Previously renowned for their maximalist running shoes, Hoka fans should be pleased to learn they also have a small range of full-height hiking boots, and by ‘small’ I mean (in Australia at least) a single pair—the Sky Kaha. (There are two further mid-height boots in the Sky series, however; the Arkali and the Toa). Looking like an update of last season’s Tor Ultra Hi, the Sky Kaha follows Hoka’s original principles of mega-cushioning, exaggerated heel and toe rockers, and a mini Formula One bucket seat for each foot. This boot is to hiking what vibrating waterbeds are to love hotels.
Somewhat appropriately (‘Hoka One One’ is apparently Māori for ‘Time to Fly’, and ‘Kaha’ their word for being strong and capable), I tested this pair on a two-day tramp across the beautiful Banks Peninsula outside Christchurch. The Te Ara Pātaka is a combination of steep grassland, tussock, uneven rocks and rooty forest tracks, and the beefy midsole completely shielded my delicate tootsies from the harsher sections of trail. In fact, I’m confident I could have strolled across a field of broken glass and rusty nails without slowing. The dual density outsole mixes Vibram Megagrip (in the heel and toe zones) with Hoka’s own proprietary Rangi compound in the midsole for grip (the Rangi compound appears to be a rebranding of their previous RMat EVA rubber). Up to a certain angle this combination, along with multidirectional 5mm lugs, proved effective, and although slippage could be forced above about 40° on the wet rock, I’d say that is still a decent result.
While my walk began in pleasant T-shirt weather, Day Two mostly involved horizontal rain blowing fiercely out of thick cloud, the sort of conditions that force the peninsula’s totara trees to grow in the shape of Donald Trump’s flyaway hair. The boots’ eVent membrane ensures waterproofness with a high measure of breathability, and I can confirm my feet never overheated uncomfortably. However, since I decided not to pack my waterproof trousers at the last minute due to volume issues (it was either them or a large bag of crisps) the rain soaked into my socks and wicked down to my feet, so I was unable to verify the integrity of the membrane at the time. I stand by my packing decision though—the crisps were delicious. Subsequent testing in a bathtub proved that no water penetrated after an hour fully submersed.
For hikers with weak ankles or trekking seriously broken terrain, the boot height is generous. The cuffs completely covered my ankle bones, mostly in comfort although I did have to loosen one of them after a while. Locking cleats aid differential lacing, and it’s great to see that they’ve finally come up with a decent colour scheme—the black olive/green is a vast improvement on last season’s lairy blue/fluro yellow retina-zapper (obviously a consequence of their running heritage) and makes it look less like both of your legs are shorter than the other. Still, it isn’t a fashion show. Or is it?
I found the Sky Kaha very comfortable and would recommend giving them a shot. At 508g each they aren’t the lightest boots you’ll find but they may be the most supportive, and that’s equally as important as weight. They fit a medium to wide forefoot but do run a half size large, so I’d advise trying a pair on before purchase, if possible.
Dan Slater
Need to know:
Intended use: Overnight hiking with heavy loads; day hiking in uneven terrain; anyone needing greater ankle support
Weight: 508g each
Waterproofing membrane: eVent
Upper: Leather
RRP: $419.95
More info: hokaoneone.com.au