Do you belong to the ‘always-on’ or ‘healthy mind and body’ group? That’s what Hoka and Asics aim to deliver to their clientele. Despite Asics nearing its 50th anniversary and Hoka celebrating its first ten years, both brands supply top-notch running footwear. So, which pair should you opt for?
ASICs and Hoka have been providing well-cushioned, high-quality shoes for a long time. In a nutshell, ASICs don’t always fit true to size, are heavier, more durable, and designed for everyday use rather than lengthy distances. On the other hand, Hoka is somewhat lighter, fits true to size, and is comfy for increasing speed during extended runs.
Nevertheless, this may not apply uniformly across all shoe models. Let’s explore the reasons behind this.
Hoka Vs. Asics features
Since Hoka and Asics perform similarly, here is a summary of the two brands:
| Features | Hoka | ASICs |
| Origin | Hoka, often misidentified as a Chinese brand, was first introduced in France in 2009 as a high-performance shoe. | Mr. Kihachiro Onitsuka founded it in 1949 as the Onitsuka company in Japan. Later, in 1977, the business merged with JELENK, GTO, and other multiple sewing factories to form Asics. |
| Outsole | They use a lot of rPET fibers & films and Recycled Polyester. At the same time, Hoka Hukana has RMAT on the entire sole. Furthermore, the Meta-Rocker architecture prevents the foot from flat-landing. | ASICS High Abrasion Resistance Rubber (AHAR+) with spaced plastic and truistic support. |
| Midsole material | Ortholite footbed with complete EVA foam and RMAT as well. | SpEVA, Solyte, and Flytefoam are a few examples. |
| Price | $90-$260. | $140-$290. |
Check Out: Hoka Vs Nike
Size Charts for Hoka and Asics
When comparing Hoka and Asics size charts, you’ll notice that Asics run a half size bigger than Hoka’s U.S. sizing.
For more Hoka Sizing related queries check out: Do Hoka Shoes Run Small, Big Or True To Size?
Hoka Size chart
Here’s a Hoka size guide for men and women:
| UK | MEN SIZE IN THE U.S. | WOMEN SIZE IN THE U.S. | Length |
| 3.5 | 4 | 5 | 22 cm |
| 4 | 4.5 | 5.5 | 22.5 cm |
| 4.5 | 5 | 6 | 23 cm |
| 5 | 5.5 | 6.5 | 23.5 cm |
| 5.5 | 6 | 7 | 24 cm |
| 6 | 6.5 | 7.5 | 24.5 cm |
| 6.5 | 7 | 8 | 25 cm |
| 7 | 7.5 | 8.5 | 25.5 cm |
| 7.5 | 8 | 9 | 26 cm |
| 8 | 8.5 | 9.5 | 26.5 cm |
| 8.5 | 9 | 10 | 27 cm |
| 9 | 9.5 | 10.5 | 27.5 cm |
| 9.5 | 10 | 11 | 28 cm |
| 10 | 10.5 | 11.5 | 28.5 cm |
| 10.5 | 11 | 12 | 29 cm |
| 11 | 11.5 | 12.5 | 29.5 cm |
| 11.5 | 12 | 13 | 30 cm |
| 12 | 12.5 | 13.5 | 30.5 cm |
| 12.5 | 13 | 14 | 31 cm |
ASICS Men’s Size Chart
The size chart for ASICS men’s shoes is as follows:
| US | UK | EU | CM |
| 4 | 3 | 36 | 22.5 |
| 4.5 | 3.5 | 37 | 23 |
| 5 | 4 | 37.5 | 23.5 |
| 5.5 | 4.5 | 38 | 24 |
| 6 | 5 | 39 | 24.5 |
| 6.5 | 5.5 | 39.5 | 25 |
| 7 | 6 | 40 | |
| 7.5 | 6.5 | 40.5 | 25.5 |
| 8 | 7 | 41.5 | 26 |
| 8.5 | 7.5 | 42 | 26.5 |
| 9 | 8 | 42.5 | 27 |
| 9.5 | 8.5 | 43.5 | 27.5 |
ASICS Women’s Size Chart
The following is a chart for ASICS women:
| US | UK | EU | CM |
| 5.5 | 3.5 | 36 | 22.75 |
| 6 | 4 | 37 | 23 |
| 6.5 | 4.5 | 37.5 | 23.5 |
| 7 | 5 | 38 | 24 |
| 7.5 | 5.5 | 39 | 24.5 |
| 8 | 6 | 39.5 | 25 |
| 8.5 | 6.5 | 40 | 25.5 |
| 9 | 7 | 40.5 | 25.75 |
Also you can read more on: Hoka Vs Saucony
ASICs Gel Nimbus 23 Vs. Hoka Clifton 8
When it comes to peak efficiency and comfort, I’ll go with both ASICs gel Nimbus 23 and Clifton Hoka 8. Why? Because both shoes feature high-level technology that provides better cushioning and stability. In terms of comfort, they both cut, and it is completely up to the user to determine which shoe best fits their feet.
