Latest news with #trailrunning
Forbes
2 days ago
- Business
- Forbes
Hoka Vs. On Cloud: Experts Help Us Break Down These Top Shoe Brands
Hoka and On Cloud have a lot in common. Both are relatively new to the running scene, founded in 2009 and 2010, respectively. Each brand has developed a loyal following, thanks to standout models like the Hoka Clifton and the On Cloudrunner 2. They're also known for their distinctive outsoles: Hoka shoes feature thick, foamy soles, while On Cloud uses large CloudTec 'pods' designed to soften landings and improve takeoffs. In this Hoka vs. On Cloud guide, we break down how these popular brands compare, so you can find the right brand—and maybe even the right shoe—for your needs. Both Hoka and On Cloud shoes are known for their unique sole designs. Illustration: Forbes / Photo: Retailers In many ways, the similarities between these brands can make it challenging to choose one over the other. But there exists just enough differences that it's likely you'll end up preferring one based on your body and your favorite activities. So, which is the better choice for you when the question is Hoka vs. On Cloud? Let's take a closer look to find out. As we've established, both Hoka and On Cloud are relatively new and unique running brands. Hoka was founded in the French Alps, where trail running influenced its footwear. The brand's thick soles were designed to absorb repetitive impact, with an emphasis on support and cushioning over unstable terrain. Today, the brand's roster includes not only trail shoes, but road shoes, walking shoes, hiking shoes and so much more. Some styles still embrace the brand's thick, signature cushioning; others are slim, light and built for speed. On Cloud was founded in 2010 by three Swiss friends who sought to create a road shoe that delivered soft landings and a firm takeoff. Runners at the time were a bit skeptical given the unique styling of On's first shoe, but it didn't take long for the design to receive the ISPO Brandnew Award, which recognizes groundbreaking products. Months later, On shoes were sitting on store shelves, and the rest, as they say, is history. Before we move on, let's clear up a couple of things. When Hoka was founded, the company was called Hoka One One, which many people pronounced as 'won won.' In reality, it was meant to be pronounced 'Own-Ey Own-Ey,' as the name comes from the Māori language and means 'fly over the earth.' In late 2021, the brand shortened its name to simply Hoka. As for On Cloud, the company isn't actually called On Cloud—it's just On. But its Cloud line of shoes became so popular that the name On Cloud unofficially stuck. To keep things simple (and avoid confusion), we're rolling with it throughout this guide. Or running with it, if you will. On Cloud shoes feature pods that lack material for better rebound On Hoka Vs. On Cloud: Cushioning When it comes to the cushioning, Hoka reigns supreme. Its shoes were designed with trail running in mind, so best-selling styles feature grippy outsoles and chunky midsoles. This design once looked odd, but it's quite common in the running world nowadays. Most pairs of Hokas are maximally cushioned due to a thick layer of compression-molded EVA foam that compresses on impact and helps propel you forward with each step. 'The shock absorption feature lessens the stress on muscles and joints,' explains Dr. Daniel Cuttica, a board certified orthopaedic surgeon with The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics. 'They are beneficial for those suffering from various foot and ankle conditions, such as plantar fasciitis and arthritis.' Ironically, On Cloud's cushioning comes primarily from a lack of cushioning, or empty space: The CloudTec cutouts in the soles of its shoes allow for impact absorption. When partnered with the foam material used to create them, the reduction is ample, albeit not as significant as you get with Hokas. But the pods do provide excellent propulsion as they regain their shape after each step. Hoka Vs. On Cloud: Stability "Stability' primarily refers to how a shoe supports your foot. Some shoes are specifically designed to prevent your foot from rolling inward as you step, which is known as overpronation. Pronating can lead to foot, ankle, knee and even hip and spine issues, so it's important to correct it, if it's a problem. As it happens, both Hoka and On Cloud make shoes with stability features. Hoka adds stability through the use of a 'J-Frame,' which is a band of thicker, denser foam that wraps around the heel and underfoot on the inside of the shoe. Similarly, On Cloud shoes add stability by using thicker and firmer CloudTec pods in the same place. These designs provide extra support to ensure your foot doesn't roll as you step. If you're looking for a true stability shoe, the Hoka Arahi 8 is a great option thanks to its 'J-Frame' underfoot support, while the On Cloudflyer 5 uses dual-density foam to create a similarly supportive experience. Balance is also an important element of stability. 