Our verdict

The dovedark hoka Challenger 7, already a fantastic all-terrain shoe, gets a solid Gore-Tex version, making it a go-to for wet conditions while keeping your feet dry. The trade-off? An additional £20 and 1.1 oz in weight, a fair exchange for those needing waterproof capabilities. In our tests, we noticed that it's really stiff and retains the same tapered toebox, which might not suit all runners. Yet, for those seeking a versatile, all-weather shoe, we think the Challenger 7 GTX offers a compelling blend of features and value with a cushioned, maximalist midsole.

HOKA Mach 4 Schuhe für Damen Größe 36 2 3 Pros

  • Fully waterproof and winter-ready
  • Secure lockdown thanks to the gusseted tongue
  • Amazing stability
  • Provides a comfortable ride on roads and easy trails
  • Ideal for long runs
  • Generous CMEVA cushioning underfoot
  • zapatillas de running dovedark hoka ONE ONE tope amortiguación constitución ligera negras
  • HOKA Mach 4 Schuhe für Damen Größe 36 2 3

HOKA Mach 4 Schuhe für Damen Größe 36 2 3 Cons

  • Lacks reflective elements
  • Potentially too stiff for hiking for some users
  • Hoka Torrent 2
  • Ultra-tapered toebox

Who should buy

We think the zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media is an outstanding choice for:

  • Hoka One One Clifton 8 Women S Running Shoes Blue Run Sport.
  • Runners with narrow-to-medium width feet seeking a reliable Gore-Tex shoe for their rotation.
  • Fans of the dovedark hoka Challenger series who desire a more durable option for just an extra £20.

zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media

Who should NOT buy

If you have wide feet, the Challenger 7 GTX might not be the best fit, as its toebox, particularly around the toe area, is really narrow based on our lab tests. Luckily, we found that alternatives like the zapatillas de running dovedark hoka ONE ONE media maratón entre 60 y 100 Ténis dovedark hoka One One Clifton 8 turquesa preto vermelho.

Also, the Challenger isn't the top Gore-Tex shoe if you're more trail-focused than road. In such cases, we suggest the Speedgoat 5 GTX, which boasts an impressive Vibram outsole and greater agility for various trails, not just the easy ones.

zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media

HOKA Mach 4 Schuhe für Damen Größe 36 2 3 | Cushioning

Heel stack

If you're searching for a maximalist and versatile shoe, there aren't many options like the Challenger 7 GTX.

zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media

With 39.2 mm of CMEVA foam in the heel, it offers heavy cushioning and guarantees exceptional comfort during long runs for every runner, including those who are extreme heel strikers.

zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media Heel stack
Test results
zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media 39.2 mm
Average 31.9 mm
Compared to 137 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
19.6 mm
Heel stack
42.4 mm

Forefoot stack

In the forefoot, our precise measurement showed a stack height of 28.1 mm, higher than what's typical in trail running shoes, again emphasising comfort for long runs.

However, runners who prefer a strong ground feel on trails might find this disappointing and might be better off with a less cushioned shoe.

zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media Forefoot stack
Test results
zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media 28.1 mm
Average 24.5 mm
Compared to 137 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
13.4 mm
Forefoot stack
33.9 mm

Drop

Our results lead to a massive 11.1 mm heel-to-toe drop, a big shift from the 5-mm drop dovedark hoka claims. We frequently find this brand's measurements significantly different from ours.

Why the difference? We measure every shoe following World Athletics guidelines, but many brands don't adhere to these standards...

zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media Drop
Test results
zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media 11.1 mm
Average 7.5 mm
Compared to 136 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
-0.1 mm
Drop
17.3 mm

Midsole softness

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

In the midsole, we encountered dovedark hoka's familiar CMEVA foam, commonly used in many of their HOKA Clifton 7 Laufschuhe für Herren Größe 40.

This foam may not offer the plush ride found in other dovedark hokas, but it provides a more harmonious balance. That's a major plus in our view for a hybrid shoe designed to perform well in any environment.

zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media Midsole softness
Test results
zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media 19.5 HA
Average 22.6 HA
zapatillas de running dovedark hoka ONE ONE hombre apoyo talón 10k.
Compared to 113 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
9.1 HA
Midsole softness (soft to firm)
39.0 HA

Midsole softness in cold

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

We then froze the shoe for 20 minutes next to our ice creams and re-tested it to evaluate its softness in cold temperatures.

