Hoka Torrent 4 Review: Friends in Low (Stacked) Places

What You Need To Know

Introduction to the Hoka Torrent 4

ALLISON: When most people think of Hoka and trail running shoes, their minds immediately jump to the Speedgoat or, more recently, the Tecton X, especially given Hoka athletes’ standout performances at UTMB and Western States. Yet, one Hoka trail shoe that often flies under the radar is the Torrent, or as I like to think of it, if the Hoka Challenger and Zinal had a baby, it would be this shoe.

From the very first iteration, I was captivated by its light, agile feel. It quickly filled the void left by the discontinuation of the Speed Instinct, earning a cherished spot in my shoe rotation. Then, when the Torrent 4 came out, I was naturally apprehensive about the complete redesign of a shoe that had become a personal favorite. Would the updates live up to the high bar set by its predecessors? Read on to find out

What we like about the Hoka Torrent 4

ALLISON: The Hoka Torrent 4 picked up, in my opinion, a highly effective overhaul that significantly enhances its performance without turning it into a behemoth of a shoe. Although it’s slightly heavier than the Torrent 3, it still feels remarkably light on the foot, allowing for excellent speed and agility on the trail. This balance between added features and weight doesn’t hinder its fast, nimble feel, making it ideal for both casual and advanced trail runners, something I wish the Brooks Cascadia did per my last review.

One of the shoe’s most attractive qualities is its competitive price point, offering outstanding value without sacrificing quality or performance. Its breathable upper is another highlight, ensuring feet stay cool and comfortable, even during long runs in the heat of summer — a critical feature for any runner (or maybe I’m biased being in Georgia). The lower stack height promotes a more grounded feel and reduces the risk of ankle rolls, making it a great option for technical terrain or for runners like me who tend to be a bit clumsy.

The plush tongue offers a level of comfort that even the Speedgoat series could benefit from. Moreover, the Torrent 4 has been upgraded with more cushioning and support than its predecessor, the Torrent 3, offering enhanced protection and long-lasting comfort without feeling overly bulky.

What we don’t like about the Hoka Torrent 4

ALLISON: While the Hoka Torrent 4 has many strengths, there are a couple of drawbacks worth mentioning. Firstly, despite the addition of slightly larger lugs, the shoe doesn’t offer as much grip as one might hope on loose or slippery surfaces. This can be a concern for trail runners who frequently tackle challenging terrain in which a Vibram outsole would be better suited.

Secondly, while the Torrent 4 provides a decent level of cushioning, I found the midsole could benefit from additional softness. More cushioning would enhance overall comfort and better absorb the impact on longer runs or uneven trails.

Final thoughts on the Hoka Torrent 4

ALLISON: At the end of the day, the Hoka Torrent 4 mixes several positive notes from its predecessors that make it an excellent option for trail running. It feels light on the foot yet offers reliable protection with a secure lacing system and a breathable upper. Hoka even managed to keep its Torrent 4 at just $130, a price we don’t often see these days. If you’re after a trail shoe with a mix of agility, comfort, and value, this is one to think about.

You can pick up the Hoka Torrent 4 for $130 from Hoka by using the buttons below.