Hoka Kaha 2 GTX Review The Most Underrated Hiking Boots

In this article, I'm going to share my HONEST Hoka Kaha 2 GTX review for those who are wondering whether they are still WORTH IT in 2025. With my 15+ years of hiking experience this is one of the best rated boots I have for a case study.

For this review, I have put in over 100 miles into testing my own personal pair of the Hoka Kaha 2 GTX so I'm familiar with how they feel and perform hiking on the trails. I'll go over comfort, traction, overall protection, water resistance, fit, stability & support, and durability.

I'll be sharing my critical opinion with 10 years of experience as a trail guide and experienced hiker.

See Our Hands On Youtube Review

Should you buy the Hoka Kaha 2 GTX?

Buy if 

• You want one of the BEST rated boots on the market

• You prioritize stability and traction on-trail

• You are an amateur hiker to professional trekker

• You want a hiking boot that more than WORTH its value and will last long

DON'T Buy if 

• You are preferring the cheapest option on market

• You prefer lightweight hiking boots or synthetic materials

Hoka Kaha 2 Pros and Cons 

 Pros

• Best traction

• High-riding ankle support

• Extremely durable

• Great Backpacking boots

Cons 

• Price

• Weight

• Issues with lacing system

Hoka Kaha 2 GTX Price 

At the time of this writing, the Hoka Kaha 2 are priced at $240 retail, but available on Hoka.com below for as low as $167 brand new.

Order the Hoka Kaha 2 for the LOWEST PRICE AVAILABLE (Do NOT pay retail): 

*** Currently Hoka Kaha 2 is unavailable Read Our Hoka Kaha 3 Review Here***

Hoka Kaha 2 GTX (Hoka.com)

Disclosure: These links may provide a discount and in return, give us a commission in order to continue running the website and give 100% independently honest reviews 🙂

Hoka Kaha 2 Mid GTX Comfort: 9/10 

The first and probably most important quality of any hiking boot in my opinion as a Mountain Guide. While testing the boots, I take note of my plantar fasciitis, the more weight I feel I am putting onto my sole the more I feel my plantar fasciitis flaring up.

I was so impressed with that Hoka Kaha 2 GTX I didn’t feel any sort of flare up. From the moment you slip them on, the plush padding around the ankle and underfoot cushioning provide a snug, supportive fit, effectively minimizing fatigue on longer treks.

Equipped with a compression molded EVA midsole, the Kaha boasts drastic comfort. Additionally, the flexible sole adapts to varied terrains, allowing for a natural foot movement while maintaining excellent traction and stability.

The toe box is designed to offer plentiful space, enhancing comfort and preventing any excessive pressurization. The heel has more than ample space without any areas of hot spots or blisters. 

The ankle cuff has cushioned areas around the top that allow for a cozy snug fit. I felt this was one of the best cushioned “mid” ankle hiking boots available. 

These hiking boots really proved their worth to me on the trail during long treks of 10+ miles. Historically, a hike of this length would have left me with sore feet, however I noticed that I was able to walk around my house without any shoes on with no discomfort whatsoever. That was not my experience when hiking 10+ miles with the Merrell Moab 3. 

These boots have saved my time and ability to keep performing tasks at home after my hikes, rather than laying feet up on the couch complaining of soreness.

Weighing in at 2.6 pds on my scale, they are definitely not the most lightweight hiking boots. However, the added weight is worth the excellent comfort and performance. 

If you are considering more lightweight options than the Kaha, check out the Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX or Altra Lone Peak ALL-WTHR 2. 

Traction: 8.5/10

The traction on these hiking boots is nothing short of impressive, offering a steadfast grip on a variety of surfaces. Engineered with deep, multi-directional lugs and Vibram Megagrip rubber, the outsole bites into the terrain, providing stability and confidence on slippery slopes, snow, rock terrain, loose gravel, and even slick mud.

You can compare the traction of these boots to the Keen Targhee IV (a comparable “rugged model”). Whether ascending steep inclines or navigating through wet conditions, the boots’ superior traction ensures each step is secure.

