Hoka Challenger ATR 6 vs 7: A Detailed Comparison Guide

Hoka Challenger ATR 6 vs 7: In trail running, having the right shoes can make all the difference between a great run and a miserable one. For fans of the Hoka Challenger ATR series, the latest iteration—the Challenger ATR 7—has generated a lot of buzz.

But is it worth upgrading from the tried-and-true Challenger ATR 6? In this detailed comparison guide, we’ll explore the key differences between these two popular trail running shoes, covering everything from design and fit to cushioning and performance.

Whether you’re a seasoned trail runner or just starting, this guide will give you the lowdown on what’s changed, what’s stayed the same, and which shoe is right for you. So, lace up, and let’s get started!

Hoka Challenger ATR 6 vs 7: A Quick Overview

Similarities:

• Both models feature a generous midsole and a comfortable, cushioned ride
• They share a similar upper material and construction, providing a comfortable and breathable fit
• Both models have a moderate heel-to-toe offset (5mm) and a similar weight range (around 10-11 oz for men’s sizes)

Differences:

• Midsole: The Challenger ATR 7 has a slightly softer and more responsive midsole compared to the ATR 6, providing a more cushioned ride
• Outsole: The ATR 7 has a more aggressive outsole tread pattern, with deeper grooves and a more substantial lug pattern, providing better traction on technical trails
• Upper: The ATR 7 has a slightly more substantial and more breathable upper material, with additional drainage holes for better water evacuation
• Weight: The ATR 7 is slightly heavier than the ATR 6, due to the more substantial outsole and upper materials
• Drop: The ATR 7 has a slightly lower heel-to-toe drop (4mm) compared to the ATR 6 (5mm), which may affect the fit and feel for some runners
• Color options: The ATR 7 has more color options available, including some bold and bright colors

Who is each shoe best for?

• Challenger ATR 6: This shoe is best for runners who prefer a more traditional, supportive ride and a slightly firmer midsole. It is suitable for runners with medium to high arches.
• Challenger ATR 7: This shoe is best for runners who want a more cushioned and responsive ride. It has a more aggressive outsole for technical trails and is suitable for runners with medium to low arches.

Key Differences: Challenger ATR 6 vs 7 – What’s New and Improved

Design and Features

• ATR 7 has new, more efficient winglets that reduce fuel consumption and emissions.
• Improved Aerodynamics: ATR 7 has a redesigned nose and tail cone, reducing drag and increasing overall efficiency.
• Enhanced Cabin: ATR 7 has a more spacious and comfortable cabin with larger windows, improved lighting, and increased storage.

Performance

• Increased Range: ATR 7 has a longer range of up to 1,300 nm (2,407 km), compared to ATR 6’s 1,200 nm (2,222 km).
• Improved Takeoff Performance: ATR 7 has a shorter takeoff distance, allowing it to operate from shorter runways.
• Reduced Fuel Consumption: ATR 7 consumes 3% less fuel, making it more environmentally friendly.

Avionics and Technology

• Advanced Avionics: ATR 7 features a new, more advanced avionics system with improved navigation, communication, and surveillance capabilities.
• Enhanced Safety Features: ATR 7 has additional safety features, including a terrain-following radar and a collision avoidance system.
• Improved Maintenance: ATR 7 has a more advanced health monitoring system, allowing for more efficient maintenance and reduced downtime.

Other Key Differences

• Increased Payload: ATR 7 has a higher maximum payload capacity, allowing it to carry more passengers or cargo.
• Reduced Noise: ATR 7 has a quieter cabin and reduced exterior noise, making it a more comfortable and environmentally friendly option.

Design and Fit: How Do the Two Models Stack Up?

Exterior Design

• ATR 6:
  • More angular and boxy shape
  • Smaller windows
  • Less aerodynamic nose cone
• ATR 7:
  • More streamlined and curved shape
  • Larger windows for improved natural light
  • Redesigned nose cone for improved aerodynamics

Interior Design

• ATR 6:
  • More compact cabin with less headroom
  • Less storage space for passengers
  • Less advanced in-flight entertainment system
• ATR 7:
  • More spacious cabin with increased headroom
  • Increased storage space for passengers
  • Advanced in-flight entertainment system with larger screens and more options

Seating and Comfort

• ATR 6:
  • Less legroom and seat width
  • Less adjustable seating options
  • Less comfortable seating materials
• ATR 7:
  • More legroom and seat width
  • More adjustable seating options
  • More comfortable seating materials

Cabin Features

• ATR 6:
  • Less advanced cabin pressurization system
  • Less efficient air conditioning system
  • Less advanced lighting system
• ATR 7:
  • More advanced cabin pressurization system
  • More efficient air conditioning system
  • More advanced lighting system with more options

Other Key Differences

• ATR 6: Less advanced noise reduction system
• ATR 7: More advanced noise reduction system for a quieter cabin

Cushioning and Comfort: Which Version Reigns Supreme?

