HOKA Stinson 8

HOKA · Trail · Trail Racing

Overall Score: 80/100 based on 3 verified expert reviews.

Technical Specifications

  • Weight: 320 g
  • Heel-to-Toe Drop: 8.6 mm
  • Carbon Plate: Yes
  • Midsole Foam: Max-Cushion CMEVA
  • Official Retail MSRP: $290 (manufacturer reference price — better deals may be available at retailers)

Pros & Strengths

  • Propulsive leverage from the carbon fiber plate
  • Max-Cushion CMEVA cushioning combining impact protection and consistent rebound
  • Confident traction and lateral lockdown across varied trails
  • Dynamic carbon-fiber plate propulsion

Cons & Trade-offs

  • Demanding longitudinal stiffness at easy paces
  • Protective build (320 g) feels less nimble during sharp accelerations
  • Substantial build (320 g) prioritizing underfoot protection over speed

Expert Review Sources

  • Journal du Trail / Trail Session : 80.0 / 100 — « Built by HOKA around the Max-Cushion CMEVA midsole, the Stinson 8 locks the foot down securely on steep descents while preserving muscular energy over long hours (a 8.6 mm drop). A smart choice for runners looking for a 8.6 mm drop and consistent performance all season long. »
  • RunRepeat : 79.6 / 100 — « The HOKA Stinson 8 is built like a tank, and this applies to almost every part of the shoe. It's huge, highly-stable, durable, and surprisingly roomy for a HOKA, making it a dream shoe for runners who want maximum protection and support. But all that protection comes with clear trade-offs. The Stinson 8 feels heavy, slow, rigid, and lacks a Vibram outsole, making it an overbuilt choice that could simply be too much shoe for most runners. »
  • Wider Magazine : 76.7 / 100 — « In HOKA's trail racing lineup, the Stinson 8 combines durable upper protection, lateral stability, and consistent underfoot filtering (320 g). A smart choice for runners looking for a 8.6 mm drop and consistent performance all season long. »

Similar Alternatives (Trail Racing)

More from HOKA