HOKA Kaha 3 GTX Hiking Boots Review
June 26th, 2025
Home → Gear Reviews → Outdoor Footwear
Our verdict
The HOKA Kaha 3 GTX hiking boots are a standout from a brand that consistently creates footwear that is built with stability and comfort in mind. The Kaha 3s are a workhorse of a boot that carried our testers through sand, over rocks, and through late-season snow and mud with ease.
My first experience with shoes made by HOKA were several years ago with a pair of HOKA Cliftons, the first running shoe that felt supportive and comfortable after years of ankle and foot injuries. HOKA has been a brand I’ve supported ever since, and I spent last summer backpacking in the Wind River Range with a pair of HOKA Anacapas. The Kaha 3s live up to HOKA’s reputation for comfortable, supportive footwear.
Some of my favorite features are the dual density sugarcane EVA midsole that provides outstanding cushion, the GORE-TEX invisible fit which kept my feet dry through low creek crossings and slushy snow, and the Vibram Megagrip outsole that didn’t slip on a wide array of terrain.
For a shoe that comes in mid and low, the HOKA Kaha 3s are a standout, and worth the cost for a piece of gear that is versatile and durable. This is why we’ve named them Best Overall in our Best Lightweight Hiking Boots guide.
HOKA Kaha 3 GTX Hiking Boots
Men's
Women's
We create reader-supported, objective gear reviews independently selected by our editors. This story may contain affiliate links, which help fund our website. When you click on the links to purchase gear, we may get a commission — without costing you an extra cent. Thank you for supporting our work and mission of outdoor coverage for every body! Learn more.
Specs
Weight: 16.80 oz (women’s); 20.00 oz (men’s)
Heel-to-toe drop: 7 mm (women’s); 8 mm (men’s)
Midsole: Dual density EVA (30% sugarcane-based)
Upper: Waterproof nubuck leather with GORE-TEX invisible fit
Outsole: Vibram Megagrip with 4mm traction lugs
Fit: Neutral, plush cushioning
Suitable for vegans: No (contains leather)
Comparison tables
Men’s
| HIKING BOOT | HEIGHT | MSRP | WEIGHT PER PAIR | SOLE MATERIAL | MIDSOLE | UPPER MATERIAL | WATERPROOF TECHNOLOGY | WIDTH |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| HOKA Kaha 3 GTX | Mid, Low | $240 | 1 lbs, 9.8 oz | Vibram Megagrip | EVA (30% sugarcane EVA) | Leather Working Group Gold-rated waterproof nubuck leather | GORE-TEX Invisible Fit | Medium |
| La Sportiva TX Hike Mid | Mid | $199 | 1 lb, 15 oz | Vibram Ecostep EVO rubber | Compression EVA with co-molded stabilizing insert | Nubuck leather | GORE-TEX | Medium |
| Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX | Mid | $175 | 1 lb, 14 oz | Rubber | EnergyCell | Polyurethane-coated leather/textile | GORE-TEX | Medium |
| Merrell Moab 3 Mid | Mid | $130 | 2 lbs 2 oz | Vibram TC5+ | Merrell Air Cushion | Suede & mesh | Not waterproof | Medium, wide |
| Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof | Mid | $150 | 2 lbs 4 oz | Vibram TC5+ | Merrell Air Cushion | Suede and mesh | M Select Dry | Medium, wide |
Women’s
| HIKING BOOT | HEIGHT | MSRP | WEIGHT PER PAIR | SOLE MATERIAL | MIDSOLE | UPPER MATERIAL | WATERPROOF TECHNOLOGY | WIDTH |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| HOKA Kaha 3 GTX | Mid, Low | $240 | 2 lbs, 1.6 oz | Vibram Megagrip | EVA (30% sugarcane EVA) | Leather Working Group Gold-rated waterproof nubuck leather | Gore-Tex Invisible Fit | Medium |
| La Sportiva TX Hike Mid | Mid | $199 | 1 lb, 12.6 oz | Vibram Ecostep EVO rubber | Compression EVA with co-molded stabilizing insert | Nubuck leather | GORE-TEX | Medium |
| Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX | Mid | $175 | 1 lb, 10.1 oz | Rubber | EnergyCell | Polyurethane-coated leather/textile | GORE-TEX | Medium |
| Merrell Moab 3 Mid | Mid | $130 | 1 lb, 13 oz | Vibram TC5+ | EVA | Pigskin leather/mesh | Not waterproof | Medium, wide |
| Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof | Mid | $150 | 1 lbs 13 oz | Vibram TC5+ | Merrell Air Cushion | Pigskin leather/mesh | M Select Dry | Medium, wide |
Who is it for?
