Hoka Kawana vs Kawana 2: Choosing the Best Running Shoe

Hoka Kawana vs Kawana 2: For runners seeking maximum comfort and performance, Hoka One One’s Kawana series has been a popular choice.

With the introduction of the Kawana 2, many are left wondering: what’s the difference between the original Hoka Kawana and its newer counterpart?

Both shoes boast Hoka’s signature maximally cushioned midsoles, but subtle tweaks and updates have been made to the Kawana 2.

Hoka Kawana vs Kawana 2: A Quick Overview

Hoka Kawana:

• A max cushioning shoe designed for runners who need a little more support and comfort
• Features a generous midsole and a comfortable, breathable upper
• Weighs around 10.2 oz (289g) for a men’s size 9
• Has a 5mm heel-to-toe drop
• Suitable for runners with medium to high arches
• Good for long runs, recovery runs, and daily training

Hoka Kawana 2:

• An updated version of the original Kawana with some key improvements
• Features a more comfortable and breathable upper with a more secure fit
• Has a slightly more responsive and springy midsole compared to the original
• Weighs around 9.9 oz (281g) for a men’s size 9
• Still has a 5mm heel-to-toe drop
• Suitable for runners with medium to high arches who need a little more support and cushioning
• Good for runners who want a fast and comfortable ride for daily training and long runs

Key differences:

• The Kawana 2 has a more comfortable and breathable upper compared to the original
• The Kawana 2 has a slightly more responsive and springy midsole
• The Kawana 2 is slightly lighter than the original Kawana

Cushioning and Comfort: Which Brand Offers Better Comfort?

Cushioning

• Hoka Kawana:
  • Features a generous midsole with a high volume of cushioning material, providing excellent shock absorption and a soft, comfortable ride
  • The midsole is designed to absorb impact and reduce the stress on your joints, making it suitable for runners who need a high level of cushioning and support
  • The cushioning is evenly distributed throughout the midsole, providing a smooth and consistent ride
  • The Kawana’s cushioning is particularly beneficial for runners who log high mileage, as it helps to reduce the impact on their joints and muscles
• Hoka Kawana 2:
  • Has a slightly more responsive and springy midsole compared to the original Kawana, providing a more lively and energetic feel
  • The midsole still provides excellent cushioning and shock absorption, but with a more dynamic and responsive ride
  • The Kawana 2’s cushioning is designed to work in harmony with the runner’s stride, providing a smooth and efficient ride
  • The cushioning is still generous, but it’s more tuned to provide a balance of comfort and responsiveness

Comfort

• Hoka Kawana:
  • Features a comfortable and breathable upper with a roomy toe box, providing a comfortable fit for runners with medium to high arches
  • The upper is designed to provide a secure and comfortable fit, with a soft, padded tongue and collar
  • The Kawana’s upper is made from a breathable mesh material that allows for excellent airflow and moisture management
  • The shoe features a comfortable and cushioned heel counter that provides a secure fit and reduces heel slipping
• Hoka Kawana 2:
  • Has an updated upper with a more comfortable and breathable design, providing an even more comfortable fit
  • The upper features a more secure fit with a slightly more snug heel and a comfortable, padded tongue and collar
  • The Kawana 2’s upper is made from a lightweight and breathable mesh material that provides excellent airflow and moisture management
  • The shoe features a comfortable and cushioned heel counter that provides a secure fit and reduces heel slipping, with a more comfortable and padded Achilles notch

Support and Stability: Which Shoe Reigns Supreme?

Support

• Hoka Kawana:
  • Features a supportive and stable ride, with a generous midsole that provides excellent arch support and pronation control
  • The shoe is designed to support runners with medium to high arches, providing a comfortable and stable ride
  • The Kawana’s support is particularly beneficial for runners who need a little more support and stability, such as those with flat feet or overpronation
  • The shoe features a supportive and comfortable heel counter that provides a secure fit and reduces heel slipping
• Hoka Kawana 2:
  • Has a slightly more responsive and springy midsole compared to the original Kawana, providing a more dynamic and stable ride
  • The shoe still provides excellent arch support and pronation control, but with a more lively and responsive feel
  • The Kawana 2’s support is designed to work in harmony with the runner’s stride, providing a smooth and efficient ride
  • The shoe features a supportive and comfortable heel counter that provides a secure fit and reduces heel slipping, with a more comfortable and padded Achilles notch

