Hoka One One Tor Ultra Hi WP
Finding running shoes with ankle support can be very difficult. The reason for this is running requires a lot of movement of the foot and the ankle and sometimes proper ankle support can hinder this free movement. Ankle support is handy for those who are just learning to run (weaker ankles) and for those with existing ankle injuries. It is, however, a very specific design choice to have a high ankle running shoe. With high ankle runners, the collar is higher than the ankle bone and the laces will usually lace right up to the collar allowing for additional support around the ankle and front of the foot.
Our website offers reviews of various product types including hunting, camping and fitness gear. This article is a single product review of the Hoka One One Tor Ultra Hi WP, a high top boot that looks more like a running shoe. We looked at what consumers liked and disliked about it. We also reviewed the materials used and looked at how it was constructed in order to offer an unbiased review on it. This is our comprehensive review of the Hoka One One Tor Ultra Hi WP, we hope that this article helps you out with your next boot purchase.
Stylish design
Impressive impact reduction
Comfortable design
Roomy toe-box
Some durability concerns
Heavy by design
OUTSOLE
Reviewers did appreciate the traction associated with them, however, there were some durability concerns around the outsole. This is discussed in the durability section of this article. For those who appreciated the outsole, they found the outsole to provide grip on surfaces that are wet and dry.
MIDSOLE
Reviewers were very impressed by both the comfort, as well as the support provided. They liked that right away they felt supported and cushioned when trying them on. In addition to this, the cushioning offers a nice level of impact reduction which helped with any potential shin splints.
Overall, the midsoles are impressive and reliable which is what buyers want.
UPPER
Reviewers, for the most part, were impressed by the construction. Though they had some issues with the durability, they felt that they were constructed well and fit like high quality (higher priced) runners should. The upper also offers a level of breathability via its nylon integration which helps keep feet cool and dry, another positive feature of this product.
WEIGHT
Those who bought these runners really took issue with the sheer weight of these shoes. On average running shoes and hiking boots are typically around the 1 to 1.5-pound mark in weight. These runners are nearly a full pound heavier. That said, they seem to be made of quality materials and offer the support required for long-term wear.
BREATHABILITY
Reviewers found the Hoka One One Tor Ultra Hi WP to offer adequate levels of ventilation. Though sweat did not build up there were some issues with keeping feet dry but this isn't due to sweat build up. We'll discuss this more below.
COMFORT
These have flex grooves through the forefoot with extra room in the toe-box for a comfortable ball of the foot. The midsole, again, offers a full-length EVA contoured fit in order to properly adjust to the grooves of the foot for better comfort and support.
These are really comfortable and cushioned right out of the box. Reviewers appreciated the extra room in the toe-box especially those with wider set feet.
STYLE
The thinner tongue and lace provide a more refined look even with the bright highlights. They are also offered in numerous color options for more customization and for those looking for something different to suit their style. They are definitely a step up for those looking for something a little stronger but with some style.
Reviewers found them really visually appealing. The appreciated that they are narrow but still offer a roomy toe-box. They liked that they looked fashionable and found that they could wear them in different situations, not just on the trails.
DURABILITY
Oddly, many reviewers felt that they were "constructed well" but just wore down quickly. The primary area of concern is the outsole. Because the outsole is composed of two different parts it seems that there were some glue reliability issues across the outsole which impact reviewers view of the price point of these boots.
PROTECTION
Reviewers found the traction to be the most valuable protection feature. The reason for this is that it sticks well to different types of surfaces which made them feel secure and safe.
RESPONSIVENESS
Reviewers felt incredibly secure in these boots. They appreciated how easily and effectively they stick to several different surface types.
SUPPORT
The lacing system works with the midsole in order to offer 360-degree support for all areas of the foot and ankle. The stability and support were areas of praise for this boot. It helps those with existing ankle issues and those prone to shin splints.
TERRAIN
That said, a few took issue with the outsole. It performed very well up to a certain extent when it began to break down relatively quickly. Because of this issue, many found them better for less aggressive terrains.
PRICE
But when you look at the often-mentioned lack of durability across the outsole, it is a little harder to stomach. The cost value comparison is a little off when looking at these factors, however, it does help that they are attractive in design. This makes them a little more versatile which helps justify the price.
TRACTION
FLEXIBILITY
In addition to this, these have a moulded upper collar which provides more free movement throughout the ankle. This helps those running and hiking as both activities require more angled movement of the legs.
STABILITY
A highlight of the Hoka One One Tor Ultra Hi WP is its stability. Because it's a blend between a hiking boot and a running shoe, it provides the stability of a hiking boot but the performance of a running shoe. Consumers raved about their support and this helped our overall rating.
DROP
KEY FEATURES
- Breathable membrane for comfort
- Molded collar for flexibility
- Attractive design offered in numerous color options
- Thick rubber toe cap for protection
- Full frame stability
- RMAT midsole for additional support
- Vibram outsoles for superior traction
BOTTOM LINE
It is also noted as being expensive, heavy and lacking durability across its outsole. Though this is the case, they may be more ideal for a daily boot. Something that can be worn around town or for running. It is great for those looking for something with extra ankle support and for those who like flashy colors.