Gear Geek: Hoka One One Challenger ATR

Hoka One One Challenger ATR is a new addition to 2015 footwear lineup. Athletes now have a light and nimble option for short/fast off road. Hoka One One has provided the equivalent to an SUV for Running. 8.6oz Mens, 5mm; 29mm, 24mm for men 7.4oz Womens 5mm 28mm, 23mm for women Hoka has taken their successful design model and provided the options for both the road and trail runners. Seen before in the Stinson and Stinson ATR… So nice they made it twice. Clearly identifiable Clifton tooling the shoe takes the incredibly light weight design with a reinforced feel to handle the requirements of trails/gravel. The thicker ripstop fabric and heavier stitching gives the shoe the resilient feel. Conforming, but the material took a couple of wears to finally work to the foot shape and soften up and stop from the material binding. The midsole provides a firmer touch under the foot than the Clifton, which proves vital when stepping on sharp features in the trail. In addition, the response helps move the foot through the softer dirt to prevent the sluggish feel. Hoka has this formula figured out- comfortable, responsive “enough”. Most runners would appreciate this feel within the first couple of miles. Runners remember, this is still a “light weight” shoe in regards to the Hoka standard. Although is sizes dwarf other comparable in the industry, you should still expect the light weight life out of this shoe. The Challenger ATR will not hold up to the same heavy abusive miles as some of the other options that Hoka has available.