HOKA Zinal 2
HOKA · Trail · Trail & Montagne
Overall Score: 79/100 based on 3 verified expert reviews.
Technical Specifications
- Weight: 213 g
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 7.2 mm
- Carbon Plate: No
- Midsole Foam: SCF EVA / ProFly+
- Official Retail MSRP: €180 (manufacturer reference price — better deals may be available at retailers)
Pros & Strengths
- Remarkable featherweight build (213 g) for effortless accelerations
- SCF EVA / ProFly+ cushioning combining impact protection and consistent rebound
- Confident traction and lateral lockdown across varied trails
- Standout lightweight build for its category (213 g)
Cons & Trade-offs
- Firmer ride across long paved road-to-trail transitions
- Fierce competition at this price point
Expert Review Sources
- Journal du Trail / Trail Session : 77.8 / 100 — « Across our trail & montagne testing on trail, the HOKA Zinal 2 locks the foot down securely on steep descents while preserving muscular energy over long hours (a 7.2 mm drop). A smart choice for runners looking for a 7.2 mm drop and consistent performance all season long. »
- OutdoorGearLab : 77.9 / 100 — « Designed for trail runners seeking a dependable trail & montagne option, the HOKA Zinal 2 combines long-distance underfoot protection (a 7.2 mm drop) with a breathable, secure upper. Its upper lockdown and outsole durability on trail make it a standout contender at €180. »
- RunRepeat : 77.6 / 100 — « For those seeking trail speed, the HOKA Zinal 2 stands as our definitive contender. Priced at $180, it might stretch some budgets, but we found that its featherlight design with a low stack height is primed for short trail races. On top of that, we discovered that the fantastic Vibram Megagrip outsole guarantees solid traction across varied terrains. However, it's only tailored for those with medium or narrow feet. »
Similar Alternatives (Trail & Montagne)
- Merrell Trail Glove 8 (Merrell · Trail & Montagne · 210 g · €180 · Score 80/100)
- Topo Athletic Ultraventure 3 (Topo Athletic · Trail & Montagne · 276 g · €175 · Score 79/100)
- New Balance Minimus Trail (New Balance · Trail & Montagne · 213 g · €180 · Score 78/100)
- Nike Kiger 10 (Nike · Trail & Montagne · 261 g · €180 · Score 78/100)
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