I literally signed up for a marathon to get these cute Hoka sneakers

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Yes, you read the headline correctly. And no, I didn’t have much running experience. When a representative emailed me offering me the opportunity to join the most serious Hoka athletes and train with their official coach for the Big Sur International Marathon—yes, being a fashion editor has its perks!—I laughed out loud. I mean, I was a sprinter for track and field in high school, but I could never understand why anyone how someone can run long distances. That’s an accomplishment! Still, I took one look at the cute shoe models I got to try on during the experience and said, “Yeah, it’s worth it.” I’m the type of person who likes to challenge myself (and laugh at myself), try new things (especially fitness-wise), and of course, the shoe part speaks for itself!

(PS: The author received free transportation, accommodations, meals, merchandise and experiences for writing this story.)

For about five months, I laced up my shoes and started running to improve my endurance (I could barely run a minute without getting out of breath at first) so I could reach the finish line in a good time. In between, I met with my coach (hi, Ben!) once a month to track my progress. Also part of the process: digital group sessions, check-ins with a nutritionist and psychotherapist, and meeting the other runners in person while training in Flagstaff, Arizona. Yes, it was quite an extensive running plan!

This was all absolutely amazing and inspiring, but I have to get back to shoes now. I trained in two pairs of sneakers: the Mach 6 (I got the gorgeous limited edition monochrome pink colorway, which is unfortunately sold out in women’s sizes, sorry!) and the legendary Speedgoats. It was my first time trying Hoka sneakers, and oh my god, they did not disappoint.

First impressions:

My preferred form of exercise is walking, but every now and then when I feel the need to do a little more cardio, I’ll pluck up the courage and do a bit of sprinting. Before the Mach 6 and the Speedgoats, I would either have shin splints or arch pain. With the Hoka sneakers? That’s no longer a problem. These are definitely the best running/walking shoes I’ve ever worn! Read on to find out my impressions of each shoe.

Mach 6

Aside from the stunning Barbiecore colorway, what I liked about the Mach 6 is that it’s responsive, soft, super comfortable, and I didn’t need to break it in. At home, I mostly trained on roads (I didn’t want to get my pretty shoes dirty) and I liked the stacked and cushioned feel of the soles. A word of warning: I’m not the type to do anything outside in the rain, but if you like running in the rain, these shoes might not have enough grip for you!

Speed ​​Goat 5

If you’re a hardcore runner and enjoy the free therapy that Mother Nature provides us, you’ll love this pair. The Speedgoat 5 is one of Hoka’s most iconic styles, and I can see why. Aside from being stylish, it’s breathable (thanks to the mesh design), makes your feet happy (soooo comfy), and has good grip, making it perfect for trail runs (which I did in Arizona). That said, I liked the Mach 6 better!

So…no, I actually didn’t run a marathon in the end

Eventually I had to face reality. It wasn’t easy to find time to train, so I basically said, “Forget the marathon, let’s slow down.” And then I was signed up for my first 12k in Big Sur, and thanks to the Hoka Cielo X1 – man, did I fly! I’m pretty sure those sneakers helped keep a smile on my face throughout the entire run. Oh, and the view, aaaand the people stopping to compliment me on my sneakers.

By the way, here’s the rest of the stylish Hoka stuff I’ve been training in:

Women’s Outseeker Down Jacket

Race Day Bra

Novafly 6″ Knit Shorts

Heaven X1

Mach 6

Speedgoat 5 mesh sneakers for women in blue, coral and camellia

Mach 6