HOKA vs ASICS Running Shoes Australia — Which Brand Should You Choose?

HOKA vs ASICS — Two Different Philosophies

HOKA and ASICS are the two most popular performance running shoe brands in Australia right now. But they take completely different approaches to cushioning, stability, and ride feel — and choosing the wrong one can mean the difference between a great run and an injury.

This comparison covers the real differences so you can make the right call for your body and running style.

Cushioning Philosophy

HOKA

HOKA is built on one idea: maximum cushion, minimum weight. Their oversized foam midsoles are significantly thicker than traditional running shoes — typically 28–36mm at the heel — paired with a Meta-Rocker geometry that rolls your foot forward rather than relying on push-off. The result is a plush, almost cloud-like ride that absorbs impact exceptionally well. This is why HOKA is consistently recommended for plantar fasciitis, knee pain, and high-mileage runners.

ASICS

ASICS relies on GEL technology (silicone gel pods in the heel and/or forefoot) for targeted shock absorption, combined with their proprietary foams (FF BLAST, FF BLAST+, FLYTEFOAM). The ride is firmer and more responsive than HOKA — you feel the ground more, which many runners prefer for pace control and proprioception. ASICS also leads in stability technology with the 4D Guidance System in the Kayano series.

Key Model Comparisons

Best Cushion: HOKA Clifton 10 vs ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27

Both are flagship neutral trainers for high-mileage runners.

• The HOKA Clifton 10 wins on pure cushion and weight — lighter and more protective underfoot.
• The ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 wins on responsiveness and a more energised ride feel.
• Verdict: HOKA for recovery runs and plantar fasciitis. ASICS for runners who want cushion without losing road feel.

Best Stability: HOKA Arahi 8 vs ASICS Gel-Kayano 32

Both target overpronators.

• The HOKA Arahi 8 uses J-Frame — a light stability guide that's barely noticeable. Better for mild pronators who find traditional medial posts uncomfortable.
• The ASICS Gel-Kayano 32 uses a more structured 4D Guidance System. Better for moderate to strong overpronation.
• Verdict: HOKA Arahi for mild pronation. ASICS Kayano for significant overpronation.

Best Trail: HOKA Speedgoat vs ASICS Gel-Sonoma 8 GTX

HOKA doesn't currently list a Speedgoat in our AU inventory. Instead, the ASICS Gel-Sonoma 8 GTX wins the trail category on our store — GORE-TEX waterproofing and GEL heel cushioning for a significantly lower price than most premium trail shoes.

Which Brand is Better Value in Australia?

HOKA typically retails higher in Australia — the Clifton 10 sits around $220–$250 RRP. ASICS pricing varies by model — the Gel-Nimbus 27 is $270+ but the Gel-Excite and Gel-Venture are sub-$100. SoleScout tracks daily Amazon AU pricing on both brands — you'll often find HOKA 15–25% below RRP and ASICS 20–30% off.

The Bottom Line

Browse all HOKA shoes or all ASICS shoes at SoleScout — prices updated daily from Amazon AU.