Hoka Kaha 2 GTX Review

The Hoka Kaha 2 GTX brings some serious comfort and support to the trails by utilizing new and innovative materials, technology, and construction methods. We really appreciate these boots when it comes to uneven terrain or when carrying a heavy pack.

Performance Comparison

Comfort

If there is one word to describe the Kaha 2 GTX, it is comfortable. This applies to most of the Hoka footwear line and is one of the reasons they are so popular. We find this boot to be a medium-wide fit, even a tad roomy. Some folks have found them to run narrow, though that was not our experience. The included footbed is supple and does not feel rigid. The plush midsole cushioning protects the foot from impacts, although the extra stack height may take a bit of getting used to if you aren't used to being so elevated off the trail.

We found that it took a few hikes to really get the Nubuck leather that is used for the boot's upper to break in and conform to our foot. Lacing up the boot results in a secure fit, although the laces are sometimes hard to set into the locking cleats due to their orientation and opening width. It's easy to overlook this minor gripe since once you have your laces tied up, they aren't coming undone.

The Kaha 2 also employs the unique Swallowtail heel design that other Hoka shoes feature as well. We find it to add length to the shoe, so knowing exactly where you are in the terrain has a bit of a learning curve, especially off-trail, and they do change the gait. We found it to offer a smooth rolling stride once you get used to them.

Support

We awarded the Kaha 2 GTX high marks for this metric. These boots really define the category in so many ways. With a tall, 7.5-inch ankle height, we were confident that our ankles were protected when carrying burly loads. The Nubuck leather adds some rigidity on its own, unlike some hiking boots that are made of very light material requiring maximum compression to give any support. The forefoot measures 4.75 inches wide, giving the Kaha a very substantial base that is beneficial when covering uneven ground. That said, the height of the boot combined with the width can sometimes make it feel like there is torque when traversing or side-hilling.

The compression-molded EVA midsole readily soaks up the pounding that the feet take when hiking. The unique Swallowtail design, an elongated rockered extension on the heel, provides a more natural stride for those who tend to connect with their heels first. This, too, can take some getting used to if you're new to the concept.

Traction

No skimping on the outsole in these boots, the Kaha employs a high-end Vibram MegaGrib rubber compound that excels in all terrain types. With deep 4mm lugs that are arranged in a multidirectional pattern, we found them to grip well in both wet and dry conditions.

While the width of these boots gives them additional stability, and the height of the cushioned midsole adds to comfort, these attributes make them uneasy in steep terrain where you may be using the edge of the boot more. So this is a less favorable choice if you are looking to get after something like 3rd and 4th-class scrambling routes.

Water Resistance

Considering how tall the Kaha 2 is, it's pretty easy to see why they did so well in our water resistance metric. They have a flood height of 5 inches when measured from the ground to the lowest point of the Gore-Tex waterproof-breathable membrane and 7.5 inches when measured from the ground to the top of the ankle. We tested this using our water bucket test and were astonished at how deep the water got before coming in over the top of the tongue. It is worth noting the latter height as well since the Nubuck leather used on the upper is treated with an additional DWR (durable water-repellant) coating.

The drawback to such great water resistance is that the Kaha feels a bit hot and isn't as good at dumping heat as models made from lighter or synthetic materials. We also found the leather to get saturated with water over time, and it takes much longer to fully dry out after that occurs.

Weight

At 2.77 pounds per pair in a size 11 US men's, the Kaha 2 GTX provides the support that was previously limited to boots over 3 pounds. No, they are not the lightest boots in our review by a wide margin, but the overall comfort and support that comes with this extra weight is well worth it.

For those who have weak ankles or who just prefer the security of full-height ankle coverage, these boots are a fantastic choice. Saving on weight may just put you into a boot that offers diminished performance in these important areas.

Durability

We were impressed by the durability of this boot. It's made of solid leather materials that do a good job of resisting the abrasions and scuffs from kicking roots and rocks while out on the trail, and we do not have damage to report. The lacing hooks are made of solid metal, and the molded midsole uses a more durable EVA material rather than a more susceptible exposed foam, though we noticed a few nicks after tripping on some rocks.

We appreciate that the Kaha has a sewn toe cap rather than just relying on adhesives or welding, as this will likely be one of the highest areas of wear these boots will see.

Should You Buy the Hoka Kaha 2 GTX?

If you want a top performer in support and comfort that will keep your feet dry and happy and last a long time, this boot is a great choice. For all its materials, technology, and innovative design, it is a good value even though it has a higher price tag.

What Other Hiking Boots Should You Consider?

While we absolutely love these boots for their support and comfort, some may not want the wide foot or the rockered sole. In this case, the equally comfortable and capable Salomon Quest 4 Gore-Tex will not disappoint. If you want a more nimble boot for scrambling routes, then the awesome La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX should be on your list, and if you like what you've heard about these boots but don't need full ankle support then the Hoka Anacapa 2 Mid GTX is worth your consideration.