The exceptional traction felt like having four-wheel drive for my feet, allowing me to maintain a steady pace without once slipping.

Climbing up muddy inclines felt surprisingly effortless, thanks to the rockered sole, which also enhanced comfort and propulsion.

This level of trust in my footwear’s traction truly enhanced my hiking experience, allowing me to enjoy the hike without extra attention on my footing. 

Overall Protection 4/5 

The ankle and foot protection provided by the Kaha 2 is another standout feature, ensuring safety and comfort even in the most challenging terrains. The boot's upper, made from durable leather and heavy restrained textile materials gives robust protection.

The reinforced toe cap and rugged outsole guard against sharp rocks and debris, while the resilient design around the ankle offers additional support, minimizing the risk of twists or sprains. 

Moreover, the strategic cushioning around the ankle not only protects but also adds an element of comfort that’s appreciated during long treks. The design seems to strike the perfect balance between offering protection and maintaining flexibility, allowing for a natural range of motion.

This thoughtful approach to ankle and foot safety is evident in the boot’s performance, where each step feels secure yet unrestricted. Overall, the Kaha 2 GTX keeps you protected on any enduring hike. 

Water Resistance 5/5 

The Kaha is equipped with a Gore-tex waterproof liner. During our 10 minutes submersion test the Kaha 2 GTX performed extremely well, keeping out any water.

I was able to do my normal water crossing without trouble. The GTX membrane also measures up to 7.5 inches to the ankle, allowing the user to submerge in pretty high water. 

One drawback to the Kaha 2 is the breathability. The added Gore-tex membrane with thick nubuck leather makes a bad combination for extreme breathability. 

I felt I was able to complete my summer hikes without many breathable issues, but consider using a thinner pair of hiking socks. I was able to wear my Darn Tough Light Hiker Micro Crew without issue in the summer. 

Does The Kaha 2 Mid GTX Fit Well?

The fit of the Kaha 2 is a standout feature that distinguishes it from many others in the market. Right out of the box, the boots offer a snug yet comfortable fit, accommodating a wide range of foot shapes thanks to its versatile lacing system.

I did not have to apply any special lacing techniques to fit the shoe to my natural foot shape. The cushioning around the footbed and the supportive design of the midsole contribute significantly to the overall comfort and fit, making long treks less daunting.

Moreover, the boots are designed to minimize the typical break-in period, allowing wearers to embark on extended hikes without the worry of blisters or discomfort. This immediate comfort, combined with a fit that feels custom-tailored to the wearer’s foot sets a high standard for hiking footwear.

Despite the overall comfort and supportive design, as someone with a wider foot, I found the boots to fit more narrowly than expected.

This aspect may necessitate sizing up or seeking the wide fit to ensure the perfect balance between snugness and comfort.

Hoka Kaha 2 Fit  4/5 

Hoka Kaha 2 Stability & Support 4.5/5

The stability and support of these hiking boots deveres a shout out. The support you feel from the engineered Hubble Heel enhances your hiking experience allowing more contact with the ground than you’d normally get from a hiking boot.

The robust mid sole is firm enough to retain its shape against uneven terrain, allowing a nice deep grip without faltering. This in itself, justifies the price of this hiking boot. 

The boot snugly wraps around the ankle, providing a secure fit without any chafing or discomfort, which is often a concern with over-the-ankle designs. The padding within the cuff adds a layer of protection and support, crucial for navigating uneven terrains without compromising on mobility.

Durability 10/10

I have been personally testing the Kaha 2 since they were released two years ago. Simply put, these boots last. 

No need to worry about breaking down of the midsole or losing traction, no reason to have concerns with the leather losing it’s robust nature. One thing you will never have to worry about the Kaha 2 is durability. 

Is the Hoka Kaha 2 GTX worth it? 

I’ll be honest, when I first got the Hoka Kaha 2 GTX boots, I wasn’t sure what to expect. Hoka’s known for making great running shoes, so could they really make top-notch hiking boots too? I was curious, but a bit doubtful. But let me tell you, any doubts I had went out the window pretty quickly once I started using them.They justify the price on the first hike. 

