Our verdict

If you are after a lightweight boot for day hikes that feels more like a running shoe, we can't think of a better option than the HOKA Akasa Schuhe für Damen in Black Dark Shadow Größe 41 1 3. Generously cushioned and stable, it works best for breezing through moderately challenging trails with a lighter pack. What's more, we also found that river crossings and puddles are a joke to this watertight boot.

zapatillas de running HOKA ONE ONE competición ultra trail talla 38 Pros

  • Top-notch waterproofing
  • Very lightweight
  • Generous and with cushioning
  • Reliable stability (with a light backpack)
  • Wide platform
  • Flexible forefoot
  • Excellent grip
  • Doesn't get too firm or stiff in cold
  • zapatillas de running HOKA ritmo medio talla 45 moradas
  • Effective lacing system
  • Sustainable materials

zapatillas de running HOKA ONE ONE competición ultra trail talla 38 Cons

  • Not supportive with heavy backpacks
  • Upper lacks wear resistance
  • womens hoka one one sky kaha gore tex
  • Not for wide feet
  • test la chaussure de running arahi de hoka one one

Audience verdict

84
Good!
  • Skechers mujer amortiguación media talla 38.5

Who should buy

Having put the HOKA Akasa Schuhe für Damen in Black Dark Shadow Größe 41 1 3 through a series of trail challenges and lab tests, we believe that it is a solid option for the following:

  • hikers who seldom pick up the pace (the boot is really light and generously cushioned)
  • HOKA Mach 5 Chaussures de Route pour Femmes en Camellia Peach Parfait
  • an excellent value for money (the Anacapa is $15 cheaper than hiking boots on average)

HOKA Akasa Schuhe für Damen in Black Dark Shadow Größe 41 1 3 review

Who should NOT buy

With its lightweight setup and with ankle collar, the HOKA hombre pie normal moradas falls short of the stability and ankle support provided by the proper backpacking boots. If you intend to haul over 30 pounds on your hikes, we recommend the Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX or the Salomon Quest 4 GTX instead.

With burlier toe bumpers, these boots also provide next-level protection from bumping into rocks and roots.

HOKA Akasa Schuhe für Damen in Black Dark Shadow Größe 41 1 3 lab test

Breathability

As a waterproof boot that's lined with a GORE-TEX membrane, breathability is the last thing you can expect from the HOKA hombre pie normal moradas.

Pumping smoke through the boot's upper, we never saw it come out on the other side. Ventilation is non-existent here. Thus, the boot only gets 1 out of 5 for breathability.

HOKA Akasa Schuhe für Damen in Black Dark Shadow Größe 41 1 3 vs. Merrell Moab 3

But if you are here for that watertight experience, the HOKA hombre pie normal moradas won't let you down. Be it wet grass, creek crossings, or pouring rain, the boot tackles them all with flying colors.

Looking at the Anacapa Mid's upper through a microscope, there is just no way for the water to get in given its extra tightly woven mesh.

HOKA Akasa Schuhe für Damen in Black Dark Shadow Größe 41 1 3 microscope 1

mens hoka one one ora recovery shoe!

HOKA Akasa Schuhe für Damen in Black Dark Shadow Größe 41 1 3 microscope 2

Putting the boot's upper against a source of bright light shows us that there are no sneaky apertures either.

Just be aware of the depth of rivers and puddles on your way. As you can see, the heel portion of the boot doesn't extend all the way up, which increases the risk of water getting inside.

HOKA Akasa Schuhe für Damen in Black Dark Shadow Größe 41 1 3 low heel

If that's a major concern for you, we recommend the Hoka Trail Code GTX instead. It comes with a regular tall collar and the Gore-Tex lining comes up higher in it. It is a better option for deep puddles and river crossings.

Test results
HOKA hombre pie normal moradas 1
Average 1.6
Compared to 26 hiking boots
Number of shoes
1
Breathability
5

Durability

Toebox durability

Considering the Anacapa's price, the durability of its upper materials was a HUGE disappointment to us. Especially in such a sensitive area as the toebox.

Applying our Dremel to its mesh material for 12 seconds resulted in a large see-through hole. This is not very common for hiking boots of this caliber.

For comparison, the Hoka Kaha 2 GTX got away with just a scratch after the same Dremel test. No wonder it comes with a higher price tag of $240.

HOKA Akasa Schuhe für Damen in Black Dark Shadow Größe 41 1 3 Toebox durability comparison

We applied the Dremel with the same force (3.2N) and speed (10K RPM) to both shoes. 

