HOKA Kaha 3 Low GTX Hiking Shoes Review
An in-depth review of the HOKA Kaha 3 Low GTX—plush, protective, and ready for big miles
October 27th, 2025
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Our verdict
The HOKA Kaha 3 Low GTX is for hikers who want maximum cushion, all-day comfort, and solid protection in any weather, on everything from long day hikes to multi-day adventures. We tested both the men’s and women’s versions for a month in Squamish, British Columbia. Having also logged plenty of miles in the original Kaha and Kaha 2, we’ve noticed some significant upgrades that make this one of our favorite low waterproof hiking shoes to date.
The Kaha 3 combines max plushness with a smoother, more refined design. This newest iteration introduces a dual-density sugarcane EVA midsole that feels responsive and bouncy, maintaining HOKA’s signature cushioned feel. The Kaha 3 has also been updated with GORE-TEX Invisible Fit waterproofing, a slick heel collar design, and a new one-piece outsole design that adds durability (to name just a few of the new tweaks we noticed).
The long-haul comfort, improved upper, and reliable Vibram Megagrip outsole make it a standout for anyone covering big miles in variable conditions. The tradeoff is weight—this isn’t a featherweight hiker—but if cushion, support, and durability are at the top of your list, the HOKA Kaha 3 Low GTX is an easy one to recommend.
If you’re curious about the mid version, read our in-depth review of the HOKA Kaha 3 GTX hiking boots. You can also find more of our favorite hiking shoes in our Best Men’s Hiking Shoes and Best Women’s Hiking Shoes guides.
HOKA Kaha 3 Low GTX
men's
Women's
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HOKA Kaha 3 Low GTX Specifications
Price: $220
Weight (per pair): 1 lb 11.8 oz (women’s), 2 lb 2.2 oz (men’s)
Cushion level (Light/Medium/Maximum): Maximum (rated “plush” on HOKA’s chart)
Heel-to-toe drop (mm): 7 mm (women’s), 8 mm (men’s)
Upper materials: Leather Working Group Gold-Rated waterproof nubuck leather and 100% recycled polyester mesh in tongue and lining
Midsole material: Dual-density midsole with 30% sugarcane EVA
Outsole material and lugs: One-piece Vibram Megagrip with Traction Lug and 4mm lugs
Waterproof technology: GORE-TEX Invisible Fit membrane with waterproof nubuck leather upper
Available sizes and widths: 5- 11 (women’s), 7- 15 (men’s)
Suitable for vegans: No
Comparison table
| TRAIL RUNNING SHOE | MSRP* | WEIGHT (PAIR) | UPPER MATERIAL | WATERPROOFING? | MIDSOLE | OUTSOLE |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| HOKA Kaha 3 Low GTX Men's Women's |
$220 | 2 lbs 2.3 oz (men's), 1 lb 11.8 oz (women's) | GORE-TEX | Leather and GORE-TEX Invisible Fit, recycled polyester | EVA (30% sugarcane) | Vibram Megagrip rubber |
| HOKA Anacapa 2 Low GTX Men's Women's |
$180 | 1 lb 14.7 oz (men's), 1 lb 8.8 oz (women's) | Waterproof Nubuck leather/recycled mesh | GORE-TEX Invisible Fit waterproof/breathable laminate | Compression-molded EVA (30% sugarcane) | Vibram Megagrip rubber |
| On Cloudrock Men's Women's |
$200 | 1 lb 14.3 oz (men’s), 1 lb 7.4 oz (women’s) | Recycled polyester, with TPU mudguard and toe cap | On’s proprietary membrane | Helion superfoam, Speedboard plate | Missiongrip rubber |
| On Cloudhorizon Waterproof Men's Women's |
$200 | 1 lb 9.2 oz (men's), 1 lb 3.7 oz (women's) | Recycled polyester | On’s proprietary membrane | EVA/Helion superfoam | Missiongrip rubber |
| Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX Low Men's Women's |
$170 | 1 lb 10.8 oz (men's), 1 lb 6.6 oz (women's) | Synthetic/textile | GORE-TEX | EnergyCell | All Terrain Contragrip rubber |
Best for
The women’s version of the HOKA Kaha 3 Low GTX. Photo by Steve Redmond
Day hiking and backpacking where all-day cushioning and stability are key
Mixed terrain including wet coastal trails, loose rocky sections, and steep switchbacks
New to experienced hikers who value support and underfoot protection
Shoulder-season adventures where waterproofing and durability really matter
What we liked
Upgraded dual-density sugarcane EVA midsole adds more bounce and energy return than previous versions
More refined upper design with a sleeker silhouette and improved fit/comfort around the heel collar
Durable construction that feels built to handle rugged terrain
Reliable traction from the Vibram Megagrip outsole, especially on wet rock and loose terrain
Excellent waterproofing with GORE-TEX Invisible Fit
What could be better
This is a heavy shoe, and you’ll feel it compared to lightweight hikers or trail runners
The nubuck leather and waterproofing combo means it can run warm in hot, dry conditions
Not as nimble or flexible as lighter, trail-runner-inspired hiking shoes
How we tested
The older Kaha 2 Low GTX on the left, and the updated Kaha 3 Low GTX on the right. Photo by Ebony Roberts
We tested both the men’s and women’s HOKA Kaha 3 Low GTX in Squamish, British Columbia, over late summer and into fall. We hiked on a mix of wet coastal forest trails, loose rocky paths, and steep switchbacks. Test locations included the Brohm Lake trails, the Alice Lake Park trail network, and the Smoke Bluffs Park loop, offering the ideal mix of terrain for evaluating the shoe’s performance.
