If you've ever stood in a shoe store — or spent way too long scrolling Amazon Australia — trying to decide between HOKA and ASICS, you're not alone. Both brands dominate Australian running, both have loyal followings, and both have models sitting in the $150–$300 range on Amazon AU right now. But they're built around very different philosophies, and picking the wrong one can leave your feet unhappy by kilometre five.
Here's an honest breakdown of who should choose which, plus five of the best models available right now.
HOKA vs ASICS: The Core Difference
HOKA is built on one idea: maximum cushioning with a rocker-shaped sole that propels you forward. Their shoes feel plush and bouncy, with a high stack height and a smooth ride that suits neutral runners logging easy to moderate kilometres. ASICS offers a much wider range — from the ultra-cushioned Gel-Nimbus to the stability-focused Gel-Kayano — and tends to favour a more structured, slightly firmer feel that many experienced runners prefer for long training blocks.
Want cloud-like cushioning and a smooth ride? Lean HOKA. Want more structure, proven support, or a wider model range? Lean ASICS.
HOKA Clifton 9 – Men's Road Running Shoe
- Lightweight, plush EVA foam midsole with excellent energy return on road surfaces
- Rocker geometry reduces stress on knees and ankles — popular with runners recovering from injury
- Wide toe box provides comfort on longer runs without toe squeeze
Current AU price: $234.95 (was $249.95) | Best for: Neutral runners wanting max comfort on easy to moderate road kilometres
ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 – Men's Cushioned Running Shoe
- ASICS' flagship max-cushion shoe, updated with PureGEL technology for softer landings
- FF BLAST+ Eco foam midsole delivers a plush yet responsive ride mile after mile
- Ideal for high-mileage training weeks — consistently top-rated for runners logging 60+ km per week
Current AU price: $202.43 | Best for: Runners who want ASICS' most cushioned option for long easy runs and recovery days
HOKA Clifton 9 – Women's Road Running Shoe
- Same plush platform as the men's version, tuned with a women's-specific last for a better heel fit
- 6mm drop suits runners transitioning from traditional to lower-drop shoes
- Currently on sale — one of HOKA's best-value women's models on Amazon AU right now
Current AU price: $234.95 (was $249.95) | Best for: Women runners seeking lightweight cushioning for road training
ASICS Gel-Kayano 31 – Men's Stability Running Shoe
- ASICS' premium stability shoe with 4D Guidance System to gently correct mild overpronation
- PureGEL heel cushioning absorbs impact without adding bulk to the midsole
- Currently marked down from $299.95 to $269.95 — a genuine saving on a premium training shoe
Current AU price: $269.95 (was $299.95) | Best for: Runners who overpronate and need reliable, structured support for daily training
ASICS Gel-Cumulus 27 – Women's Road Running Shoe
- Lighter and more versatile than the Nimbus — excellent for tempo runs and easy kilometres alike
- ASICS FlyteFoam midsole keeps the shoe responsive without sacrificing underfoot comfort
- Strong value option — currently under $150 on Amazon AU, well below typical Australian retail
Current AU price: $149.61 | Best for: Women runners who want quality ASICS cushioning at a more accessible price point
So, Which Brand Should You Choose?
Pick HOKA if you want maximum cushioning with a smooth, propulsive ride; you're returning from injury and need gentle support; or you prefer a lighter shoe for easy and long runs where comfort is the priority.
Pick ASICS if you have a specific support need (neutral, stability, or max cushion); you train at varied paces and want versatility; or you're after a shoe with decades of biomechanical research behind it.
Both brands are well represented on Amazon Australia, with fast delivery to most capital cities and a wide size range. SoleScout tracks prices daily so you're always seeing the current deal — not last month's price.