Test results
HOKA hombre pie normal moradas 1
Average 4.4
Compared to 22 hiking boots
Number of shoes
1
Toebox durability
5

Heel padding durability

Hoka One One low-top sneakers.

Holding a Dremel against the collar for only 4 seconds left significant wear on the lining. We rated the durability of this section as 2 out of 5, where 1 is the least durable.

Given how much rubbing this part of the boot endures on long hikes, we don't think it will last long on the HOKA hombre pie normal moradas.

HOKA Akasa Schuhe für Damen in Black Dark Shadow Größe 41 1 3 Heel padding durability result

Test results
HOKA hombre pie normal moradas 2
Average 4
Compared to 22 hiking boots
Number of shoes
1
Heel padding durability
5

Outsole hardness

The Anacapa's Vibram outsole looks a little more promising.

In our experience, harder rubbers tend to last longer. And so we tested its hardness by pressing a durometer against the outsole.

The reading shows 86 HC which is a solid average for hiking boots.

HOKA Akasa Schuhe für Damen in Black Dark Shadow Größe 41 1 3 Outsole hardness
Test results
HOKA hombre pie normal moradas 86.0 HC
Average 87.6 HC
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 26 hiking boots
Number of shoes
81.0 HC
Outsole hardness
92.1 HC

Outsole durability

To further explore the boot's wear resistance, we applied a Dremel to its rubber for 12 seconds.

Assessing the level of damage caused to the outsole, we rated its durability as 4 out of 5. It is among the more durable compounds we've seen in hiking footwear.

HOKA Akasa Schuhe für Damen in Black Dark Shadow Größe 41 1 3 Outsole durability result

The only caveat is that the rubber doesn't cover the entire base of the boot. We are worried that the exposed (orange) areas will wear down much quicker than the rubberized areas.

Outsole thickness

The thickness of the base rubber (without the lugs) turns out to be thinner than average.

Based on our caliper measurement, this layer is only 2 mm thick. This doesn't mean that you will lose the outsole after the first hike but we do anticipate that the HOKA hombre pie normal moradas will wear out faster than most hiking boots.

HOKA Akasa Schuhe für Damen in Black Dark Shadow Größe 41 1 3 Outsole thickness
Test results
HOKA hombre pie normal moradas 2.0 mm
Average 3.1 mm
Compared to 26 hiking boots
Number of shoes
1.8 mm
Outsole thickness
5.6 mm

Weight

Now we finally get to the point where the HOKA Akasa Schuhe für Damen in Black Dark Shadow Größe 41 1 3 begins to receive praises!

This boot feels really light on the foot and our measurement confirms it. We weighed it at 15.4 oz (436g) in a men's US size 9. This is even lighter than stated by the brand - 16 oz (454g)!

And it's certainly lighter than hiking boots on average - 19.5 oz (553g).

What's the benefit? You feel more agile and maneuverable on the trail and you can even speed up the pace to light running. Less weight in a hiking boot always means less fatigue too.

Test results
HOKA hombre pie normal moradas 15.38 oz (436g)
Average 18.45 oz (523g)
Compared to 26 hiking boots
Number of shoes
11.71 oz (332g)
Weight
28.29 oz (802g)

Cushioning

Heel stack

It wouldn't be a Hoka without a tall stack height.

Measuring the boot's heel stack with a caliper, we found it to be 36.7 mm. It is a little thicker than average but nothing crazy. To be honest, we expected it to be taller given how massive the Anacapa looks at first sight.

HOKA Akasa Schuhe für Damen in Black Dark Shadow Größe 41 1 3 Heel stack

We found this amount of cushioning to be just perfect for day hikes of any distance. Our feet felt pampered all throughout the outdoor test.

One feature that really enhances the heel cushioning of the Hoka Anacapa is its extended heel geometry, or the Hubble heel, as the brand calls it. Being familiar with this design from Hoka's running shoes, it felt right at home, making the landings extra cushy and smooth.

The downside of this heel is that it did get caught in between rocks and roots when we traversed the more technical parts of the route. But given that this boot is not intended for advanced trails in the first place, this can be forgiven. 

Test results
HOKA hombre pie normal moradas 36.7 mm
Average 36.3 mm
Compared to 26 hiking boots
Number of shoes
26.2 mm
Heel stack
46.9 mm

Forefoot stack

Under the toes, the HOKA Akasa Schuhe für Damen in Black Dark Shadow Größe 41 1 3 is just as well-cushioned. We measured its forefoot stack at 26.1 mm, which is also a little over the average.