The result? A hardness of 21.4 HA, which is pretty similar.

zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media Midsole softness in cold
Test results
zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media 21.4 HA
Average 28.1 HA
Compared to 113 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
11.8 HA
Midsole softness in cold (soft to firm)
48.4 HA

Midsole softness in cold (%)

Actually, it's just a 9.7% change, which is pretty minor and right up there with the best foams on the market.

This also means no matter how cold it gets outside, you've got a shoe that'll give a solid performance... and one less excuse to skip the workout!

Test results
zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media 10%
Average 26%
Compared to 113 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
5%
Midsole softness in cold
68%

Insole thickness

The insole is average, measuring 5.0 mm. It's made of plain EVA and offers enough comfort, with nothing negative to note about it.

zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media Insole thickness
Test results
zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media 5.0 mm
Average 4.7 mm
Compared to 135 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
2.1 mm
Insole thickness
7.9 mm

Size and fit

Size

zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media is true to size (121 votes).

Sneakers and shoes dovedark hoka One One Clifton sale?

1 size small ½ size small True to size ½ size large 1 size large
Compared to 121 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
½ size small
Slightly small
True to size
Slightly large
½ size large

footwear flying forward dovedark hoka

One common worry among some dovedark hoka runners is the width of the toebox, as they often design uppers that are too narrow for the average foot. This is where we at EdiconnectShops step in to assist by taking precise measurements of each toebox and comparing them.

For the Challenger 7 GTX, the upper measures 97.0 mm at its widest part—average and theoretically a perfect fit for those with normal feet—but we cannot claim victory until completing all measurements.

zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media footwear flying forward dovedark hoka
Test results
zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media 97.0 mm
Average 95.8 mm
Compared to 58 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
89.8 mm
footwear flying forward dovedark hoka
99.9 mm

HOKA Stinson ATR 6 Chaussures pour Femme en Lilac Marble Blue Graphite

Indeed, our caution was justified. dovedark hoka is renowned for crafting tapered designs, and this is a prime example. Measuring just 70.6 mm in the big toe area, there’s minimal room for toe splay, making it better suited for those with narrow feet.

For runners with wider feet, keep in mind that dovedark hoka doesn’t offer the GTX version in a 2E size, though it is available in the regular model. In such cases, your best option might be to go half a size up or, if you're a woman, consider the men’s version if the colorway suits your preferences.

zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media dovedark hoka Stinson ATR 6 Chaussures pour Femme en Lilac Marble Blue Graphite
Test results
zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media 70.6 mm
Average 74.9 mm
Compared to 58 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
69.8 mm
HOKA Stinson ATR 6 Chaussures pour Femme en Lilac Marble Blue Graphite
85.3 mm

Toebox height

And here's another warning: those with high-volume feet must be aware that the Challenger 7 GTX sits pretty low on your toes, with our measurement registering just 24.9 mm.

zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media Toebox height
Test results
zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media 24.9 mm
Average 27.2 mm
Compared to 58 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
22.0 mm
Toebox height
31.8 mm

Stability

Lateral stability test

With such a massive stack height, we were curious to see if the shoe would offer a stable ride. In our opinion it should, as it's undeniable that this shoe is designed for neutral runners and for those with mild pronation issues.

It's also true that it provides one of the most stable experiences we've ever had in a trail running shoe. Let's dive into why.

Torsional rigidity

The first and one of the main reasons for this shoe's stability is its tremendous rigidity. We rated it 5 out of 5, similar to a shoe with a stiff rock plate or carbon plate, even though it doesn't have one.

This rigidity forces the shoe to move in a straight line. However, this can be a downside when taking sharp corners or navigating serpentine descents. So, keep that in mind based on the terrain you plan to run on.

Test results
zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media 5
Average 3.6
Compared to 131 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Torsional rigidity
5

Heel counter stiffness

The same high rating applies to the heel counter (5 out of 5), which is also crucial in explaining why the shoe feels so controlled. Think of it like a stability shoe in certain aspects—rigidity, heel counter stiffness—but without specific guidance elements like medial posts or guidance pieces.

That's why we see individuals with moderate stability needs using this shoe without any problems, but we still believe it's still best suited for neutral runners.