Our testing focused on key performance metrics, such as stability, comfort, durability, traction, and waterproofing. In total, we logged dozens of trail miles on local hikes, deliberately seeking out technical sections, water crossings, and uneven surfaces.
For context, we’ve also logged significant miles in both the original HOKA Kaha Low GTX and Kaha 2 Low GTX over the last five years in all seasons aside from deep winter conditions, which gave us a clear benchmark for evaluating the updates in this third iteration. We also compared the Kaha 3 Low GTX against other leading low-cut hikers we’ve recently tested, including the Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX and Oboz Katabatic LT Low GTX, to see how it stacks up within its category.
Performance in the field
Side profile of the HOKA Kaha 3 Low GTX. Photo by Steve Redmond
Fit and sizing
The fit runs shorter and narrower than previous Kaha models we’ve tested. Our men’s tester (whose foot is average width and volume), who typically wears between a size 11.5 and 12, found the 11.5 fit well. Our women’s tester (me), usually between a 7.5 and 8 with wide, high-volume feet, found the fit of the 7.5 too snug. There’s moderate room in the toe box, but those with wider feet may notice the narrower feel right away.
Based on our experience (and HOKA’s own guidance), we recommend considering going up a half size, especially if you’re between sizes or plan to wear thicker hiking socks. Given the structured upper and padding on the interior, we’d recommend giving yourself a little break-in time around the house so they can mold to your feet before taking them out on a big hike.
Comfort and support
The HOKA Kaha 3 Low GTX delivers that unmistakable HOKA cushion in a sturdier, more supportive build. Over weeks of testing on Squamish’s mix of coastal mountain trails, they held up well on short and long days alike. Compared to the Kaha 2, which we’ve also tested, the updated design feels sleeker and more refined, with a more dialed-in heel fit and a less bulky upper.
The new, thick, dual-density midsole (made with 30% sugarcane) provides plush, all-day comfort but with a firmer, more stable feel than HOKA’s ultra-soft models. For reference, the lightweight HOKA Anacapa 2 Low GTX, which we’ve also tested in our guides to the Best Women’s Hiking Shoes and Best Men’s Hiking Shoes, feels much bouncier.
A dual-density midsole along with a one-piece outsole offer a combo of cushion and durability. Photo by Ebony Roberts
The Kaha 3 strikes a balanced mix of having plenty of cushioning to soak up impact on rugged terrain, while also being supportive enough to keep your ankles from rolling or wobbling under a heavy pack. The ankle-height collar sits just above the bone, and along with the structured upper and snug, padded collar, everything works together to keep you feeling supported without crossing over into restrictive—making them great for those who don’t want a stiff mid-height boot.
The lacing system plays a big role here. The combination of webbing loops and double top eyelets lets you cinch the upper half of the shoe securely, locking your heel down while allowing some natural flex through the forefoot. Once tightened, the laces stay put all day, adding to the shoe’s stable, planted feel, while also restricting heel rubbing.
Our men’s tester didn’t experience any rubbing, hot spots, or pressure points. Given the slightly narrower and more contoured fit than the previous model, I needed a day of house wear to feel confident getting out in the wild without feeling any rubbing or pressure points.
This isn’t a featherweight hiker that disappears on your foot, but if you prioritize stability over nimbleness, it’s a shoe you can fully trust when the trail gets sketchy.
Traction and grip
Vibram’s Megagrip rubber sets the standard for traction, and when paired with the Kaha 3 Low GTX’s 4mm multi-directional lugs, it delivered outstanding all-around grip on Squamish’s notoriously slick terrain. We noticed that many of the lugs are surrounded by tiny “teeth” that really add to the shoe’s ability to bite down in mud and loose dirt.
Tiny teeth help to bite down on mud and loose dirt. Photo by Ebony Roberts
We confidently crossed many wooden bridges, and the smooth, slippery wood steps that are a staple of our local trails. The rubber compound strikes a sweet spot between stickiness and durability, without feeling too soft or wearing out too quickly.
