Hoka One One Torrent 2 Review Analysis (2022)
Last update: March 2023
The Hoka One One Torrent 2 is an excellent trail running shoe that is lightweight and effective for going fast and far on the toughest terrains. One of the best shoes of 2020!
The Consensus
Indeed, the Hoka Torrent 2 confirms its reputation as an ultra-versatile, comfortable, lightweight shoe. While the first model had been very well received, some criticized its upper as being too harsh and not safe enough to tackle very technical surfaces, especially downhill. This second version addresses this feedback with an improved upper that translates into a more classic mesh. Paradoxically, it is more flexible while offering a more precise foot lockdown.
According to the testers, the result feels very secure without being too tight (the shoe is also suitable for trailers with wider feet). Then, regarding the cushioning, we find the PROFLY double density foam, which gives comfortable but fairly firm padding. The absence of a protective plate combined with the moderate cushioning provides an excellent ground feel. This will appeal to athletes who like a good natural ride on the trails. Overall, the Torrent 2 offers a good compromise between shock absorption, protection, and ground feel.
Thus, trailers who tested the shoe found it very comfortable, even after several hours of running, despite the relative thinness of the sole. Finally, the traction is always impeccable, whatever the terrain or the type of elevation. The multidirectional studs are more numerous and slightly more aggressive, making it easy to tackle the most technical trails, whether soft mud or slippery rocks.
In short, the Hoka Torrent 2 is an excellent trail shoe (maybe even the best of the year!) that proves to be effective and comfortable in all circumstances. A reference shoe not to be missed!
- Great comfort
- Very grippy
- Improved upper that provides a soft and secure fit
- Lightweight trail shoe
- A model that will appeal to runners interested in Hoka but who prefer a moderately thick sole
- Effective cushioning despite the moderate stack height
- Long and inconvenient laces
- Upper a little warm for the summer
Technologies
Outsole
- First of all, the outsole of Hoka One One Torrent 2 uses a sticky marbled rubber that is specially designed to provide maximum abrasion resistance. This configuration allows for impeccable grip on the most technical trails. The shoe thus offers safe traction both uphill and downhill.
- In addition, the outsole of this trail model also features multidirectional lugs. These rubber elements with a sharp design increase grip for the most demanding trail conditions.
Midsole
- The midsole is equipped with the PROFLY cushioning technology. This is a foam-based compound soft in the heel and firm under the forefoot. It aims to disperse the shock at the moment of impact while providing fast and efficient propulsion. PROFLY offers the perfect balance between propulsion and protection, as well as a smooth transition from heel to toe.
Upper
- The upper of the Hoka One One Torrent 2 uses an engineered mesh made from recycled materials. This configuration is designed to keep the foot securely in place during trail sessions for optimal comfort. Moreover, the mesh is equipped with ventilation holes to allow the foot to breathe and prevent it from getting too hot during the effort when the pace increases.
- Overlays improve the foot lockdown and upper structure to extend the life of the shoe.
- Lastly, there’s also a toe cap and a rubber band integrated into the upper to protect the foot and the shoe from impacts.
Facts
Technical Specs
| Terrain | Trail |
| Pronation type | Neutral |
| Drop | 5 mm |
| Heel stack height | 23 mm |
| Forefoot stack height | 18 mm |
| Features | Toe cap |
| Weight (men) | 250g/8.8 oz |
| Weight (women) | 227g/8oz |
| Release year | 2020 |
Technologies
| Outsole | Sticky marbled rubber, multidirectional lugs |
| Midsole | PROFLY |
| Upper | Engineered mesh, overlays, toe cap, rubber band |
Reference: Hoka Official
Comparisons – Hoka One One Torrent 2 vs.:
Hoka One One Torrent
The first version of the Torrent was already a great success thanks to a lightweight and effective configuration. This second model offers a more comfortable and safer upper and slightly better traction. We, therefore, recommend the Torrent 2, but if you find the v1 for less than £/$100, it can be a very good deal!
Hoka One One Speedgoat 4
The Speedgoat 4 offers much more generous cushioning with a 32 mm thick sole under the heel (compared to 23 mm for the Torrent 2). This is noticeable in weight, with 50g (1.76oz) more on the SG4, which is not insignificant. The level of protection is equivalent, but the grip of the Torrent 2 is a bit better. Choose the Speedgoat for comfortable long runs and the Torrent 2 for difficult trails that require impeccable grip.
Nike Air Zoom Terra Kiger 6
These two trail shoes offer similar configurations in terms of weight, comfort, cushioning, and versatility. However, the Hoka Torrent 2 has a better grip thanks to more numerous and more aggressive lugs (the Kiger 6 has no lugs under the middle of the foot).
Hoka One One Challenger ATR 5
The Challenger ATR 5 is positioned between the Torrent and the Speedgoat in the Hoka range with a similar weight and more cushioning. The Torrent 2 seems more adapted for difficult trails thanks to its excellent foothold, which gives better stability.
Salomon Sense Pro 4
Difficult to determine a clear winner between these two trail staples. They have similar configurations indeed and are just as effective on the most challenging terrains. Trailers who have tested both do note that the upper of the Sense Pro 4 offers slightly safer support while the cushioning of the Torrent 2 is more comfortable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
This trail shoe uses a standard sizing system. Runners who tested it noted that it ran true to size. Therefore, you can purchase the size you are used to. However, if this is your first pair of Hoka One One, a visit to the store is recommended to choose the most comfortable size.
Only one study so far has observed the causal link between weight, sole thickness, and risk of injury. Based on the findings of this study, minimalist footwear may increase the risk of injury for athletes weighing more than 71 kilograms (156 pounds). Other than that, there are no recommendations for different categories of running shoes. The Torrent 2 offers a moderate sole thickness and should, therefore, be suitable for you, regardless of what your weight is.
This Hoka One One trail shoe is very versatile and can handle all types of distances and training very well. So you can wear it during your daily runs, whether you work on distance or speed. As for the ultra-trail, there is no particular recommendation. If you find this shoe comfortable and safe at all times during your long outings, then there should be no problem.
No, the Hoka Torrent 2 is not waterproof. Indeed, it does not use a waterproof membrane to isolate the foot from the elements. However, it is designed to prevent slight water infiltrations and dry quickly. Therefore, your foot should stay dry unless you submerge the shoe or run in heavy rain for several hours. This configuration has the advantage of allowing the foot to breathe during effort and to be more flexible and lighter than a GTX shoe.
First of all: the ride IS one of the best in a trail shoe I’ve had the change to run in, but… durability a 9.5?!?
I used the shoe running prepared and slightly rocky (not technical at all) trails on Ibiza, Spain. After the first 10 miles the outer sole showed significant wear, after 20 miles I torn it from the profly midsole and after 30 miles the entire fore foot section was missing with only exposed midsole left. Had to glue the missing piece back on. Barely used it since…
+ PROS: – Ride: amazing soft, but responsive, foam with nice rocker motion; – Weight: one of the lighter trail shoes available – Upper: so comfortable and, though it has got lots of padding, well ventilated; – Looks: really like what they did with the shoe
– CONS: – DURABILITY! Only got 30 miles out of the shoe. Not a one off production error but quite a common problem.