Hoka challenger 8

Learn more about the Hoka challenger 8 male running shoes, including key features, performance, reviews, model updates, and more.

Hoka challenger 8

Price

290

Rating

Exceptional

Popularity

Moderate

The Hoka Challenger 8 is a versatile trail running shoe known for its lightweight cushioning and durability, sitting between the streamlined Rincon for road running and the rugged Speedgoat for more technical trails in the Hoka lineup.

Hoka
Hoka challenger
4 colorways

Colorway: Black / Gold

Widths available: normal

Anthony
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Summary

The Hoka Challenger 8 is a versatile trail running shoe designed to provide comfort and performance on a variety of surfaces. Known for its lightweight construction and balanced cushioning, it offers a smooth transition from trail to road. The Challenger 8 features Hoka's signature oversized midsole, providing excellent shock absorption and stability, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced trail runners. In Hoka's lineup, it serves as a bridge between road and trail footwear, offering more off-road capability than Hoka's strictly road-oriented models like the Clifton, while being less rugged than dedicated trail models like the Speedgoat.

Surface

trail

Cushioning

MinLowMediumHighMax(42mm)

Category

ResponsiveBalancedComfort

Breathability

LowMediumHigh(100% rPET engineered mesh upper)

Weight

287g

Heel-to-Toe Drop

8mm0mm14mm

Support

NeutralLightHigh

Width options

normal, wide

Grip

LowMediumHighMax(medium density, 3.7mm lugs) - rubber

Suitability

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Pros & Cons

AI-powered

Fittir conducts a detailed analysis of the Hoka challenger 8 to provide you with a comprehensive overview of the shoes features, pros, and cons based on 23 wear-tester reviews.

