Saucony Ride VS Guide: The Winner Is…
Saucony Ride 18 vs. Guide 18: A clear look at how these daily trainers compare, with a goal of helping you decide which one is best for you.
In this comparison review, I compare the Hoka Arahi 7 VS Gaviota 5, two winners in the stability running shoe category.
Both shoes bring something solid to the table, whether you’re clocking your daily miles or just need extra support during recovery runs.
I’ve put them through their paces, and here’s my honest breakdown of what each offers and where they might fall short.
Key Specifications [Hoka Arahi 7 VS Gaviota 5]
| Specification | Hoka Arahi 7 | Hoka Gaviota 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $145 at Hoka | $175 at Hoka |
| Weight (US M9) | 9.5 oz (269g) | 10.2 oz (290g) |
| Heel-to-Toe Drop | 5mm | 6mm |
| Stability System | J-Frame technology | H-Frame system |
| Cushioning | Balanced medium cushioning | Soft CMEVA midsole with early MetaRocker |
| Fit & Sizing | True to size, medium/narrow (wide option available) | Accommodating with a wider toe box; true to size |
| Best For | Daily training, supportive runs, walking | Daily training, recovery runs, and long steady efforts |
| IN-DEPTH REVIEWS | Hoka Arahi 7 review | Hoka Gaviota 5 review |
RELATED POST: The Best Stability Running Shoes Right Now
What’s Good About Both Shoes
Hoka Arahi 7 Pros
- Lightweight & Supportive: I appreciate its light weight (for a stability shoe) combined with a dynamic support system that guides the foot naturally rather than feeling too corrective.
- Versatility: Its design works well whether you’re hitting the pavement for a run or taking a walk.
- Balanced Cushioning: The medium cushioning provides enough protection and responsiveness across the full length of the shoe.
- Price: It’s very reasonably priced for a stability shoe.
Hoka Gaviota 5 Pros
- Stability & Comfort: The H-Frame system offers reliable stability without feeling overly restrictive in a different way to the J-Frame tech.
- Plush Ride: The soft CMEVA midsole and early rocker design create a comfortable, cushioned experience that’s especially nice on recovery days.
- Breathable Upper: The mesh upper helps keep your feet cool during warmer runs.
What’s Not So Good About Them
Hoka Arahi 7 Cons
- Narrow Fit: The standard version leans toward a snug, narrow fit, which might not suit wider feet unless you opt for the ‘wide’ version.
- Midsole Geometry: A more pronounced rocker might improve the transition from heel to toe, enhancing efficiency for some runners.
Hoka Gaviota 5 Cons
- Heavier Build: At a slightly higher weight, the Gaviota 5 can feel a bit bulky, which may not appeal if you favor a more nimble shoe.
- Heel Fit Adjustments: The lower heel counter means you might need to experiment with lacing to achieve a secure fit, especially if you’re prone to needing extra ankle support.
- Pace Limitations: It’s designed with comfort and stability in mind, so if you’re pushing for faster paces or tackling steep hills, it might feel a bit sluggish.
My verdict
Both the Arahi 7 and the Gaviota 5 offer solid stability and comfort, but they cater to slightly different needs.
Hoka Arahi 7 is best for runners who prefer a lightweight shoe with dynamic support and a snug fit (ideal for those with average width to narrow feet). It’s well-suited for daily training and even walking, provided you’re comfortable with a tighter fit. It’s also much cheaper.
Hoka Gaviota 5 is a better option if you’re after a softer ride, with a little more support and extra cushioning for recovery runs. Its wider, more accommodating design benefits runners who need additional stability or have wider feet, though it may not be the best choice if you’re focused on speed.
Ultimately, your choice will depend on your running style, foot shape, and the type of training you do as both do a great job of providing medium support for runners who overpronate.
Bottom line: If you favor a lighter, more responsive ride, the Arahi 7 might be for you. If comfort and stability on longer, slower runs are your priorities, then the Gaviota 5 is worth considering.
Looking for Other Options?
If neither shoe seems like the perfect match, I’ve put together a roundup of similar stability trainers with alternatives that might better suit your needs. Check it out for additional insights on finding the right shoe for your running style.
I hope this comparison helps you decide which shoe aligns best with your running needs. Feel free to reach out in the comments, if you have any questions or need further details on these models. -Alastair
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