Hoka One One Valor Shoe Review

Hoka One One Valor Review

Ever since I hurt my calf and foot earlier in the year, I have looked for a lightweight and cushioned running shoe that I could wear when I began to run again.

When I saw the Valor online and saw that it was a maximum support shoe and weighed only 9.1 ounces, I had to give it a try.

Below are pictures of the Valor along with a detailed review. There are 2 available colors with the first version of this shoe. I am hoping that the popularity of this will increase and additional colors will be available.

About the Hoka One One Valor

The Hoka One One Valor is another amazing running shoe from Hoka One One. This shoe weighs in at just over 9 ounces and this includes an ultra-sized midsole. The cushioned tongue and incredible fit really make this shoe incredible. The 4mm drop is similar to the Clifton.

As mentioned above the Valor has an ultra-sized midsole that helps to reduce fatigue in your legs and feet during those long runs.  The sock-like fit with no-sew overlays increases comfort and stability.

This shoe is ideal for mid to long training runs.

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Hoka One One Valor Shoe Specifications

• Weight : 9.1 Ounces (size 9)
• How It Fits: True to Size (based on width D)
• Offset: 4mm heel to toe offset
• Forefoot Height: 32mm forefoot height
• Heel Height: 36mm heel height
• Ultra-Lightweight No Sew SpeedFrame Construction
• Early Stage Meta-Rocker Geometry
• Full-Length HIP CMEVA Midsole
• Full Ground Contact Design

Hoka One One Valor Initial Thoughts

When I first opened the box for the Valor, I noticed the ultra-sized midsole. The Cliftons have a larger midsole, but not the ultra-sized midsoles that the Valor has (see image above).

I was pleasantly surprised by how light the shoes felt. Weighing in around 9oz and having an ultra-sized midsole is a combination that is hard to find.

I wasn’t a huge fan of the color options but really wanted a lighter maximum cushioned running shoe and thought the Valor was a great option for that. After my first run, I must say that I am very satisfied with my purchase.

Hoka One One Valor Sole

The Hoka One One Valor sole is very similar to Clifton model, in that it has meta-rocker geometry and technology. This helps you run with a more natural motion, increases efficiency, and improves running mechanics. If you are unfamiliar with the Meta-Rocker technology, Hoka One One describes it as being “specifically engineered with a low heel-toe differential and a sculpted outsole radius in the heel and toe, creates a unique fulcrum effect and encourages a guided foot gait cycle.”

The Hoka One One Valor sole is made of a material that is 30% softer than traditional foam found on other running shoes. This means you will immediately feel the cushion expected from this shoe.

Some people have mentioned the durability of the sole has been an issue for them. I have run in them a few times and haven’t noticed anything different than the traditional wear I have experienced with the Cliftons or Conquest, or Huaka.

Hoka One One Valor Upper

The Hoka One One Valor upper includes air mesh and a lycra ComfortFrame that provides a glove like fit. This allows the shoe to stretch and move with your foot. This shoe also has the updated tongue, which includes a bit more cushioning for improved comfort.

This shoe tends to run wider than the other brands I have worn and my toes appreciate the extra toe room. Having had some toe pain earlier in the year, putting these on and having plenty of toe box room felt great.

The no-sew upper and lightweight heel support give a secure and comfortable fit.

The Active Guy Conclusion and Rating

As I mentioned earlier, the Hoka One One Valor is my new long run shoe. The cushion and lightweight feel make it ideal for long runs. I hope that Hoka continues to make this shoe and introduces additional colors.

If you haven’t tried Hoka One One shoes, I highly recommend you trying this brand. They continue to impress me with each shoe they produce.

Have you worn the Hoka One One Valor running shoes? If so, let me know what you think!