Most Mentioned Pros

Most Mentioned Cons

softness (3)
comfort (3)
firmness (3)
protection (2)
plush (1)
long-distance (1)
stability (1)
plushness (1)
Pros
"The Hoka Challenger 8 features an impressive foam cushioning that enhances comfort while running."
foam
comfort
cushioning
"The cushioning and overall design offer good comfort for longer distances, making it ideal for long runs."
long runs
comfort
cushioning
"The midsole provides soft cushioning while maintaining stability and responsiveness."
soft cushioning
stability
responsive
"The shoe features a plush, cushioned midsole that offers great comfort during runs."
midsole
comfort
road
"The Challenger 8 provides a balanced feel with nice bounce without being overly soft."
foam
bounce
comfort
"The shoe features improved cushioning with a combination of firmness and responsiveness, providing better underfoot protection."
cushioning
responsiveness
padding
"The Stinson 7 has a significant amount of padding underfoot, which is advantageous for those with foot sensitivity."
protection
comfort
sensitivity
"The Hoka Challenger 8 provides a very soft and cushioned ride on hard surfaces."
soft
cushioned
smooth ride
"The midsole offers a pleasant soft feel and responds well upon landing."
midsole
response
"The Hoka Challenger ATR 8 has slightly more cushioning compared to the ATR 7, enhancing comfort."
cushion
comfort
"The shoe features a high stack height of 44mm at the heel, offering substantial cushion."
high stack
heel cushion
"The compression molded EVA midsole provides a bouncy and responsive feel out of the box."
EVA
bouncy
responsive
"The Challenger 8 provides increased cushioning for added comfort during long runs."
cushioning
long distance
comfort
"The shoe features reliable cushioning and protection ideal for long distances."
cushioning
protection
long-distance
"The midsole has been improved with a new all-new compound that enhances comfort."
midsole
compound
comfort
"The Hoka Challenger 8 provides excellent shock absorption, making it suitable for longer distances."
shock absorption
long distance
midsole height
"The Hoka Challenger 8 delivers significant cushioning improvements for enhanced comfort."
comfort
Hoka Challenger 8
cushioning
upgrade
"CMEVA cushioning in the Challenger 8 offers responsive and protective cushioning."
CMEVA
responsive
protection
"The Tribuko 13’s classic FF Blast Plus cushioning allows better ground contact feel."
Asics Trabuko 13
FF Blast Plus
ground contact
"The midsole is flexible, adapts quickly to the user, and maintains comfort over extended wear."
midsole
cushion
adaptability
"The Stinson 7 provides an exceptional amount of cushioning, making it very comfortable for longer runs."
cushioning
comfort
"The Challenger 8 offers better flexibility in the forefoot compared to the Stinson 7, making it feel more responsive."
flexibility
response
"The cushioning has improved significantly, providing a stout feel."
cushioning
EVA
"The shoe provides comfortable cushioning for a variety of running needs."
cushioning
comfort
long runs
"The midsole delivers a comfortable yet responsive ride."
responsive
well-cushioned
comfortable
"The outsole of both shoes is made of compressed molded EVA, with the ATR 8 having a softer top layer, improving comfort."
outsole
cushion
"The HOKA Challenger 8 features substantial cushioning for improved shock absorption, making it suitable for longer runs."
maximalist
impact protection
long runs
"The shoe features max cushioning that provides outstanding impact absorption."
cushion
impact absorption
"The shoe possesses a good stack to weight ratio, making it suitable for long runs."
lightweight
stack height
comfort
"The midsole offers a peppy ride, conducive for easy days on various terrains."
peppy ride
forgiving
easy days
"Testers noted the updated cushioning enhances the running experience, making it fun and enjoyable."
enjoyable
fun ride
forgiving
Cons
"The midsole’s softness may lead some runners to feel less stability on extremely uneven terrain."
softness
comfort
"The shoe lacks a rock plate, which provides lesser protection on sharp or rocky terrain."
rock plate
sharp objects
low protection
"Less forefoot protection than the previous version."
forefoot
protection
cushioning
"The cushioning feels firmer compared to the previous model."
cushioning
stiffness
"The Speed Goat 6 has a firm feel which may not be suitable for those who prefer softer cushioning."
cushioning
responsiveness
"The overall cushion feels slightly different between the two models, with the reviewer experiencing a firmer sensation in the ATR 7."
cushion
firmness
"The forefoot may feel stiffer due to the new cushioning design."
forefoot
cushioning
"The shoe has a tendency to pack out over time, affecting its comfort."
packing out
comfort loss
cushion
wear
"The forefoot cushioning feels less substantial compared to the heel cushioning."
forefoot cushioning
heel cushioning
imbalance
"Challenger 8 can feel too high, affecting ground contact feel."
stack height
ground feel
cushioning
"The midsole lacks excitement and feels dull over time."
midsole
cushion
boring
"The cushioning is soft but does not feel responsive enough, especially for a crossover shoe."
cushioning
softness
responsiveness
"The CMEVA foam used in the shoe feels outdated and doesn't provide the energetic bounce found in newer foams."
foam
bounce
performance
"The midsole feels too mushy for some runners."
midsole
mushy
flexibility

