Hoka One One

It started with a need to run faster … and further. Ultra Marathon champion and Adventure Racer Nico Mermoud wanted shoes that would help him attack downhills and reduce the shock that took such a toll on his legs. Working with former co-workers and fellow athletes Jean-Luc Diard, Christophe Aubonnet and Sebastian Mazars, the group began to work with an over-size concept and experimented with shaping the midsoles to develop unique geometries never before used in running shoes. For 2 years the group continued to experiment using feedback from runners and insights from testing. Finally they found the results they were seeking – a shoe that had more than double the shock absorbing material than traditional running shoes and uniquely carved geometry that encouraged an efficient foot strike.