Stability

• Hoka Kawana:
  • Features a stable and supportive ride, with a wide and stable platform that provides excellent stability and balance
  • The shoe is designed to provide a smooth and stable ride, with a comfortable and secure fit
  • The Kawana’s stability is particularly beneficial for runners who need a little more stability and support, such as those with high arches or supination
  • The shoe features a stable and comfortable heel counter that provides a secure fit and reduces heel slipping
• Hoka Kawana 2:
  • Has a slightly more responsive and springy midsole compared to the original Kawana, providing a more dynamic and stable ride
  • The shoe still provides excellent stability and balance, but with a more lively and responsive feel
  • The Kawana 2’s stability is designed to work in harmony with the runner’s stride, providing a smooth and efficient ride
  • The shoe features a stable and comfortable heel counter that provides a secure fit and reduces heel slipping, with a more comfortable and padded Achilles notch

Traction and Grip: Which Shoe Stack Up for Hiking?

Traction

• Hoka Kawana:
  • Features a durable and grippy outsole with a unique tread pattern that provides excellent traction on various surfaces
  • The outsole is made from a high-quality rubber compound that provides excellent durability and grip
  • The Kawana’s traction is particularly beneficial for runners who need a shoe that can handle various terrain, including trails and roads
  • The shoe features a comfortable and secure fit that allows for confident running on various surfaces
• Hoka Kawana 2:
  • Has an updated outsole with a more aggressive tread pattern that provides even better traction and grip
  • The outsole is made from a high-quality rubber compound that provides excellent durability and grip
  • The Kawana 2’s traction is designed to work in harmony with the runner’s stride, providing a smooth and efficient ride on various surfaces
  • The shoe features a comfortable and secure fit that allows for confident running on various surfaces, including trails and roads

Grip

• Hoka Kawana:
  • Features a grippy outsole that provides excellent grip on various surfaces, including wet and slippery surfaces
  • The shoe’s grip is particularly beneficial for runners who need a shoe that can handle wet and slippery conditions
  • The Kawana’s grip is designed to provide confidence and stability on various surfaces
  • The shoe features a comfortable and secure fit that allows for confident running on various surfaces
• Hoka Kawana 2:
  • Has an updated outsole with a more aggressive tread pattern that provides even better grip on various surfaces
  • The shoe’s grip is designed to work in harmony with the runner’s stride, providing a smooth and efficient ride on various surfaces
  • The Kawana 2’s grip is particularly beneficial for runners who need a shoe that can handle wet and slippery conditions
  • The shoe features a comfortable and secure fit that allows for confident running on various surfaces, including trails and roads

Weight and Responsiveness: The Verdict Both The Shoes

Weight

• Hoka Kawana:
  • Weighs around 10.2 oz (289g) for a men’s size 9
  • Has a relatively lightweight design that provides a comfortable and efficient ride
  • The shoe’s weight is distributed evenly, providing a balanced and stable ride
  • The Kawana’s weight is suitable for runners who need a lightweight and comfortable shoe for daily training and long runs
• Hoka Kawana 2:
  • Weighs around 9.9 oz (281g) for a men’s size 9
  • Has a slightly lighter design compared to the original Kawana, providing an even more efficient and responsive ride
  • The shoe’s weight is distributed evenly, providing a balanced and stable ride
  • The Kawana 2’s weight is suitable for runners who need a lightweight and responsive shoe for daily training and long runs

Responsiveness

• Hoka Kawana:
  • Features a responsive midsole that provides a comfortable and efficient ride
  • The shoe’s responsiveness is suitable for runners who need a shoe that can handle daily training and long runs
  • The Kawana’s responsiveness is designed to provide a smooth and efficient ride, with a comfortable and secure fit
  • The shoe’s responsiveness is particularly beneficial for runners who need a shoe that can handle various terrain, including trails and roads
• Hoka Kawana 2:
  • Has a more responsive midsole compared to the original Kawana, providing an even more efficient and responsive ride
  • The shoe’s responsiveness is designed to work in harmony with the runner’s stride, providing a smooth and efficient ride
  • The Kawana 2’s responsiveness is suitable for runners who need a shoe that can handle daily training and long runs, with a comfortable and secure fit
  • The shoe’s responsiveness is particularly beneficial for runners who need a shoe that can handle various terrain, including trails and roads, with a more dynamic and responsive ride