One thing I have loved during my months of heavily testing the HOKA Kaha 3s is how versatile the boots are under a variety of trail conditions and distances. I found the mid-height versions to be more versatile overall, as our other tester wore a pair of men’s Kaha 3s in the low-height version, and they were not as suitable as the mids for early spring conditions with slushy snow patches.
In addition to the mid-height Kaha 3s, we tested the low-height, which we found less suitable for early spring conditions.
That being said, the Kaha 3s are useful in a variety of settings–both overnight backpacking trips and short and long day hikes. Those looking for boots that can cover a wide variety of uses and conditions would find a solid fit with the Kaha 3.
The HOKA Kaha 3s are also suitable for those looking for a supportive boot that provides a cushy and cloudlike feel underfoot. I’ve had a broken ankle, multiple sprains, and other injuries over the years that require me to wear footwear that keeps my feet feeling stable and soft so I can go further without pain. While no boot or shoe can replace physical therapy or necessary healing time, I found the Kaha 3 to provide the security I need. The EVA midsoles and the thickly cushioned heels made my feet feel like they floated over most terrain. I was pain free on hikes that would have caused me pain in a different pair of boots.
We found the HOKA Kaha 3 GTX hiking shoes are suitable for those looking for a supportive boot that provides a cushy and cloudlike feel underfoot.
How we tested
We tested the HOKA Kaha 3 in both the mid and low-heights in late winter, early spring, and early summer conditions in the Mountain West. The Kaha 3s have traversed creeks full of ice cold snow melt, muddy and slippery slopes, packed ice and late season snow, and normal trail conditions where the ground is dry and easy to cover. They’ve been strapped into snowshoes for multiple snowshoeing hikes and have even navigated through deep and hot sand dunes in early summer.
The HOKA Kaha 3 GTX hiking shoes strap easily into snowshoes.
What we liked
Shock-absorbent EVA midsole
Stability
Traction and grip with the Vibram sole
HOKA’s Hubble Heel and SwallowTail design
Excellent waterproofing
What could be better
Increased breathability, can run hot
Lower heel drop options (Kaha 3s have a 7mm drop)
Lack of wide fit options
Features
Fit and comfort
The HOKA Kaha 3s fit me well, with a slightly large fit that accommodates thick socks and the potential swelling that can occur during hikes. I appreciate not having to size up, which many boots require in order to prevent swelling and fit thicker socks. The boots feel snug without constriction, with the ankle on the Mids sitting securely around me when tied down.
Some reviews of the Kaha 3 mention that the toe box feels small, but I found it to be fitted correctly, with enough room to freely move my toes without feeling like my feet are loosely moving through the shoe. My toe box is not particularly narrow but this still may be an issue for those who need extra wide toe boxes.
I have worn boots that feel too loose, and ultimately they cause pain in the places I’ve injured in the past, but the Kaha 3s keep my feet in place and feeling pain free. This is also due to the achilles-friendly collar and the Hubble Heel technology that creates a truly comfortable experience while walking. It feels redundant to call a hiking boot comfortable or cushy, words all too often used for hiking boots when every boot is made with comfort as the goal, but the Kaha 3s truly fit the bill.
Some hiking shoe discomfort can be mitigated with insoles. If you’re curious, we have a guide to help you decide if insoles are right for you.
Waterproof protection
We began testing the Kaha 3 in spring in southern and southeastern Idaho, a time when most trails are still thick with snow that is still powdery at higher elevations but slushy and full of ice at lower elevations. The GORE-TEX invisible fit membrane, made of 71% recycled polyester fabric, kept our feet dry through ice, snow, and creek crossings.
Our first excursion, me in the mid-height and our other tester in the low-height Kaha 3s, was in the Caribou-Targhee National Forest, in an area with multiple creek crossings and steep slopes with mud and melting snow. While our feet felt cold in the creek when standing in it to test the waterproofing for nearly a minute, they emerged completely dry. The low-height Kaha 3s take on water but that is due to the lower height and unrelated to the GORE-TEX’s performance.
While crossing creeks I immersed nearly the entirety of the shoe in the water, and the GTX invisible fit membrane was visibly working as I could see water beading off as it poured over the boot. The GORE-TEX membrane in the Kaha 3 is bonded to the uppers, versus being sewn onto them, an effort meant to improve durability and reduce any visible seams, thus being invisible to the wearer. I would rely on the Kaha 3s to keep my feet dry through any wet condition as long as I’m crossing water that is lower than the top of the mid-height boots.