'Hoka has a higher stack height than On Cloud, which helps with the plush maximalist design but also makes one higher from the ground,' explains Dr. Samantha Landau, a faculty member at New York College of Podiatric Medicine. 'Some people find the shoes have reduced proprioception or 'feel' for the ground as they run,' so if balance is an issue for you, On Clouds may be the better choice. Hoka Vs. On Cloud: Durability Both Hoka and On Cloud shoes are highly durable, often surpassing the 300-mile mark that you should expect—at a minimum—from a good pair of running shoes. That said, the unique soles of each brand's shoes will begin to break down not long after that point. With Hoka shoes, wear and tear may be harder to spot due to the thick, cushioned soles. But if you notice your feet start rolling inward more than they used to, or if the foam feels a bit flat, it's likely time for a new pair. On Cloud shoes tend to show their age more visibly. The CloudTec pods may lose their shape, and that signature springy sensation in the midsole will fade. And if the tread has worn down to the point where you can see the foam underneath, it's well past time to replace them. Miles of running on hard surfaces can take a toll on the soft foam of Hoka midsoles. Hoka Hoka Vs. Brooks: Price Price isn't going to be a decisive factor when choosing between Hoka and On Cloud. Look through Hoka's lineup and you'll find that popular styles range from $100 to $200. The Clifton 10, for example, is $145, while the Bondi 9 is $175. As for On Cloud, prices are similar. The Cloud 6 is $160, and the Cloudmonster, $170. As tempting as it may be to shop for a cheap shoe, consider comfort, use case and style instead. Shoes sell for similar enough prices across both brands that it's hardly worth trying to save money by choosing one over the other for that reason alone. Hoka Vs. Brooks: Which Is Right For You? 'Since they are tackling essentially different issues, Hoka and On are not competing for the same runner,' says Dr. Jodi Schoenhaus, DPM with the Foot, Ankle and Leg Vein Center. 'Hoka provides treatment for a variety of ailments, including plantar fasciitis, sore knees and just spending too much time on harsh flooring.' In aiming to maximize comfort, the designs include wide-fit alternatives, high-stack midsoles and structured support. 'Comfort isn't a luxury; it's the main objective," Schoenhaus notes. "This explains why Hoka rules hospital halls and recovery runs alike. It's a brand designed to increase endurance and absorb impact.' On Cloud shoes, on the other hand, 'combine elegance and performance with precision,' explains Schoenhaus. 'The Speedboard plate and CloudTec pods sharpen the ride rather than make it softer. Every component of the design functions as propulsion, transforming it from a running shoe into a performance item that blends in perfectly with city life.' On Cloud shoes were designed with a fast-paced, fashion-forward athlete in mind—someone who demands the same level of performance from their equipment on the road as they do on the track, or when simply strolling down 5th Avenue. Long story short: Hokas are a great choice for more cushioning and support, especially if you stand on your feet all day, or have conditions like plantar fasciitis. And if you're looking for trendy styles that look good and perform, On Cloud shoes should meet your needs. Why Trust Forbes Vetted The gear review team at Forbes Vetted has tested, researched and reviewed a wide range of footwear options over the years, including everything from technical sandals to walking shoes to hunting boots . This piece was written by Steven John , a staff writer with Forbes Vetted who runs multiple times a week, on roads, trails and treadmills, and who has tested dozens of pairs of road and trail running shoes over the years. , a staff writer with Forbes Vetted who runs multiple times a week, on roads, trails and treadmills, and who has tested dozens of pairs of road and trail running shoes over the years. The story was edited by Forbes Vetted gear editor Cam Vigliotta who has extensive experience testing gear and apparel, including footwear. His recent reviews include the Hoka Clifton 10 and Brooks Ghost 17. who has extensive experience testing gear and apparel, including footwear. His recent reviews include the Hoka Clifton 10 and Brooks Ghost 17. John spoke to several experts for this piece, including: Dr. Jodi Schoenhaus, DPM with the Foot, Ankle & Leg Vein Center; Dr. Samantha Landau, a faculty member at New York College of Podiatric Medicine; and Dr. Daniel J. Cuttica, a board certified orthopaedic surgeon with The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics. Both Hoka and On Cloud regularly launch new and updated shoes, so we will periodically revisit and update this piece to be sure it contains accurate and relevant product information. It was first published in July 2025.
