Hoka kawana 1

Learn more about the Hoka kawana 1 female running shoes, including key features, performance, reviews, model updates, and more.

Hoka kawana 1

Price

290

Rating

High

Popularity

Less Popular

The Hoka Kawana 1 is a versatile everyday trainer with a balanced cushion, sitting between the maximal cushioning of the Bondi and the responsive feel of the Clifton in the Hoka lineup.

Hoka
kawana 1 - black-white

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Summary

The Hoka Kawana 1 is a versatile running shoe designed to provide a balanced experience between daily training and general fitness activities. Known for its moderate cushioning, it sits between Hoka's more heavily cushioned models and its lightweight racers. The Kawana 1 offers a comfortable and stable ride, making it suitable for a variety of workouts, be it on the roads or lighter trails. Compared to other models in Hoka's lineup, like the plush Bondi series or the agile Rincon, the Kawana 1 finds a middle ground with its balanced cushioning and versatility, catering to runners who seek comfort without excessive bulk.

Surface

road

Cushioning

MinLowMediumHighMax(27.5mm)

Category

ResponsiveBalancedComfort

Breathability

LowMediumHigh(engineered recycled jacquard mesh upper)

Weight

283g

Heel-to-Toe Drop

5mm0mm14mm

Support

NeutralLightHigh

Width options

normal

Grip

LowMediumHighMax

Suitability

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Pros & Cons

AI-powered

Fittir conducts a detailed analysis of the Hoka kawana 1 to provide you with a comprehensive overview of the shoes features, pros, and cons based on 17 wear-tester reviews.