Traction and stability
Over mixed trail conditions the HOKA Kaha 3’s traction was dependable and grippy. With a Vibram Megagrip outsole that sports only 4mm lugs, I was surprised at how stable I felt on nearly every terrain that I traversed. The lugs are laid out in a wide and multidirectional pattern, leaving lots of space for contact with the ground beneath. This wide surface area coupled with the Megagrip outsole created a boot that offers all around consistent performance when it comes to traction.
On the vast majority of trails the Kahas were stickier than I had expected, especially on wet rocks during stream crossings and on slippery ice. The soles are flexible as well, which I appreciate in contrast to many boots which are stiff and rigid. The flexibility does have its drawbacks, as navigating steep terrain with a flexible boot made for some difficulty with navigating steep and wet ground.
Cushion and support
The HOKA Kaha 3s are full of features that we stood out as we tested, but the dual-density midsole with 30% sugarcane EVA stood out the mosts. This midsole feels springy, soft, and stable. With 30% sugarcane EVA, the midsoles are made of 30% carbon negative materials, which are a bio-based alternative to traditional EVA which is petroleum based.
I always appreciate when gear is made with sustainable features that are still high performance, which feels apparent in the excellent shock absorption. I often carry heavy packs and am a larger-bodied person myself, along with our other tester, and both of us felt comfortable as we racked up miles without feeling pain reverberating through our hips or knees.
Durability
Durability is one of the most important features I look for when choosing gear, especially when making an investment in footwear that’s above the price I’d normally pay for a non-hiking pair of boots. The waterproof nubuck leather is Leather Working Group Gold-rated and it feels soft to the touch without compromising on strength. The full rubber outsole is one entire piece, decreasing the amount of seams on the boot and lessening vulnerable areas that could eventually rip or tear.
Through the several hikes during our testing period, the Kaha 3s showed no signs or stress or breakdown. This is evident in the TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) toe cap, which resists abrasions without feeling too rigid or heavy. In our tests, the Kaha 3s have been caked in mud and scraped along sharp volcanic rocks without any creasing or visible wear.
Our other tester, who wore the low-height Kaha 3s in a men’s size, is notoriously hard on footwear. After dozens of miles, he reported that the Kaha 3s felt tough, and that they would last for years. I have come away from testing with the same conclusion, and expect to make the Kaha 3’s my primary hiking boot because it feels reliable and extremely durable.
Sustainability
As we mentioned in the durability segment, the nubuck leather on the Kaha 3s is made from leather sourced from Leather Working Group Gold-rated suppliers. Leather Working Group assesses the environmental compliance and sustainability practices of leather suppliers, looking at the traceability of the hides, environmental policies and procedures, water usage, worker safety, and several other factors that they use to calculate their rating.
The upper fabric is made from 71% recycled polyester, with the tongue, quarter, and lining mesh containing 100% recycled polyester. The durable water-repellent treatment and waterproof membrane are PFAS free. The polyurethane sockliner is made from 50% bio-renewable Susterra propanediol, which is a renewable, plant-based, and petroleum-free material. The EVA midsole is made from 30% sugarcane, a carbone negative and bio-based alternative to conventional petroleum-based EVA.
Lacing system
I can be picky about lacing systems, especially because I frequently wear acrylic nails that can make lacing boots properly difficult. The quick-lace metal hooks at the top of the boot were easy to secure and large enough for my fingers to navigate, which allowed me to tighten the boots comfortably around my weak ankles.
The ability to use only the lower loops for a looser fit is a helpful feature, allowing me to easily tighten or loosen as needed. My ankles and feet felt stable in the boot.
Breathability
Breathability is truly my only gripe about the Kaha 3s, though I acknowledge that I run very hot and this issue may be lessened if you don’t experience heat or sweat easily. With the fully wrapped GTX invisible fit membrane and the lack of seams entirely, what the boot gains in excellent water and weather protection it loses in breathability.
I initially tested these boots in late winter and early spring conditions, and did not notice feeling overheated in them at all. As the days have grown warmer though, especially while hiking in high desert conditions which are abundant in southern and eastern Idaho, I have found my feet feel sweatier and warmer than they do in the trail runners that I typically wear. There are easy ways I’ve found to combat this, namely wearing a lighter weight merino wool sock, which lessens the hot feeling in my feet. I hope that future iterations of the Kaha find a middle road between full waterproof protection and increased breathability.