SBS Australia
3 days ago
- Health
- SBS Australia
'Physical preparation is everything': The key to successful mountaineering
LISTEN TO SBS Indonesian 17/07/2025 18:07 Indonesian 'Physical preparation': This is the key to successful mountaineering according to professional climber, Fandhi Achmad, who has conquered various peaks such as Rinjani, Kilimanjaro, Denali, Elbrus and Carstensz Pyramid. Mountaineering is not about conquering peaks, but about readiness, awareness, and enjoyment in the process. That's the philosophy of Fandhi Ahmad, or Agi, who is a professional mountaineer and trail running athlete. With experience of climbing 70% of Indonesia's mountains and some of the world's peaks, Fandhi has important input on mountaineering preparation. Credit: Fandhi Achmad Three months of physical preparation The main key that Fandhi emphasizes is a minimum of three months' physical preparation before climbing. 'If we want to do strenuous activity, we have to have a fit body. It is enough to exercise anything - run, bike - at least 30 minutes a day,' Fandhi said. This preparation is not only about safety, but also enjoyment. 'If we are already desperate, let's not look at the scenery, we wonder how to breathe. It's different if we do good physical preparation, so we can enjoy the beauty of the mountains,' Fandhi added. Then, Fandhi recommends basic supplies: food, drinks, tents or warm and waterproof clothing, medicines, as well as lighting for a few days of climbing. Knowledge and assessment of conditions In addition to physical fitness, Fandhi emphasizes the importance of studying terrain, weather, and gear. The experience at the Carstensz Pyramid became a vivid example of the importance of condition assessment. While accompanying the 10-year-old, Fandhi decided to back off after climbing 200 metres because he judged the speed too slow. 'If there are a dozen you can, but it's dangerous when you go down. Finally I said let's go down, rest for a day, just try again with good weather,' he said. Credit: Fandhi Achmad Fandhi highlighted the importance of the role of mountain guide, because 'the task is not only to carry people up, but to be able to assess the capabilities of the person being carried.' According to him, the guide should dare to take difficult decisions. 'If he is ready, he should dare to say 'you can't, 'and be told to come down. Don't be forced because the end is dangerous,' Fandhi said. Adjustment for Altitude For mountains above 3,000 meters, Fandhi says that acclimatisation, although it will make the climbing time long, is an important process to prevent climbers from becoming ill. 'Ideally every addition of 500 meters of height. The principle is 'climb high, sleep low' - climb high then go down overnight below it,' Fandhi said. Half the journey at the top of Fandhi says that reaching the new peak is half the journey. 'The next one is still a long way down,' he said. Credit: Fandhi Achmad He noted that most accidents on a high mountain occur while descending due to fatigue and fatigue factors. The key to avoiding accidents while descending, says Fandhi, is to keep full concentration even if you are tired and feel familiar with the path traveled. Listen to SBS Indonesian every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday at 3pm. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram , and don't miss our podcasts .
Daily Mail
5 days ago
- Sport
- Daily Mail
Woman ultra runner collapses and dies three hours into 100-mile endurance race in Colorado
A female ultra runner from Michigan collapsed and died on a high mountain trail just three hours into an 102.5-mile endurance race in the Colorado Mountains on Friday. Elaine Stypula, a 60-year-old family law attorney, was taking part in the the Hardrock 100, and passed out near Gold Lake on the Little Giant Trail at around 9am, said San Juan County Sheriff's Office. The race's safety team attempted to perform CPR on the runner, before deputies, Silverton Medical Rescue and a Flight for Life helicopter team arrived and took over resuscitation efforts. The medical rescue team hiked a quarter of a mile up a 'steep, rugged, remote trail' to reach Stypula, but she was pronounced dead at 10.27am, according to deputies. Her cause of death has not yet been ascertained. Her daughter Anna wrote on Instagram: 'I struggle to post this as I am a wreck. My beautiful, vibrant mom unexpectedly passed away this morning. I am at a loss for words.' Anna described her mom as 'her best friend.' Stypula was said to have been a 'highly experienced ultra runner' who had competed in more than 100 long distance events, according to Gear Junkie. 'Silverton Medical Rescue is fortunate to have a team of skilled rescue professionals. We support the community, our visitors and each other even on the most difficult calls,' said Michael Burton, Incident Commander of the SAR call for Silverton Medical Rescue. The intense event kicked off at 6am on Friday, where competitors are given two days to complete the course through Lake City, Ouray, Telluride and Ophir before returning to Silverton. According to the Hardrock 100 website, the total elevation change is 66,394ft, and the highest point of the course is the Handies Peak summit at 14,048ft. 'The Hardrock 100 Endurance Race has been exceptional in organization and safety throughout the years and an excellent partner to our community,' said Tyler George Director of the Silverton Medical Rescue. Event organizers wrote in a statement: 'We are deeply saddened to share that a beloved member of our Hardrock Hundred Mile Endurance Run family has passed away during this year's event. 'Our hearts are with their family, friends, and fellow runners as we grieve this tremendous loss. 'We are committed to caring for runners, crews, volunteers, and all members of our community through the event's duration and beyond.' The Hardrock 100 organizers said more information would be available following the completion of the race on Sunday. 'I want to extend my condolences to the family, friends and community of Elaine Stypula,'said Keri Metzler of the San Juan County Coroner's Office in an updated release.