Most Mentioned Pros

Most Mentioned Cons

firmness (3)
density (3)
plushness (3)
softness (2)
support (2)
comfort (2)
stiffness (2)
midsole (1)
Pros
"The midsole foam of the Kawana is noted for providing good shock absorption and responsiveness."
shock absorption
responsive
EVA cushioning
"Reviewers appreciate the moderate cushioning that is agile yet offers a stable ride."
moderate cushioning
agile
stable ride
"The Hoka One One Kawana features a new engineered foam that provides a blend of responsiveness and shock absorption."
responsive
shock-absorbing
compression
"The shoes provide a great balance of cushioning and responsiveness without being overly bulky."
cushioning
responsiveness
dynamic
"The shoe offers a soft step-in feel that enhances comfort during wear."
soft
comfy
step-in
"The shoe offers plush cushioning, which enhances comfort during runs."
plush
comfort
cushioning
"The cushioning offers deep protection and a rubbery bounce effect, contributing to overall comfort."
protective
cushioning
bounce
"The Swallowtail Construction in the heel helps provide a smoother landing during runs."
Swallowtail
impact reduction
landing
"The cushioning provides enough support for gym workouts without being overly plush."
not overly plush
weight training
"The shoe offers a soft and supportive midsole, providing ample cushioning for a smooth running experience."
cushioning
midsole
comfort
"The shoe has a firm and bouncy feel, catering to those who prefer less cushioning."
bounce
short runs
firm
"The new midsole formulation is firmer and stiffer, which may appeal to runners seeking a different feel from HOKA."
midsole
cushioning
"The padded tongue and heel collar enhance the comfort and cushion of the shoe."
comfort
cushion
"The shoe utilizes compression-molded EVA for adequate cushioning and shock absorption during runs."
shock absorption
responsive
"The new CMEVA foam provides a lively and responsive experience for the user."
foam
responsive
energy_return
"This shoe features Hoka's signature maximal cushioning, which enhances comfort during runs."
maximal
comfort
"The shoe maintains control for the runner while still providing a cushioned experience."
cushioned
control
"Despite being a max-cushion shoe, the Hoka Kawana allows the runner to feel the road beneath them."
max-cushion
feedback
"The heel cushion aids in a smooth transition during runs."
heel cushion
smooth transition
"The split heel design absorbs shock effectively, allowing for fluid heel strikes and aiding in a comfortable ride."
shock absorption
comfort
cushioning
"The cushioning provided by the new cmEVA foam has a slight bounce that runners may appreciate, especially those who prefer firmer rides."
firm
new foam
dense
Cons
"The foam is denser and heavier than expected, lacking the usual HOKA soft feel."
heaviness
lack of softness
midsole
"The midsole foam is notably dense and heavy, despite providing good cushioning."
density
weight
cushioning
"The EVA foam is denser and heavier compared to other models, impacting comfort."
firm
heavy
cushioning
"Some wear-testers found the ride lacking in the signature soft cushioning associated with HOKA shoes."
firmness
lack of cushioning
comparison to other HOKAs
"The cushioning is firmer compared to other Hoka models, which may not be appealing to all runners."
firmness
cushioning
"The shoe may not be suitable for long runs as it is not as plush as other models."
long runs
plushness
suitability
"The midsole might not provide enough cushioning for those looking for maximum comfort."
cushioning
runner expectations
HOKA squish
"The midsole is described as a bit firmer than expected from Hoka shoes, which may be a drawback for those seeking cushioning."
cushioning
firm footfeel
"The midsole is noticeably firmer and stiffer than traditional HOKA shoes."
midsole
firmness
stiffness
"The midsole foam lacks the softer, bouncier feel expected from Hoka shoes."
EVA foam
firmness
bounce
"The forefoot cushioning may lack adequate surface area for some runners during longer runs."
forefoot
cushioning
"The cushioning feels like it bottoms out too quickly during longer runs."
cushioning
long runs
"The shoe lacks the expected plush cushioning associated with HOKA shoes."
cushion
rigidity
"The midsole lacks plushness compared to other Hoka models."
midsole
cushioning
comfort
"It lacks the plushness typically associated with Hoka shoes."
plush
lightweight
not soft
"The midsole presents a road feel and rigidity that some runners may find jarring."
midsole
road feel
"The cushioning of the shoe is noticeably firm and lacks the expected responsiveness."
firmness
lack of responsiveness
"The shoe's midsole foam does not provide adequate impact cushioning, leading to a flat feeling."
insufficient cushioning
flat feel
"The shoe's performance may be compromised in colder temperatures due to the EVA foam becoming even firmer."
cold weather
stiffness
"The shoe may not provide adequate cushioning for longer distance runs."
cushioning
long distance
speed
"The shoe offers less bounciness compared to other more dynamic models."
cushioning
bounciness
comparison
"The shoe may be too cushioned for runners who prefer a more minimal feel."
cushioning
minimalism
road feel
"The cushioning, while supportive, can feel a bit stiff at first."
stiff
comfort level
"The midsole is noticeably firmer than what is typical for Hoka shoes, which might deter some runners."
midsole
firmness
EVA
"Despite its cushioning, the midsole material was viewed as underwhelming."
cushioning
midsole
"The shoe lacks a livelier midsole which could make it less appealing to those seeking a more dynamic experience."
midsole
liveliness
performance

