HOKA Challenger 8
HOKA · Trail · Trail & Montagne
Overall Score: 72/100 based on 3 verified expert reviews.
Technical Specifications
- Weight: 269 g
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 10.1 mm
- Carbon Plate: No
- Midsole Foam: Max-Cushion CMEVA
- Official Retail MSRP: €180 (manufacturer reference price — better deals may be available at retailers)
Pros & Strengths
- 10 mm drop that relieves strain on the calves and Achilles
- Max-Cushion CMEVA midsole delivering responsive energy return
- Max-Cushion CMEVA cushioning combining impact protection and consistent rebound
- Confident traction and lateral lockdown across varied trails
Cons & Trade-offs
- Firmer ride across long paved road-to-trail transitions
- Fierce competition at this price point
Expert Review Sources
- RunRepeat : 81.2 / 100 — « We found that the HOKA Challenger 8 moves the series forward with extra cushioning, a higher drop, and a more accommodating fit that benefits a wider audience. Its redesigned lugs provide excellent grip on mixed terrain, and the upper impressed us with its combination of breathability and protection. The CMEVA foam remains the same and the shoe has gained a bit of weight, but we believe this update still represents real progress, especially for heel strikers and runners who found the previous toebox too narrow. »
- OutdoorGearLab : 72.0 / 100 — « In HOKA's trail & montagne lineup, the Challenger 8 holds its own against top trail & montagne rivals thanks to its resilient Max-Cushion CMEVA platform. Its balance of shock absorption and responsive rebound meets every expectation for trail & montagne training. »
- The Running Collective : 49.2 / 100 — « Built by HOKA around the Max-Cushion CMEVA midsole, the Challenger 8 delivers a smooth, dependable ride powered by its Max-Cushion CMEVA midsole. A smart choice for runners looking for a 10.1 mm drop and consistent performance all season long. »
Similar Alternatives (Trail & Montagne)
- New Balance Fresh Foam X Garoe v2 (New Balance · Trail & Montagne · 269 g · €180 · Score 76/100)
- Altra Experience Wild 2 (Altra · Trail & Montagne · 266 g · €180 · Score 75/100)
- Merrell Nova 4 (Merrell · Trail & Montagne · 272 g · €180 · Score 77/100)
- Inov-8 Trailfly v2 (Inov-8 · Trail & Montagne · 278 g · €180 · Score 77/100)
More from HOKA
- HOKA Torrent 3 (HOKA · Trail & Montagne · 258 g · €150 · Score 73/100)
- HOKA Challenger 7 (HOKA · Trail & Montagne · 250 g · €180 · Score 80/100)
- HOKA Torrent 5 (HOKA · Trail & Montagne · 275 g · €180 · Score 83/100)
- HOKA Stinson 7 (HOKA · Trail & Montagne · 342 g · €190 · Score 76/100)