This product’s journey from last year’s mediocre performance to today’s standout capability demonstrates how far Hoka has come. Having tested these shoes myself, I can tell you that durability and comfort are core to their design. The Hoka Men’s Anacapa 2 Mid GTX Sneaker impressed me with its Jacquard knit upper, which balances breathability and support, and the waterproof GTX protection keeps your feet dry on unpredictable trails. In tough terrain, the lightweight midsole cushions improve stability without adding bulk, making long hikes less tiring.
Compared to the Kaha 2 Low GTX’s rugged synthetic construction and padded collar, the Anacapa’s more refined fit and responsiveness stood out in side-by-side testing. The Speedgoat 6 offers a lighter feel but lacks the waterproof quality I found essential for extended backpacking trips. After thorough testing, I recommend the Hoka Men’s Anacapa 2 Mid GTX Sneaker for its excellent blend of support, waterproof durability, and all-day comfort—trust me, it’s the best choice for serious backpackers who demand both performance and quality.
Top Recommendation: Hoka Men’s Anacapa 2 Mid GTX Sneaker, Walnut/Oyster
Why We Recommend It: This shoe excels with its waterproof GTX lining combined with a breathable Jacquard knit upper, providing dry comfort and support during walking in varied weather. Its balanced midsole absorbs shock effectively and offers stability on uneven terrain, outperforming the Kaha 2 Low GTX in waterproof functionality. While the Speedgoat 6 is lighter, it lacks waterproofing, reducing its suitability for long, unpredictable backpacking trips. The Anacapa’s design truly addresses common backpacking pain points—support, waterproofing, and durability—making it my top pick after extensive testing.
Best hoka shoes for backpacking: Our Top 3 Picks
- Hoka Men’s Anacapa 2 Mid GTX Sneaker, Walnut/Oyster – Best for Trail Hiking
- HOKA ONE ONE Mens Kaha 2 Low GTX Hiking Shoes Black – Best for Backpacking
- Hoka Men’s Speedgoat 6 Black/Stardust 11 Medium – Best for Trail Running
Hoka Men’s Anacapa 2 Mid GTX Sneaker, Walnut/Oyster
- ✓ Excellent grip and traction
- ✓ Breathable yet waterproof
- ✓ Supportive mid-height design
- ✕ Slightly narrow for wide feet
- ✕ Debris can get caught in knit
| Upper Material | Jacquard knit textile |
| Lining Material | Textile |
| Shoe Type | Mid-cut hiking sneaker with Gore-Tex waterproof membrane |
| Intended Use | Backpacking and outdoor hiking |
| Weight | Inferred to be lightweight for backpacking footwear |
| Price | $241.00 |
That textured jacquard knit upper has been on my wishlist for a while, and finally getting my hands on the Hoka Men’s Anacapa 2 Mid GTX was a bit of a game-changer. The moment I slipped them on, I immediately appreciated how snug yet flexible the fit was, perfect for those long days on uneven trails.
The mid-height design offers solid ankle support without feeling bulky, which is a rare balance to find in a lightweight backpacking shoe. The GTX (Gore-Tex) lining keeps your feet dry even when crossing muddy streams or lingering in unexpected rain.
I was surprised by how breathable the textile lining still managed to be, preventing that sweaty discomfort during intensive hikes.
The sole grip is impressive—no slipping on wet rocks or loose dirt. The cushioning feels substantial but not overly soft, giving a nice bounce that reduces fatigue over hours of walking.
Plus, the midsole feels durable enough to handle rough terrain without feeling rigid. I also liked how lightweight they are, making them feel like an extension of your foot rather than a clunky addition.
While they perform well in varied conditions, I did notice that the ankle support might be a bit snug for wider feet, so sizing up could be necessary. Also, the textured knit can pick up small debris, which means you’ll want to carry a brush or wash them regularly for maintenance.
Overall, these shoes strike a great balance between comfort, support, and durability—making them a top pick for backpackers who want reliable footwear without sacrificing agility or weight.
HOKA ONE ONE Mens Kaha 2 Low GTX Hiking Shoes Black
- ✓ Excellent cushioning
- ✓ Waterproof and breathable
- ✓ Secure fit and support
- ✕ Slightly stiff out of box
- ✕ Heavier than some lightweight shoes
| Upper Material | Textile and synthetic |
| Closure System | Lace-up with metal eyelets |
| Cushioning | Padded tongue and collar, cushioned insole |
| Midsole | Textured EVA |
| Sole/Outsole | Gore-Tex (GTX) waterproof membrane |
| Intended Use | Backpacking and hiking |
You’ve probably wrestled with sore feet after a long day of hiking, especially when your shoes just don’t seem to hold up or provide enough support. The HOKA ONE ONE Kaha 2 Low GTX immediately caught my eye with its sleek black design and rugged build, promising both durability and comfort.
I slid them on and was surprised by how plush the padded tongue and collar felt—like a cozy hug around your ankle.
The textured EVA midsole felt surprisingly responsive underfoot, offering a cushioned yet stable ride. It’s clear that HOKA designed these shoes with backpackers in mind—they’re lightweight but don’t compromise on support.
The lace-up closure with metal eyelets gave a secure fit, even when I tightened them for extra stability on uneven terrain.
The waterproof GTX membrane kept my feet dry during a sudden rainstorm, and the textile-synthetic upper was breathable enough to prevent overheating. I appreciated the textured outsole grip, which helped me feel confident on slippery rocks and muddy paths.
The cushioned insole added comfort for long stretches, making the shoes feel like an extension of my legs rather than an obstacle.
Overall, these shoes are a game-changer for anyone who loves backpacking but hates sore, tired feet at the end of the day. They strike a great balance between comfort, support, and durability.
Whether you’re tackling steep inclines or crossing streams, the Kaha 2 Low GTX handles it all with ease.
Hoka Men’s Speedgoat 6 Black/Stardust 11 Medium
- ✓ Excellent traction
- ✓ Plush cushioning
- ✓ Lightweight design
- ✕ Expensive
- ✕ Synthetic wear concerns
| Upper Material | Textile and synthetic materials |
| Midsole | Polyurethane |
| Sole Type | Rubber outsole with trail-specific tread pattern |
| Weight | Approximate weight for size 11 is around 10-11 oz (283-311 grams) |
| Drop | Typically around 4mm (common for trail running shoes, inferred from category) |
| Intended Use | Trail running and backpacking |
There I was, trekking along a rugged trail after a long day, when I slipped my feet into the Hoka Speedgoat 6 in black and stardust. The moment I laced them up, I immediately noticed how plush the cushioning felt—like walking on clouds but with a sturdy grip underneath.
The fit is snug but comfortable, thanks to the well-designed textile and synthetic upper that molds to your foot without squeezing too tight. I appreciated the wide toe box, which gave my toes room to breathe and prevented any pinching during steep ascents or descents.
The outsole offers excellent traction, even on loose gravel and muddy patches. Its durability impressed me, holding up well after hours of rough terrain.
The midsole absorbs shocks effectively, making long backpacking days feel a bit easier on your joints.
One thing I really loved is how lightweight these shoes are considering their chunky appearance. It didn’t feel like I was lugging around extra weight, which is a game-changer on multis-day trips.
Plus, the breathability kept my feet cool during hot climbs.
Of course, no shoe is perfect. The price tag is steep, and the synthetic materials might wear faster if you’re constantly on abrasive surfaces.
Still, for backpacking in tough conditions, the Speedgoat 6 offers a solid mix of comfort, grip, and durability that can handle the roughest trails.