The Hoka TenNine: for trail use only

Hoka One One recently introduced their latest creation, a trail running shoe called the TenNine. Hoka is known for thick-soled, maximalist shoes, but the TenNine takes that to the next level. The shoe’s cushioning extends from the heel well behind the rest of the shoe, which Hoka says makes for a smoother and more stable run, regardless of the terrain. But be warned: this shoe is not for everyday wear—its first and only job is to help runners on the trails.

Bold. Unexpected. Forward. First of its kind. Introducing the latest in HOKA innovation, the TenNine. More than a shoe, the TenNine is a new tool designed to help you take flight and cruise downhill like never before. #timetofly pic.twitter.com/vqBc9ldMmM

— HOKA (@hoka) March 5, 2020

Don’t expect to see the TenNine at your next marathon or road race, but you might notice the elongated shoe if you take to the trails, which is right where Hoka says the shoe belongs.

All running shoes are of course designed specifically with running in mind, but in most cases, you can get away with wearing them in other settings. The TenNine, however, is not only solely designed for runners, but there’s even a warning on the Hoka One One website that says not to use the shoe for anything other than running.

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“Think of these like ski boots or cycling shoes,” the warning says. “Using this product for anything other than running may impair balance and dexterity. So, don’t wear these on stairs or while driving.”

The shoe is quite heavy compared to Hoka’s other products, weighing in at 358 grams. The Hoka Carbon X weighs 246 grams, and the Clifton 5 weighs just 215 grams. The TenNine’s heavy build is designed to give runners as much stability and comfort as possible, especially when descending hills on the trails.

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When running downhill, a runner’s heel-strike becomes more pronounced. In long trail and ultra races, this can take a toll on the body. The TenNine’s extended heel helps alleviate that stress on each step, and runners will be able to run downhill much more efficiently.

If you decide to give the shoe a try for yourself, be sure to heed the company’s warning and stay on the safe side by using the TenNine for one thing, and one thing only: trail running.