padding (6)
tongue (2)
flexibility (2)
plushness (2)
protection (1)
breathability (1)
long distance (1)
overall (1)
Pros
"The shoe has a decent level of protection for the foot while running on various terrains."
foot protection
road
trail
"The shoe is extremely comfortable for extended wear and various activities beyond running."
comfortable
breathable
"This shoe has a good breathability feature due to its thin mesh upper material."
upper material
mesh
breathability
"Breathability is rated excellent, making the shoe suitable for summer adventures without overheating."
airflow
summer running
ventilation
"The mesh upper of the shoe offers excellent breathability, making it ideal for hot weather."
breathability
hot weather
"The shoe remains comfortable during long runs thanks to its cushy midsole and roomy fit."
long runs
comfort
midsole
"The Hoka Challenger 8 offers top-notch comfort and fit, receiving a 9 out of 10 in testing."
comfort
fit
stack height
"The new tongue design enhances comfort, providing a plush feel without compression on the foot."
plush
padding
"The shoe's tongue is plush and adds to the overall comfort."
plush
comfort
tongue
"Increased heel collar padding improves stability and comfort during runs, especially on inclines."
heel collar
stability
"A padded tongue and heel cup provide enhanced comfort and support around the foot, contributing to overall fit."
comfort
fit
heel
"Both shoes have adequate padding in the heel cup, enhancing comfort during runs."
heel cup
comfort
padding
"The gusseted tongue and padded heel counter of the Challenger 8 enhance overall comfort."
padding
comfort
Hoka Challenger 8
"Both shoes feature a padded tongue that enhances comfort during use."
padding
comfort
"The shoe's tongue features noticeable padding, enhancing comfort."
tongue
comfort
"The shoe's heel and collar padding enhance overall comfort during runs."
padding
comfort
no rubbing
"The knit mesh upper allows for flexibility and breathability."
mesh upper
breathable
"The flexibility of the Hoka Challenger 8 provides comfort while navigating technical trails."
Hoka Challenger 8
flexible
technical trails
"The upper section is made from breathable mesh, enhancing comfort and durability."
mesh
durability
comfort
"The shoe's upper is soft and wraps around the foot well, enhancing comfort."
softness
wrap
comfort
"The Challenger 8 provides long-distance comfort for running and hiking."
Hoka Challenger 8
long-distance
hiking
"The Stinson 7 provides ample heel padding, enhancing stability and comfort during runs."
heel padding
comfort
"The heel cushioning and protection are described as very good."
protection
cushion
"The plushness of the ATR 8's tongue is superior, providing more comfort during use."
tongue
comfort
"The shoe's overall comfort is enhanced by its plush tongue and breathable upper."
breathable upper
plush tongue
overall comfort
"The HOKA Challenger 8 is exceptionally comfortable right out of the box."
comfort
out of the box
"The Hoka Challenger 8 offers excellent comfort with a plush and cushioned footbed."
comfort
plush
cushioning
Cons
"The shoe's upper lacks sufficient protection for rocky terrain."
upper
rocky terrain
"The shoe's stiffness in the heel counter may cause discomfort during some runs."
heel counter stiffness
discomfort
"The Speed Goat 6's thin tongue could potentially cause discomfort during longer runs."
thin tongue
discomfort
"The plushness of the tongue in the ATR 8 does not stand out as much as in the ATR 7, possibly impacting comfort."
plushness
comfort
"The sock liner is unremarkable and doesn't add any substantial comfort."
comfort
sock liner
removable
"The Stinson 7 might feel uncomfortable for some due to the lack of responsiveness in its design."
discomfort
rigidity
"The reviewer noted a lack of distinctness in the heel collar of the ATR 8 compared to the 7, which may lead to less overall comfort."
comfort
heel_collar
"The shoe provides a decreased ground feel which affects balance."
comfort
balance
cushion
"The open mesh upper allows dust to enter the shoe, potentially dirtying feet."
breathability
dust
comfort

weight (2)
cushioning (2)
lightweight (1)
protection (1)
overall (1)
long-term use (1)
overall durability (1)
upper_mesh (1)
Pros
"The shoe's weight remains consistent despite the increased cushioning, making it lightweight."
weight
cushioning
performance
"The shoe offers reliable protection from sharp objects due to its high stack height and improved toe cap."
protection
toe cap
"Overall durability is rated slightly above average, showing improvements over the previous model."
durability score
improvement
"The shoe shows impressive durability after extensive daily use over four months."
durability
performance over time
"The shoe has exceptional durability, maintaining performance across various metrics including the upper and outsole."
long-lasting
upper durability
abrasion resistance
"Overall durability has improved, with a more robust upper mesh that stands up better during tests."
durability
resilience
robust
"The Challenger 8 is durable and reliable for a range of running scenarios."
durable
reliable
multifunctional
Cons
"The shoe's weight may feel noticeable to some runners due to the extra cushioning stack."
cushioning
agility
"The shoe gained a bit of weight compared to its predecessor, which may affect its performance."
weight
performance
"The shoe may wear down faster on road surfaces due to its aggressive lugs."
lug wear
road
trail
"Durability may be limited due to the high stack height and soft outsole."
durability
soft outsole
wear
"The shoe may flatten out over time, affecting its cushioning and responsiveness."
cushioning
durability
performance
"The shoe while breathable may sacrifice durability when compared to more robust trail shoes."
breathable
durability
materials
"Quality control issues have been observed with the shoe's durability."
durability
issues
quality control
"There have been reports of outsole glue issues leading to peeling."
durability
quality control
outsole
"The Challenger 8 has average durability concerns due to the soft outsole."
durability
outsole
concerns
"The cushioning may compress quickly, affecting durability."
cushion
compress
lightweight
"Experience midsole breakdown after just a few runs."
midsole
breakdown
durability

