insoles in their shoes that mold to your feet according to your body temperature. This provides you with the proper support from the sole unit. The more you wear these shoes, the better fit they become.
On the other hand, the Hoka brand features rocker soles that enable natural foot motion and keep your feet relaxed, releasing the pressure from the forefoot. This lightweight and soft sole allows users to wear them all day.
Though the materials are different, both sole units provide similar comfort. However, Hoka’s soles are more tolerable.
Upper Unit
Kuru’s upper unit is more breathable, as per the experts. This upper part has rubber eyestay on the sidewall, making it also stable. With its mesh top, your feet will remain safe and sound while running.
Hoka’s upper unit, on the other hand, is famous for its engineered mesh. This mesh upper is lightweight, supportive,, and breathable, as expected. In fact, Hoka is the first brand to bring mesh uppers in its shoes. This mesh layer is strategically placed around your forefoot, and if any health product is there will remain safe.
Size & Fit
Kuru and Hoka have a true-to-size appearance, making them comfortable to wear. In Kuru shoes, you’ll have a tighter fit at first. But after a few days of wearing them, they’ll take the shape of your feet and suit you nicely. Some of the Kuru shoes will be half-size longer or half-size smaller. Picking the smaller option will be wise because they’ll mold gradually.
Hoka shoes will provide extra space in the toe box without being loose. You’ll feel comfortable wearing bandages on your feet. Both these shoes have some wider or compressed options for different size foot. However, Hoka’s upper unit may provide you with more stability in impactful activities.
Stability
Hoka is relatively stable, so it is more expensive than Kuru. Some users say Kuru’s insole wears out faster than Hoka’s. Also, you have to tie laces in Kuru shoes to keep your feet unmoving. Considering these facts, Hoka shoes are considered more stable than Kuru.
Breathability
In terms of breathability, both these shoes get full marks. They will keep providing air through their upper mesh no matter how long you run. One of the special features you will get in the Hoka shoes is they will keep the mold from drying. Overall, both shoes have excellent breathability.
Arch Support
Kuru’s special sole shape leads your body movement to a healthy posture. It has a three-layer feet support through its ultimate sole, providing maximum arch support and lessening the impact on heels. Its midsole can provide you with comfort all day.
However, Hoka shoes are believed to be the best at arch support. People with foot problems find this shoe more comfortable than others. For flat feet, failing arches, or plantar fasciitis, Hoka shoes are the most appropriate on the market.
Weight
Another major difference between these two shoes is in the weight section. Kuru shoes weigh around 346 grams, whereas Hoka shoes only weigh 234 grams. That’s why doing heavy-duty work will be slightly uneasy in Kuru’s shoes.
Overall Opinion
Kuru shoes have some downfalls, like soles wearing out or laces losing in. Considering this fact, Hoka shoes are supposed to be better. But many podiatrists recommend Kuru because of its other exceptional features.
But if you seek durability, lightness, or softness, Hoka shoes can be a smart choice.