HOKA’s extended Hubble Heel (the oversized heel section that sticks out farther behind the shoe than a traditional heel) and SwallowTail geometry (the split, V-shape at the back of the heel) adds extra surface area at the rear, which increases stability on steep downhills and loose descents. This design gives you a wider landing platform, so when your heel strikes the ground, it feels more stable and smooth. This extra length is designed to soften heel strikes, for a more cushioned feel.
On the older Kaha 2, the oversized heel could feel a bit clunky and sometimes got in the way on the trail, but the Kaha 3’s redesign makes the shoe feel noticeably more streamlined.
It’s not a precision shoe like a scrambling-specific shoe, but for most typical trail conditions—wet, mixed, and often unpredictable—it delivers dependable traction. After weeks of testing, the outsole shows almost no wear, and we expect it to hold up well over many more seasons.
The outsole and lugs on the HOKA Kaha 3 Low GTX. Photo by Ebony Roberts
Waterproofing and breathability
The GORE-TEX Invisible Fit waterproofing works great—in our two-minute river test, our feet stayed completely dry. That said, this is a low-cut shoe, and given the heel collar design, the waterproofing doesn’t extend that far up. So, if you regularly hike in heavy rain, slush, or do frequent river crossings, the mid version is the better pick for extra coverage.
The nubuck leather upper beads water impressively well, keeping light rain and puddles out with ease. If you do fully submerge them, however, they take a significantly longer time to dry compared to mesh hikers due to the heavier materials.
Breathability isn’t the shoe’s strong suit. Our feet stayed comfortable in mild-to-cool conditions, but on hot, dry days, the waterproof nubuck upper felt noticeably warmer than lightweight mesh hiking shoes. It’s a classic waterproof trade-off in a leather shoe: excellent wet-weather protection with less airflow.
Durability and construction
The HOKA Kaha 3 Low GTX feels built to last, with premium waterproof nubuck leather that has a dense texture that shrugs off scuffs and beads water impressively well. After getting my light pink Kahas rather mucky on a rainy day out, the smooth surface was easy to wipe clean with a damp cloth.
A hardy TPU toe cap and heel wrap provide excellent protection, and the rubber around the base of the shoe helps guard against abrasion in rocky terrain.
The dual-density sugarcane EVA midsole has held its shape nicely through weeks of testing, showing no early signs of compression or breakdown. Combined with the burly Vibram outsole (a one-piece design to enhance durability), it gives the shoe a solid, long-haul feel that should hold up well over regular use.
If there’s a weak spot, it may be the fabric that makes up the collar and part of the tongue, which can cling to dirt and trail debris. However, in our testing, this material hasn’t snagged or ripped on anything yet. Overall, this is a shoe that feels trail tough and ready for heavy mileage.
The men’s HOKA Kaha 3 Low GTX. Photo by Ebony Roberts
Weight and packability
At 13.9 oz for women and 17.1 oz per shoe for men, the Kaha 3 Low GTX sits firmly in the heavier end of the hiking shoe spectrum. You definitely feel that weight compared to lighter, trail-runner-inspired options, but it’s balanced by the shoe’s stable platform, plush cushioning, and responsiveness. So even on long, uneven hikes with a pack, that extra heft actually works to add a planted, secure feel rather than feeling clunky or fatiguing.
They’re not the pair you’d toss on if you’re heading out on a mellow trail where you want to move as quickly as possible, but for day hikes and multi-day trips where you’re wearing them the whole time, the weight feels justified.
Compared to other low-cut hiking shoes we’ve trail-tested, they’re heavier than shoes like the Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX or the HOKA Anacapa 2 Low GTX, but they offer more underfoot protection and long-haul comfort in return.
Features
The laces on the HOKA Kaha 3 Low GTX are textured for extra grip. Photo by Ebony Roberts
Lacing system
The Kaha 3 Low GTX uses round, thicker laces with a textured pattern. They not only look sharp but help keep knots from loosening over time. Eyelets run partway down the shoe while fabric loops make up the bottom section, with double eyelets at the top that let you thread the laces through for a more secure heel lock. Overall, the design allows for a snug, locked-in fit through the upper while still giving the forefoot room to flex naturally.
Heel cup and ankle collar
The redesigned, Achilles-friendly, sock-like collar wraps comfortably around the ankle and does a great job keeping out debris. It’s one of the most noticeable differences compared to the Kaha 2. It’s well padded and contoured the inside, forming around the ankle for a secure feel that enhances overall comfort and support on long hikes. As the padding breaks in, it molds around your specific foot shape, so it feels customized.
Padding on the inside helps to contour the ankle and provide support. Photo by Ebony Roberts
Toe cap protection
A substantial TPU toe and heel cap offer excellent protection against rocks and roots. It feels tough without adding unnecessary bulk.
