Hoka Torrent 2

Review Score
81%
🏅 Highly Rated
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Hoka Torrent 2: Review

“A versatile trail running shoe with balanced cushioning and responsiveness.”

Overview


The Hoka Torrent 2 is a trail running shoe designed to offer a balance of cushioning and responsiveness. This shoe is part of the Hoka Torrent family and is known for its lightweight build and versatile performance on various terrains.

Key Features:

  • ProFly Midsole: Provides a soft landing and a responsive toe-off.
  • Engineered Mesh Upper: Ensures breathability and durability with recycled materials.
  • Multidirectional Lugs: Offers excellent traction on diverse surfaces.

The Hoka Torrent 2 is an ideal choice for trail runners who prioritize a lightweight and responsive shoe for varied terrains. Its ProFly midsole offers a balanced ride, making it suitable for both short and long-distance runs.

With an average review score of 81%, it's rated just above the median rating of similar running shoes. Based on our monitoring of prices across the internet, it's currently just below the median price of running shoes today.

Verdict

The consensus on the Hoka Torrent 2


The Hoka Torrent 2 has received positive feedback for its performance on trails. Reviewers appreciate its lightweight design and the balance of cushioning provided by the ProFly midsole. The shoe's engineered mesh upper is praised for its breathability and durability, although some found it challenging to achieve a secure fit. The multidirectional lugs offer excellent traction on various surfaces, making it a reliable choice for trail running. However, the shoe's firmness and lack of a rock plate may not suit those seeking maximum cushioning or protection on technical trails. Overall, the Hoka Torrent 2 is a solid option for trail runners looking for a versatile and responsive shoe. It offers great value for its performance and durability.

Updates to Hoka Torrent 2


The Hoka Torrent 2 features several updates from its predecessor, the Hoka Torrent. The most notable change is the new engineered mesh upper, which improves breathability and durability while using recycled materials. The outsole tread has been modified for better traction on steep descents, enhancing the shoe's performance on technical trails. The dual-density ProFly midsole remains, providing a balance of cushioning and responsiveness. These updates make the Torrent 2 a more refined and versatile trail running shoe.

Comparable Shoes


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The Salomon S/Lab Ultra 3 is a good alternative for runners seeking a more tapered and glove-like fit. It offers excellent traction and durability, making it suitable for technical trails. However, it may not provide the same level of cushioning as the Hoka Torrent 2, which is better for longer distances.

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The La Sportiva Bushido II is another trail running shoe that offers superior foot protection and traction. It is designed for technical terrain and provides a more sensitive ground feel compared to the Hoka Torrent 2. However, the Torrent 2 offers better cushioning and is more suitable for longer runs.

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The Hoka Speedgoat 5 is a great option for runners who need more cushioning and protection on technical trails. It features a higher stack height and a rock plate, providing better shock absorption and stability. However, it is heavier than the Torrent 2 and may not be as nimble on less technical terrain.

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The Nike Ultrafly is a trail running shoe that offers premium cushioning and a responsive ride. It is designed for ultra distances and provides excellent protection and comfort. However, it is more expensive than the Hoka Torrent 2 and may not be as versatile for different trail conditions.

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The Saucony Endorphin Edge is a trail running shoe that features a carbon plate for added energy return. It offers a responsive and protective ride, making it suitable for long-distance runs. However, it may not provide the same level of traction as the Hoka Torrent 2 on technical trails.

10 Hoka Torrent 2 Pros & Cons


5 Pros

Lightweight design
Excellent traction on various surfaces
Balanced cushioning and responsiveness
Durable and breathable upper
Versatile for different trail conditions

5 Cons

Fit may be too roomy for narrow feet
Lacks a rock plate for technical trails
Firmness may require a break-in period
Not waterproof
Limited arch support

In Depth


Upper

The upper of the Hoka Torrent 2 is made from engineered mesh, which ensures breathability and durability. This material is designed to keep the foot cool and dry during runs, making it ideal for well-ventilated performance. The mesh is also reinforced with overlays to provide additional support and protection on rugged trails. Despite its durability, some users found the fit to be a bit roomy, especially for those with narrower feet.

Midsole

The Hoka Torrent 2 features a ProFly midsole, which offers a unique combination of cushioning and responsiveness. This dual-density foam provides a softer landing in the heel and a more responsive toe-off, making it suitable for various running styles. The midsole's design helps in maintaining a balanced ride, which is essential for trail running. However, some runners found the midsole to be a bit firm, especially during longer runs.

