I'm building up my mileage to run a couple of ultras (only 50Ks for now), and am having some issues finding the right shoe. I've been experimenting with Hokas for the last few years, and have had a few pair of Hokas. Specifically, I've had... Bondi B, Bondi 2, Stinson EVO Tarmac, and Stinson EVO Trail.
The Bondi models fit the better than the others, and I loved the super-soft ride. However, they didn't have enough support and allowed my ankle to roll inward - especially toward the end of long runs. I tried custom orthotics & a couple of OTC versions (Powerstep, etc.) to no avail. I just couldn't get used to the feel.
The Stinson Tarmacs didn't fit as nice as the Bondis. Not enough to cause issues (blisters, etc.), they just didn't feel as good. But they did work better for me. They seemed to be just a little more firm & supportive.
The Stinson Trails feel mostly like the Tarmacs (which is to say not as plush or roomy as the Bondis). But, again, they don't cause any issues. However, I am experiencing a little of the same ankle rolling inward issue now that my long runs are getting longer AND I seem to actually roll my ankles (toward the outside) more than in "standard" shoes, possibly due to the lack of trail feel.
So, in summary, I really like the protection the Hokas provide (both cushioning & from sharp rocks), but it seems I need something that's just a little firmer/more supportive. I see there are a bunch of new Hoka models. Would one of those fit the bill? Or, I'm open to other suggestions, too.
For reference, I've found that the following road shoes work pretty well for me (in order of preference)... Brooks PureCadence, Newton Distance, Brooks PureFlow, Saucony Kinvara 3.
Steve
"If you ain't first, you're last." Reese Bobby Talladega Nights
The Bondi models fit the better than the others, and I loved the super-soft ride. However, they didn't have enough support and allowed my ankle to roll inward - especially toward the end of long runs. I tried custom orthotics & a couple of OTC versions (Powerstep, etc.) to no avail. I just couldn't get used to the feel.
The Stinson Tarmacs didn't fit as nice as the Bondis. Not enough to cause issues (blisters, etc.), they just didn't feel as good. But they did work better for me. They seemed to be just a little more firm & supportive.
The Stinson Trails feel mostly like the Tarmacs (which is to say not as plush or roomy as the Bondis). But, again, they don't cause any issues. However, I am experiencing a little of the same ankle rolling inward issue now that my long runs are getting longer AND I seem to actually roll my ankles (toward the outside) more than in "standard" shoes, possibly due to the lack of trail feel.
So, in summary, I really like the protection the Hokas provide (both cushioning & from sharp rocks), but it seems I need something that's just a little firmer/more supportive. I see there are a bunch of new Hoka models. Would one of those fit the bill? Or, I'm open to other suggestions, too.
For reference, I've found that the following road shoes work pretty well for me (in order of preference)... Brooks PureCadence, Newton Distance, Brooks PureFlow, Saucony Kinvara 3.
Steve
"If you ain't first, you're last." Reese Bobby Talladega Nights