Hoka Gaviota 4

Review Score
86%
πŸ… Highly Rated
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Hoka Gaviota 4: Review

β€œA plush and stable shoe for long-distance runners.”

Overview


The Hoka Gaviota 4 is a running shoe designed for maximum cushioning and stability. This shoe is known for its plush comfort and supportive ride, making it a top choice for runners who prioritize foot protection and support during their runs.

Key Features:

  • Plush Cushioning: A thick bed of foam provides a soft and protective underfoot feel.
  • Dynamic Stability: The J-Frame technology offers support for overpronation (excessive inward rolling of the foot) without being intrusive.
  • Redesigned Upper: The ventilated mesh upper is lighter and more supportive, with added padding for a luxurious feel.
  • Meta-Rocker Geometry: This design feature promotes efficient heel-to-toe transitions.

The Hoka Gaviota 4 is an ideal choice for runners who need a stability shoe for marathon or ultramarathon training. Its plush cushioning offers a comfortable ride, while the dynamic stability features ensure a supportive experience. Part of the Hoka Gaviota family, it stands out as a premium option within the Hoka lineup.

With an average review score of 86%, it's in the highest rated 30% of similar running shoes. Based on our monitoring of prices across the internet, it's currently in the most expensive 40% of running shoes today.

Verdict

The consensus on the Hoka Gaviota 4


The Hoka Gaviota 4 has established itself as a reliable shoe for runners seeking a combination of plush cushioning and stability. It's particularly well-suited for long-distance runs, where comfort and foot protection are paramount. The shoe's J-Frame technology provides dynamic stability, engaging only when necessary to support overpronation. The redesigned upper, with its breathable mesh and added padding, enhances the overall comfort and fit. While the shoe does require a break-in period, it ultimately delivers a smooth and supportive ride. The Gaviota 4 is not designed for speedwork or setting personal records, but it excels as a daily trainer for marathon or ultra distances. For runners in need of a stable and cushioned shoe, the Hoka Gaviota 4 is a top contender that promises comfort mile after mile.

Updates to Hoka Gaviota 4


The Hoka Gaviota 4 introduces a redesigned upper for improved fit and breathability, along with additional padding in the heel collar and tongue for enhanced comfort. The J-Frame support system has been updated with a softer foam compound for a more cushioned feel without sacrificing stability. These updates build upon the solid foundation of the Hoka Gaviota line, maintaining its reputation as a max-cushioned stability shoe.

7 Hoka Gaviota 4 Pros & Cons


4 Pros

Plush cushioning provides a comfortable ride for long distances.
Dynamic stability supports overpronation without being intrusive.
Redesigned upper offers improved fit and breathability.
Durable construction ensures longevity for many miles of running.

3 Cons

Requires a break-in period to achieve optimal comfort.
Heavier than some competitors, which may affect speedwork.
May not be suitable for runners who prefer a minimalist shoe.

In Depth


Upper

The Hoka Gaviota 4 features a redesigned upper that employs a lighter and more breathable mesh compared to its predecessor. The added padding in the heel collar and tongue enhances the step-in comfort, creating a snug and luxurious feel. The upper's H-Frame, now integrated beneath the mesh, allows for an adjustable fit, ensuring a secure and stable experience. This update has been well-received by runners who appreciate the improved fit and breathability, especially during long runs.

Midsole

At the heart of the Hoka Gaviota 4's comfort is its midsole, which boasts a high stack height of 40 mm in the heel and 35 mm in the forefoot. The CMEVA foam provides a soft landing with a hint of firmness for added structure. The J-Frame technology, updated with a softer foam compound, offers stability without being intrusive, making it suitable for runners with overpronation. The shoe's Meta-Rocker Geometry aids in smooth transitions, contributing to the overall supportive ride.

Outsole

The outsole of the Hoka Gaviota 4 is designed with Durabrasion Rubber, strategically placed to withstand high abrasion areas. This durable material ensures the outsole can handle hundreds of miles without compromising on flexibility or traction. Runners can expect a reliable grip across various surfaces, contributing to the shoe's versatility and longevity.

Size/fit

The Hoka Gaviota 4 offers a medium fit from heel to toe, with a medium toe box that accommodates a range of foot shapes. The H-Frame in the midfoot allows for a customizable fit, ensuring that runners can achieve a secure and comfortable lockdown. While some runners may find the fit slightly roomy, the shoe generally runs true to size.

Comfort

Comfort is a standout feature of the Hoka Gaviota 4, with its plush cushioning and supportive design. The additional padding in the heel collar and tongue, along with the soft engineered mesh upper, contribute to a cozy and comfortable feel. The shoe's balanced ride, with a mix of softness and firmness, ensures comfort during long runs and recovery days.

Cushioning

The Hoka Gaviota 4's cushioning is characterized by its generous stack height and the use of CMEVA foam. This combination results in a protective and cushioned ride that absorbs impact effectively. The shoe's cushioning is particularly beneficial for long-distance runners who require consistent underfoot protection throughout their training.

Breathability

Despite its thick cushioning, the Hoka Gaviota 4 excels in breathability. The engineered mesh upper features numerous ventilation holes that allow for ample airflow, keeping feet cool even during warm runs. This breathability is a significant advantage for runners who train in hotter climates or prefer a well-ventilated shoe.

Stability

Stability in the Hoka Gaviota 4 is provided by the J-Frame technology, a denser foam that supports the foot's natural gait. The wide base and flat waisted geometry through the midfoot offer a stable platform, making the shoe an excellent choice for runners who require additional support due to overpronation.