Performance in the field
-
As a hiker with many past injuries, I take comfort very seriously. I have had many hikes ruined by sore feet and aching ankles, and nothing feels worse than feeling so distracted by the pain in my ankles that I can’t enjoy being outdoors. With the Kahas, I haven’t had to worry about pain, even when worn right out of the box.
On a hike over massive sand dunes in southern Idaho, the other tester and I felt as secure as we could feel while traversing deep sand. This kind of terrain would almost always make my ankles hurt as they were at an angle the entire hike, but the Kahas helped immensely with stability and comfort. Our other tester agreed, sharing that his arches, which often cause him pain over longer hikes, were pain free by the end of our hikes.
-
The GORE-TEX invisible fit membrane makes for excellent waterproofing. Despite staying dry, my feet stayed warm as well, even as I walked through slush, mud, and ice. While the Kaha sports solid weather protection, there is a hit taken to breathability due to the lack of seams in the waterproof membrane and the thick leather.
I plan to use the mid-height Kaha 3s for hiking in cooler conditions since I tend to run warm, though our other tester did not report feeling hot—so this may be a preference over a performance issue. Overall though, I wouldn’t hesitate to use the Kahas in inclement weather conditions.
-
At first, I was skeptical about the grip and traction that the Kaha 3s could provide as the soles looked slightly less grippy, at least visually, when compared to my HOKA Anacapas. I was quickly proven wrong though, as the grip on the Kaha 3s was strong, even on slippery and muddy terrain. I hiked up steep hills with mud deep enough for it to feel difficult to lift my feet, but I still felt sure of my footing with the Kahas. On descents the grip felt sure against wet rock and ice, and I would trust the Kaha 3s for backpacking trips where I need traction I can depend on.
Our other tester felt similarly, and even when post-holing in ice and snow he was able to lift himself out without slipping. -
Although we both have not been able to log a year of hikes with the Kaha 3s yet, we both feel as if they are durable boots that will last us for years. I have been on the hunt for a while now for a boot to replace my Merrell Moabs, my most dependable boot that I’ve owned over the years, and the Kaha 3s seem to be an ideal option. The low-height version feels equally durable, and our tester plans to replace most of his summer footwear with the Kahas. From the metal lace hooks to the limited seams, HOKA designed the Kaha 3 to be tough. I especially appreciated the TPU toe and heel cap, which will protect the boot from the many rocks and rough surfaces it will encounter.
Other reviewers, like OutdoorGear Lab and Mountaineer Journey, rank the Kahas high on durability. Both reviews mention the thick nubuck leather and durable Vibram outsoles that indicate that the Kaha 3 is built to last.
HOKA Kaha 3 GTX vs. similar hiking boots
The Hoka Kaha 3s are an investment piece for most hikers, set above the lower/mid budget hiking boots like the Merrell Moab 3 or Keen Targhee IV, but they are worth it after the weekly hikes we’ve taken them on. The Hubble Heel and Swallowtail heel collar set it apart, providing more cushion and comfort than nearly any similarly priced and designed boot.
Should I buy the HOKA Kaha 3 GTX?
Buy if: You want a supportive, waterproof hiking shoe with extra cushion and comfort.
A theme throughout this review is that the Kaha 3s are one of the most comfortable boots I’ve worn, and for good reason as the comfort and cushion are the most noticeable aspect of these boots. I’ve yet to find a pair of footwear for hiking and adventuring that is as stable and soft for my almost constantly aching feet as the Kaha.
If you have sensitive feet, need ankle stability, or just someone who prioritizes keeping their feet pain free on the trail, the Kaha 3s are the way to go. Over uneven rock and muddy trails, I felt confident as I walked. HOKA’s thick Hubble Heel design looks different than any other boot I’ve tried, and the design is not just for aesthetics, as I can feel the difference in my foot and ankle when wearing the Kahas.
Skip if: Your feet run hot and you need lightweight footwear.
The breathability of the Kaha 3 GTX is really my only drawback, as someone who runs hot and hikes frequently in warm and sunny places. If you similarly struggle with sweaty and hot feet you may experience the heavy feeling of wearing boots that are raising your body temperature, so while they perform excellently in colder and wet temperatures, they may not be the best fit for extremely hot days.