After hitting the trails a few times, it was clear that Hoka had put a ton of work into these boots. Everything from the way they lace up snugly without pinching, to how light yet strong they feel, shows that Hoka’s really serious about making great outdoor gear.

The extended heel design, while adding to the overall width, does not compromise their performance on technical terrain. These boots provide excellent support and grip, making them suitable for rugged landscapes.

So, if you’re standing there, trying to pick from the sea of hiking boots out there, think about what you really want. If you’re after a pair of boots that’ll not only meet but beat your expectations, the Hoka Kaha 2 GTX is the way to go. They’re not just any boots; they’re your ticket to enjoying the great outdoors like never before.

In short, getting yourself a pair of these Hoka boots is more than just treating yourself to some great hiking gear. It’s a smart decision that saves you money and hassle in the long run, letting you focus on enjoying your hikes, not worrying about your gear.

Why wait? Give them a try and see where they can take you. With Hoka Kaha 2 GTX on your feet, your next hike could be the best one yet.

If you are considering looking for a different pair, The Keen Targhee IV are a comparable model with slightly less comfort but cheaper. The Lowa Renegade  is another option if you are considering a “mid” hiking boot. 

Value: 5/5 

Scoring Breakdown 

Comfort: 9.0 / 10 

Traction: 8.5 / 10

Overall Protection: 4 / 5

Waterproofness: 5 / 5

Stability & Support: 4.5 / 5

Fit: 4 / 5

Durability: 10 / 10

Value: 5 / 5

Total: 50 / 55

 Our Rating: 9.1 / 10 

At the time of this writing, the Kaha 2 are priced at $240 retail, but available on Hoka.com below for as low as $167 brand new.

Order the Hoka Kaha 2 for the LOWEST PRICE AVAILABLE (Do NOT pay retail): 

*** Currently Hoka Kaha 2 is unavailable Read Our Hoka Kaha 3 Review Here***

Hoka Kaha 2 GTX (Hoka.com)

Frequently Asked Questions 

Are The Hoka Kaha waterproof?

Yes, the Hoka Kaha 2 GTX boots are waterproof. They feature a Gore-Tex (GTX) membrane, which is specifically designed to keep your feet dry from external water while allowing moisture from sweat to escape.

Do Hoka Kaha run true to size?

Hoka shoes, including the Hoka Kaha 2 GTX, are generally known for their comfortable fit, but whether they run true to size can vary depending on individual foot shapes and preferences. Most users find that Hoka boots and shoes fit true to size, offering a snug and supportive fit without being too tight.

What is the difference between Hoka Kaha and Anacapa?

The Hoka Kaha is designed for challenging terrains and long-distance hikes, offering maximum cushioning and robust ankle support, but tends to be heavier.

In contrast, the Hoka Anacapa serves dual purposes for both trail use and casual wear, featuring good waterproofing and support with a lighter build, making it versatile for everyday activities and moderate hiking. See Hoka Kaha 2 vs Hoka Anacapa 2 | Which Is Better? For more info

What is GTX for hiking shoes?

GTX in hiking shoes stands for Gore-Tex, a waterproof and breathable membrane used in outdoor gear, including footwear, to keep your feet dry from external wet conditions while allowing moisture from sweat to escape

Is Hoka Kaha 2 good for winter?

Yes, the Hoka Kaha 2 are great for winter. The leather upper is made of Nubuck leather which is known to be very warm and protective. Additionally, the vibram megagrip rubber works excellent in the snow giving you the traction you need against any steep terrain in the winter.

How We Tested and Our Methodology 

I personally tested the Hoka Kaha 2 GTX for over 2 years now with the sole intent of giving you the most unbiased review possible. Mountaineer Journey is a 100% independent publisher with years of testing and reviewing outdoor equipment.

Over the past decade, I have logged over 2,000 hiking miles across diverse terrains, from the rugged Appalachian Trail to the challenging Rocky Mountains. This extensive experience allows me to evaluate the Kaha 2’s performance accurately in real-world conditions. 

We currently pay for the products we test ourselves; no company or manufacturer pays us to sway our opinions or decisions.

Adventure Awaits,

Tyler