Durability

Durability is a key aspect of the Hoka Gaviota 4, with its robust upper and resilient outsole. The shoe's materials are designed to withstand the rigors of daily training, ensuring that it can last for many miles without significant wear and tear. This makes the Gaviota 4 a reliable option for runners who value longevity in their footwear.

Who should buy the Hoka Gaviota 4?


The Hoka Gaviota 4 is best suited for runners who require a stability shoe with ample cushioning for long-distance runs. It's ideal for those training for a marathon or ultramarathon, as well as runners with overpronation seeking a supportive ride. The shoe's plush comfort and durable construction make it a solid choice for daily training and recovery days.

Who should not buy the Hoka Gaviota 4?


Runners looking for a lightweight, responsive shoe for speedwork or racing should consider other options. The Hoka Gaviota 4, with its focus on cushioning and stability, may not provide the agility needed for tempo runs or personal best attempts. Those who prefer a minimalist or less cushioned shoe might find the Gaviota 4's plushness to be excessive.

Hoka Gaviota 4: What's it good for?


The Hoka Gaviota 4 is well-suited for long-distance running, recovery runs, and daily training. Its cushioning and stability features make it a strong candidate for runners with overpronation or those who prefer a supportive ride. The shoe's durability and comfort also make it a good option for runners who spend extended periods on their feet.

4 Hoka Gaviota 4 FAQs


How does the Hoka Gaviota 4 accommodate runners with overpronation?

The Hoka Gaviota 4 features the J-Frame technology, a denser foam that provides support and guides the foot, along with a wide platform for added stability. This design is beneficial for runners with overpronation, as it helps to control excessive inward rolling of the foot.

Is the Hoka Gaviota 4 suitable for marathon training?

Yes, the Hoka Gaviota 4 is an excellent choice for marathon training due to its plush cushioning, supportive stability features, and durable construction. It's designed to provide comfort and protection over long distances.

What updates have been made to the Hoka Gaviota 4 compared to the previous model?

The Hoka Gaviota 4 has a redesigned upper for a better fit and increased breathability, additional padding in the heel collar and tongue, and an updated J-Frame support system with a softer foam compound for a more cushioned feel.

Can the Hoka Gaviota 4 be used for daily training?

Absolutely, the Hoka Gaviota 4 is well-suited for daily training. Its combination of cushioning, stability, and durability makes it a reliable choice for everyday runs.

Hoka Gaviota 4 alternatives

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Released
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Weight
Weight
M: 323 g
W: 264 g
M: 309 g
W: 281 g
M: 269 g
W: 232 g
M: 227 g
W: 193 g
M: 298 g
W: 261 g
M: 275 g
W: 235 g
Forefoot
Forefoot
35 mm
29 mm
28 mm
21 mm
M: 27 mm
W: 14 mm
Heel to toe drop
Heel to toe drop
5 mm
8 mm
6 mm
5 mm
10 mm
8 mm
Heel
Heel
40 mm
35 mm
33 mm
31 mm
M: 35 mm
W: 22 mm
Brand
Brand
Hoka
BrooksSauconyHokaadidasASICS
Support Type
Support Type
Stability
StabilityStabilityStabilityNeutralStabilityStability
Pronation Type
Pronation Type
Overpronation
OverpronationOverpronationOverpronationNeutral pronationOverpronationOverpronation
Strike Type
Strike Type
Fore/Midfoot strike
Fore/Midfoot strikeHeel strikeFore/Midfoot strikeFore/Midfoot strikeHeel strikeFore/Midfoot strikeHeel strikeFore/Midfoot strike
Arch Type
Arch Type
Low arch
Low archLow archLow archHigh archLow archLow arch
Shoe Type
Shoe Type
Maximalist
ComfortableComfortableLightweightMaximalist
Breathable
Breathable
Rocker
Rocker
Techs
Techs
Brooks DNA AmpGuideRail
ASICS FF BlastASICS TRUSSTIC
Environmental Characteristics
Environmental Characteristics
SustainableVegan β“‹
Sustainable
SustainableSustainable
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Hoka Gaviota 4: what the experts say (3 reviews)

Hoka Gaviota 4: 3 Expert video reviews

Hoka Gaviota 4 characteristics and specifications

Characteristics
SportsRunning (+2049)
TerrainRoad (+1362)
UsagesDaily running (+1132)
BrandHoka (+107)
Support TypeStability (+209)
Pronation TypeOverpronation (+195)
Strike TypeFore/Midfoot strike (+1116)
Arch TypeLow arch (+201)
Shoe TypeMaximalist (+428)
FitMedium toe box (+855)
FeaturesBreathable (+753)Orthotic friendly (+456)Removable insole (+439)
MaterialsMesh (+942)
Events10k (+711)5K and 10K (+135)Half marathon (+711)Marathon (+711)Obstacle course racing (+168)
Environmental CharacteristicsSustainable (+175)Vegan β“‹ (+250)
ColorwaysBlack / Black, Black / White, Blue Fog / Plein Air, Bluing / Blue Graphite, Castlerock Anthrac, Festival Fuchsia / Blue Graphite, Shell Coral / Peach
Specificationsvs Average
Model
4
Released
Apr 2022
Measurements
Weight
M: 323 g
W: 264 g
Heel to toe drop
5 mm
Heel
40 mm
Forefoot
35 mm

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AuthorTom Green
Tom is the founder of geerly. Based in West London, he found his passion for running in his mid-30s. He’s best at longer distances, and is a regular at the London Marathon, where he's edging closer to sub-2.40. He started geerly because he found it frustrating when shopping for running shoes spending ages trying to find the best deal in his size, and wading through verbose, waffling reviews clearly designed to appeal to search engines rather than be helpful to users. For geerly he's passionate about writing reviews that get straight to the point, and helping runners find the right gear at the best price.
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