The Hoka One One Arahi 6 is the latest version of the popular Arahi stability running shoe from Hoka. As a stability shoe designed to provide support and guidance for runners who overpronate, the Arahi 6 has some key updates that make it an excellent option to consider for both road running and light trail use.
What’s New in the Arahi 6?
Compared to the Arahi 5, the Arahi 6 has a redesigned midsole and outsole for improved responsiveness and durability. The midsole now features a dual-density compression molded EVA foam instead of a single density EVA.
This helps provide firmer support under the arch to prevent overpronation, while softer foam under the heel and forefoot promotes smoother landings and easier transitions.
The outsole also gets an upgrade with high abrasion rubber in high-wear areas for improved durability, extra flex grooves in the forefoot for a smoother toe-off, and more aggressive lugs on the outer edges for better traction. The upper retains the breathable air mesh material but with more strategic overlays for structural support.
Weight and Fit
At 9.1 oz for a men’s size 9, the Arahi 6 is slightly lighter than the Arahi 5 but retains Hoka’s signature thick, cushioned midsole. The ample 29mm heel stack and 24mm forefoot stack help provide plush cushioning without an unstable or tippy feel.
The fit is roomy in the toe box yet secure in the midfoot and heel thanks to the padded tongue and collar. The mesh upper breathes well for cooler, drier runs. Those with wider feet may appreciate the Arahi’s accommodating fit, while narrower feet can cinch it down with the traditional lacing system. Available sizes range from 7-13 for women and 7-15 for men.
Key Features for Support & Stability
As a stability shoe, the Arahi 6 has several key features designed to provide pronation support:
- Dual-density midsole places firmer foam directly under the arch to prevent excessive inward rolling of the foot during foot strike and toe-off motions.
- Structural GUIDERAILS support integrated into the midsole helps control rearfoot movement.
- Early stage Meta-Rocker geometry encourages a smoother transition from heel to toe.
- Stabilizing overlays in the midfoot upper lock the foot securely over the sole platform.
Performance for Running
So how does all this translate when you take the Arahi 6 out on the road or trail? Here is a rundown of the shoe’s performance for key running descriptors:
- Cushioning – The plush midsole foam absorbs impact nicely while providing responsive cushioning ideal for longer mileage days.
- Support – The dual-density midsole, GUIDERAILS support, and structured upper keep your foot stable when fatigue sets in later in a run.
- Transition – The rockered midsole facilitates a quick heel-to-toe transition that helps turn over each stride efficiently.
- Traction – The lug pattern on the outsole provides reliable traction on most packed trails, dirt paths, roads, and pavement.
- Responsiveness – The compression molded midsole delivers a responsive, propulsive toe-off suited for tempo runs and focused speed workouts.
- Comfort – The cushioned yet supportive ride makes the Arahis comfortable for moderate to high mileage weeks of training across various distances.
Ideal Uses for the Arahi 6
From 5Ks to marathons, the Arahi 6 offers the cushioned support needed for road running and light trail use:
- Daily training runs
- Long runs
- Recovery days
- Tempo workouts, intervals, fartleks
- Races from 5K to marathon
- Light trails, gravel paths, treadmill runs
The dual stability features also make the Arahi suitable as an ultra or walking shoe for those needing extra support for hours on their feet. The Arahi may, however, feel overly supportive as a speedwork shoe for some neutral runners.
How Does the Arahi 6 Compare?
Compared to other leading stability shoes, the Arahi 6 stands out for its plush cushioning from the signature thick Hoka midsole while still providing ample support. Let’s compare key features:
Hoka Arahi 6
- Weight – 9.1 oz (M)
- Drop – 5mm
- Ideal Use – Long mileage road and light trail
- Unique Features – Early stage Meta-Rocker, dual-density midsole, GUIDERAILS support
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22
- Weight – 10.2 oz (M)
- Drop – 12mm
- Ideal Use – Varied road running
- Unique Features – GuideRails holistic support
Saucony Guide 15
- Weight – 9.9 oz (M)
- Drop – 8mm
- Ideal Use – Daily road mileage
- Unique Features – FORMFIT upper, PWRRUN midsole
New Balance Prism v2
- Weight – 10.8 oz (M)
- Drop – 10mm
- Ideal Use – Long distance road
- Unique Features – Dual-density medial post, fuel cell midsole
As this breakdown shows, the Arahi 6 lands in the middle of the pack with its weight and offers a lower heel drop than most stability counterparts. The ample Hokas cushioning paired with a dual-density midsole and GUIDERAILS support brings a unique approach to pronation-control in a long mileage shoe.
Pros and Cons of the Hoka Arahi 6
Here is a summary of the pros and cons for the Arahi 6 based on tester and reviewer feedback:
Pros:
- Supremely cushioned yet stable midsole
- Roomy toe box allows toes to splay
- Grippy traction even in wet conditions
- True to size lengthwise fit
- Excellent shock attenuation for joint protection
Cons:
- Narrow midfoot (for some) constricts those with wide feet
- Heel collar can irritate Achilles tendons
- Lack of air flow results in sweaty feet
- Outsole durability is only average
- Expensive retail price
Our Verdict
For runners seeking a well-cushioned pronation-control shoe for logging daily miles or completing long training runs, the Hoka Arahi 6 is an excellent option combining the supreme cushioning Hokas are known for with key stability features.
The plush cushioning, structured GUIDERAILS support, and smooth transition are suited for moderate to high mileage. Some fine-tuning of the snug midfoot fit would make the Arahi 6 more accommodating for wide-footed runners. But for those wanting both soft cushion and stability in a durable package built to go the distance, the Arahi 6 delivers.
FAQs About the Hoka Arahi 6
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about the key features and fit of the Arahi 6:
Is the Arahi 6 good for heel strikers?
Yes, the plush cushioning and dual density midsole absorb shock exceptionally well for heel strikers while providing firmer arch support needed for those who overpronate.
What is the Meta-Rocker shape?
The Meta-Rocker refers to the curved profile from heel through toe which enables a smoother transition. The early stage design used in the Arahi helps guide foot strike mechanics.
Is the toe box wide or narrow?
The forefoot and toe box allow plenty of room for toes to spread out. But it may feel narrow if you have exceptionally wide feet. Sizing up a half size can help.
Should I buy the Arahi for walking?
With its ample cushioning and stability, the Arahi makes an excellent walking shoe for those on their feet all day. Some wearers even use it as a comfortable recovery shoe post-injury.
What is the break-in time?
Most wearers find the Arahi comfortable right out of the box with little to no break-in time required. But give yourself up to 10-20 miles to adjust to the feel.
Can I use custom orthotics?
You may be able to fit thin custom orthotics in the Arahi but it has a relatively low clearance (cushioning takes up space). Trying on in-store with your orthotic is best.
Hopefully this detailed rundown helps you determine if the Hoka Arahi 6 stability running shoe is a good match for your running needs and preferences! Let me know if you have any other questions.