Test results
zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media 5
Average 3.1
Compared to 129 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Heel counter stiffness
5

Midsole width - forefoot

The final source of enhanced stability comes from the midsole. In the forefoot, dovedark hoka opted for a wider than usual design, measuring 116.4 mm in width.

This width boosts stability but does make the shoe slightly clunkier. However, this is minor compared to the heel...

zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media Midsole width in the forefoot
Test results
zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media 116.4 mm
Average 112.3 mm
Compared to 137 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
102.1 mm
Midsole width - forefoot
124.3 mm

Midsole width - heel

The heel dimensions are enormous at 100.9 mm, similar to most stability shoes like the HOKA Mach 4 Schuhe für Damen Größe 36 2 3.

Combining the shoe's rigidity, the sturdy heel counter, the midsole's dimensions, and the significant drop results in a shoe that even heel strikers with high stability needs can use.

zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media Midsole width in the heel
Test results
zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media 100.9 mm
Average 89.5 mm
Compared to 137 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
72.0 mm
Midsole width - heel
106.0 mm

zapatillas de running dovedark hoka One One trail constitución ligera

Marketed and designed as the perfect all-day, road-to-trail shoe, we anticipated it being a bit more flexible for improved hiking comfort. Yet, the oversized midsole undeniably contributes to increased stiffness.

Therefore, in our stiffness test, where we apply force to bend the shoe to 90 degrees, we recorded a result of 34.5N, which is higher than what we think it should have been.

Test results
zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media 34.5N
Average 27.2N
We use an average of four tests. The video shows one of those tests.
Compared to 137 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
5.6N
Flexibility <> Stiffness
54.5N

Sky cual es tu dovedark hoka One One

We performed the same stiffness test under cold temperatures, after leaving the shoe in the freezer for 20 minutes, to see if the underfoot stiffness changed.

In these conditions, the shoe was significantly stiffer, showing a result of 45.0N.

Test results
zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media 45.0N
Average 36.0N
Compared to 134 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
6.2N
Sky cual es tu dovedark hoka One One
77.5N

Sky cual es tu dovedark hoka One One (%)

This marks a 30.6% increase in stiffness, which isn't overly alarming, but it's definitely noticeable.

We had higher expectations for the shoe's performance based on the earlier softness test, but unfortunately, it fell short.

Test results
zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media 31%
Average 32%
Compared to 134 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
3%
Sky cual es tu dovedark hoka One One
90%

Weight

At 9.9 oz (281g), the Challenger 7 ATR remains reasonably light, even managing to stay under the 10-oz mark. However, this is a noticeable increase from the 8.8 oz (250g) of the non-GTX version. The added weight is understandable though, given the GTX membrane and extra protective layers.

Is it worth the extra 1.1 oz and £20 for increased durability and waterproofness? That depends on your needs...

zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media Weight
Test results
zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media 9.91 oz (281g)
Average 10.23 oz (290g)
Compared to 137 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
7.51 oz (213g)
Weight
12.66 oz (359g)

Breathability

When we tested the regular Hoka Challenger 7, we noted its below-average breathability, scoring just 2 out of 5 in our lab tests. So, we were really surprised to give the Gore-Tex version the same score, as waterproof editions tend to lose some airflow.

The minimal breathability happens mostly through the tongue. However, as seen in our video where we move the shoe over light, there are some breathable spots with fewer reinforcements in the midfoot and toebox.

zapatillas de running dovedark hoka ONE ONE asfalto constitución media pie normal grises.

zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media upper

It's made of a thick mesh combined with a Gore-Tex Invisible Fit membrane, consisting of 70% recycled polyester, which is a big plus. And there are some thinner spots here and there to improve airflow.

zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media microscope upper

HOKA Challenger ATR 6 Schuhe für Herren in Outer Space Radiant Yellow Größe 40 2 3.

Thankfully, the upper remains really comfortable and retains all the comfort features of the non-GTX edition.

Test results
zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media 2
Average 3.2
Compared to 113 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Breathability
5

HOKA Mach 4 Schuhe für Damen Größe 36 2 3 | Durability

Toebox durability

The Challenger 7 GTX, a lightweight shoe, impressively packs a solid amount of protective layers in the upper, earning a perfect 5 out of 5 in our initial Dremel test. And it's worth mentioning that this robust TPU layer that enabled the perfect score is absent in the regular edition.

