Hoka is currently one of the fastest growing brands in run specialty. Their radical approach of maximum cushioned shoes has and continues to win over countless runners, walkers, and those just simply looking for a comfortable shoe. With plenty of models in both road and trail running, Hoka have long since proved their popularity; they are no longer just a niche brand. Originating in 2009, during the minimalist/ barefoot running trend, Hoka was polar opposite in their philosophy, their shoes providing generous stacked cushion accompanied with a meta rocker. In keeping an open mind to the “maximalist” trend, I recently acquired the Hoka Torrent trail shoe, a new trail racer for the brand.
Specs
The Torrent is a cushioned trail racing shoe with a heel to toe drop of 5mm, and a stack height of 26mm at the heel, and 21mm at the forefoot. The shoe does not have a rock plate, given this thickness and firmness of the midsole. The shoe is very lightweight, with each shoe weighing at 7.5oz for a woman’s size 8B (which I own). The outsole features multidirectional lugs to provide traction on technical terrain.
The midsole is comprised of Hoka’s PROFLY midsole to provide energy return and shock absorption. The upper is engineered mesh to provide breathability, while rubber overlays on the toe box provide additional protection and durability. As with the majority of trail running shoes, the Torrent is a neutral shoe (it does not address pronation.)
Running Location: Bear Creek Lake Park, Morrison, CO
Starting at 8am, I ran an out and back route on a section of the Mt. Carbon Loop, a simple single-track trail. I started from Soda Lakes parking lot just outside Morrison, then made my way east along the sidewalk and under the C-470 underpass, then hopped onto the trail. It was a brisk but sunny day, with the trail still covered in snow. As it was early in the day, the snow had not yet thawed, and was still firm: no sloppiness or mud. Overall elevation averages 5,568 ft.
First Impression
Immediately upon trying these, the cushion is noticeably firmer than the uber popular Speedgoat trail shoe, which I own as well. I always describe the Speedgoat as a pillow beneath my foot, with the midsole having a stack height of 32mm at the heel, and 28mm at the forefoot; the shoe is very plush. The Torrent on the other hand lacks this plushness, and has a stack height several centimeters lower. For those who prefer a firmer shoe, or are intimidated by the amount of cushion and stack height in the Speedgoat and Stinson models, this new model can be an option when considering Hoka trail shoes. And whereas the Speedgoat has a true meta rocker that provides a smoother heel to toe transition, I didn’t feel much of one while running in the Torrent. I do like the feel of the rocker whenever I wear my Speedgoats, but it is not necessarily something I always want to have while running; hence, the Torrent is a nice way to vary things up.
Size wise, I find the Torrent runs long. Normally I wear 8.5B, but for this shoe I went with 8B, and I still have plenty of room. With trail shoes especially extra room is ideal, to avoid jamming the toes when running downhill, and to accommodate for swelling. But to be honest, even wearing my thickest wool socks, the 8B still fits just a tad bit big. But personal preference always plays a huge role in selecting and trying on shoes, so if you really like a roomy fit, Torrent fits this bill. As with most Hokas I have tried, the width of this shoe is a little wider. If you found Hoka Challenger too narrow or Hoka Stinson too wide for your liking, Torrent is a good option. Wearing the Torrent and Speedgoat side by side, I find the width to be about the same.
I ran about five miles total, the snow underfoot a crunchy, dry consistency. The lugs provided great traction and I had zero issues with sliding; I felt secure the whole run. I felt snappy in these shoes and can see how they are trail racers, with their lightness and superior grip along the ground. Regarding route technicality, the section I ran is very flat, with a small rise of a few hundred feet or so. This incline posed no trouble for the shoes as I scrambled up to take in Bear Creek Reservoir. Running back down the lugs still did their job of offering great control.
Regarding comfort, I like the softness of the Speedgoat but like how the stack height is lower in the Torrent. Hoka shoes are about muting the feeling of the ground underneath; a rock plate is not necessary for these shoes at all with the PROFLY midsole providing plenty of protection underfoot. I ran in the Torrent with no orthotics, and as I have higher arches, I can see myself using my Currex insoles with the shoes to further customize the fit. The Torrent’s mesh upper sits a little higher above the foot, giving a some wiggle room for the feet, while the Speedgoat upper hugs the foot more. I did not experience any heel slipping.
I am quite impressed with the Hoka Torrent. I appreciate the lower stack height and the firmer cushion is a nice break from higher cushioned Hokas. The tread performed wonderfully in the snow, so I can only assume that on dry conditions the lugs would be just as efficient on dirt and technical terrain. The sizing I find a little big, but then again that may be due to preference. If you are wanting to try a Hoka trail shoe but don’t want to commit to a greater stack height or higher cushioning level, drop by your local running store to give these shoes a try! They are ideal not just for running but can easily be used for hiking as well. The Torrent is available in various color options for both men and women, and retails at $120.
~LMC
*Disclaimer: I am in no way sponsored, paid by, or affiliated with the brands/ items mentioned in this post. I write simply to inform other runners like myself of products that may interest them.