versatility (5)
weight (3)
responsiveness (2)
energy (2)
terrain (2)
speed (2)
smooth (1)
versatile (1)
Pros
"The shoe maintains a smooth ride on flat surfaces despite its design as an all-terrain option."
ride
flat surfaces
versatility
"This shoe is suitable for mixed terrain, effectively transitioning between road and trails without compromising comfort."
mixed terrain
road
trails
"It performs well on both roads and light trails, making it versatile."
all-terrain
road performance
trail performance
"The shoe has shown great performance on mixed surfaces including gravel and concrete."
road
trails
performance
"The shoe is versatile, performing well on both trail and road surfaces, allowing smooth transitions."
trail to road
smooth transition
"The shoe is marketed as a versatile road and trail combination."
road
trail
"It offers a smooth transition from road to trail, making it versatile for different terrains."
road to trail
versatile
cross-terrain
"An aggressive four-foot rocker improves push-off on flat and moderate uphill terrain, enhancing performance during runs."
performance
rocker
push-off
"The Speed Goat 6 offers a firm and responsive feel, enhancing ground contact."
ground contact
responsiveness
performance
"The Challenger 8 provides a responsive and bouncy midsole, enhancing performance during runs."
responsiveness
bounce
"The shoe is lightweight, making it comfortable for running."
lightweight
comfort
"The Asics Trabuko 13 is more nimble and agile, suitable for tackling technical trails."
Asics Trabuko 13
nimble
technical trails
"The overall running experience on both trails and roads is enjoyable."
trail
road
"The energy return is noticeably better in the ATR 8, enhancing the overall running experience."
energy return
performance
"The shoe is capable of handling high mileage days comfortably, making it suitable for longer runs and hikes."
high mileage
running
hiking
Cons
"The overall ride lacks a responsive and energetic feel due to the soft foam."
foam
responsiveness
"Inadequate energy return performance."
energy return
performance
pop
"The shoe is not optimized for highly technical trails."
trail
design
usage
"While the shoe is more trail-oriented, it is not suitable for very technical terrain."
trail
technical
suitability
"The shoe does not perform well on technical trails as it is designed for lighter terrains."
technical trails
performance
light trails
"The four-foot rocker is less effective on steep and downhill terrain."
traction
performance
"The Challenger 8's increased stack height makes it heavier, which may impact performance during runs."
heaviness
performance
"Challenger 8 is relatively heavy compared to other options, which may impact performance."
weight
performance
endurance
"The bulk and weight of the Stinson 7 make it less nimble than the Challenger 8."
bulk
nimbleness
weight
"The midsole foam lacks dynamism and speed due to its composition."
midsole
foam
dynamics
"The shoe's overall performance is average and lacks standout features."
performance
"The Stinson 7 is super rigid and may not provide the desired flexibility for some runners."
rigidity
flexibility
"The shoe may not provide enough energy return, particularly during trail running."
energy
trail performance
"A potential reduction in overall energy return from the ATR 8 compared to the ATR 7 may affect performance."
energy_return
performance
"The shoe has been described as not being the fastest, which could be a drawback for competitive runners."
speed
performance
"Not built for speed or aggressive running, limiting performance."
performance
speed
agility
"The soft outsole limits the shoe's overall traction performance."
traction
outsole
performance