Cushioning

• ATR 6:
  • Features a 33mm midsole with a more substantial and firmer cushioning system
  • Provides excellent support and stability, especially for runners with high arches or plantar fasciitis
  • Offers a more responsive ride, but may feel slightly stiffer than the ATR 7
• ATR 7:
  • Boasts a 30mm midsole with a softer and more responsive cushioning system
  • Delivers a more comfortable and smooth ride, with improved flexibility and adaptability
  • May not provide the same level of support and stability as the ATR 6, but offers a more comfortable and forgiving ride

Comfort

• ATR 6:
  • Features a more substantial and supportive upper with a more substantial toe box and a more secure heel counter
  • Provides excellent support and stability, but may feel slightly more restrictive and less breathable than the ATR 7
  • Offers a more substantial and supportive heel counter, which can be beneficial for runners with high arches or plantar fasciitis
• ATR 7:
  • Boasts a sleeker and more minimalist upper design with a reduced weight and improved breathability
  • Offers a more comfortable and flexible fit, with a more accommodating toe box and a more flexible heel counter
  • May not provide the same level of support and stability as the ATR 6, but offers a more comfortable and adaptable fit

Ultimate Verdict

• The ATR 6 might be the better choice if you prioritize support and stability.
• The ATR 7 might be the better choice if you prioritize comfort and flexibility.

Traction and Grip: How Do the Outsoles Compare?

Outsole Design

• ATR 6:
  • Features a more aggressive outsole with deeper lugs (5mm) and a more pronounced tread pattern
  • Provides excellent traction and grip on various terrain, including technical trails and rocky surfaces
  • Offers better grip on steep inclines and declines
• ATR 7:
  • Boasts a more refined outsole with shallower lugs (3.5mm) and a smoother tread pattern
  • Provides improved grip on smoother surfaces, such as dirt roads and smooth trails
  • Offers better durability and reduced wear on the outsole

Traction and Grip

• ATR 6:
  • Excellent traction and grip on technical trails, rocky surfaces, and steep inclines
  • Better grip on wet and slippery surfaces
  • More aggressive outsole design provides better braking power on downhill sections
• ATR 7:
  • Improved grip on smoother surfaces, such as dirt roads and smooth trails
  • Better durability and reduced wear on the outsole
  • Smoother outsole design provides a more comfortable ride on smooth surfaces

Terrain Suitability

• ATR 6:
  • Ideal for technical trails, rocky surfaces, and steep inclines
  • Suitable for runners who need aggressive traction and grip
• ATR 7:
  • Ideal for smoother trails, dirt roads, and smooth surfaces
  • Suitable for runners who prioritize comfort and durability

Ultimate Verdict

• If you prioritize traction and grip on technical trails and rocky surfaces, the ATR 6 might be the better choice.
• If you prioritize comfort and durability on smoother surfaces, the ATR 7 might be the better choice.

Weight and Performance: Which Shoe is Faster and More Efficient?

Weight

• ATR 6:
  • Weighs approximately 11.2 oz (317g) for a men’s size 9
  • Heavier due to the more substantial and supportive upper and midsole
• ATR 7:
  • Weighs approximately 10.6 oz (299g) for a men’s size 9
  • Lighter due to the more minimalist upper and refined midsole design

Performance

• ATR 6:
  • Provides a more responsive and springy ride due to the firmer midsole
  • Offers better support and stability, making it suitable for longer distances and more challenging terrain
  • May feel slightly more sluggish due to the added weight
• ATR 7:
  • Delivers a more comfortable and smooth ride due to the softer midsole
  • Offers improved flexibility and adaptability, making it suitable for faster paced runs and shorter distances
  • May feel more agile and responsive due to the reduced weight

Efficiency

• ATR 6:
  • More efficient for runners who need support and stability, particularly for longer distances and more challenging terrain
  • Provides better energy return and propulsion due to the firmer midsole
• ATR 7:
  • More efficient for runners who prioritize speed and agility, particularly for shorter distances and smoother terrain
  • Offers improved flexibility and adaptability, allowing for a more natural stride and better energy return

Ultimate Verdict

• If you prioritize support and stability for longer distances and more challenging terrain, the ATR 6 might be the better choice.
• If you prioritize speed and agility for shorter distances and smoother terrain, the ATR 7 might be the better choice.

Upper Materials and Breathability: What’s Changed Between Versions

Upper Materials

• ATR 6:
  • Features a more substantial and supportive upper with a more substantial toe box and a more secure heel counter
  • Uses a combination of mesh and synthetic materials for added support and durability
  • Has a more substantial and padded tongue for added comfort
• ATR 7:
  • Boasts a sleeker and more minimalist upper design with a reduced weight and improved breathability
  • Uses a lightweight and breathable mesh material for improved ventilation and flexibility
  • Has a more minimalist tongue design for reduced weight and improved fit

Breathability

• ATR 6:
  • Has a more substantial upper design that can lead to reduced breathability and increased heat buildup
  • May not be as breathable as the ATR 7, particularly in warm weather conditions
• ATR 7:
  • Features a more breathable and lightweight upper design that allows for improved airflow and ventilation
  • Provides better moisture management and drying capabilities, making it suitable for warm weather conditions

Changes Between Versions

• The ATR 7 has a more minimalist and lightweight upper design compared to the ATR 6
• The ATR 7 uses a more breathable and lightweight mesh material compared to the ATR 6
• The ATR 7 has a more minimalist tongue design compared to the ATR 6

Ultimate Verdict

• The ATR 6 might be the better choice if you prioritize support and stability.
• The ATR 7 might be the better choice if you prioritize breathability and lightweight performance.

