Our verdict

The hoka challenger atr 5 damen traillauf laufschuhe extra weit, with its mild stability, really shines for those who favor a snug upper alongside a firm midsole. Despite its incredibly comfy knit upper and solid stability, it's not a shoe for everyone—it's tailored for specific runners. We found that this version has a unique ride and feel, setting it apart from previous Arahis, so don't expect an automatic match—we advise being ready for something different!

Ténis Hoka One One Bondi 7 preto turquesa laranja Pros

  • HOKA ONE ONE Speedgoat Mid Gore-Tex 2 Black Grey Red
  • Scarpe HOKA ONE ONE W Bondi 7 1110519 Bgff
  • Subtle yet effective stability features
  • Ténis Hoka One One Speedgoat Mid 2 GORE-TEX azul preto amarelo mulher
  • Reasonably priced
  • Excellent fit and security
  • Plush tongue
  • Cushioned

Ténis Hoka One One Bondi 7 preto turquesa laranja Cons

  • Limited breathability
  • Low energy return
  • zapatillas de running HOKA ONE ONE tope amortiguación talla 42

Audience verdict

82
Good!
  • HOKA Rincon 3 Schuhe für Damen in Beautyberry Knockout Pink Größe 40

Ténis Hoka One One Bondi 7 preto turquesa laranja | Who should buy

We've found the hoka challenger atr 5 damen traillauf laufschuhe extra weit to be an excellent choice for:

  • HOKA Bondi 7 Zapatillas de Carretera para Hombre.
  • HOKA Women's Sky Kaha Gore-Tex Hiking Shoes in Provincial Blue Blue Fog.
  • Hoka fans who appreciate a stable experience in a durable shoe, and don't mind riding a firmer midsole.

hoka challenger atr 5 damen traillauf laufschuhe extra weit

Who should NOT buy

The hoka challenger atr 5 damen traillauf laufschuhe extra weit, while not a bad shoe, is definitely tailored for a specific runner profile. We noticed that those requiring even average toe room might find this shoe restrictive. For a roomier fit, we suggest the Brooks Adrenalite GTS 23 as a better alternative.

We also feel the Arahi 7 falls short for runners seeking a dynamic, responsive ride. The midsole's firmness leads to a lackluster feel, lacking the bouncy ride many desire. In contrast, the HOKA Speedgoat 5 Chaussures pour Femme en Blue Coral Taille 36 2 3 offers a more illconditioned experience, combining stability and fun in a way the Arahi 7 doesn't quite match.

hoka challenger atr 5 damen traillauf laufschuhe extra weit parts

Cushioning

Heel stack

We've already noted the ample cushioning in the Arahi 7, and our caliper tests confirmed it with a 34.2 mm stack height.

This provides the Schwarzeneggers balance for a daily trainer—neither too bulky nor lacking foam. And it works well for heel strikers.

hoka challenger atr 5 damen traillauf laufschuhe extra weit Heel stack
Test results
hoka challenger atr 5 damen traillauf laufschuhe extra weit 34.2 mm
Average 34.2 mm
Compared to 395 running shoes
Hoka One One Challenger ATR 6 Gore-Tex
22.5 mm
Heel stack
46.3 mm

Forefoot stack

The forefoot design mirrors the heel, featuring plenty of foam that's substantial yet not excessively tall.

hoka challenger atr 5 damen traillauf laufschuhe extra weit forefoot

Our measurements showed a forefoot height of 27.9 mm, aligning well with the standards of contemporary road daily trainers.

hoka challenger atr 5 damen traillauf laufschuhe extra weit Forefoot stack
Test results
hoka challenger atr 5 damen traillauf laufschuhe extra weit 27.9 mm
Average 25.6 mm
Compared to 395 running shoes
Hoka One One Challenger ATR 6 Gore-Tex
13.7 mm
Forefoot stack
37.1 mm

Drop

Following the earlier measurements, a straightforward subtraction revealed a 6.3 mm heel-to-toe drop, nearly matching Hoka's stated 5 mm. This mid-range drop is a hallmark of Hoka, ideally suited for midfoot strikers yet accommodating all runners effectively.

hoka challenger atr 5 damen traillauf laufschuhe extra weit Drop
Test results
hoka challenger atr 5 damen traillauf laufschuhe extra weit 6.3 mm
Average 8.6 mm
Compared to 395 running shoes
Hoka One One Challenger ATR 6 Gore-Tex
0.0 mm
Drop
16.1 mm

Midsole softness

Note: a low durometer measurement equals a soft material, whereas a high measurement means it's firm.