tongue (3)
roominess (2)
width (2)
drop (2)
narrowness (2)
roomy (1)
refinement (1)
true to size (1)
Pros
"The shoe has a more roomy fit compared to previous models, providing a comfortable run."
fit
room
comfort
"The shoe has a really refined fit that improves overall comfort."
refined fit
comfort
toe box
"The fit has been updated to provide more room in the toe box and a comfortable midfoot fit."
toe box
midfoot
comfort
"The fit is roomy and relaxed, particularly appreciated by testers."
toe box
relaxed fit
comfortable
"The shoe features a spacious toe box, allowing for comfortable toe splay without any pressure."
toe box
splay
"The Challenger 8 has a wider toe box, making it more accommodating for those with broader feet."
toe box
accommodation
broader feet
"The shoe is available in a wide version, accommodating runners with wider feet."
wide fit
options
"The Challenger 8 has a broader toe box and a wide version available, accommodating runners with wider feet."
toe box
fit
"The Stinson 7 also offers a spacious toe box, making it suitable for runners who need extra room."
toe box
fit
"The fit is true to size and slightly wider in the forefoot compared to the previous model, which is an improvement."
true to size
forefoot
fit improvement
"The fit is true to size and adapts well to various foot shapes."
good fit
plush
"The Speed Goat 6 allows for a precise fit with its narrow forefoot design."
narrow fit
precision
nooks and crannies
"The shoe has a new drop height which may suit different running preferences."
drop height
adjustable
fit
"The laces maintain a reasonable fit that adapts well over time."
laces
fit
eyelet chain
"The shoe allows for minimal heel slippage and has a secure heel fit."
heel slippage
secure fit
"Both shoes feature ample arch support, making them suitable for a variety of runners."
arch support
fit
"The ATR 8 provides a more snug fit over the top of the foot compared to the ATR 7, enhancing overall security."
fit
security
"The toe box of the ATR 8 features a pleasant and stretchy material, enhancing comfort and fit."
toe box
comfort
stretch
"Comparatively, the ATR 8 has a more aggressive heel collar shape, enhancing the fit around the ankle."
heel collar
fit
"The structured heel tab greatly aids in the on/off process for the shoe."
heel tab
ease of use
"Both the ATR 7 and ATR 8 fit true to size, making them reliable choices for sizing."
size
fit
"The updated design results in a roomier fit which is advantageous for runners who found previous versions too constricted."
roomier
accommodating fit
toebox
"The laces on the HOKA Challenger 8 are reliable and stay tied during use."
laces
stability
"The fit is normal and accommodating for a range of foot shapes, contributing to comfort during runs."
foot shape
average fit
comfort
"The fit of the Challenger 8 is impressive, with a well-designed toe box that allows for natural splay."
fit
toe_box
spacious
Cons
"It's not ideal for very technical or narrow terrains due to a wider fit."
fit
technical terrain
"The weight is slightly heavier than previous versions, which could be a deterrent for some runners."
heaviness
performance
"The 7 mm heel-to-toe drop might be noticeable for some runners."
heel drop
sensitivity
"The shoe has a higher drop compared to the previous version, which may affect some runners' preferences."
drop
heel
preferences
"The shoe may feel overly heel-oriented, which is not ideal for midfoot strikers."
heel orientation
midfoot strikers
running style
"The Speed Goat 6 has a relatively narrow forefoot which may not suit runners with wider feet."
narrow fit
toe space
"The fit in the forefoot is quite tapered, which may not suit those with broader feet."
fit
forefoot
tapered
"Limited availability of wide versions in the ASX Trabuko 13 may hinder fit for some runners."
fit
wide options
availability
"The shoe's fit may not be secure for narrower feet."
fit
narrow foot
security
"Feels a bit narrow on the medial side."
fit
narrow
medial
"The fit around the midfoot lacks significant lockdown, making it feel loose during movement."
midfoot
fit
looseness
"The heel pocket is not as deep or pronounced as expected, which may affect the overall feel and security."
heel pocket
superficial
depth
"The tongue is well padded but may not be sufficiently adjustable for a personalized fit."
padding
adjustability
"The Hoka Challenger ATR 8 lacks a distinct separable unit in the tongue compared to the ATR 7, which may impact fit."
fit
tongue
separateness
"The lack of a gusseted tongue is disappointing and doesn't meet expectations for this price point."
gusseted
design
fit
"The laces are described as skinny and slippery, potentially impacting the ability to secure the shoe properly."
laces
security
"The toe box of the ATR 8 is described as less protective than the ATR 7, which could affect the foot's security during runs."
protection
toe_box
"The shoe's fit may require more tightening of the laces."
fit
laces
security