For example, if you prefer to rest on your forefoot, Nimbus 23 would be more comfortable. However, if you land on your midfoot or strike with your heel, the Hoka Clifton 8 would be your ideal option.
The Hoka Clifton 8 is better-suitable for runners who require cushioning and stability. It’s a great trainer, featuring the soft, Meta-Rocker design that encourages you to move forward. The gel Nimbus 23, on the other hand, is more durable, cushioned, and responsive, with a large gel pocket that distributes vertical impact and lowers vibration.
The ASICs Gel Nimbus 23 is intended to provide more cushioning and protection for joint-stressing activities, whereas the Hoka Clifton 8 is better for shorter, more intense workouts. However, the Hoka Clifton 8 is not very fast.
The Hoka Clifton 8’s midsole is made entirely of EVA and is 15% lighter than previous versions. And, unlike ASICS’ Gel Nimbus 23, its mesh upper is incredibly breathable.
The Asics Gel Nimbus 23 has a significant disadvantage in price and weight; they are heavier and more costly than the Hoka Clifton 8. Finally, it comes down to your particular preferences and running style.
| ASICs Gel Nimbus 23 | Hoka Clifton 8 | |
| Price | $150. | $111.9. |
| Weight | 10.9 oz. | 8.9 oz. |
| Sole drop | 13 mm heel drop and 2 mm thicker heel. | 5mm drop |
| Pros | There should be no excessive foot movement in the shoe. Good trainer as the Meta-Rocker technology provides the automatic push. Extremely comfy. Plushy. Excellent security. Smooth travels. Ideal for people with broad feet. The Outsole is long-lasting. Perfect for heel strikes. Stable and neutral. | Very relaxing. Durable. The measurement is correct. Excellent footing. Lightweight. The ride is rockered and seamless. |
| Cons | Heavy. The Clothing is not very airy. | Slow and steady are warm. |
Check out: Onitsuka Tiger Vs Asics
ASICs Gel Kayano 28 Vs. Hoka Arahi 5
Choosing that one fast shoe that will not let you down on your overpronated feet is only the tip of the iceberg. However, the ASICS Kayano and the Hoka Arahi best suit flatfooted and overpronated sneakerheads.
Kayano has a more durable midsole than Arahi. Both have a secure fit, improved cushioning, and excellent stability. When it comes to stability, both ASICS and Hoka use their unique innovations. For example, Kayano uses FluidRide, whereas Arahi uses J-Frame. The J-frame is a J-shaped foam that conforms to the heels and is robust enough to keep the foot in place and prevent overpronation.
The ASICS Kayano Fluidride combines two spongy technologies, SpEVATM and SolyteTM. When combined, they provide high-impact, lightweight cushioning with an increased rebound at every stride.
