Hoka Cavu

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Hoka Cavu
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Hoka Cavu: Review

“A lightweight and responsive shoe for neutral road runners.”

Overview


The Hoka Cavu is a running shoe designed for versatility and comfort. This shoe stands out for its lightweight design and responsive cushioning, making it a top choice for runners who seek a balance between performance and style.

Key Features:

  • PROFLY Technology: Offers improved propulsion and protection.
  • RMAT® Outsole: Delivers grip, stability, and cushioning.
  • Engineered Mesh Upper: Provides a seamless fit and exceptional breathability.
  • Lycra Bootie Construction: Ensures a snug fit while maintaining freedom of movement.

The Hoka Cavu is an ideal choice for neutral runners who prioritize a lightweight feel and responsive cushioning for road running. Its innovative features offer a dynamic running experience, suitable for a range of distances from 10k to marathon.

Verdict

The consensus on the Hoka Cavu


The Hoka Cavu has garnered attention for its ability to blend a lightweight feel with responsive cushioning. The inclusion of PROFLY technology in the midsole provides a balance of soft landings and energetic toe-offs, which is appreciated by runners who demand both comfort and performance. The RMAT® outsole ensures reliable traction and durability, making it a solid choice for daily training. The engineered mesh upper and Lycra bootie construction contribute to a breathable and snug fit, enhancing the overall running experience. While it may not be the most cushioned option in the Hoka lineup, the Cavu offers a unique combination of lightness and responsiveness that many runners find appealing. Overall, the Hoka Cavu is a well-rounded shoe that delivers on its promise of a comfortable and efficient run, making it a valuable addition to a runner's collection.

Updates to Hoka Cavu


The Hoka Cavu continues the brand's tradition of providing lightweight and responsive running shoes. Compared to its predecessors, such as the Hoka Cavu 2, the latest model maintains the brand's commitment to innovation with updated technologies like the PROFLY midsole and RMAT® outsole for improved performance.

Comparable Shoes




The ASICS GT 2000 11 is a stability shoe that contrasts with the Hoka Cavu's neutral design. Runners who need additional support for overpronation may prefer the ASICS model, while those seeking a lighter, more responsive ride might opt for the Cavu.

6 Hoka Cavu Pros & Cons


4 Pros

Lightweight design enhances running efficiency.
Responsive cushioning with PROFLY technology.
Breathable mesh upper keeps feet cool.
Durable RMAT® outsole offers reliable traction.

2 Cons

May not provide enough cushioning for ultra-long distances.
Not ideal for runners with overpronation.

In Depth


Upper

The Hoka Cavu features an engineered mesh upper that provides a seamless and breathable fit. This design choice ensures that runners experience minimal distractions from their footwear, allowing them to focus on their performance. The upper's construction also includes a Lycra bootie that hugs the foot comfortably, offering a secure fit without constriction.

Midsole

At the heart of the Hoka Cavu's comfort is the PROFLY midsole technology. This innovation delivers a dual-density cushioning system, with a softer heel for impact absorption and a firmer forefoot for propulsion. This combination allows for a smooth transition from heel to toe, making the shoe suitable for a variety of running paces.

Outsole

The outsole of the Hoka Cavu is made from RMAT® material, which provides a balance of grip, stability, and cushioning. The outsole's Wishbone design offers targeted traction in strategic areas, ensuring that runners have confidence in their footing during their training sessions on the road.

Size/fit

The Hoka Cavu is designed to accommodate runners with neutral pronation and medium foot width. Its sizing is true to fit, providing a comfortable and secure experience for daily running. The shoe's design also caters to those with a fore/midfoot strike, offering the necessary support and cushioning.

Comfort

Comfort is a standout feature of the Hoka Cavu, with its lightweight construction and responsive cushioning system. The shoe's design ensures that runners can enjoy their training without the burden of heavy footwear, while the cushioning provides a plush feel throughout the run.

Cushioning

While the Hoka Cavu is not the most cushioned shoe in the Hoka lineup, it offers a balanced level of cushioning that is sufficient for daily training. The PROFLY midsole technology ensures that runners receive the necessary protection and energy return with each stride.

Breathability

The Hoka Cavu's engineered mesh upper ensures excellent breathability, keeping runners' feet cool and dry even during long runs. This feature is particularly beneficial for those who run in warmer climates or who have a preference for well-ventilated footwear.

Stability

The Hoka Cavu provides a stable ride for neutral runners, thanks to its well-designed outsole and midsole technologies. The shoe's construction supports a natural running gait, allowing runners to maintain their form without unnecessary interference.