support (2)
drop height (1)
base (1)
rocker geometry (1)
width (1)
torsional (1)
platform (1)
inherent stability (1)
Pros
"The shoe features a medium drop which allows for a natural footfall."
medium drop
natural footfall
"The shoe has a nice broad base with sole flare for added stability, making it suitable for neutral runners looking for support."
stability
support
base
"The shoe's meta rocker geometry aids in a smooth forward motion."
meta rocker
smooth transition
"The shoe has a wide base, providing stability during uneven terrains."
wide base
uneven terrain
"The heel counter provides adequate support and stability."
heel counter
support
"The shoe provides great stability for heel strikers, with solid support that complements its cushioning."
heel strikers
neutral runners
mild pronators
"The midsole foam's torsional stiffness provides good stability for the runner."
stability
torsional rigidity
"The wide platform of the Hoka Challenger 8 adds stability for different types of terrain."
Hoka Challenger 8
wide platform
stability
"The shoe provides good inherent stability, even on uneven terrain."
stability
uneven terrain
"The Stinson 7 is designed to help control pronation effectively due to its stability features."
pronation
stability
"The shoes provide good lockdown for the heel and midfoot."
heel
midfoot
"The shoe offers a higher drop which benefits heel strikers, providing better support and stride."
heel strikers
higher offset
support
"The redesign includes a wider base for stability, allowing for confident movement over various terrains."
stability
wide base
toe bumper
"The shoe provides great stability, particularly with a stiffer heel counter that enhances support."
stability
support
heel
Cons
"The midsole feels too soft, resulting in a lack of stability on technical trails."
midsole
technical trails
"There is a wobble sensation during descent due to the shoe's softness."
descent
wobbliness
stability
"The shoe is not suitable for rocky terrains due to its design."
rocky
trails
"The outer sole does not cover the entire midsole, affecting torsional rigidity."
torsional
outer sole
"The shoe may not provide enough stability for aggressive trail running."
aggressive
support
"While the heel counter provides solid support, it may not meet the needs of those looking for stronger support."
heel_counter
support
"The narrow platform of the Trabuko 13 may reduce stability for some users."
narrow platform
stability
agility
"Soft lugs may reduce stability during quick movements."
softness
stability
traction
"The maximalist midsole design may not be suitable for runners who prefer a more connected feel to the ground."
maximalist
performance
feel
"The increased heel drop of 8mm compared to the previous version may not be suitable for all runners, especially those who prefer lower drops."
heel drop
stability

traction (5)
outsole (2)
versatility (2)
reliable (1)
grooves (1)
refined (1)
texture (1)
depth (1)
Pros
"The Challenger 8 has been noted for its grip on various surfaces, including wet conditions."
wet conditions
versatile
grip
"The traction is significantly improved over previous versions, suitable for varied terrain."
multi-directional lugs
muddy trails
traction
"The aggressive 4mm lugs provide excellent grip on both trails and roads, making it versatile."
lugs
traction
versatility
"Traction received an 8.5 out of 10, significantly improved from previous models, making it effective on various terrains."
traction score
improvement
"The shoe features multidirectional 4 mm lugs that improve grip and stability on various terrains, especially moderate and muddy ones."
traction
multidirectional
stability
"The outsole offers decent traction for various trail conditions."
trails
bite
"The Speed Goat 6 features excellent multi-directional grip for confidence on various terrains."
lugs
multi-directional
wet conditions
"The outsole lugs are effective in providing traction across various surfaces."
outsole
lugs
traction
"The new outsole design shows promise with more pronounced lugs."
outsole
lugs
"Both shoes provide excellent traction on various terrains, ensuring confidence when running on trails."
traction
performance
"The shoe features improved grip on various surfaces, enhancing running confidence."
outsole
traction
intermediate trails
"The shoe features improved traction with more grooves and effective grip on a variety of terrains."
traction
grip
varied_terrain
"The shoe features improved traction with its upgraded lugs, enhancing performance on uneven surfaces."
4mm lugs
upgraded traction
loose terrain
"The shoe's grip is enhanced by new grooves and lugs, which work well in muddy conditions."
mud shedding
lugs
"The outsole lugs have been refined for better handling on technical terrain."
outsole
lugs
technical terrain
"The rubber lugs on the outsole provide good grip on light or moderately technical terrains."
rubber lugs
grip
terrain
"The sticky grip underfoot of the Asics Trabuko 13 enhances traction on trails."
Asics Trabuko 13
grip
traction
"The Challenger 8’s deeper lugs provide better grip on uneven terrain."
Hoka Challenger 8
grip
traction
"Newly redesigned lugs improve grip, making it ideal for a variety of terrains."
mixed terrain
gravel
better grip
"The outsole performs well on a variety of surfaces, making it versatile for different terrains."
outsole
traction
terrain
"The outsole provides versatility on different terrains, including gravel and moderate trails."
traction
moderate trail
gravel
Cons
"The shoe's grip is not reliable on very muddy or deep terrain."
grip
mud
technical
"The shoe's rubber compound is not as effective as higher-end models for technical trails."
rubber
traction
performance
"Aggressive lugs may create unnecessary noise on roads."
lugs
road
traction
"The outsole's lugs are not sufficiently deep for very muddy conditions."
traction
performance
"The outsole is firmer and lacks compression, affecting grip on technical trails."
outsole
firm
technical terrain
"Lacks the Vibram MegaGrip outsole found in a similar model, impacting grip."
grip
outsole
"The hybrid outsole design compromises traction on softer surfaces."
traction
hybrid
outsole
"The Challenger 8's grip may not perform well on deep mud or wet rock compared to the Speed Goat 6."
grip
wet conditions
"The shoe's outsole may not provide the grip needed for extremist trail running conditions."
outsole
trail
grip
"The grip may not be reliable in deep mud or wet rocks."
mud
wet
grip
"The Stinson 7 has less grip on muddy and wet terrain compared to the Challenger 8."
grip
mud
wet
"The grip on more technical trails is insufficient, which may pose safety concerns on rugged terrain."
grip
traction
technical
"The Challenger 8 offers less bite on terrain compared to the Speed Goat 6 due to shorter lugs."
lug depth
traction
"The shallow lugs of the shoe may not provide adequate grip on technical terrain."
grip
lugs
performance

