Everything About HOKA: Technologies, Naming & Abbreviations

Whether you’re a marathon athlete or a wellness-focused runner, HOKA’s cutting-edge technologies deliver consistent cushioning and performance on every route. Let’s explore the innovations behind HOKA’s appeal — and help you find the right pair to support you on every step of your running journey.

Behind every pair of HOKA shoes is the perfect harmony of MetaRocker™, Active Foot Frame™ and a highly cushioned midsole (Cushioned Midsole). This trio of technologies helps each stride feel more natural and cushioned. On top of that, J-Frame™ and H-Frame™ deliver exceptional stability while keeping the shoe lightweight, so you can confidently take on any route.

The MetaRocker™ technology is HOKA’s signature curved midsole geometry. Inspired by a “rocking chair” shape, it helps your foot roll smoothly and naturally from heel to toe. As a result, your transitions become more fluid and your stride more energy-efficient with every step.

Depending on the shoe’s purpose, HOKA fine-tunes this technology: boosting transition speed under the midfoot for runners who love pace, or optimizing stability for a more grounded feel. Whichever direction you choose, you’ll notice a smooth, responsive ride that feels natural and confident underfoot.

The Active Foot Frame™ design lets your foot sit “down inside” the midsole instead of resting on top like in traditional shoes. This cradled fit keeps your foot securely in place without adding extra weight or stiffness to the upper.

Across different product lines, HOKA adjusts the height of the sidewalls: higher walls deliver maximum stability, while lower walls offer a more flexible and natural feel.

(Image 1 – HOKA Tecton X 3 with Active Foot Frame technology for a stable ride)

The midsole plays a key role in delivering a soft and comfortable running experience. Every HOKA shoe features a generously cushioned midsole to absorb impact at landing and support a wide range of activities. With its plush feel and excellent shock absorption, the foam is tuned to support each stride while quickly rebounding, giving you a smooth, light, and rhythmic ride from start to finish.

Used in models like the Arahi 7, HOKA’s J-Frame™ technology is engineered to help reduce overpronation. A firmer J-shaped section of foam runs along the inside of the midsole to keep your foot stable and encourage a more natural alignment throughout your stride.

(Image 2 – HOKA Arahi 7 with J-Frame technology to help control overpronation)

While J-Frame™ offers targeted support for runners who need help with overpronation, H-Frame™ focuses on creating natural balance and overall stability in every step. H-Frame™ forms an “H”-shaped support structure through the midsole, cradling the entire foot. Featured in models like the Arahi 8, Gaviota 5 and Stinson 7, the H-Frame™ is seamlessly integrated into the midsole foam, giving runners a strong sense of balance and all-around confidence.

(Image 3 – HOKA Arahi 8 running shoe with H-Frame structure for overall stability)

Every HOKA name carries a small story. Typically, a shoe name includes the product family and a version number, reflecting continuous evolution from one generation to the next.

For example, Clifton 10 is the tenth version of the Clifton line — the result of ongoing refinements in both technology and design. From Mach 6 to Bondi 9, each new release marks a step forward, helping runners experience even better performance and comfort than before.

(Image 4 – Challenger 7 GTX trail running shoes are the 7th generation of the Challenger line)

When you see abbreviations in a HOKA shoe name, they usually indicate a special feature (such as a specific midsole plate) or a design tailored to a particular use case (like middle-distance racing). Below are some common abbreviations you may come across when choosing HOKA shoes.

SR (Slip Resistant) models are built with high-traction outsoles to help reduce slips. Styles like the Bondi SR use dedicated slip-resistant tread patterns and full-ground-contact rubber to provide maximum stability and safety for people working in service and healthcare environments.

(Image 5 – HOKA Bondi SR with high-traction outsole for slip resistance)

The letter X in a HOKA shoe name indicates the presence of a midsole plate that enhances propulsion and energy return. This plate can be made of carbon — as in the Skyward X and Tecton X — or Pebax®, as seen in the Mach X, for a lighter, more flexible feel.

GTX stands for GORE-TEX, the material used in HOKA’s waterproof footwear. GORE-TEX shines in trail models like the Challenger 7 GTX and Anacapa 2 Mid GTX, and also appears in road shoes designed for all-weather running, such as the Clifton.

(Image 6 – HOKA GTX shoes with effective waterproof protection)

TC (Thoughtful Creation) products are crafted with simplified, lower-impact materials, focusing on sustainability and environmental friendliness. Restore TC features a stretchy upper that hugs the foot, a midsole made with 30% EVA, and an outsole that includes 20% sugarcane-based EVA — all designed for all-day comfort with a lighter footprint.

(Image 7 – HOKA TC shoes made with more sustainable materials)

XC stands for Cross Country, used for cross-country racing shoes. Lightweight, agile models like the Crescendo XC and Crescendo XC Spikeless are designed for distance runners and cross-country athletes, offering strong traction and responsiveness across varied terrain.

The MD (Middle Distance) label marks spike shoes for middle-distance racing, typically from 800 meters to 3,000 meters. Cielo X 2 MD and Cielo X MD pair an ultra-light upper with a carbon fiber plate to deliver powerful toe-off and speed, helping athletes reach peak pace on the track.

The LD (Long Distance) label is used for spike shoes built for long-distance track events, typically from 3,000 to 10,000 meters. Cielo X 2 LD and Cielo X LD combine a lightweight upper, carbon fiber plate, and a higher midsole stack to boost rebound, underfoot stability, and sustained efficiency throughout the race.

Shoes with the word “Breeze” in their name are engineered for exceptional breathability and heat management. This product line is ideal for hot conditions, featuring engineered mesh uppers that keep airflow high and your feet comfortable. Models like Anacapa Breeze Low, Anacapa Breeze Mid, and Hopara are built for sunny-day hikes, combining airy uppers with grippy, stable outsoles.

HOKA’s technologies are what truly set each shoe apart, delivering softness, stability, and agility for every movement. Once you know what you’re looking for, head to the HOKA Shoe Finder to discover the pair that best matches your running journey.

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