HOKA Arahi 9 vs Gaviota 6

Arahi 9 or Gaviota 6? Here’s how they compare on feel, fit, brand specs and price, from the fitting team at The Run House.

The short answer

Want stable support that doesn’t feel rigid? Get the Arahi 9.

Want maximum support with lots of cushion? Get the Gaviota 6.

Get the Arahi 9 if

• You have slimmer feet and like a snug fit
• You like a less rigid forefoot
• You like a higher heel-to-toe drop (8mm vs 6mm)
• You’d rather spend $25 less

Get the Gaviota 6 if

• You need a roomier fit
• You like a stiffer, rocker-style forefoot that rolls you forward
• You prefer a lower drop (6mm vs 8mm)

On the run

Arahi 9: Stable, steady and built to last. Stable without feeling rigid. The broad base and HOKA’s H-Frame keep you steady, and the heel-to-toe roll is smooth. Soft enough for easy miles, but there’s little bounce.

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.

Specs side by side

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

Arahi 9. True to size with a secure fit on a wide platform. The toebox is a little narrower than the Arahi 8’s, and the heel collar is kind to sensitive heels. Wide and extra-wide available.

Gaviota 6. Wider-fitting than most HOKAs, with a roomy toebox and a secure midfoot. Narrow feet may need thicker socks.

Try them on

Come try on both at The Run House in Walpole, Needham or Falmouth. Gait analysis is always free.

Shop the Arahi 9 · Shop the Gaviota 6 · Compare other running shoes