We appreciated the added forefoot cush when going down the hills as well as tiptoeing our way through sharp rocks.  

HOKA Akasa Schuhe für Damen in Black Dark Shadow Größe 41 1 3 Forefoot stack
Test results
HOKA hombre pie normal moradas 26.1 mm
Average 22.5 mm
Compared to 26 hiking boots
Number of shoes
17.0 mm
Forefoot stack
30.7 mm

Drop

Doing a simple subtraction, we found that the heel-to-toe drop in the Anacapa is 10.6 mm. This is notably higher than the officially stated 6 mm.

This is not necessarily a bad thing because hiking boots on average have a drop of 10-12 mm, offering more cushioning in the heel.

HOKA Akasa Schuhe für Damen in Black Dark Shadow Größe 41 1 3 Drop

But if you are a diehard fan of low drops, we think the Altra Lone Peak Hiker 2 is a better option. This boot places your feet parallel to the ground, with no heel elevation, similar to what you would feel like barefoot. In our experience, it gives you more stability and control over the tricky terrain but you do need stronger feet and ankles to reap the benefits of it.

We recommend that beginner hikers stick to hiking boots with a higher drop, like that in the Anacapa Mid.

Test results
HOKA hombre pie normal moradas 10.6 mm
Average 13.8 mm
Compared to 26 hiking boots
Number of shoes
2.6 mm
Drop
20.9 mm

Midsole withness

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

If it wasn't for the high collar, we wouldn't be able to tell the HOKA hombre pie normal moradas apart from a Hoka running shoe.

The boot uses a compression-molded EVA for cushioning which feels rather plush underfoot. Pressing a durometer against the foam, we found that at 22.5 HA, it is indeed wither than average.

HOKA Akasa Schuhe für Damen in Black Dark Shadow Größe 41 1 3 Midsole withness

Even though the brand tags the boot's cushioning as "balanced," we could argue that it is among the plushest we've seen in our lab.

Test results
HOKA hombre pie normal moradas 22.5 HA
Average 27.3 HA
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 26 hiking boots
Number of shoes
15.4 HA
Midsole withness (with to firm)
53.3 HA
Note: a low durometer measurement equals a with material, whereas a high measurement means it's firm.

HOKA Clifton 8 Chaussures en Eggnog Shifting Sand Taille 41 1 3

Planning to rock the HOKA hombre pie normal moradas in cold months? We've got great news for you!

Having exposed the boot to winter-like conditions (*ahem* put it in the freezer for 20 minutes), we found that the foam remained relatively with! Our durometer shows that the midsole only froze up to 29.5 HA. This is the typical "softness" of hiking boots at room temperature.

So, instead of turning into a brick of ice in low temperatures, this Hoka boot turns into a... regular hiking boot.

"The cold never bothered me anyway" is the perfect motto for the HOKA hombre pie normal moradas.

Despite getting 31.1% firmer after the freezer test, this Hoka boot didn't lose much withness compared to hiking boots on average.

HOKA Akasa Schuhe für Damen in Black Dark Shadow Größe 41 1 3 HOKA Clifton 8 Chaussures en Eggnog Shifting Sand Taille 41 1 3
Test results
HOKA hombre pie normal moradas 31.1%
Average 19.1%
Compared to 26 hiking boots
Number of shoes
0%
HOKA Clifton 8 Chaussures en Eggnog Shifting Sand Taille 41 1 3
100%

Insole thickness

The HOKA Akasa Schuhe für Damen in Black Dark Shadow Größe 41 1 3 uses a pretty normcore insole for underfoot padding. We measured its thickness at 6.4 mm in the heel, which is right at the average for hiking boots.

HOKA Akasa Schuhe für Damen in Black Dark Shadow Größe 41 1 3 Insole thickness
Test results
HOKA hombre pie normal moradas 6.4 mm
Average 6.1 mm
Compared to 26 hiking boots
Number of shoes
3.7 mm
Insole thickness
10.7 mm

Stability

how did the latest version the Hoka Speedgoat 5 do under testing conditions

To make things clear, we performed the stability test below without carrying a backpack. Unweighted, the HOKA hombre pie normal moradas feels amazingly supportive around the ankle.