upper (2)
breathability (2)
firmness (2)
softness (2)
break-in (2)
sustainability (1)
heel collar (1)
priority (1)
Pros
"The upper design is made from recycled material, providing both comfort and sustainability."
recycled materials
comfortable upper
snug fit
"The memory foam in the heel collar adds comfort and structure, allowing for a secure fit."
memory foam
comfort
secure fit
"The HOKA Kawana prioritizes comfort, making it an excellent choice for runners."
comfort
running
everyday wear
"The upper of the Kawana is incredibly comfortable and supportive."
comfortable
supportive
adaptive
soft
"The upper of the Hoka Kawana is designed for comfort and is made from vegan materials."
vegan
breathable
soft
"The upper is supportive and breathable, enhancing overall comfort."
breathable
ventilation
comfort
"The upper is made from a breathable vegan recycled mesh, enhancing comfort during runs."
upper construction
breathable
"The Hoka Kawana is exceptionally comfortable for various activities."
comfort
versatile
"The design of the tongue contributes to overall comfort and enhances the in-shoe experience."
tongue
comfort
Cons
"The semi-firm feel may not appeal to all runners accustomed to softer shoes."
least HOKA-like
new direction
runner preference
"The shoe is firmer than expected, which may not suit everyone."
firm
surprising
clifton comparison
"The shoe may confuse runners expecting a softer ride due to Hoka's reputation."
comfort
firmness
"The midsole feels firmer in colder weather, which may affect comfort."
cold weather
firmness
"The shoe is versatile but may not be ideal for dedicated runners."
cross training
running
weight lifting
"The shoe feels stiff, which may limit comfort during runs."
stiffness
comfort
"Although it offers responsiveness, it may not cater to those seeking a softer ride."
soft
ride
responsiveness
"Runners expecting a softer experience from HOKA may not enjoy the firmness of the Kawana."
softness
comfort
Bondi comparison
"The shoes may take time to break in before reaching optimal comfort."
initial discomfort
adaptation period
"The shoe requires breaking in, which might be inconvenient for some runners."
breaking in
comfort
"The shoe does not feel like a traditional HOKA, which may disappoint loyal fans of the brand."
traditional HOKA
disappointment
brand comparison

outsole (1)
long-term (1)
longevity (1)
lifespan (1)
material (1)
protection (1)
long-distance (1)
Pros
"The durable rubber outsole includes deep flex grooves that contribute to a cushioned feel while running."
durable rubber
flex grooves
cushioned
"The outsole features strategic rubber coverage which enhances durability and performance longevity."
durable
rubber coverage
performance longevity
"The shoe's build ensures durability as it has a well-covered outsole."
long-lasting
better coverage
"Durability of the outsole is notably improved, handling wear well."
durability
reinforced rubber
"The shoe has above-average durability, particularly in its outsole."
durability
outsole
"The durability of the HOKA Kawana makes it a reliable option for long-term use, especially for road running."
durability
sustainability
long-term use
"The shoe offers durability and is built to last for regular use."
durability
mileage
consistent use
"The shoe is predicted to have a long lifespan, lasting 300-400 miles, which indicates good durability."
durability
long-lasting
"The HOKA Kawana offers a more durable shoe compared to typical HOKA models."
durability
construction
Cons
"The protection offered by the shoe is insufficient for longer distances."
underfoot protection
longer runs
"The shoe is not suitable for long runs or longer mileage."
long runs
durability
"The amount of rubber used in the outsole is limited, which raises concerns about durability over time."
outsole
durability

