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

Hoka Arahi 8 vs Saucony Tempus 2

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 and Saucony Tempus 2 score essentially the same (4.5 vs 4.5). Pick the one whose trade-offs match your priorities — the strengths and watch-outs below are where they actually differ.

Hoka Arahi 8
Ranked #3 in Best Running Shoes for Flat Feet
Hoka Arahi 8
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
Saucony Tempus 2
Ranked #2 in Best Running Shoes for Flat Feet
Saucony Tempus 2
5 sources$169.95as of Aug 1

Still one of the lightest stability shoes on the market, the Saucony Tempus 2 runs on energetic PWRRUN PB foam with strong energy return. Reviewers praised the stability and durability, and RunRepeat called it a 'solid choice' for heel strikers who want a responsive daily trainer. The complaints center on a snug fit, particularly through the forefoot, and poor breathability. Doctors of Running noted the tapered toe box can cause minor abrasion, and some users found the laces too short to lock the foot down. Runners with narrow to standard feet who want stability and energy return more than cushioning and airflow are the fit.

Strengths
  • Lightest superfoam stability shoe available
  • Excellent energy return with PWRRUN PB foam
  • Very stable ride with firm PWRRUN frame support
Watch-outs
  • Poor breathability in upper mesh
  • Slightly heavier than previous version
  • Overly snug forefoot and narrow toe box

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 Tempus 2

The Saucony Tempus 2 is lighter and more responsive than the ASICS Gel-Kayano 32 and offers better energy return than the Saucony Hurricane 25, but it's less stable than the Hoka Gaviota 6 and lacks the breathability of the New Balance Fresh Foam X 860 v14. It's also more restrictive than the Saucony Guide 18.

Specs side-by-side

SpecHoka Arahi 8Saucony Tempus 2
Weight9.1 oz9.3 oz
Stack Height39.4 mm38 mm
Drop5 mm8 mm
MidsoleCMEVAPWRRUN PB
StabilityH-FrameNeutral
Arch SupportJ-Frame StabilityMedium
UpperJacquard meshEngineered mesh
OutsoleDurabrasion rubberXT-900 carbon rubber
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