HOKA Speedgoat 5 running shoes

HOKA, formerly known as Hoka One One, is a premium footwear brand that rose to prominence for its 'maximalist' shoe design, featuring oversized outsoles and extreme cushioning. The brand was originally founded in Annecy, France, by Nicolas Mermoud and Jean-Luc Diard, who aimed to design shoes that allowed for faster downhill running. Their innovative approach quickly gained a following among marathon runners and ultramarathoners due to the brand's unique combination of low weight and high stability.

While the brand has French origins, its manufacturing footprint is global. Like many high-performance athletic brands, HOKA products are produced in multiple countries, primarily within Asia, including Vietnam, China, and Cambodia. This diversified manufacturing strategy allows the brand to meet global demand for its specialized trail and road running footwear while maintaining technical standards.

In 2013, the brand was acquired by Deckers Outdoor Corporation, which transformed HOKA from a niche endurance brand into a mainstream athletic powerhouse. Under Deckers' ownership, HOKA has expanded its product line to include hiking boots and lifestyle footwear, becoming one of the fastest-growing footwear brands in the world. The brand continues to be managed out of Deckers' headquarters in the United States.