The Independent
5 days ago
- The Independent
Less than an hour from Lisbon, this little-known region is home to some of Portugal's best beaches
With the sun just beginning to rise over the Atlantic, I'm bracing myself to step into cold, crystal clear water when suddenly I see them: a pod of dolphins cuts through the mirror-like surface just metres from where I stand. One by one, around a dozen leap into sight, curving around the mountainside from the open ocean and into the sheltered bay, before slipping out of sight. I'm standing on the sands at the foot of Arrábida Natural Park, a protected coastal region around 45 minutes' drive south of Lisbon, in Sesimbra – the seaside village I have called home since 2015. Although I've long heard rumours of these marine visitors, it's the first time I've seen them close to home since I discovered this place almost by accident, having fallen deep into a rabbit hole of Lisbon-based property hunting. The waters here are crystal clear but cold year-round, which is how I've added cold water swimming to trail running as part of my lifestyle here – all the better to balance the dangerously affordable local wines, delicious cheeses, and regular barbecue sessions. Now, interest in Arrábida is quietly building and the signs of change are already visible. The former four-star Sesimbra Hotel & Spa has been revamped and rebranded as the five-star Sesimbra Oceanfront, where guests now wind their way down to the beach clutching takeaway cups of bubble frappe from the newly opened Crazy Bubble Sesimbra. At the same time, in the back streets locals still sip strong espressos that cost less than 60p and restaurants grill fresh-from-the-ocean fish on rustic charcoal grills set out on the cobbles. Sesimbra, the fishing village where I've made my home, sits at one end of Arrábida Natural Park, a 176-square-kilometre protected area founded in 1976 that stretches to the coastal city of Setúbal. Here, the blue of the sea alternates with white limestone cliffs and dense Mediterranean vegetation covering the mountain range. The park's nomination for Unesco Biosphere Reserve status would further protect this unique ecosystem where limestone mountains meet the Atlantic. When I first set eyes on the region back in 2015, it felt like winning the jackpot. Capped by a medieval castle on a hill and with calm, clear waters sheltered from the wild Atlantic, back then, Sesimbra was a truly under-the-radar beach town, where rugged mountains slope down towards beaches with white sand and turquoise water. Nearby Ribeiro do Cavalo beach – accessible only by steep, rough trails or via the water – often gets compared to beaches in Thailand. Energetic types can kayak there, and in summer, taxi boats make the short, choppy trip out. Once-hidden beaches like this have become an open secret with Lisbon locals, thanks in part to dramatically improved bus links to and from the city. The beaches that dot the Arrábida coast are frequently named among the most beautiful in Portugal. A short drive from Sesimbra via one of the most beautiful, if hair-raising, roads in the country, the N379-1, is the perfectly picturesque Portinho da Arrábida, where simple fish restaurants sit on stilts over the water. From here, the coast stretching towards Setúbal is dotted with forest-flanked beaches, each seemingly more beautiful than the next. These paradise beaches can be challenging to reach in high season (June-September) without a bit of planning. The delicate ecosystem has prompted authorities to restrict private car access (Ubers and Bolts are permitted and widely used) to the most popular beaches during peak summer months and police blockades turn away hopeful drivers at checkpoints along coastal roads. The alternatives are shuttle buses from Setúbal to spots like Portinho da Arrábida and Figueirinha, hiking the coastal trails or kayaking along the coast. It's a necessary measure for this protected landscape, where unspoiled beaches remain limited to a handful of beachfront restaurants, and where it's not unusual to see families of wild boar rummaging for scraps nearby. Off-season spring and autumn months offer pleasant beach days without the coastal confusion and with easier access to secluded spots. The coastline, with its hidden coves – including one with a steep climb down to a small chapel tucked inside – can be explored by boat or coasteering expedition with adventure operators like Sesimbra-based Vertente