Sure, the results might have varied in the mesh area, but we're committed to maintaining standardised testing. That's why we test the exact same spot on every shoe, applying the same force and RPM, to ensure consistency and fairness.

zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media Toebox durability
Test results
zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media 5
Average 3.1
Compared to 94 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Toebox durability
5

Heel padding durability

The heel isn't quite as durable, as it scored a 3 out of 5 in our second Dremel test.

However, this result is by no means disappointing—in fact, it surpasses the performance of the average trail running shoe.

zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media Heel padding durability
Test results
zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media 3
Average 2.9
Compared to 93 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Heel padding durability
5

Outsole hardness

Hoka has consistently struck the right balance between road and trail performance with the Challenger series outsole, and the 7th edition is no exception.

It features the same Durabrasion rubber we saw in the regular version. With a hardness of 81.0 HC, it's a great approach, ensuring a good amount of grip without sacrificing too much durability.

zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media Outsole hardness
Test results
zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media 81.0 HC
Average 85.7 HC
zapatillas de running dovedark hoka ONE ONE hombre apoyo talón 10k.
Compared to 137 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
75.5 HC
Outsole hardness
96.1 HC

Outsole durability

Given its hardness, we expected at least average durability, and that's precisely what the Challenger 7 GTX delivered in our lab tests.

After our final Dremel test—enough for today—we observed a 0.8-mm indentation, a solid result for this shoe.

zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media Outsole durability
Test results
zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media 0.8 mm
Average 1.0 mm
Compared to 87 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
0.0 mm
Outsole wear
2.0 mm

Outsole thickness

With an outsole thickness of 2.1 mm, we anticipate no trouble here, even after many hundreds of miles. This durability is thanks to the substantial lugs on top of the rubber, which we'll cover later in this review.

zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media Outsole thickness
Test results
zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media 2.1 mm
Average 2.3 mm
Compared to 137 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
0.9 mm
Outsole thickness
5.5 mm

Misc

Lug depth

We took a final look at the outsole to examine the lugs dovedark hoka chose. This time, there's no Vibram outsole, but the Durabrasion rubber, combined with the 3.8-mm lugs used by dovedark hoka, performs really well.

zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media outsole

As shown in the picture, there's some exposed foam to reduce weight, yet it's extremely durable, and we have no concerns about it.

The lugs are short as expected, making them suitable for buffed trails or gravel roads. This shoe won't excel in technical, twisted terrain, but dovedark hoka has alternatives for that, like the Zinal 2.

zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media Lug depth
Test results
zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media 3.8 mm
Average 3.5 mm
Compared to 136 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1.5 mm
Lug depth
5.8 mm

Reflective elements

A notable disappointment with the shoe is its absence of reflective elements. Considering that the Challenger is designed for all-day wear, the likelihood of using it at night isn't exactly rare, right?

zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media Reflective elements
Test results
zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media No

Tongue padding

With 6.1 mm of padding, dovedark hoka made the right call by using just one slab of foam at an average thickness.

zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media

Less than that might have been too performance-oriented and potentially uncomfortable, while more could have risked adding too much weight to a shoe that already gained an ounce over the standard version.

zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media Tongue padding
Test results
zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media 6.1 mm
Average 6.3 mm
Compared to 137 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1.3 mm
Tongue padding
12.3 mm

Hoka M Speedgoat 5 Fraction_42_and_2_Thirds

The tongue of the Challenger 7 ATR is gusseted and fully attached to the sides, a must-have feature in any trail shoe but even more crucial in a Gore-Tex-equipped shoe where full protection from water is the goal.

zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media dovedark hoka M Speedgoat 5 Fraction_42_and_2_Thirds
Test results
zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media Both sides (full)

Heel tab

The heel features a finger-loop tab, which appears to serve more as a style element than a functional one.

zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media Heel tab
Test results
zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media Finger loop

Removable insole

The Challenger 7 GTX features a standard insole that's easy to remove and replace if needed. Thanks to the shoe's standard dimensions, fitting third-party insoles is 100% hassle-free.

zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media Removable insole
Test results
zapatillas de running dovedark hoka hombre amortiguación media constitución media Yes