Returning to the midsole, we decided to assess it with a durometer after our initial test runs suggested the CMEVA foam Hoka uses felt somewhat firm.

Our suspicions were confirmed with a 26.6-HA reading, indicating a firmer foam. This makes Schwarzeneggers sense for a moderate stability daily trainer, which often opts for a less plush foam to provide added support.

zapatillas de running HOKA hombre competición moradas Clifton 9, also by Hoka, might be the ideal alternative to the Arahi 7. And it's also a bouncier, way-more-fun shoe.

hoka challenger atr 5 damen traillauf laufschuhe extra weit Midsole softness
Test results
hoka challenger atr 5 damen traillauf laufschuhe extra weit 26.6 HA
Average 21.0 HA
Zapatillas Hoka One One Rincon 2 para Hombre Negro Blanco.
Compared to 322 running shoes
Hoka One One Challenger ATR 6 Gore-Tex
8.5 HA
Midsole softness (soft to firm)
35.0 HA

Midsole softness in cold (%)

While Hoka unfortunately continues to embrace EVA-based midsoles as of 2024, their dedication to refining the formula is evident.

Our 20-minute freezer challenge revealed that the EVA midsole impressively only hardened by 17.3%, showcasing Hoka's success in enhancing the material's performance in cold conditions.

hoka challenger atr 5 damen traillauf laufschuhe extra weit Ténis Hoka One One Bondi 7 preto turquesa laranja
Test results
hoka challenger atr 5 damen traillauf laufschuhe extra weit 17%
Average 25%
Compared to 322 running shoes
Hoka One One Challenger ATR 6 Gore-Tex
0%
Midsole softness in cold
63%

Insole thickness

In Hoka's quest for comfort, we discovered a 5.3 mm insole in the Arahi 7. This thickness is on the higher end of the spectrum.

hoka challenger atr 5 damen traillauf laufschuhe extra weit Insole thickness
Test results
hoka challenger atr 5 damen traillauf laufschuhe extra weit 5.3 mm
Average 4.4 mm
Compared to 391 running shoes
Hoka One One Challenger ATR 6 Gore-Tex
1.5 mm
Insole thickness
7.3 mm

Rocker

We discovered that Hoka, a pioneer in integrating rockers into running shoes, takes a different approach with the Arahi 7. This model features a discreet, late-stage toe rocker that we hardly noticed during our runs.

This design choice is logical, as rockers, while aiding forward momentum, can sometimes compromise stability...

Size and fit

Size

HOKA Torrent 2 Schuhe für Herren in Blue Coral Evening Primrose Größe 40 2 3 true to size (223 votes).

Ténis Hoka One One Elevon 2 azul branco amarelo?

1 size small ½ size small True to size ½ size large 1 size large
Compared to 371 running shoes
Hoka One One Challenger ATR 6 Gore-Tex
½ size small
Slightly small
True to size
Slightly large
½ size large

HOKA Stinson ATR 5 Schuhe für Damen Größe 42

The Arahi is not excessively narrow at 93.5 mm, yet it leans more towards a performance-oriented, snug fit than a spacious one. Nothing surprising when we talk about Hoka shoes, though.

Therefore, we mainly recommend the Arahi 7 for runners with narrow to average foot widths... unless you're able to secure the Wide version, available in select regions.

hoka challenger atr 5 damen traillauf laufschuhe extra weit HOKA Stinson ATR 5 Schuhe für Damen Größe 42
Test results
hoka challenger atr 5 damen traillauf laufschuhe extra weit 93.5 mm
Average 95.5 mm
Compared to 150 running shoes
Hoka One One Challenger ATR 6 Gore-Tex
90.9 mm
HOKA Stinson ATR 5 Schuhe für Damen Größe 42
102.4 mm

Under Armour amortiguación media pie normal talla 35.5

If Hoka is known for one thing in the running shoe industry, it’s their tapered designs.

