HOKA Stinson 8
Road Easy Recovery · Trail Ultra

HOKA Stinson 8

A much-improved, lighter, softer version of a long-loved stability max-cushion shoe, though wide-foot fans of the roomy v7 toe box should be aware the fit has snugged down. — Doctors of Running

Physical blueprint

Where this shoe sits

Weight 315 g
Heel stack 42.0 mm
Drop 5.0 mm

Best for

Trail

Specifications

Weight (M9)
315g (11.1 oz)
Stack (Heel)
42.0 mm
Stack (Forefoot)
37.0 mm
Drop
5.0 mm
Midsole
EVA with H-Frame stability top layer (EVA)
Outsole
Durabrasion all-terrain rubber, 3.5 mm lugs
Upper
Breathable mesh with woven overlays
Lacing
Traditional

Fit Profile

Forefoot Width
Standard
Lockdown
Good

Ride Characteristics

Stability
Mild Stability

Durability

Outsole
Average

Expert reviews · 1 reviewer · grouped per channel

DO
Doctors of Running Youtube ↗

A much lighter, softer, and more runnable evolution of the Stinson that retains strong H-frame stability, best suited to hikers, stability-focused trail runners, and flat-terrain use, with weight becoming a liability on climbs and slightly reduced outsole durability versus the original.

Best for: Hikers wanting a lighter alternative to heavy hiking boots, stability-seeking trail runners not worried about weight, and runners on flatter trail terrain

+2 earlier reviews from Doctors of Running

A massive, better-in-almost-every-way update over version 7 -- over an ounce lighter, softer, and more comfortable -- with only a wish for slightly more forefoot volume.

Best for: Ultra trail racing or a stable, heavily-rockered trail shoe that can handle a variety of terrain, including road-to-trail use.

20 miles tested · source

A much-improved, lighter, softer version of a long-loved stability max-cushion shoe, though wide-foot fans of the roomy v7 toe box should be aware the fit has snugged down.

Best for: Stability-minded easy runners and stroller-pushing training who want a lighter, more nimble ride than the old Stinson.

Frequently asked questions

How does the HOKA Stinson 8 fit?

Reviewers note: Toe box volume has been snugged down noticeably from the very wide version 7 — wide-foot runners should try before buying.

Per Doctors of Running.

How much does the HOKA Stinson 8 weigh and what is its drop?

The HOKA Stinson 8 weighs about 315g (men's 9), has a 42.0mm heel stack and a 5.0mm heel-toe drop.

What shoes is the HOKA Stinson 8 compared to?

Reviewers compare the HOKA Stinson 8 to HOKA Stinson v7.

Per Doctors of Running.

How many experts have reviewed the HOKA Stinson 8?

Next Pair aggregates 3 expert reviews of the HOKA Stinson 8, including Doctors of Running.

Per Doctors of Running.

Where it sits among similar shoes

Compared to other road easy recovery in the same lane.

Weight · lower = lighter Men's size 9
HOKA Stinson 8
315g
Saucony Hurricane 25
295g
New Balance Fresh Foam X More 6
312g
HOKA Bondi 9
306g
Heel stack · higher = more cushioning mm
HOKA Stinson 8
42.0mm
Saucony Hurricane 25
41.0mm
New Balance Fresh Foam X More 6
42.0mm
HOKA Bondi 9
44.0mm
Drop · higher = more heel-leaning mm
HOKA Stinson 8
5.0mm
Saucony Hurricane 25
6.0mm
New Balance Fresh Foam X More 6
4.0mm
HOKA Bondi 9
5.0mm

HOKA Stinson 8

Data-driven recommendation backed by expert reviews.

Ask the advisor
Methodology. Specs come from manufacturer data and authoritative third-party catalogs. Reviewer verdicts are summarized from named, linked sources — never copied verbatim. We weight clinical and lab-tested sources more heavily than community commentary, but the specific weights stay internal. Never sponsored, never paid placement.
Last updated 2026-09-29