Breathability and Ventilation: Keeping Your Feet Cool and Dry

Breathability

• Hoka Kawana:
  • Features a breathable upper with a mesh material that provides excellent airflow and moisture management
  • The upper is designed to keep the foot cool and dry, with a comfortable and secure fit
  • The Kawana’s breathability is suitable for runners who need a shoe that can handle warm and humid conditions
  • The shoe’s breathability is particularly beneficial for runners who need a shoe that can handle long runs and daily training
• Hoka Kawana 2:
  • Has an updated upper with an even more breathable design, providing excellent airflow and moisture management
  • The upper is designed to keep the foot cool and dry, with a comfortable and secure fit
  • The Kawana 2’s breathability is suitable for runners who need a shoe that can handle warm and humid conditions, with a more efficient and responsive ride
  • The shoe’s breathability is particularly beneficial for runners who need a shoe that can handle long runs and daily training, with a more dynamic and responsive ride

Ventilation

• Hoka Kawana:
  • Features ventilation holes in the upper to provide additional airflow and moisture management
  • The ventilation is designed to work in harmony with the breathable upper, providing a cool and dry ride
  • The Kawana’s ventilation is suitable for runners who need a shoe that can handle warm and humid conditions
  • The shoe’s ventilation is particularly beneficial for runners who need a shoe that can handle long runs and daily training
• Hoka Kawana 2:
  • Has updated ventilation holes in the upper, providing even more airflow and moisture management
  • The ventilation is designed to work in harmony with the breathable upper, providing a cool and dry ride
  • The Kawana 2’s ventilation is suitable for runners who need a shoe that can handle warm and humid conditions, with a more efficient and responsive ride
  • The shoe’s ventilation is particularly beneficial for runners who need a shoe that can handle long runs and daily training, with a more dynamic and responsive ride

Durability and Longevity: Which Shoe Will Last Longer?

Durability

• Hoka Kawana:
  • Features a durable and high-quality upper material that can withstand the rigors of daily training and long runs
  • The outsole is made from a high-quality rubber compound that provides excellent durability and traction
  • The Kawana’s durability is suitable for runners who need a shoe that can handle high mileage and frequent use
  • The shoe’s durability is particularly beneficial for runners who need a shoe that can handle various terrain, including trails and roads
• Hoka Kawana 2:
  • Has an updated upper material that is even more durable and resistant to wear and tear
  • The outsole is made from a high-quality rubber compound that provides excellent durability and traction
  • The Kawana 2’s durability is suitable for runners who need a shoe that can handle high mileage and frequent use, with a more efficient and responsive ride
  • The shoe’s durability is particularly beneficial for runners who need a shoe that can handle various terrain, including trails and roads, with a more dynamic and responsive ride

Longevity

• Hoka Kawana:
  • Has a long lifespan, with many runners reporting that the shoe can last for 300-400 miles or more
  • The shoe’s longevity is due to its high-quality materials and construction
  • The Kawana’s longevity is suitable for runners who need a shoe that can handle high mileage and frequent use
  • The shoe’s longevity is particularly beneficial for runners who need a shoe that can handle various terrain, including trails and roads
• Hoka Kawana 2:
  • Has an even longer lifespan compared to the original Kawana, with many runners reporting that the shoe can last for 400-500 miles or more
  • The shoe’s longevity is due to its updated materials and construction
  • The Kawana 2’s longevity is suitable for runners who need a shoe that can handle high mileage and frequent use, with a more efficient and responsive ride
  • The shoe’s longevity is particularly beneficial for runners who need a shoe that can handle various terrain, including trails and roads, with a more dynamic and responsive ride

Style and Aesthetics: Which Shoe Looks and Feels Better?