Durability

Durability is a key aspect of the Hoka Cavu, with its high-quality materials and construction. The RMAT® outsole, in particular, is known for its resilience, ensuring that the shoe can withstand the rigors of regular training on asphalt surfaces.

Grip

Runners can rely on the Hoka Cavu for consistent grip on road surfaces. The RMAT® outsole with its Wishbone design provides traction where it's needed most, allowing for safe and secure running in various conditions.

Flex

The Hoka Cavu offers a moderate level of flexibility, which is beneficial for runners who value a natural foot movement. The shoe's design allows for an efficient toe-off, contributing to a more dynamic running experience.

Who should buy the Hoka Cavu?


The Hoka Cavu is well-suited for runners who seek a lightweight and responsive shoe for their road running endeavors. It's particularly beneficial for those with a neutral gait and medium foot width, who appreciate a shoe that offers a balance of cushioning and propulsion. Runners aiming for distances ranging from 10k to marathon will find the Cavu to be a reliable partner.

Who should not buy the Hoka Cavu?


Runners who require a shoe with maximum cushioning for long-distance running may want to consider other options. The Hoka Cavu, while offering a balanced cushioning system, may not provide the plush comfort that some runners seek for ultra-long distances. Additionally, those with overpronation issues might benefit from a shoe with more structured support.

Hoka Cavu: What's it good for?


The Hoka Cavu is an excellent choice for daily training on the road, offering a combination of lightness and responsiveness. It's also suitable for runners who participate in races ranging from 10k to marathons, thanks to its versatile design. The shoe's breathability and comfort make it a strong contender for those looking for a reliable running partner.

4 Hoka Cavu FAQs


Is the Hoka Cavu suitable for marathon training?

Yes, the Hoka Cavu is suitable for marathon training, offering a balance of lightweight design and responsive cushioning that can handle long-distance runs.

Can the Hoka Cavu be used for daily running?

Absolutely, the Hoka Cavu is an excellent shoe for daily running, providing comfort and versatility for everyday training.

What type of runner is the Hoka Cavu designed for?

The Hoka Cavu is designed for neutral runners with a medium foot width who value a lightweight and responsive shoe for road running.

How does the Hoka Cavu's cushioning compare to other Hoka shoes?

The Hoka Cavu offers a balanced level of cushioning that is sufficient for daily training, though it may not be as plush as some of the more cushioned models in the Hoka lineup.

Hoka Cavu alternatives



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Hoka Cavu
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released
Released
Feb 2018
Jun 2016Nov 2015Apr 2017Apr 2017Jul 2014
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Weight
Weight
M: 232 g
W: 187 g
M: 269 g
W: 241 g
M: 249 g
W: 207 g
M: 238 g
W: 190 g
M: 235 g
W: 184 g
M: 213 g
W: 179 g
Forefoot
Forefoot
23 mm
22 mm
20 mm
M: 20 mm
W: 18 mm
16 mm
17 mm
Heel to toe drop
Heel to toe drop
4 mm
4 mm
4 mm
8 mm
4 mm
6 mm
Heel
Heel
27 mm
26 mm
24 mm
M: 28 mm
W: 26 mm
20 mm
23 mm
Brand
Brand
Hoka
SauconyNikeNikeNikeNike
Strike Type
Strike Type
Fore/Midfoot strike
Fore/Midfoot strikeFore/Midfoot strikeFore/Midfoot strikeHeel strikeFore/Midfoot strikeFore/Midfoot strikeHeel strike
Techs
Techs
Nike FlyknitNike Flyknit
Environmental Characteristics
Environmental Characteristics
Vegan Ⓥ
Vegan ⓋVegan Ⓥ
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Hoka Cavu: 1 Expert video review

Hoka Cavu characteristics and specifications

Characteristics
SportsRunning (+1920)
TerrainRoad (+1303)
UsagesDaily running (+1113)
BrandHoka (+97)
Support TypeNeutral (+1503)
Pronation TypeNeutral pronation (+1483)
Strike TypeFore/Midfoot strike (+1062)
Arch TypeHigh arch (+1430)
Shoe TypeLightweight (+418)Low drop (+275)
Events10k (+682)Half marathon (+682)Marathon (+682)
Environmental CharacteristicsVegan Ⓥ (+224)
ColorwaysAnir, Bblb, Black / White, Bnir, Brmr, Cjhp, Crbc, Csblc, Lrbl, Nbvi
Specificationsvs Average
Released
Feb 2018
Measurements
Weight
M: 232 g
W: 187 g
Heel to toe drop
4 mm
Heel
27 mm
Forefoot
23 mm

Evolution of the Hoka Cavu 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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