The Hoka Arahi 6 and the Saucony Guide 15 are both stability running shoes designed for runners who need moderate support and guidance. These shoes provide a responsive, supportive ride while still offering flexibility and comfort.
In this in-depth comparison, we’ll look at the key features of each shoe and how they stack up for various types of training and foot issues to help you decide which is the better choice for your needs.
Similarities And Differences Between Arahi 6 and Saucony Guide 15:
| Feature | Hoka Arahi 6 | Saucony Guide 15 |
|---|---|---|
| Launched In | 2022 | 2022 |
| Stability | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flexibility | Good | Good |
| Sizing | Men’s 7-14, Women’s 5-12 | Men’s 7-14, Women’s 5-12 |
| Weight | 9.3 oz (Men’s size 9) | 9.7 oz (Men’s size 9) |
| Cushioning | CMEVA foam | PWRRUN foam |
| Outsole | Durable rubber | Durable rubber |
| Midsole | CMEVA foam with J-Frame | PWRRUN foam with HOLLOW-TECH |
| Upper | Lightweight mesh | Engineered mesh |
| Retail Price | $140 | $86 |
Features Comparison
Materials
The Hoka Arahi 6 uses a durable rubber outsole along with a CMEVA foam midsole that incorporates a stability technology called J-Frame. This dual-density foam helps guide the foot. The upper is a lightweight and breathable mesh.
The Saucony Guide 15 also has a durable rubber outsole and uses a PWRRUN foam midsole. Its stability feature is called HOLLOW-TECH, which is a medial post to prevent overpronation. The upper is an engineered mesh designed for comfort and support.
Both shoes use high-quality materials, but the Arahi 6’s CMEVA foam midsole focuses more on responsiveness while the Guide 15’s PWRRUN places an emphasis on durability and energy return.
Durability
In terms of durability, both shoes perform well mile after mile. The Hoka Arahi 6‘s sturdy rubber outsole and CMEVA foam midsole maintain their integrity even under heavy use.
The Saucony Guide 15 is also built to last, with testers reporting the PWRRUN foam retains its bounce and shock absorption for many runs. The Guide 15’s outsole rubber is also hardy and able to withstand abrasive surfaces.
When it comes to the upper, the Arahi 6’s lightweight mesh and the Guide 15’s engineered mesh are both breathable materials that hold up well over time. Ultimately, both shoes are solidly constructed with durability in mind. Runners can rely on either option for many miles of training and racing.
Fit
The Hoka Arahi 6 and Saucony Guide 15 both offer a secure, sock-like fit. The Arahi 6’s upper is designed with a breathable mesh material that adapts comfortably to the shape of the foot, while overlays provide targeted support. The midfoot area offers a secure hold.
In Guide 15, the engineered mesh upper material provides a flexible, dynamic fit that conforms naturally to the foot. The midfoot area has an internal fit system to lock down and stabilize the foot. Both shoes run true to size for most runners, with options for standard and wide widths.
The Arahi 6 may work better for runners who want a particularly roomy toe box. The Guide 15 will suit runners looking for a snugger midfoot wrap. Overall, both shoes deliver a dialed-in fit, but the Arahi 6 caters more to runners needing a wider forefoot.
Stability
For runners who need moderate pronation control, both the Hoka Arahi 6 and Saucony Guide 15 supply steady, supportive rides. The Arahi 6 incorporates Hoka’s J-Frame technology in the midsole, which is a dual-density foam that gently guides the foot through the gait cycle while allowing for some natural motion.
The guide rail support system in Guide 15 also encourages an efficient stride by preventing excess movement. Testers note both shoes offer noticeable stability without feeling overly corrective or constrained. The Arahi 6 focuses more on guiding the foot’s motion organically, while the Guide 15 takes a slightly firmer approach to keeping the foot on track.
Runners who need more significant pronation control may lean toward Guide 15, while those wanting stability with flexibility can opt for the Arahi 6. Both deliver stability but utilize different mechanisms to achieve it.
Cushioning
In the cushioning department, the Hoka Arahi 6 uses the company’s signature thick, pillowy midsole foam to provide soft yet responsive cushioning. The CMEVA foam midsole absorbs impact while also delivering energy return.
In contrast, the Saucony Guide 15 has a thinner, firmer PWRRUN midsole that offers a rigid platform for transitioning through the gait cycle. Though not as plush, the Guide 15’s cushioning remains comfortable. The extra foam in the Arahi 6 contributes to its weighted feel, while the Guide 15 feels lighter and lower to the ground.
