Hoka Rincon 4 running shoes

Hoka, originally known as Hoka One One, is a high-performance footwear brand that revolutionized the running industry with its 'maximalist' design philosophy. Founded in 2009 in the French Alps by Nicolas Mermoud and Jean-Luc Diard, both former employees of Salomon, the brand was created to solve a specific problem: making downhill running faster and more comfortable. The name 'Hoka' is derived from a Māori phrase roughly translating to 'fly over the earth,' symbolizing the brand's goal of effortless movement.

In 2013, the brand was acquired by the American company Deckers Brands. Under this ownership, Hoka transitioned its headquarters to Goleta, California, and significantly expanded its global footprint. While the brand's design and advanced product development roots remain in France, its business operations are firmly rooted in the United States.

Manufacturing of Hoka products, including the Rincon 4 model, primarily takes place in specialized factories across Asia, particularly in Vietnam, China, and Indonesia. This distributed manufacturing model allows the brand to scale production while maintaining high technical standards for its signature cushioned midsoles and lightweight materials.