Outsole

The outsole of the Hoka Torrent 2 is equipped with multidirectional lugs that provide excellent traction on different surfaces. These lugs are designed to grip well on both dry and wet terrains, making the shoe versatile for various trail conditions. The rubber compound used in the outsole is durable, ensuring that the shoe can withstand the wear and tear of rugged trails. This makes the Torrent 2 a reliable choice for off-road running.

Size/fit

The Hoka Torrent 2 offers a medium toe box, which provides enough room for toe splay without feeling too loose. This is beneficial for runners with regular to slightly wider feet. However, those with narrower feet might find the fit a bit too roomy, especially in the forefoot area. The shoe fits true to size, but it's recommended to try them on to ensure the best fit, particularly for long-distance runs.

Comfort

Comfort is a standout feature of the Hoka Torrent 2. The shoe's cushioning and fit make it suitable for long-distance runs, providing a comfortable ride even on rugged trails. The engineered mesh upper adds to the comfort by offering breathability and a secure fit. However, some users have noted that the shoe might feel a bit firm initially, requiring a break-in period to achieve optimal comfort.

Cushioning

The ProFly midsole in the Hoka Torrent 2 provides balanced cushioning, offering a soft landing and a responsive toe-off. This makes the shoe suitable for various running styles and distances. The cushioning is not as plush as some other Hoka models, but it provides enough protection and comfort for trail running. This balance of cushioning and responsiveness is ideal for runners who prefer a more connected feel to the ground.

Breathability

The engineered mesh upper of the Hoka Torrent 2 ensures good breathability, keeping the foot cool and dry during runs. This is particularly beneficial for long-distance runs where foot temperature can become an issue. The mesh material allows for adequate airflow, making the shoe suitable for well-ventilated performance. However, the shoe is not waterproof, so it may not be the best choice for wet conditions.

Stability

The Hoka Torrent 2 offers good stability, thanks to its balanced design and supportive midsole. The shoe's lower stack height compared to other Hoka models provides a more stable ride, especially on uneven terrain. The multidirectional lugs on the outsole also contribute to the shoe's stability by providing excellent traction. This makes the Torrent 2 a reliable choice for trail runners who need a stable and supportive shoe.

Durability

Durability is a strong point of the Hoka Torrent 2. The engineered mesh upper and durable rubber outsole ensure that the shoe can withstand the wear and tear of rugged trails. The multidirectional lugs on the outsole provide excellent traction and are designed to last, even on rough terrain. This makes the Torrent 2 a reliable choice for trail runners looking for a durable and long-lasting shoe.

Grip

The Hoka Torrent 2 excels in providing grip, thanks to its multidirectional lugs on the outsole. These lugs are designed to offer excellent traction on various surfaces, including dry, wet, and rocky terrains. The rubber compound used in the outsole is durable and provides a firm grip, making the shoe suitable for trail running. This ensures that runners can confidently tackle different trail conditions without worrying about slipping.

Flex

The Hoka Torrent 2 offers a good balance of flexibility and support. The engineered mesh upper and ProFly midsole provide enough flexibility to adapt to the natural movement of the foot, while still offering the necessary support for trail running. This balance makes the shoe comfortable for long-distance runs and allows for a smooth and responsive ride. The flexibility of the shoe also contributes to its overall comfort and performance on various terrains.

Who should buy the Hoka Torrent 2?


The Hoka Torrent 2 is ideal for trail runners who seek a lightweight and responsive shoe for varied terrains. It's a great choice for those who appreciate a balance of cushioning and ground feel, making it suitable for both short and long-distance runs. Runners with a neutral pronation and those who prefer a medium toe box will find this shoe comfortable. Additionally, it's a good option for environmentally conscious runners, as the upper is made from recycled materials.

Who should not buy the Hoka Torrent 2?


The Hoka Torrent 2 may not be the best choice for runners who prefer maximum cushioning or need extra protection on technical trails. Those with narrow feet might find the fit too roomy, especially in the forefoot area. If you require a shoe with a rock plate for added protection, consider other models like the Hoka Speedgoat 5. Additionally, if you often run in wet conditions, the Torrent 2's lack of waterproofing might be a drawback.

Hoka Torrent 2: What's it good for?