For runners who want luxurious, marshmallow-like softness underfoot, the Arahi 6 is the winner for cushioning. But the Guide 15 offers sufficient shock absorption in a more responsive and agile package.
Value for Money
With retail prices of $140 for the Hoka Arahi 6 and $86 for the Saucony Guide 15, there is a more significant price difference between the two models. The Arahi 6 delivers plush cushioning and a durable ride, but the $140 price tag is on the higher end for stability trainers.
At $86, the Guide 15 is more affordable while still providing a responsive and well-constructed shoe. For shoppers on a budget, the Guide 15 gives you stability and support at a reasonable mid-range cost. The Arahi 6 does justify its price with ample cushioning, but $140 is a premium price point.
If you need extra comfort and aren’t as concerned about cost, the Arahi 6 is a worthwhile investment. However, the Guide 15 hits a nice balance of tech, quality, and accessibility at its lower price. In terms of value for dollars spent, the Saucony Guide 15 may provide a little more shoe for the money.
Performance Comparisons
Walking
For walking and casual use, the Hoka Arahi 6 gives enough cushioning to keep you comfortable even when staying on your feet for hours. The soft midsole absorbs shock with every step, while providing a smooth walking gait cycle.
The Saucony Guide 15 can also handle walking with its supportive midsole, but testers note it feels firmer underfoot compared to the well-cushioned Arahi 6.
The Arahi 6’s extra foam and flexibility help attenuate the repeated impacts from walking. Both work for casual use, but the Arahi 6’s plush ride makes it a little more comfortable for extended walking sessions.
Running
When used for running, the Hoka Arahi 6 provides a soft, lively ride. Runners note the responsive CMEVA foam transitions quickly from heel to toe while maintaining cushioning. The Saucony Guide 15 has a firmer, lower-to-the-ground feel and snappy energetic transitions.
For midfoot and forefoot strikers, both shoes offer a smooth, rockered transition through each stride. Heel strikers may appreciate the Arahi 6’s plusher landing. In terms of speed work, the Guide 15’s highly responsive midsole makes it a strong choice for tempo runs and fast-paced training.
The added weight of the Arahi 6’s extra cushioning can take a bit of pep out of the stride during faster running. For easy to moderate paces, both shoes perform well. Light, efficient runners and those doing speedwork will likely lean toward Guide 15. The Arahi 6 suits heavier runners and those focused more on cushioning and comfort over speed.
Plantar Fasciitis
The ample cushioning of the Hoka Arahi 6 helps take pressure off the heels and arches, making it a good choice for runners with plantar fasciitis. The soft CMEVA foam midsole absorbs shock to reduce irritation.
The Saucony Guide 15 is firmer underfoot, which some runners with plantar fasciitis may find uncomfortable, especially when the issue is flaring up. However, Guide 15 still provides decent cushioning, support and flexibility to accommodate the condition when managed and inflammation is low.
Overall, the Arahi 6’s plush ride is better equipped to handle the sensitivity and pain associated with inflamed plantar fascia tissues. Its extra cushioning helps relieve discomfort mile after mile.
Standing All Day
For people who spend long hours on their feet, such as nurses, teachers, and retail workers, the Hoka Arahi 6 is an excellent choice for comfort. The soft CMEVA foam midsole cushions feet and helps combat fatigue when having to stand for extended periods.
The Saucony Guide 15 can also work for all-day standing with its supportive sole. However, some wearers may find it to be too thin and firm underfoot for ultimate comfort when used this way.
The Arahi 6’s thicker construction and plush cushioning make it easier on the feet, joints, and back when stationary on hard surfaces. So healthcare workers, servers, and others needing a standing shoe will likely favor the Arahi’s extra padding.
Final Verdict
In the end, choosing between the Hoka Arahi 6 and the Saucony Guide 15 comes down to personal preference and priorities. Runners who want maximum cushioning in a supportive shoe will be happier with the Arahi 6.
But runners looking for a moderately cushioned stability trainer with an energetic, propulsive stride will appreciate the Guide 15. Both provide stable platforms for mild to moderate overpronators across a variety of paces.
The Arahi 6 shines more for comfort and shock absorption, while the Guide 15 offers a responsive, agile ride. Considering your foot type, mileage and speed needs will help determine which model is the better choice.