The HOKA Challenger 8 is the newest update to HOKA’s popular road-to-trail running shoe. If you’re familiar with the Challenger 7, you’ll feel right at home in version 8 but there are a few changes that take this model in a slightly more refined direction.
After testing it on my usual mixed terrain loop, I’ve been very impressed by just how versatile and comfortable this shoe still is. And the fit? The best I’ve experienced in any HOKA trail running shoe to date, and that's saying something!
This isn’t a huge overhaul, but the small tweaks to traction, fit, and underfoot feel make the Challenger 8 an even more enjoyable all-rounder for daily runs and light hikes that span roads and trails.
It's still not quite the aggressive mountain shoe like the Mafate Speed 4, or the Speedgoat series, but that’s kind of the point, this shoe is meant to do everything else really well, and it delivers.
Key Specifications
- Price: $155 at REI.com / Sportsshoes.com (For UK Readers)
- Weight: 9.5oz (269g) for US M9
- Drop: 7mm
- Upper: 100% rPET engineered mesh with 3D screen-printed toe cap and plush heel collar
- Midsole: Compression molded EVA foam
- Outsole: Durabrasion rubber with updated multi-directional 4mm lugs
- Extra Attributes: Extended heel pull, reflective details, improved last and fit
Alastair Dixon
Sizing and fit
The fit is excellent. In fact, it's probably the best I’ve experienced in a HOKA trail shoe - and I'm generally a fan of most of their trail offerings.
It’s true to size with a secure lockdown through the midfoot and forefoot. There’s good volume but not excessive space, and the plush heel collar and refined last make the step-in feel really dialed.
There's also more room in the toe box than you'll find in say the Speedgoat 6...
If version 7 already felt great out of the box, the Challenger 8 somehow manages to feel even more natural on foot.
There’s also a wide version available for those who need it.
Alastair Dixon
Performance review
The Challenger 8 maintains that soft ride that many HOKA fans will appreciate.
The midsole feels soft but never sloppy. This is a tricky balance, especially for a shoe that needs to work well on both asphalt and trail.
It has a touch more foam now, making it a little heavier (now 8.5oz), but it still manages to feel lightweight and nimble on the run.
One of the best updates for me is the redesigned outsole.
The 4mm multi-directional chevron lugs are now more aggressive and better oriented for grip on varying terrain. I noticed the improved bite, especially on loose dirt and steep climbs.
Sure, it’s still not a Vibram Megagrip outsole, but that’s part of how HOKA keeps the price competitive here. And honestly? For road-to-trail and most dry trail conditions, the Durabrasion rubber holds its own just fine.
As expected, the Challenger 8 still feels smooth and efficient on the roads too.
That’s a big reason I keep reaching for it on my mixed terrain days, but also as a lifestyle shoe for taking the dog to the park or hiking with my family.
It's super versatile, incredibly comfortable, and I like how the look, so why wouldn't I? ;)
There’s enough cushioning to take the edge off the concrete, and the shoe remains stable without feeling bulky, which was a criticism I had of the Stinson 7. You do get that classic trail-lug “clawing” sound on hard surfaces, but it’s more a reminder of their grip potential than a downside.
The shoe handles moderate trails, hard-packed dirt, forest paths, and light technical terrain confidently.
Alastair Dixon
I wouldn’t wear it for steep descents in wet mud, that’s where all mountain trail running shoes shine, but for everything else, this road to trail shoe performs with control and grace. I’ve also enjoyed hiking in them lately thanks to their comfort and low weight.
The soft midsole, plush collars and heel counter, and improved breathable upper, make it a great option for longer efforts, recovery runs, or those shoulder season outings when you don’t quite know what terrain to expect.
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My Verdict
The Challenger 8 builds on what worked in the previous version; a lightweight, versatile, and soft hybrid shoe with a smooth transition, and makes some meaningful upgrades without messing with the formula too much.
The new fit is a major win (it already felt very comfy), and the updated outsole design gives it better grip without compromising road comfort.
Would I still love to see Vibram Megagrip on this shoe one day? Absolutely. But at $155, it makes sense that HOKA is keeping this as their entry-level all-terrain shoe.
For most runners who want one shoe that can do it all, the Challenger 8 is hard to beat, and remains one of my favorites.