versatility (3)
protection (3)
sustainability (2)
waterproofing (2)
lightness (1)
value (1)
balance (1)
style (1)
Pros
"The engineered mesh upper is made from recycled materials, promoting sustainability."
upper
eco-friendly
materials
"The upper is made from 100% recycled materials and offers good ventilation."
recycled materials
ventilation
"The shoe provides light weight without sacrificing cushioning, enhancing performance during runs."
weight score
cushion
"At $150, this shoe offers great value as a dual-purpose running and trail shoe, rated 4.5 out of 5."
price
dual-purpose
"This shoe is versatile enough for various types of terrain and conditions."
versatile
multi-terrain
"The Challenger 8 is versatile enough to be used for both trail running and hiking."
hiking
trail running
"Both shoes are versatile and suitable for a variety of terrains, making them great for trail running or casual walking."
versatility
trail
walking
"The shoe's overall balance in performance means it is suitable for a range of activities."
versatile
balanced performance
"The shoe features a great colorway that blends well with its intended use."
colorway
style
appearance
"It prevents water from entering the shoe effectively in wet conditions."
water resistant
wet conditions
"The Hoka Challenger 8 features a beautiful colorway."
color
design
"The new Challenger model includes significant updates compared to previous generations."
updates
improvements
"The Challenger 8 is ultra lightweight, making it suitable for extended runs without added fatigue."
lightweight
performance
fatigue
Cons
"The lack of a waterproof option limits its usage in wet conditions."
waterproof
wet conditions
versatility
"The shoe lacks a waterproof version, limiting its versatility in wet conditions."
waterproofing
versatility
wet conditions
"The shoe is heavier than its predecessor, which may deter some runners."
weight
heaviness
"The shoe may not provide adequate protection on rocky trails due to its flexible outsole."
rocky trails
outsole flexibility
protection
"The shoe lacks protection from rocks and branches, leaving feet vulnerable."
protection
vulnerability
"The Challenger 8 does not feature a rock plate for protection against sharp objects."
protection
rock plate
outdoors
"The price of the shoe has increased, which may deter some buyers."
price
value
"The shoe features a traditional drop height that may not appeal to modern runners."
drop height
traditional
design

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Model Updates

The Hoka Challenger 8 introduces a redesigned last that provides increased heel‑to‑toe drop (up to around 8 mm) and a better fit through the forefoot and instep, along with more cushioning via added midsole foam compared to the Challenger 7. It also features an upgraded lug pattern for improved all‑terrain traction and a new rubberized toe‑cap for enhanced durability.

Older Models

Newer Models

Reviews

Read reviews about the Hoka challenger 8 from across the internet, including reviews from other runners on Fittir, wear testers from google & youtube, and more.

Reviews on Fittir (-)

...

Wear-tester reviews (23)

4.6/5

Prices

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