Head-to-head · Best Running Shoes for Flat Feet

Hoka Arahi 8 vs Saucony Hurricane 25

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

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The short answer

Hoka Arahi 8 comes out ahead by a narrow margin (4.5 vs 4.3). The gap is mostly about heel strikers wanting mild stability and cushioning — read the strengths below before deciding.

Higher ratedRanked #3 in Best Running Shoes for Flat Feet

Hoka Arahi 8

4.5

4 sources1 derived$109.99as of Jun 7

RunRepeat says the Hoka Arahi 8 finally feels modern again after a long-awaited refresh. Reviewers praised the softer foam, wider fit, tall stack, and higher drop, all of which help heel strikers. It now borrows the H-Frame stability system from the Gaviota for steady support. RunRepeat also noted a small price increase and poor breathability in hot weather. Jordan Levy from Prevention.com found the Arahi 8 supportive, comfortable, and stable, though the rocker design makes it awkward for walking. Runners who want mild stability and cushioning are the fit; anyone training in hot climates or needing superior traction should look elsewhere.

Strengths

— Impressively lightweight for its size
— Strong shock absorption with 138 SA in heel compared to 106 SA in previous version
— Wider fit than previous versions

Watch-outs

— Very poor breathability
— Grip needs to improve, especially on wet surfaces

$109.99 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

Ranked #6 in Best Running Shoes for Flat Feet

Saucony Hurricane 25

4.3

5 sources$99.95as of Aug 1

RunRepeat's lab tests show real gains for the Saucony Hurricane 25 in energy return, cushioning, and comfort, and it sheds a full ounce along the way. Doctors of Running praised the bouncy, soft ride and the lighter profile against previous versions, while noting the softer midsole can feel mushy and less stable. The redesigned midsole and improved geometry make for a smoother ride than the Hurricane 24, which suits daily trainers who want plush comfort with stability. Reviewers criticized the breathability and the bulk, both of which count against runners chasing agility or a lower price. It fits people who value maximal cushioning and stability over lightweight responsiveness.

Strengths

— Fantastic energy return with PWRRUN PB foam
— Lighter than previous version at 10 oz
— Excellent cushioning for long miles with 151 SA heel shock absorption

Watch-outs

— Price hike from previous version at $169.95
— Poor breathability due to flat knit upper
— Lacks agility and feels clunky for transitions

$99.95 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

Derived means the reviewer published no score, so one was inferred from their written verdict. Everything else is a number the publisher printed. How we rank.

How they stack up

Hoka Arahi 8

The Hoka Arahi 8 is more lightweight than the ASICS Gel-Kayano 32 and offers better stability than the Saucony Guide 18, but it suffers from poor breathability compared to the New Balance Fresh Foam X 860 v14. Unlike the Hoka Gaviota 6, it provides better shock absorption but lacks the roomy fit of the Gaviota.

Saucony Hurricane 25

The Saucony Hurricane 25 delivers better energy return than the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 and provides more stability than the Hoka Arahi 8, but it's heavier and less breathable than the Saucony Tempus 2. Compared to the ASICS GT-2000 14, it offers a more responsive ride but less consistent support.

Specs side-by-side

Spec	Hoka Arahi 8	Saucony Hurricane 25
Weight	9.1 oz	10 oz
Stack Height	39.4 mm	40.2 mm
Drop	5 mm	7.1 mm
Midsole	CMEVA	PWRRUN PB foam
Stability	H-Frame	Guidesole
Arch Support	J-Frame Stability	Medium
Upper	Jacquard mesh	Engineered mesh
Outsole	Durabrasion rubber	XT-900 carbon rubber
Tech	—	CenterPath stability

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