The Hoka Torrent 2 is well-suited for trail running on various terrains, including dry, rocky, and moderately technical trails. Its balanced cushioning and responsive midsole make it ideal for 10k to marathon distances. The shoe's excellent traction and stability also make it a reliable choice for off-road running. Additionally, its lightweight design and breathability make it suitable for daily training and long-distance runs.

5 Hoka Torrent 2 FAQs


Is the Hoka Torrent 2 suitable for long-distance runs?

Yes, the Hoka Torrent 2 is suitable for long-distance runs. Its ProFly midsole provides balanced cushioning and responsiveness, making it comfortable for extended periods on the trail. However, for ultra distances, some runners may prefer shoes with more cushioning.

How does the Hoka Torrent 2 perform on technical trails?

The Hoka Torrent 2 performs well on moderately technical trails, thanks to its multidirectional lugs and durable rubber outsole. However, it lacks a rock plate, which may be a drawback for highly technical terrain.

Is the Hoka Torrent 2 waterproof?

No, the Hoka Torrent 2 is not waterproof. The engineered mesh upper provides good breathability but does not offer water resistance. It dries quickly, though, making it suitable for runs in light rain or through shallow water.

What type of runner is the Hoka Torrent 2 best suited for?

The Hoka Torrent 2 is best suited for trail runners who seek a lightweight and responsive shoe for varied terrains. It is ideal for those with a neutral pronation and a preference for a medium toe box.

How does the Hoka Torrent 2 compare to other Hoka models?

The Hoka Torrent 2 offers a lower stack height and a more responsive ride compared to other Hoka models like the Speedgoat. It is lighter and more nimble, making it suitable for shorter and moderately technical runs.

Hoka Torrent 2 alternatives

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Hoka Torrent 2
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Hoka Torrent 2
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Released
May 2020
Jan 2020Apr 2017Aug 2022
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Expert Review Score
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productAthletes
Pro athlete users
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+10
Reid CoolsaetSage Canaday
Weight
Weight
M: 275 g
W: 224 g
326 g
M: 215 g
W: 181 g
M: 210 g
W: 181 g
M: 459 g
W: 391 g
11 g
Forefoot
Forefoot
M: 18 mm
W: 16 mm
7 mm
16 mm
23 mm
Heel to toe drop
Heel to toe drop
5 mm
4 mm
8 mm
Heel
Heel
M: 23 mm
W: 21 mm
7 mm
20 mm
31 mm
Terrain
Terrain
Trail
TrailTrailTrailTrailMudSnow/iceTrail
Brand
Brand
Hoka
New BalanceXero ShoesXero ShoesMerrellSalomon
Strike Type
Strike Type
Fore/Midfoot strike
Fore/Midfoot strikeHeel strikeFore/Midfoot strikeFore/Midfoot strikeFore/Midfoot strikeFore/Midfoot strikeHeel strike
Shoe Type
Shoe Type
LightweightLow dropZero dropLightweightLow dropZero dropLow dropMaximalist
Rocker
Rocker
Breathable
Breathable
Orthotic friendly
Orthotic friendly
Removable insole
Removable insole
Techs
Techs
VibramGore-Tex
Waterproofings
Waterproofings
Waterproof
Environmental Characteristics
Environmental Characteristics
Vegan Ⓥ
Vegan ⓋVegan ⓋVegan Ⓥ
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Hoka Torrent 2: what the experts say (3 reviews)

Hoka Torrent 2: 6 Expert video reviews

Hoka Torrent 2 characteristics and specifications

Characteristics
SportsRunning (+2049)
TerrainTrail (+533)
BrandHoka (+107)
Support TypeNeutral (+1603)
Pronation TypeNeutral pronation (+1578)
Strike TypeFore/Midfoot strike (+1116)
Arch TypeHigh arch (+1525)
FitMedium toe box (+855)
FeaturesRocker (+177)
MaterialsMesh (+942)
Events10k (+711)Half marathon (+711)Marathon (+711)
Environmental CharacteristicsVegan Ⓥ (+250)
ColorwaysBiep, Black Iris / Cascade, Blue / Black / Turquoise, Blue Coral / Evening Primrose, Bluing / Sharkskin, Bmep, Bsab, Burgundy, Castlerock / Camellia, Deep Well / Evening
Specificationsvs Average
Model
2
Released
May 2020
Measurements
Weight
M: 275 g
W: 224 g
Heel to toe drop
5 mm
Heel
M: 23 mm
W: 21 mm
Forefoot
M: 18 mm
W: 16 mm

Evolution of the Hoka Torrent product family

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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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