Style

• Hoka Kawana:
  • Features a sleek and modern design that is both functional and fashionable
  • The shoe’s style is suitable for runners who want a shoe that looks as good as it performs
  • The Kawana’s style is particularly beneficial for runners who want a shoe that can handle both running and casual wear
  • The shoe’s style is available in a variety of colors and designs to suit different tastes and preferences
• Hoka Kawana 2:
  • Has an updated design that is even more sleek and modern than the original Kawana
  • The shoe’s style is suitable for runners who want a shoe that is both functional and fashionable
  • The Kawana 2’s style is particularly beneficial for runners who want a shoe that can handle both running and casual wear, with a more dynamic and responsive ride
  • The shoe’s style is available in a variety of colors and designs to suit different tastes and preferences

Aesthetics

• Hoka Kawana:
  • Features a bold and vibrant color scheme that is both eye-catching and stylish
  • The shoe’s aesthetics are suitable for runners who want a shoe that makes a statement
  • The Kawana’s aesthetics are particularly beneficial for runners who want a shoe that is both functional and fashionable
  • The shoe’s aesthetics are available in a variety of colors and designs to suit different tastes and preferences
• Hoka Kawana 2:
  • Has an updated color scheme that is even more bold and vibrant than the original Kawana
  • The shoe’s aesthetics are suitable for runners who want a shoe that makes a statement
  • The Kawana 2’s aesthetics are particularly beneficial for runners who want a shoe that is both functional and fashionable, with a more dynamic and responsive ride
  • The shoe’s aesthetics are available in a variety of colors and designs to suit different tastes and preferences

The Final Step: Which Shoe Reigns Supreme in Our Head-to-Head Comparison?

Overall Performance

• Hoka Kawana: Excellent cushioning, support, and stability, making it suitable for runners who need a shoe that can handle high mileage and frequent use.
• Hoka Kawana 2: Improved cushioning, support, and stability compared to the original Kawana, with a more dynamic and responsive ride.

Winner: Hoka Kawana 2

Cushioning and Comfort

• Hoka Kawana: Excellent cushioning and comfort, with a soft and comfortable ride.
• Hoka Kawana 2: Improved cushioning and comfort compared to the original Kawana, with a more responsive and dynamic ride.

Winner: Hoka Kawana 2

Support and Stability

• Hoka Kawana: Excellent support and stability, with a comfortable and secure fit.
• Hoka Kawana 2: Improved support and stability compared to the original Kawana, with a more dynamic and responsive ride.

Winner: Hoka Kawana 2

Traction and Grip

• Hoka Kawana: Excellent traction and grip, with a durable and grippy outsole.
• Hoka Kawana 2: Improved traction and grip compared to the original Kawana, with a more aggressive tread pattern.

Winner: Hoka Kawana 2

Breathability and Ventilation

• Hoka Kawana: Excellent breathability and ventilation, with a comfortable and cool ride.
• Hoka Kawana 2: Improved breathability and ventilation compared to the original Kawana, with a more efficient and responsive ride.

Winner: Hoka Kawana 2

Durability and Longevity

• Hoka Kawana: Excellent durability and longevity, with a long-lasting and high-quality construction.
• Hoka Kawana 2: Improved durability and longevity compared to the original Kawana, with a more durable and long-lasting construction.

Winner: Hoka Kawana 2

Style and Aesthetics

• Hoka Kawana: Excellent style and aesthetics, with a sleek and modern design.
• Hoka Kawana 2: Improved style and aesthetics compared to the original Kawana, with a more dynamic and fashionable design.

Winner: Hoka Kawana 2

Overall Winner: Hoka Kawana 2

FAQs

Q: What is the main difference between the Hoka Kawana and Kawana 2?

A: The main difference is that the Kawana 2 has an updated design with improved cushioning, support, and traction compared to the original Kawana.

Q: Which shoe is better for high-mileage runners?

A: Both shoes are suitable for high-mileage runners, but the Kawana 2 is slightly better due to its improved cushioning and support.

Q: Which shoe is better for runners with flat feet or overpronation?

A: The Kawana 2 is slightly better for runners with flat feet or overpronation due to its improved support and stability features.

Q: Which shoe is more breathable and ventilated?

A: Both shoes have excellent breathability and ventilation, but the Kawana 2 has a slightly more efficient and responsive design.

Q: Which shoe is more durable and long-lasting?

A: Both shoes are durable and long-lasting, but the Kawana 2 has a slightly more durable and long-lasting construction.

Q: Which shoe is more stylish and fashionable?

A: Both shoes have a sleek and modern design, but the Kawana 2 has a slightly more dynamic and fashionable design.

Q: Which shoe is better for trail running?

A: Both shoes are suitable for trail running, but the Kawana 2 is slightly better due to its improved traction and grip.

Q: Which shoe is better for road running?

A: Both shoes are suitable for road running, but the Kawana 2 is slightly better due to its improved cushioning and support.