It’s also excellent for shock reduction. Yes, Asics gel Kayano, like Arahi, is excellent for over-pronation, but only ASICS Kayano would fit as both stability and neutral shoes, whereas Arahi is purely stability. In terms of cost, the Asics Kayano 28 is more costly and heavier than the Hoka Arahi 5.
| Hoka Arahi 5 | ASICs Kayano 28 | |
| Price | $140 | $160 |
| Weight | 9.70oz | 10.9oz (315g) |
| Sole drop | 5.00 mm | 10 mm to 13 mm |
| Pros | Wide toe box. Hi-Abrasion Rubber offers a durable, cushioned, and flexible outsole. Excellent footing. | On lengthy runs, it is beneficial. It can help both stable and neutral athletes. Exceptionally lightweight. A steady and consistent journey. There is a lack of medical posts. |
| Cons | Inadequate cushioning. | Heavy for sprints and fast walks. Extraordinarily airy. Slippage of the heel. Runs warm. |
ASICs Nova Blast 3 Vs. Hoka Mach 5
Both are excellent examples of quality non-plated trainers, and their prices are very similar. The Asics Nova Blast weighs slightly more than the Hoka Mach 5, but both are lightweight shoes. The NovaBlast 3 is made with Flight Foam blast plus, which is bouncy and lighter than earlier iterations, the rubber outsole is hard but not thick, and the heels are padded.
Comparatively, the Mach 5 is light, has a mesh upper, heavily padded collars, and a mildly padded tongue. The midsole is dual-density and EVA, and the shoe is extremely bouncy overall. However, they suit better than the Nova Blast 3, which runs large, whereas the Mach 5 runs true to size despite being slightly less roomy in the toe box.
In summary, if you prefer narrow fits, the Hoka Mach 5 is the shoe for you, and if you have wider feet, the Nova Blast 3 is for you. And, while the Hoka Mach 5 provides a more pace and athletic feel, the Nova Blast 3 is perfect for comfortable, short jogs with little pacing.
| Hoka Mach 5 | ASICs Nova Blast 3 | |
| Price | $140 | $140 |
| Weight | 8.1 oz | 9 oz |
| Sole drop | 5 mm | 8 mm |
| Pros | Fits true to size. Reflective. It absorbs impact. Breathable and elastic. | Cushioned. Bouncy. Light. Snug. Durable |
| Cons | Due to the lack of Hoka’s standard outsole, this shoe is not very durable and only lasts a short distance. (around 50 to 250 miles). Wet areas have less traction. | Run slightly big and long. |
Final words
In summary, selecting between Hoka and Asics athletic footwear boils down to individual tastes, running techniques, and specific needs. Asics, boasting a rich heritage and expertise, provides sturdy, well-padded, and more substantial shoes suitable for daily wear and delivering outstanding support for various activities. The brand prioritizes innovation and cutting-edge technologies, including AHAR+, SpEVA, Solyte, and Flytefoam, to guarantee a comfortable and secure running experience.
Conversely, Hoka is a newer brand emphasizing lightweight, well-fitted shoes designed for longer runs and improved pacing. The brand’s distinctive Meta-Rocker design and inventive utilization of materials such as rPET fibers and recycled polyester afford a one-of-a-kind running experience, which has attracted a dedicated fan base among runners.
When evaluating specific models, like the Asics Gel Nimbus 23 versus Hoka Clifton 8, Asics Gel Kayano 28 versus Hoka Arahi 5, and Asics Nova Blast 3 versus Hoka Mach 5, it is vital to assess aspects such as weight, padding, stability, and cost. Each model presents unique benefits and limitations, making it crucial to comprehend your running style, preferences, and requirements to identify the ideal shoe.
Furthermore, it is important to recognize the sizing discrepancies between the two brands. Asics footwear typically runs half a size larger than Hoka shoes, so be sure to reference the size charts and experiment with various sizes to achieve the optimal fit for your feet.
In the end, choosing between Hoka and Asics athletic shoes is a subjective decision. Both brands boast a solid reputation and provide high-quality, inventive products aimed at elevating your running experience. By investing time in examining the attributes, sizing, and specific models on offer, you can make a well-informed choice that aligns with your running objectives and optimizes your comfort and performance on the track, trail, or pavement.
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