Hoka Stinson 7 trail running shoes

The Hoka Stinson 7 trail running shoe is a stable, comfortable hybrid running shoe with high cushioning. Along with the Challenger, the Stinson is the second running shoe Hoka offers for all terrain (ATR). I’m including it in the category of trail running shoes because, by design, it has all the features a lighter trail running shoe should have. While the Challenger is a lightweight, nimble running shoe, the Stinson 7 is heavier, more stable, and more comfortable. The Stinson 7 is definitely for those occasions when you want to run on a mix of asphalt and lighter terrain for longer distances at lower intensities. It can also be excellent for longer hikes. It’s also commonly called the Bondi 8’s sibling because of its high cushioning and comfort, but it could also be the Gaviota’s sibling because of its high stability and midfoot structure.

The upper of the Hoka HOKA Stinson 7 trail running shoe is made from a mesh material that has good breathability. A separate layer of rubber on the forefoot provides foot protection and a minimal amount of moisture penetration. The semi-fixed tongue of the shoe is cushioned, covering the lace opening well, making it difficult for debris to get inside the shoe. The heel collar is high, which can be a bit distracting, well padded to keep the ankle and heel stable. Although the upper may look wide at first impression, it is not at all, and holds narrower feet well.

The midsole of the Hoka HOKA Stinson 7 trail running shoe is made of two different soft CMEVA foams. The harder, stiffer foam forms an H shape inside the midsole, providing a frame to keep the Stinson stable. This H-lac stiffer layer is the Hoka H-Frame technology used in the Gaviota 5. The height of the Stinson’s midsole is very high, 42 mm at the back of the heel and 37 mm at the front of the foot. This height is high even for a running shoe designed for the street. Despite the high midfoot, the shoe is stable, thanks to the H-frame technology mentioned above. There is no rock protection in the midsole, but its thickness provides enough protection from rocks. The midsole has a cradle (rocker) geometry which helps to roll over quickly and smoothly. The midsole is not dynamic and does not have a high energy return, so it is more suited to slower runs, but it has good shock absorption so you can run longer distances.

The outsole of the Hoka HOKA Stinson 7 trail running shoe does not cover the entire midsole, which is not common in trail running shoes. Because the sole is wide, the outsole is sufficient for traction, but it is better for protection if it covers the entire midsole. The outsole is a Vibram sole, soft and with different patterned grooves and rubber studs. The outsole is a transition between street and trail running shoes. Although it has good traction, it doesn’t give enough grip on wet, muddy terrain and rocks, so it’s better to run in them on lighter terrain.

Over all, the Hoka HOKA Stinson 7 trail running shoe is a durable, comfortable, stable hybrid running shoe. On shorter asphalt stretches or easier terrain, they can be a great choice for slower and even longer runs. The upper is well ventilated, the midsole is high, it has good shock absorption, it is stable but not too dynamic. The outsole grips well on dry surfaces, but not enough on more technical, muddy terrain.