Hoka Arahi 9

The Arahi 9 is a lightweight and cushioned shoe that provides support for overpronation alongside freedom of movement. With Hoka's trademark Meta-Rocker technology, it is very smooth and easy to run in.

The Hoka Arahi 9 is ideal if...

You overpronate and want a smooth, responsive, supportive guidance
You need reliable stability but don't want the shoe to feel too bulky
You want a well-cushioned shoe for everyday road-running and walking

Feature	Details
Category	Stability Running Shoes
Cushioning	Balanced
Weight	M 284g / W 233g
Drop	8mm (39/31mm)
Fit	True to size
Width Options	Standard & Wide

Men's Hoka Arahi 9

£140

Women's Hoka Arahi 9

£140

Pros

Podular design on the bottom of the shoe makes it very flexible and smooth to run in
Premium cushioned shoe – softer than predecessor
High degree of shock-absorption – prevents injury from hard impact
Breathable upper – doesn't retain moisture from sweat
Lightweight for an everyday running shoe
Available in men's and women's wide fittings
Very comfortable for walking (as well as running!)

Cons(iderations)

The wide isn’t actually that wide, so if you have quite a broad foot you may find Brooks or New Balance a better fit
The cushioning is light and very comfortable but not super durable, so you may get a few miles less out of them compared to a Brooks for example

Improvements on Arahi 8

Updated stability technology delivers a smoother, less intrusive support
Upgraded mesh-upper improves breathability and comfort
Redesigned heel and collar offer a more secure, locked-in fit
Less aggressive rocker sole, for a smoother heel-to-toe transition and a more natural push-off

Features

Meta-rocker technology
Light, but plush cushioning – allows for softer landing and improved shock-absorption
Anti-pronation: H-Frame technology encourages stable running movement
Mesh upper made from recycled materials

Upper

Breathable
Seamless
Extended heel-pull for secure ankle support

Midsole

Soft cushioning provided by compression-moulded EVA
Ortholite sockliner for added cushioning
Medium levels of support and cushioning spread throughout

Outersole

Durable rubber throughout – increased longevity
Zonal rubber enforced in places of high-wear and hard contact
Anti-slip properties – provides suitable grip in wet/windy weather
New Podular system for increased flexibility and softness

In Testing

I’ve not had Hoka before but I chose these because I need some support for over-pronation and found they felt the smoothest underfoot and very easy to run in. My brother also has a pair which he’s been using for a month as he runs with the Sri Chinmoy Peace Run across America this summer. He’s loving them too, reporting that they’re great as an all-day shoe, for running but also the rest of the time he’s on his feet supporting the team and meeting local people.

The support works well and is unobtrusive, the podular design certainly makes them feel very smooth, flexing beautifully, and the cushioning feels perfect – not too soft but giving enough bounce to make each stride a touch easier.

Verdict

The Arahi 9 is very easy to run in, supports my feet, and fits well. My brother finds them equally great and has clocked well over 100 miles in them already. The key difference between this and other support shoes I’ve tried is they rock you through each stride and feel super smooth, so it’s easy to run even when you’re starting to tire. I think they’re also a really good option for people looking for a supportive and comfortable walking shoe. If you’re looking for comfort, support, enough cushioning but without feeling spongy, this could be your shoe.

Men's Hoka Arahi 9

£140

Men's Hoka Arahi 9 Wide

£140

Women's Hoka Arahi 9

£140

Women's Hoka Arahi 9 Wide

£140

Hoka Arahi 9 Comparison

Product	Comparison
Topo Aura	Similar weight and softness underfoot. 5mm heel drop – as Arahi used to be. Broader, foot-shaped toe-box for better foot health. Similar level of stability.
Saucony Guide	Slightly firmer underfoot. Smoother transition and a little more flexible through the forefoot. Slightly lower stack-height and lower drop at 6mm. Similar weight and cushioning. A good option for runners who prefer a more natural-feeling support shoe.
Asics GT-2000	Also balanced cushioning. Offers a more traditional feel for a stability shoe and support is a fraction stronger. Same 8mm drop and weight.
Brooks Glycerin GTS	More cushioned, with a softer, plusher feel. Similar stability for moderate overpronators. Little bit heavier and 10mm drop, better for heel strikers. Higher price point.