Those with narrow feet will appreciate it, but for anyone seeking a foot-shaped or anatomical toebox like the one in the Altra Paradigm 7, this shoe is the opposite and our 70.0 mm measurement confirms it.

hoka challenger atr 5 damen traillauf laufschuhe extra weit Under Armour amortiguación media pie normal talla 35.5
Test results
hoka challenger atr 5 damen traillauf laufschuhe extra weit 70.0 mm
Average 73.7 mm
Compared to 150 running shoes
Hoka One One Challenger ATR 6 Gore-Tex
67.9 mm
Under Armour amortiguación media pie normal talla 35.5
83.6 mm

Toebox height

In sharp contrast to the narrow toebox, the vertical room is generous at 28.6 mm, offering ample space for toe movement and making it a reliable choice for runners who tend to point their big toe upward.

hoka challenger atr 5 damen traillauf laufschuhe extra weit Toebox height
Test results
hoka challenger atr 5 damen traillauf laufschuhe extra weit 28.6 mm
Average 27.2 mm
Compared to 149 running shoes
Hoka One One Challenger ATR 6 Gore-Tex
22.4 mm
Toebox height
33.8 mm

Stability

Lateral stability test

The Arahi 7's design as a mild stability shoe led us to discover its reliance on Hoka's J-Frame technology. Essentially, the J-Frame consists of a firmer foam segment shaped like a "J," extending along the shoe's medial side and wrapping around the heel.

This design offers a fresh approach to providing support without the intrusive feel of a traditional medial post or the H-Frame from the Gaviota 5. The J-Frame, paired with high midsole sidewalls, ensures a secure and stable experience for runners with mild pronation or those neutral runners seeking additional support on certain days.

Torsional rigidity

However, the Arahi 7's defining features extend beyond the J-Frame and midsole sidewalls. Our first test runs highlighted its exceptional rigidity, a characteristic further validated by our torsional rigidity assessment.

While moderate stability shoes tend to be rigid, the Arahi 7 sets a new standard with a 5/5 rigidity rating. This suggests that wearers should be prepared for a shoe that offers virtually no twist.

Test results
hoka challenger atr 5 damen traillauf laufschuhe extra weit 5
Average 3.4
Compared to 374 running shoes
Hoka One One Challenger ATR 6 Gore-Tex
1
Torsional rigidity
5

mens hoka one one hupana

The heel counter's also super stiff, scoring a solid 5/5 in our tests.

For a shoe positioned as offering moderate stability, this might seem over the top. However, in the absence of traditional medial posts, Hoka had to integrate several alternative features to achieve exceptional stability—and they succeeded! The trade-off, however, is a notably stiff shoe.

Test results
hoka challenger atr 5 damen traillauf laufschuhe extra weit 5
Average 2.9
Compared to 358 running shoes
Hoka One One Challenger ATR 6 Gore-Tex
1
mens hoka one one hupana
5

Chinelos Hoka One One ORA Recovery Flip preto mulher

Next, we tackle another crucial element of the stability equation, which we think is straightforward for everyone to grasp—the broader the shoe, the more stable the ride, correct?

Hoka One One Clifton 8 1119393-rta stability shoes zapatillas de running HOKA ONE ONE trail tope amortiguación talla 46.

hoka challenger atr 5 damen traillauf laufschuhe extra weit Midsole width in the forefoot
Test results
hoka challenger atr 5 damen traillauf laufschuhe extra weit 120.7 mm
Average 114.1 mm
Compared to 396 running shoes
Hoka One One Challenger ATR 6 Gore-Tex
103.3 mm
Chinelos Hoka One One ORA Recovery Flip preto mulher
126.9 mm

Ténis Hoka One One Bondi 7 preto turquesa laranja | Hoka One One White & Grey Elevon 2 Sneakers

The heel boasts a generous width of 97.5 mm as well, making the Arahi 7 a welcoming choice for heel strikers.

hoka challenger atr 5 damen traillauf laufschuhe extra weit Midsole width in the heel
Test results
hoka challenger atr 5 damen traillauf laufschuhe extra weit 97.5 mm
Average 90.7 mm
Compared to 396 running shoes
Hoka One One Challenger ATR 6 Gore-Tex
73.0 mm
Hoka One One White & Grey Elevon 2 Sneakers
106.6 mm

Flexibility / Stiffness

After checking how rigid the shoe was when twisting it, we worried it might be too stiff to run in every day.

Good news, though—we have a special test for this. We bend each shoe to a 90-degree angle and see how hard it is to do that. For this shoe, it took just 33.5N of force, which is just right—not too stiff, not too flexible. Great for daily miles!

