HOKA Arahi 7  Running Shoe Review

Reviewed Nov 07, 2025 at 04:32pm
Tested using Methodology v0.8.2 
HOKA Arahi 7
5.0
Marathon Racing 
5.4
5K/10K Racing 
1.6
Energy Return 
6.8
Cushioning 
8.0
Lateral Stability 
 0
Notice: This running shoes was replaced by HOKA Arahi 8

We've tested these running shoes to expand our database and allow users to compare results to help with their buying decisions. We don't expect to write a full review, but if you have any questions about this product, please let us know!

Our Verdict

5.0
Marathon Racing 
5.4
5K/10K Racing 
1.6
Energy Return 
6.8
Cushioning 
8.0
Lateral Stability 
  • 5.0
    Marathon Racing
  • 5.4
    5K/10K Racing

  • Performance Usages

  • 1.6
    Energy Return
  • 6.8
    Cushioning
  • 8.0
    Lateral Stability
  • Changelog

    1.  Updated Nov 07, 2025: Review published.
    2.  Updated Jul 08, 2025: Our testers have started testing this product.

    Popular Running Shoe Comparisons

    ASICS GEL-KAYANO 32

    The ASICS GEL-KAYANO 32 and the HOKA Arahi 7 are both support-oriented daily trainers, but they approach stability and comfort quite differently. The Arahi 7 is lighter and leans into natural guidance without added bulk, making it feel nimbler underfoot. However, its lower stack height and firmer foam make it noticeably harsher over longer distances, especially for heel strikers or heavier runners. In contrast, the ASICS offers a plusher, more cushioned ride with better impact absorption and a more traditional support feel thanks to its 4D Guidance system. It provides more underfoot protection and a smoother, more stable transition, but at the cost of added weight and a bulkier sensation overall. 

    How We Test Running Shoes
    How We Test Running Shoes

    We've recently started buying and testing running shoes with a very data-oriented approach. While we're just getting started, our methodology already has dozens of tests to help you make the right purchasing decision for your needs. Not only do we use high-end equipment to gather objective data, but we also order multiple sizes of the same shoes for team members to be able to log in miles. This real-world testing is done at various paces and conditions, and with different types of workouts, to cover all the bases. This allows us to verify our results and ensure they align with what you might feel with a specific pair.

    Test Results

    perceptual testing image
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    RATINGS
    Category:
    All
    Design
    6.0
    Weight
    Weight
    261.7 g (9.23 oz)
    Stack Heights
    Heel Stack Height
    34.9 mm
    Forefoot Stack Height
    28.9 mm
    Heel-To-Toe Drop
    6.0 mm
    Advertised Heel-To-Toe Drop
    5.0 mm
    External Shape
    Outsole Heel Width
    94 mm (3.7")
    Outsole Arch Width
    87 mm (3.4")
    Outsole Forefoot Width
    116 mm (4.6")
    Heel Width-To-Stack Ratio
    2.70
    Forefoot Width-To-Stack Ratio
    4.01
    Internal Shape
    Internal Length
    277 mm (10.9")
    Internal Heel Width
    65 mm (2.6")
    Internal Forefoot Width
    92 mm (3.6")
    Wide Sizing Available
    Yes
    Other Features
    Tongue Gusset Type
    Semi-gusseted
    Plate
    None
    Performance
    0.8
    Heel Energy Return
    See details on graph tool
    Heel Energy Return
    63.2%
    1.9
    Forefoot Energy Return
    See details on graph tool
    Forefoot Energy Return
    67.7%
    5.9
    Heel Cushioning
    See details on graph tool
    Energy Absorbed At 550N
    2.45 J
    Energy Absorbed At 1100N
    7.40 J
    Energy Absorbed At 1900N
    14.02 J
    7.6
    Forefoot Cushioning
    See details on graph tool
    Energy Absorbed At 800N
    4.46 J
    Energy Absorbed At 1300N
    8.23 J
    Energy Absorbed At 2050N
    12.19 J
    6.2
    Heel Firmness
    See details on graph tool
    Firmness At 550N
    69.5 N/mm
    Firmness At 1100N
    124.2 N/mm
    Firmness At 1900N
    209.7 N/mm
    7.8
    Forefoot Firmness
    See details on graph tool
    Firmness At 800N
    100.1 N/mm
    Firmness At 1300N
    196.1 N/mm
    Firmness At 2050N
    407.7 N/mm