versatility (4)
transition (4)
weight (4)
lightweight (2)
ride (2)
cross-training (2)
stability (1)
transitions (1)
Pros
"The shoe's semi-firm midsole provides a responsive and stable ride."
responsive
semi-firm
stable
"The shoe's design allows for responsive transitions, particularly beneficial for heel strikers."
responsive
heel strikers
Crash Pad
"The shoes are lightweight, which enhances performance during runs and cross-training."
lightweight
responsive
cross-training
"The shoes have light weight, which enhances their usability across different activities beyond running."
cross-training
versatile
multi-functional
"The Meta Rocker design enhances the transition and responsiveness during runs, allowing for a smooth experience."
Meta Rocker
smooth transitions
responsiveness
"Its versatility allows it to transition easily from running to gym workouts."
versatile
cross-functional
daily-use
"The Hoka Kawana offers a balanced experience for both running and gym activities."
multi-purpose
gym use
running
"The Hoka Kawana is versatile enough to be used for various types of runs, making it a good daily trainer."
daily training
multiple run types
"The shoes are versatile as they can be used for both running and cardio workouts."
cross_training
fitness
running
"The smooth ride of the shoe enhances the running experience, particularly at slower paces."
smooth
easy
rockered
"The Hoka Kawana offers a firmer ride with a good heel transition for runners."
firm
heel transition
geometry
"The shoe features a smooth and effective rocker suitable for any pace."
smooth
effective
rocker
"The shoe serves well as a slow pace, recovery, and walking shoe, suitable for beginners."
recovery
walking
beginner
"The Kawana shoes are designed for multi-functional use, suitable for both running and cross-training activities."
multi-functional
versatile
workout
casual use
"The Kawana is suitable for cross-training and various gym activities."
cross-training
HIIT
gym workouts
"The HOKA Kawana is ideal for shorter runs and gym workouts."
short runs
gym
novice
veteran
"The shoe’s construction allows for a smooth transition due to its SwallowTail design."
SwallowTail
smooth transition
stability
"The shoe provides a smooth transition during runs, aided by Hoka's meta-rocker technology."
meta-rocker
smooth transition
"The Early Stage Meta-Rocker design enhances turnover and promotes a smooth transition during runs, improving performance."
meta-rocker
performance
smooth ride
"The shoe's swallowtail design aids heel strikers by improving transition during running."
heel striking
stride
performance
"The Hoka Kawana is marketed as a brilliant everyday trainer."
everyday
trainer
versatile
"The shoe is suitable for cross-training, due to its increased durability and stiffness."
cross-training
versatility
Cons
"The shoe feels slightly heavier than expected, which may affect performance."
heaviness
performance
"The shoe is noted to be on the heavier side, affecting overall performance."
heavy
performance
"The shoe's weight is above average for a running shoe."
heaviness
performance
weight
"The shoe is very heavy, which can impact performance during runs."
heavy
uncomfortable
endurance
"Reviews mention this shoe could be misattributed to being for athleisure rather than performance running."
performance
athleisure
"The shoe lacks energy return, making it feel uninspiring during runs."
energy return
running
performance
"The shoes may cause additional fatigue during longer runs."
long runs
fatigue
"The shoes may not be ideal for those expecting a traditional running shoe experience from HOKA."
traditional
expectations
"The shoe's response is limited, impacting performance."
limited response
performance
"The shoe's ride is too stiff for recovery runs, potentially reducing its usability for those training at slower paces."
stiffness
recovery runs
"Some testers found the ride to be clunky, particularly for speedwork."
speedwork
performance
"The shoe lacks energy return, making it feel less lively during runs."
energy return
liveliness
"The Kawana may be unsuitable for longer distance runners who prefer a softer riding experience."
long distance
runner type
performance
"The shoe does not provide a smooth heel strike due to the absence of Hoka’s advertised heel geometry."
heel geometry
midfoot striking
performance