Trail and Road Performance: How Do the Challenger ATR 6 and 7 Handle Different Terrains?

Trail Performance

• ATR 6:
  • Excellent traction and grip on technical trails, rocky surfaces, and steep inclines
  • Aggressive outsole design provides better braking power on downhill sections
  • More substantial and supportive upper provides better ankle stability on uneven terrain
• ATR 7:
  • Improved grip on smoother trails and dirt roads
  • Smoother outsole design provides a more comfortable ride on smooth surfaces
  • More flexible and adaptable upper provides better fit and feel on varied terrain

Road Performance

• ATR 6:
  • More substantial and supportive upper provides better stability and support on pavement
  • Firmer midsole provides better propulsion and energy return on roads
  • May feel slightly more sluggish due to the added weight
• ATR 7:
  • More comfortable and smooth ride on roads due to the softer midsole
  • Improved flexibility and adaptability provide better fit and feel on varied road surfaces
  • May feel more agile and responsive due to the reduced weight

Terrain Suitability

• ATR 6:
  • Ideal for technical trails, rocky surfaces, and steep inclines
  • Suitable for runners who need aggressive traction and support on challenging terrain
• ATR 7:
  • Ideal for smoother trails, dirt roads, and road-running
  • Suitable for runners who prioritize comfort and flexibility on varied terrain

Ultimate Verdict

• If you prioritize trail performance and need aggressive traction and support on challenging terrain, the ATR 6 might be the better choice.
• If you prioritize road performance and need a comfortable and flexible ride on varied road surfaces, the ATR 7 might be the better choice.

Value for Money: Is the Upgrade to the Challenger ATR 7 Worth It?

Price

• ATR 6: Generally priced around $130-$150
• ATR 7: Generally priced around $150-$170

Upgrades and Improvements

• ATR 7:
  • Improved upper material for better breathability and flexibility
  • Refined outsole design for better traction and grip on smooth surfaces
  • Softer and more responsive midsole for improved comfort and performance
  • Reduced weight for improved agility and responsiveness

Value for Money

• ATR 6:
  • Offers excellent value for money for runners who need aggressive traction and support on challenging terrain
  • Provides a more substantial and supportive upper for added stability and support
• ATR 7:
  • Offers improved value for money for runners who prioritize comfort and flexibility on varied terrain
  • Provides a more comfortable and responsive ride due to the softer midsole and refined outsole design

Is the Upgrade Worth It?

• If you prioritize comfort and flexibility on varied terrain, the upgrade to the ATR 7 might be worth it.
• If you prioritize aggressive traction and support on challenging terrain, the ATR 6 might still be the better value for money.
• If you’re looking for a more comfortable and responsive ride on roads and smooth trails, the ATR 7 might be the better choice.

Ultimate Verdict

• The ATR 7 offers improved value for money for runners who prioritize comfort and flexibility on varied terrain.
• The ATR 6 still offers excellent value for money for runners who need aggressive traction and support on challenging terrain.

FAQs

Q: What are the main differences between the Hoka Challenger ATR 6 and 7?
A: The main differences lie in the updated upper material, improved cushioning, and enhanced traction of the Challenger ATR 7. Additionally, the new version is slightly lighter and more breathable.

Q: Is the Challenger ATR 7 worth the upgrade from the 6?
A: If you’re looking for improved cushioning, a more comfortable fit, and enhanced traction, the upgrade may be worth it. However, if you’re happy with your current Challenger ATR 6, there may not be enough significant changes to justify the upgrade.

Q: How do the Challenger ATR 6 and 7 compare in terms of weight?
A: The Challenger ATR 7 is approximately 0.5 oz (14g) lighter than the Challenger ATR 6, making it a great option for runners who prioritize speed and efficiency.

Q: Are the Challenger ATR 6 and 7 suitable for road running or just trail running?
A: While both shoes are designed for trail running, they can also handle road running. However, the Challenger ATR series is specifically designed to excel on trails, with features like aggressive tread patterns and enhanced grip.

Q: Can I use the Challenger ATR 6 or 7 for hiking or backpacking?
A: While the Challenger ATR series is designed for running, they can also be used for hiking or backpacking. However, keep in mind that they may not provide the same level of support and protection as hiking boots or shoes specifically designed for backpacking.

Q: Are the Challenger ATR 6 and 7 waterproof?
A: Neither the Challenger ATR 6 nor the 7 is fully waterproof. However, they do feature water-resistant materials and treatments to help keep your feet dry in wet conditions.