Hoka Women's TenNine Hike GTX

Hoka's Bizarro Extended Hubble Heel Comes to Hiking Boots

New for fall 2020, Hoka took the extended heel of its specialized TenNine downhill trail-running shoe and added a waterproof hiking upper to create the TenNine Hike GTX. The shoe's unique profile features loads of cushioning (this is Hoka, after all), and promises durability, traction, and a smooth and stable ride—whether going uphill or down.

Wondering what the deal is with that extra-long heel? First seen on the TenNine trail runner, it features Hoka's Hubble geometry midsole and is designed to provide an efficient heel-to-toe transition and a cushioned, shock-absorbing ride over long distances. The stack is a fat 33mm under the men's heel and 30 mm under the women's heel. 

In addition to all that cushion, Hoka says it designed and engineered this long-distance hiker to reduce weight so you can hike comfortably all day long. The TenNine Hike GTX is made with a Vibram Litebase outsole, and a Megagrip outsole compound that reduces weight without reducing durability. The men's come in at 17.8 ounces and the women's at 14.7 ounces. The 5mm lugs add grip for secure traction.

The upper is made from ripstop material and includes recycled polyester in the collar, laces, heel pull, and vamp webbing. The waterproof bootie features Gore-tex Leaf technology and includes post-consumer recycled content.

The boot's midsole is made from a new proprietary compression molded EVA foam to absorb impact and provide stable footing. 

There's no question that this is a bold, unique design; Hoka even cautions to only use the TenNines hiking and on-trail, not for driving or stairs. That said, Hoka says that while these shoes are distinctive they are intended for all hikers, especially those frustrated with stiff or heavy boots. (One of Trailspace's Review Corps members is currently testing a pair, so we'll let you know how they perform for regular hikers on the trails and in the mountains.)

The TenNine Hike GTX will be available in men’s and women’s sizes in November 2020 in one color (Moroccan blue), with more colors to come in February 2021.