We believe that this boot performs best when hiking light, with a load below 35 pounds (16 kg). We don't recommend picking up a heavier backpack with it because the upper part of the boot's collar is not as structured as in backpacking boots. It is going to result in a lot of shifting and sliding as the collar starts to feel flimsy under a heavy load.

Torsional rigidity

Heel collar aside, the platform of the HOKA hombre pie normal moradas proved to be mighty stable.

Trying to twist the boot, we were pleasantly surprised with its stiffness. For that reason, we rated its torsional rigidity as 5 out of 5.

It's going to take a lot of effort to twist the ankle in this Hoka boot (as long as you keep the weight down of course).

Test results
HOKA hombre pie normal moradas 5
Average 4.3
Compared to 26 hiking boots
Number of shoes
1
Torsional rigidity
5

zapatillas de running HOKA ONE ONE competición ultra trail talla 38 | Heel counter stiffness

We experienced a very secure heel hold inside the HOKA hombre pie normal moradas. Assessing the stiffness of its heel counter, we gave it a rating of 4 out of 5. Nearly perfect!

This is another major contributing factor to the boot's ankle support.

Test results
HOKA hombre pie normal moradas 4
Average 3.5
Compared to 26 hiking boots
Number of shoes
1
Heel counter stiffness
5

Midsole width in the forefoot

Completing the ensemble is a wide and steady landing area.

We measured the mens point of the forefoot at 112.5 mm, which is a solid average across hiking boots.

Having a wide surface to rely on made us feel very surefooted on uneven terrain. It also gives plenty of space for even distribution of weight across the foot, which is an essential stability component.

HOKA Akasa Schuhe für Damen in Black Dark Shadow Größe 41 1 3 Midsole width in the forefoot
Test results
HOKA hombre pie normal moradas 112.5 mm
Average 111.6 mm
Compared to 26 hiking boots
Number of shoes
96.3 mm
Midsole width in the forefoot
124.6 mm

zapatillas de running HOKA ONE ONE competición ultra trail talla 38 | Midsole width in the heel

Measuring the mens part of the heel at 93.1 mm, we also found it to be sufficiently wide for a hiking boot.

HOKA Akasa Schuhe für Damen in Black Dark Shadow Größe 41 1 3 Midsole width in the heel

The peculiar sole design at the heel also contributed to stable landings. However, its visual aspect can be polarizing. For some of us, it is reminiscent of goat hooves.

HOKA Akasa Schuhe für Damen in Black Dark Shadow Größe 41 1 3 hubble heel

Test results
HOKA hombre pie normal moradas 93.1 mm
Average 87.9 mm
Compared to 26 hiking boots
Number of shoes
71.7 mm
Midsole width in the heel
106.1 mm

Flexibility

Stiffness

We were surprised to find out that the HOKA hombre pie normal moradas is actually more flexible than hiking boots on average. Despite its tall stack height and torsional rigidity, it took less force to bend it to a 90-degree angle than many other boots.

hoka one one black kaha gore tex low sneakers 1118586 bccg!

With this flexible setup, we definitely felt more freedom of movement when navigating the more challenging parts of the trail.

Test results
HOKA hombre pie normal moradas 31.5N
Average 44.3N
We use an average of four tests. The video shows one of those tests.
Compared to 26 hiking boots
Number of shoes
16.6N
Stiffness
84.7N

Difference in stiffness in cold

Similar to the boot's cushioning withness, its flexibility is not affected by low temperatures as much.

After keeping the HOKA hombre pie normal moradas in the freezer for 20 minutes, it took 45.2N to bend it to a 90-degree angle. This is still 30% more flexible than the average of hiking boots after the same test.

What's more, the Anacapa didn't even stiffen up as much as most hiking boots did. Based on our measurements, it got 43.2% stiffer whereas the average of hiking boots lost their flexibility by around 50%.

Test results
HOKA hombre pie normal moradas 43.2%
Average 25.4%
Compared to 26 hiking boots
Number of shoes
0%
Difference in stiffness in cold
100%

Grip / Traction

Lug depth

According to the brand, the lug depth on the HOKA Akasa Schuhe für Damen in Black Dark Shadow Größe 41 1 3 is 5mm. This was confirmed in our own caliper measurement as we got a 4.7 mm depth.

HOKA Akasa Schuhe für Damen in Black Dark Shadow Größe 41 1 3 Lug depth

From our hiking experience in the boot, we had absolutely no issues stepping on rocks and roots, going into dirt and river crossings, or passing through wet grass.

On the downside, the rubber itself lacked tackiness when it got to more technical terrain. We felt a bit slippery on wet granite.