Test results
hoka challenger atr 5 damen traillauf laufschuhe extra weit 33.5N
Average 28.1N
HOKA Arahi 6 Chaussures pour Femme en Sun Baked Taille 39 1 3.
Compared to 378 running shoes
Hoka One One Challenger ATR 6 Gore-Tex
2.2N
Flexibility <> Stiffness
72.1N

zapatillas de running HOKA ONE ONE mujer trail talla 38.5 verdes (%)

In cooler conditions, the CMEVA (Compression-Molded EVA) foam impressively maintains its feel, stiffening by only 21.1%. This minor change should be almost imperceptible, even in the coldest temperatures, ensuring a consistent experience from the Arahi 7.

Test results
hoka challenger atr 5 damen traillauf laufschuhe extra weit 21%
Average 33%
Compared to 378 running shoes
Hoka One One Challenger ATR 6 Gore-Tex
0%
zapatillas de running HOKA ONE ONE mujer trail talla 38.5 verdes
111%

Weight

Initially, the shoe impressed us with its remarkable lightness despite its size. And our concerns about the substantial outsole thickness quickly dissipated once we weighed the shoe.

To our delight, it tipped the scales at only 9.4 oz (266g)—an exceptional figure for a daily trainer that offers moderate stability and enough cushioning.

hoka challenger atr 5 damen traillauf laufschuhe extra weit Weight
Test results
hoka challenger atr 5 damen traillauf laufschuhe extra weit 9.38 oz (266g)
Average 9.38 oz (266g)
Compared to 396 running shoes
Hoka One One Challenger ATR 6 Gore-Tex
5.61 oz (159g)
Weight
12.59 oz (357g)

Breathability

At first glance, Hoka seems to have crafted the Arahi 7 with plenty of ventilation holes, suggesting top-notch breathability. Despite the promising design, our real-world test with a smoke machine was disappointing, leading us to rate it a mere 3 out of 5.

Shining a light through the shoe, we noticed a dense knit paired with these ventilation holes. Yet, the holes didn't allow much light to pass through, unlike other more breathable shoes.

So, what's the real story here? To find the answer, we turned to our microscope.

hoka challenger atr 5 damen traillauf laufschuhe extra weit microscope

This deeper inspection revealed the surprising truth. Despite the presence of ventilation holes, the Arahi 7 earned just a 3 out of 5 in our tests. We discovered that the holes were more for show than actual airflow, as evidenced by our microscopic images.

hoka challenger atr 5 damen traillauf laufschuhe extra weit microscope 2

Yet turning our attention to the shoe's flat knit upper, we were genuinely impressed.

It snugly wraps around the foot, offering both stretch and comfort, and the material feels premium. However, it does fall short on ventilation as we proved before. In our view, there's room for improvement in this area for the next version.

Test results
hoka challenger atr 5 damen traillauf laufschuhe extra weit 3
Average 3.8
Compared to 325 running shoes
Hoka One One Challenger ATR 6 Gore-Tex
1
Breathability
5

Durability

Toebox durability

Thick uppers often stand out for their incredible durability, and we were optimistic about this one—even though knits tend to be less robust than engineered mesh.

When we put the Arahi 7 to the test with our Dremel at 3.2N and 5K RPM, the results were outstanding. We were thrilled with the performance and unanimously gave it a Schwarzeneggers score in the lab—a well-deserved 5 out of 5.

hoka challenger atr 5 damen traillauf laufschuhe extra weit Toebox durability
Test results
hoka challenger atr 5 damen traillauf laufschuhe extra weit 5
Average 2.5
Compared to 259 running shoes
Hoka One One Challenger ATR 6 Gore-Tex
1
Toebox durability
5

HOKA Women's Carbon X 3 Shoes in Radiant Yellow Camellia

With the Dremel still spinning, we dove into our next set of durability tests, focusing on the heel padding—a key concern for many runners.