If you don’t struggle with heat, I would recommend trying them, but for those who do they may not be the most ideal first pick. Additionally, they are fairly heavy and can feel clunky on hikes where I would want to feel more nimble and responsive to the conditions of the trail. I tend to prefer using trail running shoes on hot days and certain trails, and for a long trip I would likely opt for those instead of my Kahas out of concern of feeling like they would be heavy on my feet after a long day of hiking.
For more suggestions, check out our Best Lightweight Hiking Boots, Best Men’s and Women’s Hiking Shoes, and Best Men’s and Women’s Trail Running Shoes guides.
We recommend the HOKA Kaha 3 GTX hiking boots to those seeking supportive, waterproof, cushioned, and comfortable hiking footwear, and aren’t concerned with breathability or weight.
Where to buy the HOKA Kaha 3 GTX
The HOKA Kaha 3 GTX is a popular boot, found easily at many different retailers.
REI:
Pros: Great return policy and dividend for REI members.
Amazon:
Pros: Fast and free delivery for Amazon Prime members.
Zappos:
Pros: 365-day free shipping on returns, fast delivery with free VIP program
Similar products
La Sportiva TX Hike Mids
Waterproofing: Gore-Tex
Upper: Nubuck leather
Midsole: Compression EVA with co-molded stabilizing insert
Outsole: Vibram Ecostep EVO rubber
Weight: 1 lb, 15 oz (men's), 1 lb, 12.6 oz (women's)
The Trail Bite heels of the La Sportiva TX Hike Mids sport unbeatable traction and grip. The tread/lugs feel deep and solid, and miles can be racked up with them without feeling bogged down by wearing heavy boots. They are $200 generally, and can range at various retailers, so they are currently less expensive than the Kaha 3. That being said, they have been out for much longer and have lowered in price since their initial introduction. The La Sportiva’s have a leg up over the HOKA Kaha 3 in regard to breathability, but are not as cushioned or soft as the Kaha 3.
La Sportiva TX Hike Mids
Men's
Women's
Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX
Waterproofing: GORE-TEX
Upper Material: Polyurethane-coated leather/textile
Midsole Material: EnergyCell
Outsole: Rubber
Weight: 1 lb 14.4 oz (men's), 1 lb 10.1 oz (women's)
The Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX is another competitor to the HOKA Kaha 3, with a lower price, slightly lower weight, and built with a solidly comfortable EnergyCell midsole. While still not as soft as the Kaha 3, they are another excellent option. Read our in-depth review of the Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid Gore-Tex for more information. It’s the overall winner in our Best Lightweight Hiking Boots guide. The hiking shoe version of the Salomon X Ultra 4 also was a winner in our Best Hiking Shoes guide.
Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX
Men's
Women's
Merrell Moab 3
Sizes available: 7 to 15 (men's), 5 to 12 (women's), kids sizes
Width: Medium, wide
Waterproofing: M Select Dry
Upper: Suede and mesh, pigskin leather and mesh (vegan versions available)
Midsole: Merrell Air Cushion
Outsole: Vibram TC5+
Weight (pair): 2 lbs 4 oz (men’s), 1 lb 13 oz (women’s)
It’s no secret that the Merrell Moab 3s are one of my favorite boots, especially considering the fact that I wore a pair of Moab 2s for years past their normal lifespan. While I always recommend Moab 3 to those just getting into hiking who are looking for a dependable pair of boots that sit at a generally lower price, I would recommend the Kaha 3 to hikers new and experienced who have the funds to invest in one of the best all-around boots I’ve tried in years.
The Moab 3, while also a heavier boot that can feel warm on high heat days, lacks anything similar to the HOKA Kaha 3 regarding comfort and cushion. The Moab 3s are still a very good boot, especially for those relatively new to spending long days outdoors, and the price, which tends to hover around $100 and even less during sales periods, can’t be beat.
The Merrell Moab 3 is also available in GTX and waterproof versions.
Merrell Moab 3
Men's
Women's
About the Author / Why you should trust us
I am a hiker who believes that all bodies and identities deserve to find themselves outside. I have worked and lived in outdoor education and program spaces, leading backpacking and camping trips for young people who have logged hundreds of miles over the years. I’ve navigated the Sea to Summit Trail, sections of the Pacific Crest Trail, the Lost Coast Trail, and others. I also have previous ankle and toe injuries, making my feet sensitive to boots and shoes that offer low arch and ankle support. With these injuries and my experience, I am intentional about the footwear I choose to wear and recommend. I now live in southern Idaho, where I spend most weekends adventuring around the Sawtooths, western Wyoming, and the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem.
You can read more on their author page.