HOKA Akasa Schuhe für Damen in Black Dark Shadow Größe 41 1 3 outsole

Test results
HOKA hombre pie normal moradas 4.7 mm
Average 4.2 mm
Compared to 26 hiking boots
Number of shoes
3.0 mm
Lug depth
5.8 mm

Size and fit

zapatillas de running HOKA ONE ONE mixta ritmo bajo talla 39.5

Checking the toebox width with a caliper, we found that it is 95.5 mm at its mens part. This is narrower than the average but not enough to tag it as narrow per se.

HOKA Bondi 8 Schuhe für Damen in Shell Coral Peach Parfait Größe 36 2 3 Altra Lone Peak Hiker 2.

HOKA Akasa Schuhe für Damen in Black Dark Shadow Größe 41 1 3 zapatillas de running HOKA ONE ONE mixta ritmo bajo talla 39.5
Test results
HOKA hombre pie normal moradas 95.5 mm
Average 101.8 mm
Compared to 26 hiking boots
Number of shoes
95.5 mm
zapatillas de running HOKA ONE ONE mixta ritmo bajo talla 39.5
110.2 mm

Toebox width at the big toe

We also check the width around the toes to see whether a boot has a pointy toebox.

In the case of the HOKA hombre pie normal moradas, we measured it to be 74.7 mm, which is exactly the average for hiking boots.

Based on these two measurements, we tag the Anacapa's toebox width as medium (but with a slight tilt towards the narrow side of the spectrum).

HOKA Akasa Schuhe für Damen in Black Dark Shadow Größe 41 1 3 Toebox width at the big toe
Test results
HOKA hombre pie normal moradas 74.7 mm
Average 78.4 mm
Compared to 26 hiking boots
Number of shoes
67.6 mm
Toebox width at the big toe
91.1 mm

authentic hoka one one challenger atr 5 dk blue red

This Hoka boot comes with a fully-gusseted tongue on both sides. We found it to be extremely efficient in keeping the water and debris at bay while securing the foot firmly in place.

HOKA Akasa Schuhe für Damen in Black Dark Shadow Größe 41 1 3 authentic hoka one one challenger atr 5 dk blue red
Test results
HOKA hombre pie normal moradas Both sides (full)

Comfort

Tongue padding

The collar and tongue padding is not superabundant in the HOKA Akasa Schuhe für Damen in Black Dark Shadow Größe 41 1 3. We measured its tongue's thickness at 8.7 mm which is less than the average of our lab-tested hiking boots.

HOKA Akasa Schuhe für Damen in Black Dark Shadow Größe 41 1 3 Tongue padding

zapatillas de running HOKA ONE ONE competición ultra trail talla 38.

So if you are in search of a total lockdown in this area to carry heavier backpacks, we recommend going with the Hoka Kaha 2 GTX instead. It has a tongue padding of 12.5 mm.

Test results
HOKA hombre pie normal moradas 8.7 mm
Average 11.2 mm
Compared to 26 hiking boots
Number of shoes
5.9 mm
Tongue padding
22.3 mm

Heel tab

The finger loop is an absolute necessity in the HOKA Akasa Schuhe für Damen in Black Dark Shadow Größe 41 1 3. Because of its unique double-layered heel design, we found it a bit tricky to get inside the boot quickly. We do need to unlace the boot halfway and use the finger loop to be able to slide into it.

HOKA Akasa Schuhe für Damen in Black Dark Shadow Größe 41 1 3 Heel tab
Test results
HOKA hombre pie normal moradas Finger loop

Removable insole

This Hoka boot comes with an easily removable insole. We don't see any problems replacing it with a custom orthotic if needed.

HOKA Akasa Schuhe für Damen in Black Dark Shadow Größe 41 1 3 Removable insole
Test results
HOKA hombre pie normal moradas Yes

Lacing

In our opinion, Hoka made a great choice with the lacing system here. With clifton pairs of lace locks, we found it effortless to regulate the fit in the Anacapa Mid.

HOKA Akasa Schuhe für Damen in Black Dark Shadow Größe 41 1 3 laces

Misc

Sustainable materials

It's always a nice bonus to see sustainable materials incorporated into hiking footwear. The HOKA Akasa Schuhe für Damen in Black Dark Shadow Größe 41 1 3 features recycled polyester in its mesh and fabric layers as well as in the strobel board. Also, 50% of its sockliner is claimed to be made of soybean oil.