comfort (4)
width (3)
tightness (2)
upper (1)
flexibility (1)
fit (1)
snugness (1)
toe box (1)
Pros
"The fit of the shoes is consistently praised for its comfort and adaptability to various foot shapes."
comfortable fit
adaptable
interior volume
"The upper of the shoe is designed to fit well and feel comfortable without compromise."
comfort
breathability
"The Kawana features a comfortable and secure fit that requires no break-in time."
secure
no break-in
"The Hoka Kawana offers a comfortable and well-padded upper fit due to its padded ankle collar and tongue."
ankle collar
tongue padding
breathability
"The upper is made from breathable engineered mesh that enhances fit and comfort."
breathable
secure fit
Achilles flare
"The flexibility of the upper and the fit of the shoe accommodate a variety of foot shapes, particularly wide feet."
fit
flexibility
wide feet
"The shoe provides a broad, soft, friendly yet secure fit."
friendly
secure
broad
"The shoes offer a good fit, providing a snug feel without cramping the foot."
comfort
snug fit
foot support
"The wider toe box accommodates various foot shapes and widths, making it versatile for more runners."
wider fit
accommodation
comfort
"The fit of the shoe is secure, providing confidence to the runner."
true to size
comfortable
secure fit
"The shoe is designed with a high volume upper, providing more room without sacrificing fit."
high volume
lockdown
lacing system
"The fit is true to size and accommodates wider feet."
true to size
wide
"The reduced stack height of the Kawana is appealing to those who prefer a lower profile shoe."
stack_height
profile
adjustable
"The snug fit of the engineered jacquard mesh upper provides good support during runs."
mesh
snug_fit
upper_material
"The shoe features a lightweight and breathable mesh upper that enhances overall comfort during runs."
mesh
upper
comfort
"Runners with wider feet find the shoe accommodating, making it a good choice for diverse foot shapes."
wide
fit
comfort
"This shoe provides a secure fit and keeps the foot in place during activities."
fit
secure
"The fit of the shoe is true to size, making it accessible for most runners."
true to size
wide feet consideration
Cons
"The shoe only comes in standard widths, limiting options for runners who need different widths."
fit
width
"There is no wide fit option available for the HOKA Kawana."
fit
wide option
"The shoe may not provide a perfect fit for wider feet, limiting its user base."
width
fit
"The shoe might not accommodate wider feet comfortably without a 2E version."
width
fit
size
"While the toebox is better than previous models, it still feels relatively narrow to some runners."
narrow
fit issues
"Some runners may initially find the fit narrow and may need to adjust the sizing."
fit
narrow
"Some runners may experience uncomfortable pressure on the Achilles tendon due to the heel collar design."
Achilles pressure
heel collar
"The upper may cause chafing for some users when worn without socks, leading to discomfort."
chafing
sock usage
"The upper design may not accommodate all foot shapes comfortably, particularly in the midfoot area."
pressure
foot shape
"The need for a tighter fit in certain areas may affect overall comfort during extended runs."
fit
size
tight
"The shoe may feel overly tight for some users."
tight fit
snug
discomfort
"The forefoot area is tight, which may not be suitable for wider feet."
forefoot
cramped
fit issue
"The upper could benefit from a looser fit."
upper fit
comfort
flexibility

stability (2)
heel design (2)
platform (2)
support (2)
geometry (1)
neutral (1)
impact reduction (1)
heel (1)
Pros
"The Kawana features a unique swallow-tail heel design that enhances smooth heel strikes."
swallow-tail
heel design
smooth ride
"The Hoka One One Kawana has a smooth and stable sensation underfoot, suitable for various foot types."
smooth
stable
neutral
"The swallowtail heel design effectively reduces impact during runs, contributing to a quieter running experience."
stability
impact reduction
quiet run
"The shoe provides a stable riding experience, suitable for various movements and activities."
stable
cross-training
support
"The wide stable platform enhances overall stability during runs."
wide
stable
neutral
"The swallowtail design promotes stable heel landings and effective forward leverage, even at slow paces."
stable
leverage
heel
"The SwallowTail heel design provides a smooth landing for heel strikers."
smooth transition
heel striking
supportive
"The beveled, swallow tail heel allows for smoother heel strikes and transitions."
heel strike
smooth transition
"The asymmetrical swallow-tail heel design aids in landing and transition for heel strikers."
heel striking
transition
stability
"The shoe provides a stable platform for both running and gym activities despite being classified as neutral."
neutral
stable
cross-training
"The wide midsole platform contributes to stability, enhancing control during runs."
wide stance
ground control
"The Swallowtail heel geometry allows for smoother landings during runs."
heel_geometery
transition
running_tech
"Hoka's Anatomical Achilles Construction supports the heel and Achilles tendon without causing discomfort."
heel support
Achilles
"The stability provided by the shoe allows for solid performance in lateral movements."
stability
lateral support
wide base
"It offers a smooth and stable ride, making it suitable for different types of runs."
stability
ride
"The shoe's heel counter design provides gentle support while maintaining stability."
heel counter
stability
"The shoe provides decent stability for gym exercises, making it a versatile option for cross-training."
gym stability
hybrid shoe
"The lateral stability of the Kawana is better than many other running shoes, making it effective for HIIT movements."
HIIT stability
wide base
Cons
"The shoe does not provide the distinct rolling sensation typical in HOKA shoes."
lack of rolling
stability
smoothness
"The swallowtail design feels somewhat abrupt and firm at slow paces when landing on the heels."
stability
slow paces
heel strike
"The shoe lacks features typically found in functional fitness shoes, limiting its versatility for gym activities."
limited features
gym activities
"The shoe feels overly rigid and lacks flexibility in the midfoot area, affecting performance."
rigidity
performance

