HOKA Gaviota 6 vs Arahi 8
Gaviota 6 or Arahi 8? Here’s how they compare on feel, fit, brand specs and price, from the fitting team at The Run House.
The short answer
Want maximum support with lots of cushion? Get the Gaviota 6.
Want soft cushioning with quiet support? Get the Arahi 8.
Get the Gaviota 6 if
- You’re on your feet all day or walk a lot
- You need a roomier fit
- You prefer a lower drop (6mm vs 8mm)
Get the Arahi 8 if
- You want more bounce and energy back
- You want a dedicated recovery-day shoe
- You like a higher heel-to-toe drop (8mm vs 6mm)
- You’d rather spend $60 less
On the run
Gaviota 6: Max cushion, max support. Protective cushioning with a long rocker, and softer than you’d expect from a max-support shoe, though it firms up in the cold. The support frame runs the full length, so it’s one of the most stable shoes we carry.
Arahi 8: Soft stability, the HOKA way. The softest Arahi yet, with a smooth rocker. The support comes from a frame on both sides of the heel, so it guides you without feeling like a traditional stability shoe.
Specs side by side
| Gaviota 6 | Arahi 8 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $180 | $119.95 (was $150) |
| Stack height (heel / forefoot) | 40 / 35mm* | 39 / 31mm* |
| Drop | 6mm | 8mm |
| Weight, men’s | 10.25 oz | 9.8 oz |
| Weight, women’s | 8.62 oz | 7.7 oz |
| Support | Stability | Stability |
| Plate | None | None |
| Widths | Standard, Wide, Extra wide | Standard, Wide, Extra wide |
| Built for | Easy days, Long runs, Walking & all-day wear | Easy days, Long runs, Recovery runs |
| Expected life | 400–500 miles | 450–550 miles |
Stack, drop and weight come from each brand’s own website. Numbers marked * aren’t published by the brand and come from other published specs. Weights are for the size each brand quotes. Expected life is our estimate.
Fit
Gaviota 6. Wider-fitting than most HOKAs, with a roomy toebox and a secure midfoot. Narrow feet may need thicker socks.
Arahi 8. True to size with a roomy toebox and a snug midfoot. Some runners find the volume generous, so lace it firmly. Wide and extra-wide available.
Try them on
Come try on both at The Run House in Walpole, Needham or Falmouth. Gait analysis is always free.
Shop the Gaviota 6 · Shop the Arahi 8 · Compare other running shoes