HOKA GAVIOTA 5, BIG CHANGES TO THIS BIG SHOE

Gaviota 5 is kinda a big deal because not only is it a great update, but it’s a totally different type of shoe. In one key way that is. Let me explain. The Gaviota falls into a category called “Motion Control” which is a subdivision of a main category I refer to as a “Medial Stability” shoe. This is when a running/walking shoe has more stability on the medial side of the shoe to control excessive pronation, aka rolling inward. A “Motion Control” version of a “Medial Stability” shoe does this to the max and this is what is so crazy about the new Gaviota 5. It is still a “Motion Control”, but it’s no longer in the “Medial Stability” category. That’s right it’s in what I refer to as a “Neutral Control” category. So, does it still control excessive pronation? You betcha! Not only does it control pronation it controls all kinds of motion. Imagine a “H” shaped plastic frame inside this shoe that reduces excessive twisting caused by an unstable foot and ankle. The new Gaviota 5 has this “H” shaped frame in it and it’s awesome. In fact compared to the older design which used two different densities of foam to control motion this does it better because the older design only works for excessive pronation, aka rolling inward. It doesn't do well for rolling outward, aka supination. This is important as many, including myself, do both. One of my feet rolls inward and the other rolls outward. Also, the older design almost always over-corrects the pronation as the shoes age, functionally making the person who is wearing them supinate which can lead to injury. 

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Wide platform + H-Frame = enhanced stability

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Anyway, the very new Hoka Gaviota 5 is an awesome new “Motion Control” with better than average cushioning. It’s not as cushy as Hoka’s neutral shoe models like the Bondi or Clifton, but they also don’t offer the same level of stability. I also really like the fit of the Gaviota 5. The toe box is a bit rounder in shape allowing the toes to spread out. I am so happy to report zero arch issues. Thank goodness! So far no uncomfortable arch to report here. Thank you Hoka!!! The Gaviota 5 retains its 5mm drop thickness difference from heel to toe and its extra wide platform which most Hoka’s have and contribute to their stability. 

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To sum it up, if you need a really stable shoe with great cushioning in a fairly lightweight package you should for sure have the new Gaviota 5 on your list to check out. Again this is if you really need, not want a ton of stability otherwise there are many less bulky options out there in the world of shoes. If you're not sure, head to your local running/walking shoe store to find out what kind of stability your feet might need.

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