HOKA Arahi 6 vs. 7 vs. 8: Differences and Reviews 2025

HOKA Arahi 6 vs. 7 vs. 8: Quick Comparison

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You can purchase HOKA Arahi from Hoka official website (up to 4% super cash back), their physical stores worldwide, and verified partners.  Find your nearest store here.You can also buy from these online retailers below:

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HOKA Arahi 6 Review

With only a few minor tweaks from its predecessor, the Arahi 6 continues its legacy as a trustworthy daily trainer that gives overpronators a pleasantly supportive ride without feeling overbearing. 

The shoe appears to be mostly an upper update but does seem to provide some improved upper lockdown throughout the shoe.Boasting a seemingly contradictory combination of maximal cushioning and minimal weight, it’s been refined with a pull tab and mesh upper with zones of breathability. The rest of the midsole consists of a softer CMEVA foam that offers a comfortable underfoot experience at any pace. HOKA also uses their signature Meta-Rocker midsole, designed to make your toe-offs and landings more quick and efficient. While the Arahi 6 provides a generous amount of stability, it does so without feeling overly stiff or rigid thanks to HOKA’s signature J-Frame technology - a J-shaped hook of foam that wraps around the heel and lines the medial side of the shoe.

The shoe's blend of unorthodox stability system along with ample cushioning make this a unique stability trainer. Unfortunately, its inconsistent ride along with lack of major updates make the Arahi a middle of the road trainer.The overall performance of this shoe compares well to that of its neutral sister, the Hoka Clifton 8.

HOKA Arahi 6 Pros and Cons

HOKA Arahi 7 Review

The HOKA Arahi 7 is an update to the Arahi 6, with most changes focused on the upper for improved fit and comfort. The Arahi 7 features a flat-knit upper for better midfoot support and breathability, along with a plusher tongue and dual gusset for enhanced lockdown. To improve comfort, there’s a plusher tongue. A dual gusset design (bands attached to the tongue on each side), stops the tongue from moving. Ensuring a more consistent fit throughout your run.

The shoe have the same cushioning and support as before. A compression molded EVA foam offers great protection, in a lightweight design. The midsole doesn’t necessarily feel overly soft - and offers a balanced feel between protection and energy return. This is mainly down to the J-Frame support. Given there’s no changes to the midsole, it’s still curved from heel to toe. HOKA’s MetaRocker technology helps smooth out transitions from landings to take-off. It might also help lower the workload on your lower leg area. Such as the calf muscles and Achilles tendon. While the midsole remains the same, the Arahi 7 is slightly heavier than its predecessor. 

The Hoka Arahi 7, with its mild stability, really shines for those who favor a snug upper alongside a firm midsole. Despite its incredibly comfy knit upper and solid stability, it's not a shoe for everyone—it's tailored for specific runners. 

HOKA Arahi 7 Pros and Cons

HOKA Arahi 8 Review

Anything but your average stability shoe, the Arahi 8 maintains a secure ride while using softer materials than its predecessor. The secret lies in HOKA's enhanced H-frame technology. A stabilizing system that combats overpronation while providing a smooth entry into the gait cycle. Gone is the classic J-Frame that offered structured medial support. While the Arahi 8 still uses Hoka’s CMEVA cushioning, it now has more stack and a different drop. The shoe offers 39mm in the heel and 31mm in the forefoot, increasing the drop from 5mm in the Arahi 7 to 8mm drop.The outsole has also been redesigned, providing more grip and an improved rocker geometry. 

The big difference is in the upper—HOKA swapped the structured mesh for a softer, flat-knit material that’s more breathable and fits closer to the foot. The tongue is now gusseted, which helps it stay in place better, and the heel lockdown feels more secure without being tight. It’s also slightly lighter than the 7, but the support and cushioning stay the same.There’s slightly more room in the toe box compared to the Arahi 6 and 7.The feel underfoot is also softer and less responsive compared to previous versions. The Arahi 6 and 7 were built on the Clifton 9 platform, giving them a snappier ride. But the Arahi 8 feels much more like the softer Clifton 10, prioritising comfort over energy return.

Whether you're looking for a running shoe, daily walker, or something for long days at work, the HOKA Arahi 8 delivers lightweight stability with a more comfortable, breathable fit. It’s a great option if you need support without extra cushioning. If you’ve tried Arahi before, you’ll be pleasantly surprised with the new fit and feel. 

HOKA Arahi 8 Pros and Cons

HOKA Arahi 6 vs. 7 vs. 8: Which One Shoud You Choose?

If you prioritize a firmer, more responsive ride with a focus on stability, the Arahi 6 or 7 might be preferred. The Arahi 7 is a refined version of the Arahi 6, with a focus on improving the upper for a better fit and comfort. While it’s a great choice for fans of the Arahi 6, those looking for significant improvements may not find enough here to warrant upgrading. 

If you seek a softer, more cushioned, and comfortable ride with a slightly more spacious fit, the Arahi 8 is a good option, especially for those transitioning from other Hoka models or needing a bit more heel cushioning. The Arahi 8 replaces the J-frame technology with an H-frame, delivering more support for runners with different gait patterns.Because of the added heel cushioning, it has a higher heel-to-toe drop.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Arahi 6 a stability shoe?

Overall, the HOKA Arahi 6 is a stability shoe that can work well for both overpronators and neutral runners who enjoy firm cushioning.

What are Arahi 7s good for?

The Arahi 7 is designed to provide protective cushion while maintaining a responsive toe-off for when you want to go faster. The Arahi 7 features a higher bed of soft cushion, designed to provide a forgiving impact and ride.

Is Arahi 7 good for overpronation?

The Arahi 7 is best suited for runners who need extra support for overpronation, the excessive inward rolling of a runner's foot upon landing.

Are Arahi 7 good for plantar fasciitis?

Yes, the Hoka Arahi 7 is generally considered a good option for plantar fasciitis due to its stability and cushioning, which can help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with the condition.The Arahi 7 is designed with features like Hoka's J-Frame technology, which helps to guide the foot and prevent overpronation, a common cause of plantar fasciitis. 

What is the HOKA Arahi 8 best for?

The Arahi 8 is ideal for runners seeking a stability shoe with plush cushioning that doesn't feel overly structured or stiff.

How does the HOKA Arahi 8 feel underfoot?

The Arahi 8 prioritizes softness and comfort with its re-designed midsole and additional cushioning. It is softer and more relaxed than the Arahi 7, making it a good choice for longer efforts and easy miles. The H-Frame stability system is designed to provide support without feeling stiff or obstructive. 

Does the Arahi 8 provide good arch support?

User experiences regarding arch support vary. While the shoe's stability features, such as the H-frame technology and wide base, contribute to overall support, some users have reported feeling a lack of medial stability at the arch. 

Is the Arahi 8 suitable for walking?

Yes, the HOKA Arahi 8 is a good option for walking and casual wear due to its plush cushioning and comfortable fit. It is described as soft, easy on the feet, and suitable for long days on your feet. 

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