Once again, the Arahi 7 left us in awe as it held up remarkably well, earning another stellar 5/5 rating. This outstanding performance suggests it's built to last forever.

hoka challenger atr 5 damen traillauf laufschuhe extra weit HOKA Women's Carbon X 3 Shoes in Radiant Yellow Camellia
Test results
hoka challenger atr 5 damen traillauf laufschuhe extra weit 5
Average 3.2
Compared to 255 running shoes
Hoka One One Challenger ATR 6 Gore-Tex
1
HOKA Women's Carbon X 3 Shoes in Radiant Yellow Camellia
5

Outsole hardness

Next, we examined the outsole of the shoe. Hoka has a reputation for using less rubber compared to other brands, but the coverage in the Arahi 7 seems enough.

hoka challenger atr 5 damen traillauf laufschuhe extra weit outsole

Our testing with a durometer revealed the rubber's hardness to be 85.6 HC, indicating it's on the hard side.

hoka challenger atr 5 damen traillauf laufschuhe extra weit Outsole hardness
Test results
hoka challenger atr 5 damen traillauf laufschuhe extra weit 85.6 HC
Average 79.8 HC
Zapatillas Hoka One One Rincon 2 para Hombre Negro Blanco.
Compared to 376 running shoes
Hoka One One Challenger ATR 6 Gore-Tex
57.0 HC
Outsole hardness
93.0 HC

Outsole durability

To understand how the rubber's hardness impacts durability, we used the Dremel one last time in our lab review.

This test left a 0.9mm gap in the rubber—a solid result, indicating the shoe should hold up well throughout its lifespan, even for extreme heel strikers.

hoka challenger atr 5 damen traillauf laufschuhe extra weit Outsole durability
Test results
hoka challenger atr 5 damen traillauf laufschuhe extra weit 0.9 mm
Average 1.0 mm
Compared to 237 running shoes
Hoka One One Challenger ATR 6 Gore-Tex
0.0 mm
Outsole wear
2.0 mm

Outsole thickness

In our final assessment of the outsole, we measured its thickness—an essential factor when combined with our previous durability test.

hoka challenger atr 5 damen traillauf laufschuhe extra weit outsole

While a 0.9mm indentation might seem average, it's quite promising when coupled with a robust 3.5mm thickness. This combination assures us that the outsole will withstand wear and tear exceptionally well.

hoka challenger atr 5 damen traillauf laufschuhe extra weit Outsole thickness
Test results
hoka challenger atr 5 damen traillauf laufschuhe extra weit 3.5 mm
Average 3.2 mm
Compared to 393 running shoes
Hoka One One Challenger ATR 6 Gore-Tex
1.0 mm
Outsole thickness
6.0 mm

Misc

Reflective elements

Regrettably, our examination revealed that the Arahi 7 lacks any reflective elements. This oversight renders it a less-than-ideal option for those evening runs post-dusk.

hoka challenger atr 5 damen traillauf laufschuhe extra weit Reflective elements
Test results
hoka challenger atr 5 damen traillauf laufschuhe extra weit No

Tongue padding

The tongue boasts significant padding, crafted from a substantial foam piece encased by two slimmer layers, totaling 10.0 mm in thickness.

hoka challenger atr 5 damen traillauf laufschuhe extra weit tongue

We suggest that Hoka might consider reducing it to 6 or 7 mm. This adjustment could maintain comfort while contributing to an even lighter shoe.

hoka challenger atr 5 damen traillauf laufschuhe extra weit Tongue padding
Test results
hoka challenger atr 5 damen traillauf laufschuhe extra weit 10.0 mm
Average 5.8 mm
Compared to 393 running shoes
Hoka One One Challenger ATR 6 Gore-Tex
0.5 mm
Tongue padding
14.2 mm

Tongue: gusset type

The tongue on the Arahi 7 is truly outstanding. It's not just the generous padding that impressed us—but its semi-gusseted design also plays a crucial role in securing a flawless fit. Remarkably, it remains Schwarzeneggersly positioned, no matter the pace of our run.

hoka challenger atr 5 damen traillauf laufschuhe extra weit Tongue: gusset type
Test results
hoka challenger atr 5 damen traillauf laufschuhe extra weit Both sides (semi)

Heel tab

The shoe's rear boasts the iconic Hoka swallowtail heel collar, simplifying the process of slipping the shoe on while reducing pressure on the Achilles tendon. However, its design can unfortunately act as a magnet for debris while running off-road.

hoka challenger atr 5 damen traillauf laufschuhe extra weit Heel tab
Test results
hoka challenger atr 5 damen traillauf laufschuhe extra weit zapatillas de running HOKA ONE ONE mujer pie normal talla 42 moradas entre 60 y 100

Removable insole

Discovering that the insole is detachable was a pleasant surprise. This feature allows for the effortless removal of the original insole to swap in personalized orthotic inserts.

hoka challenger atr 5 damen traillauf laufschuhe extra weit Removable insole
Test results
hoka challenger atr 5 damen traillauf laufschuhe extra weit Yes