The Challenger 8 is the shoe for runs that start on pavement and end on a path. Cushioned enough for road miles, with just enough outsole to handle gravel, packed dirt and light trail without feeling clumsy on the way there.
The headline change is the toebox: version 7's tapered, restrictive front end has been opened up, so it no longer pinches on longer efforts, while the upper still hugs the midfoot securely. The last sits on the wider side of HOKA's range, so runners who found older Challengers tight should be comfortable in the standard width.
Best for: Road-to-trail, mixed-surface daily runs
Sizing: True to size
Fit: Standard to generous with room for toe splay; regular and wide offered