Natural. For those preferring to explore on foot, the park offers excellent trail running and hiking routes that I've come to know intimately over the years. Further treasures lie inland. Arrábida sits within the Setúbal Peninsula wine region and is dotted with wineries, from celebrated estates such as the historic José Maria da Fonseca – which makes some of Portugal's oldest table wines from its handsome headquarters in the picture-perfect wine town of Azeitão – to small-scale producers like Quinta de Alcube. This off-the-beaten-track winery, surrounded by vineyards and sun-baked hills, is where locals spend long, lazy afternoons under the shade of cork trees, at tables laden with local cheeses, olives and charcuterie. Don't be afraid to dip bread into the olive oil and the buttery sheep's milk cheese, queijo de azeitão. If you can't choose between nature and easy access to beaches, restaurants and excellent wine then Casa Palmela strikes the middle ground in handsome style. This refined but homely pousada offers a wonderful restaurant on-site and acres of winding trails suitable for horse riding or hiking, and is within easy reach of nearby beaches and wineries. Even at the height of summer, days and nights here are interrupted by birdsong and hooting owls rather than crowds or traffic. For wild waves, easy beach access and an enormous stretch of sand, the beachfront neighbourhood of Meco is a popular choice, with bars that buzz in summer and mansion homes housing discreet boutique hotels such as Quinta do Miguel. Even as word spreads, the region still feels like a well-kept secret. When I arrived in 2015, I knew very few other foreigners in Sesimbra, and the culinary offering reflected the village motto: 'Sesimbra is fish.' This is indeed a seafood-centred town, with locals known as 'peixitos' or little fish. Today, the growing international community means locals are as likely to sip a spicy margarita as the town's traditional o pescado r (fisherman) liqueur. While there's an increasing number of international eats and vegan cafés, the fish here remains a huge part of the appeal for foodies. If Setúbal is rightly proud of its choco frito (fried, breaded cuttlefish served with chips – the local version of fish and chips), Sesimbra holds the crown for fresh fish. Locals queue out the door at the cash-only, no-reservations Tasca do Isaías, where the catch of the day is chalked up by the entrance each morning, and tables and chairs sit at rakish angles on the flagstones outside. Don't miss espadarte (swordfish) if it's on the menu. The cobbled back streets remain filled with traditional marisqueiras selling platters of shellfish and crustaceans, but there's visible modernisation along the beachfront: one half of long-standing local seafood spot Ribamar is now Ribabar – a languid, tastefully-lit space serving artfully plated sashimi and pan-Asian seafood dishes. Transport links have dramatically improved since I moved here. The same company that operates Lisbon's buses now runs services to Sesimbra, and a €40 monthly pass covers both, making the village a popular day trip destination for Lisboetas. The protected status means that as Arrábida gains deserved international attention, there's little danger of high-rises blooming among the wildflowers that change colour with the seasons. At the height of summer, I still find splendid isolation on morning trail runs and cold water swims, and – even without the dolphins – swimming across the bay as the sun rises over the forested hills always feels magical. Lucy Bryson was a guest of Casa Palmela. TAP Air Portugal and Ryanair fly direct from London Heathrow to Lisbon from £89 return. Take the bus from Lisbon Sete Rios to Sesimbra (45 minutes outside rush hour) or rent a car for greater flexibility in exploring the wider region. Where to stay
CNN
12-07-2025
- Sport
- CNN
He ran from Cape Town to London to challenge racism
Uganda-born trail runner Deo Kato became the first person to run from Cape Town to London, covering 200 marathons across 20+ countries over 1.5 years. Inspired by the racism he faced in the UK, Kato set out to trace humanity's migration from Africa to challenge the idea that people should "go back to where they come from." Along the way, he was racially profiled, imprisoned in South Sudan, and faced many hardships. Now back in London, he's sharing his journey and speaking out against racism, both in society and within the running world.