Protective toe caps and a burly outsole give the HOKA Kaha 3 Low GTX a protective feel. Photo by Steve Redmond
Style and colorways
This is classic HOKA styling—bold and chunky. If you like the aesthetic, you’ll love these. Men’s colors lean earthy, while women’s options are more limited to black and the soft “Rose Latte” color we tested. I really liked the trendy ballet-pink shade for adding something different to my outdoor footwear lineup that’s usually all neutrals.
We loved the baby pink color of the HOKA Kaha 3 Low GTX—a nice departure from our earth colored shoes. Photo by Ebony Roberts
Sustainability notes
The nubuck leather on the Kaha 3 Low GTX comes from Leather Working Group (LWG) Gold-rated suppliers, and the upper uses 71% recycled polyester (100% on the tongue and lining mesh). The waterproof GTX membrane and DWR are PFAS free. On the brand level, HOKA has made strong packaging and material commitments, using over 95% recycled or certified packaging. However, there’s currently no resale or recycling program for used shoes, and the company doesn’t participate in third-party fair manufacturing programs. For more on their impact and sustainability efforts, check out HOKA’s Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability Report.
Who should buy the HOKA Kaha 3 Low GTX Hiking Shoes?
Buy if you want a max-cushion, waterproof hiking shoe built for long day hikes and backpacking in mixed or wet terrain, and value stability, protection, and comfort over shaving weight.
Skip if you prefer a lightweight, nimble shoe that feels closer to a trail runner, or you mostly hike in hot, dry conditions where the nubuck leather and GORE-TEX build may feel too warm.
Where to buy the hoka kaha 3 gtx
The HOKA Kaha 3 Low GTX hiking shoes are popular footwear, so you have options when it comes to retailers. Here are some of the pros of the retailers.
REI
Pros: 100% satisfaction policy for 1 year; 10% dividend for members.
Zappos
Pros: 365-day free shipping on returns, fast delivery with free VIP program
Similar products
HOKA Anacapa 2 Low GTX
Price: $180
Weight: 1 lb 14.7 oz (men's), 1 lb 8.8 oz (women's)
Upper materials: Waterproof Nubuck leather/recycled mesh
Midsole material: Compression-molded EVA (30% sugarcane)
Outsole material and lugs: Vibram Megagrip rubber
Waterproof technology: GORE-TEX Invisible Fit waterproof/breathable laminate
The Anacapa 2 Low GTX is another popular waterproof cushioned hiker in HOKA’s lineup, but the Kaha 3 Low GTX is the burlier, more structured option. The Anacapa 2 is lighter, more flexible, and better ventilated, making it a strong choice for warm-weather day hikes or those who prefer a softer, less rigid feel. The Kaha 3 brings more underfoot protection, a beefier upper, and a noticeably more stable platform, ideal for carrying weight or tackling rougher terrain. In short, the Anacapa 2 feels more like a cushy hybrid between a hiker and trail shoe, while the Kaha 3 is an all-conditions workhorse built for durability and support.
Read more in our in-depth review of the Hoka Anacapa 2 GTX.
HOKA Anacapa 2 Low GTX
Women's
Women's
On Cloudrock Low Waterproof
Price: $200
Weight: 1 lb 14.3 oz (men’s), 1 lb 7.4 oz (women’s)
Upper materials: Recycled polyester, with TPU mudguard and toe cap
Midsole material: Helion superfoam, Speedboard plate
Outsole material and lugs: Missiongrip rubber
Waterproof technology: On’s proprietary membrane
Both the On Cloudrock Low Waterproof and the HOKA Kaha 3 Low GTX are cushioned, structured, and supportive hiking shoes built for all-day comfort. However, the Cloudrock leans firmer and more boot-like underfoot, and it’s lighter. On the other hand, the Kaha 3 Low GTX has a more rockered stride and a plusher feel over big mileage, with a wider and more stable base.
The Cloudrock’s Missiongrip outsole offers solid traction, but the Kaha 3’s Vibram Megagrip feels more confident on wet, rocky terrain. If you prioritize stability and cushion for demanding terrain or longer days, the Kaha 3 edges ahead—though the Cloudrock remains a great pick for hikers who want support without the added weight, or those seeking a durable non-leather alternative.
Learn more in our in-depth review of the On Cloudrock Low Waterproof hiking shoes.
On Cloudrock Low Waterproof
men's
Women's
Why you should trust us / About the Author
I’ve spent nearly a decade testing and reviewing outdoor gear for leading publications including The New York Times’ Wirecutter, Outside Magazine, The Wall Street Journal Buy Side, REI Co-op, and Forbes Vetted.
I’ve interviewed dozens of industry experts over the years, and hiked in 50+ pairs of hiking shoes and boots, logging plenty of trail miles in the Pacific Northwest and beyond. I understand that there’s no one best pair of hiking shoes for everybody, but there is the best pair for you, and I’m here to help you find it.
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