The original Hoka Cavu was one of my favorite shoes of 2018. It was simple, light, and relatively inexpensive. If you’re subscribed to the newsletter, then you know I firmly believe the Hoka Cavu 2 is even better and one of the most underrated shoes out there.
It’s simple and a solid trainer. As you can see from photos, I’ve gotten plenty of mileage out of the shoe. I’m well over 100 miles and the shoe feels great.
Like the Mach, the Hoka Cavu uses the “Profly” sole. The significant difference between the Mach and the Cavu is the Cavu is lighter. It’s a little better for racing, workouts, and faster runs. The Mach is better for easy runs. The Mach is less pounding on your body, but you trade a slightly more substantial shoe.
Fit:
The fit and upper of the Cavu 2 has been redesigned. It’s simple which works for it. It’s seamless with a wide toe box which gives the toes plenty of room. Like the Mach 2, it fits larger but not large enough I would go down a half size. Typically I wear a women’s 10-11 wide and a 10.5 is perfect. The Cavu isn’t made in wide, but even if it was, I think I would stick with a regular width.
Ride:
In my opinion, the Cavu is the least “Hoka shoe” out there. When you think of Hoka, you think of maximum cushion and a soft pillowy mattress under your foot. For some people, all of that cushion is intimidating! The Hoka Cavu is much lighter and lower to the ground. If you’re new to wearing Hokas, the Cavu is a good start because of how many characteristics it shares with a traditional brand. If you ever wore the Clayton, Tracer, or the original Clifton, you’ll appreciate the ride of the Cavu as well.
The shoe performs well in weather too. If it’s rainy or icy, I would use the Cavu over many other lighter shoes. I don’t feel as though Hoka sacrificed tread and grip to reduce the weight.
It reminds me of shoes such as the Saucony Kinvara, New Balance 1400, or even Brooks Launch. It has the ability to run fast and be responsible. It’s a shoe, Hoka was missing from their line until recently.
The Cavu 2 is nearly an ounce lighter than the original Cavu. There is no telling; you’ll feel fast in this shoe. I’ve run longer tempo runs as well as easy days. For me, I find it’s the best place to be with longer and faster runs. It’s my go-to long run shoe.
Summary:
I think the Hoka Cavuis one of the most underrated shoe out there. If you’re already running in Hoka and want a lighter shoe, it’s a great option. If you’ve never tried Hoka but are thinking of trying, it’s also a great option.
Current Shoe Rotation:
Easy Runs: Brooks Glycerin, Hoka Mach 2, New Balance 1080,
Long Runs/Tempos: Hoka Cavu 2
Speed Work/Racing: Nike Fly, Nike LT Streak
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Questions for you:
What is your favorite long run shoe? What is your current favorite shoe?