traction (3)
wet conditions (1)
wet (1)
slippery (1)
Pros
"The Kawana's outsole features durable rubber pods that enhance traction compared to other Hoka models."
traction
durability
"A remarkable outsole provides decent traction for various workouts."
traction
outsole
versatile usage
"The outsole grip of the Kawana performs well even in wet conditions, ensuring safety during diverse run environments."
outsole grip
wet performance
Cons
"The shoe has poor grip in wet conditions."
traction
wet surfaces
durabrasion rubber
"There are better options available for traction in slippery conditions, as the shoe lacks deep grooves."
poor traction
slippery conditions
"Traction was described as poor by several testers, affecting stability on certain surfaces."
traction
grip
stability
"The grip of the shoe is average and not very reliable in wet conditions, which could impact safety."
grip
wet conditions
"The traction may be compromised on wet surfaces, which limits performance in certain conditions."
traction
slippery
"One tester reported a significant slip hazard during wet conditions."
wet conditions
slip hazard

weight (4)
design (2)
sustainability (2)
breathability (2)
aesthetics (2)
versatility (1)
style (1)
normalcy (1)
Pros
"The shoe is versatile for various types of workouts beyond running, including gym and CrossFit sessions."
versatile
gym workouts
CrossFit
"The Hoka Kawana offers notable versatility, making it suitable for both running and cross-training activities."
cross-training
multi-use
"The shoe's versatile design makes it suitable for different types of runs and workouts."
versatile
multi-purpose
training
"It is versatile enough to be used for road running and gym workouts."
versatility
hybrid
"The shoe's design is stylish enough for casual wear, making it suitable for more than just athletic use."
stylish
casual
everyday
"The shoe is characterized as potentially the most 'normal' Hoka trainer, appealing to various runners."
normal
appealing
versatile
"The HOKA Kawana features a visually appealing design that stands out with unique colorways."
aesthetic
colorways
unique
visuals
"The upper of the shoes is made from recycled materials, showcasing a commitment to sustainability."
recycled materials
environment
eco-friendly
"The Hoka Kawana uses recycled materials for its upper, contributing to environmental sustainability."
environmentally friendly
recycled materials
"The shoe features good design elements like breathable materials."
breathable
quality materials
design
"The Hoka Kawana has a well-ventilated upper, promoting good airflow."
breathability
ventilation
"The aesthetic design of the shoe is appealing and fashionable for everyday wear."
design
fashionable
athleisure
"The Kawana's stylish design is complemented by interesting color variations."
style
color
"The upper is made from recycled materials, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers."
recycled materials
sustainability
Cons
"The swallowtail heel design may not appeal to everyone's aesthetic preferences."
aesthetic
heel design
"The Swallowtail heel design is not particularly innovative."
innovation
design
average
"The shoe is rigid with a lack of flexibility, limiting natural foot movement."
flexibility
rigid
"The weight of the Kawana is considered excessive for some runners."
heavy
bulkiness
"The shoe may feel heavy for some runners, which could be a drawback for speed."
heavy
restrictive
"The shoe is considered on the heavier side by some testers."
heavy
weight
"The Kawana is heavier than expected for a HOKA shoe."
weight
heaviness
comparison with Clifton
"The design may not appeal to more conservative runners."
style
preference
"Leave in mind that the shoe is not suitable for heavy lifting activities."
limited use
heavy lifting
cross-training
"The metallic sound of the aglets and eyelets can be distracting while running."
aglets
eyelets
distraction
"The shoe is good at various activities but does not excel in any specific area."
lack of specialization
mediocre

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Reviews

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Wear-tester reviews (17)

4.0/5

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