Hoka Anacapa 2 Low GTX - Women's Review

The Anacapa 2 Low GTX is a modern hiking shoe that features 2+ inches of foam under foot. When combined with the Vibram Megagrip rubber outsoles, this design is tough to beat when it comes to all-day comfort.

Comfort

The Anacapa's unique thick cushioning delivers premium comfort on the trail, offering incredible comfort as soon as you slip them on. Although more structured than other running shoe-like designs, the upper's mesh and rubber combo provides more flexibility while remaining stable underfoot. Unlike other lightweight designs, the Anacapa features dedicated padding around the Achilles and the tongue. This offers comfort under load; however, it increases the temperature inside the shoe, especially when hiking in hot, dry climates.

The Anacapa 2 features a quite narrow-fitting toe box that won't be perfect for everyone. The toe box tapers significantly; therefore, we recommend sizing up for a better fit or more toe room. We tested new and old versions of the Anacapa 2 side by side and noted similar sizing between the two. While this is a comfortable shoe if it fits your foot, we docked a few points in this metric since it performs best for those with only a narrow profile. These shoes are also not available in wide at this time.

Support

The Anacapa 2 Low was created with neutral support and stability in mind, showcasing lightweight EVA midsoles made with 30% sugarcane. The design even includes a runner's eyelet for those seeking even more support, effectively locking the ankle into place. After testing previous iterations of this design that caused concerns for a rolled ankle, we think the updated version with SwallowTail heel, padded ankle, and runner's eyelet help provide enough stability to carry a heavier pack.

While the insole is thicker than other Hoka models that we've tested, it doesn't provide a ton of support for those with higher arches. Those with higher arches may consider an aftermarket insert for additional support and a more custom fit. Of all the running shoe style hikers that we tested, the forward flexion and torsional rigidity of the Anacapa 2 is more supportive, allowing more versatility for those who want to plan more than just a long day hike.

Traction

The Anacapa 2 Low features a 100% recycled vamp and a quarter-mesh Vibram Megagrip outsole that performs well on most surfaces. Whether traversing technical terrain or navigating the slippery boulders found on the most popular trails, we felt confident with every stride. The all-terrain sole combines with a heavy-duty 5mm lug pattern to provide substantial grip whether hiking through a dry desert or a precipitous mountain environment.

The only caveat we found within the design of this burly outsole is the soft-sole rubber. The rubber directly below the foot's arch doesn't offer as much traction as other stiffer options. While we appreciate the fact that this rubber likely reduces the overall weight of the design, our testing team prefers hiking shoes that feature Vibram throughout the entire sole of the shoe to maximize grip on especially slippery trails.

Water Resistance

Our testing team had no complaints about the waterproof performance of the Anacapa 2 Low. Of all the running shoe style designs that we tested this season, the Anacapa provided great water resistance. Whether moving through snow and mud or submerged in a stream, our feet stayed dry and a little warmer thanks to the insulated Gore-Tex Invisible Fit waterproof membrane. At 3.5 inches, this shoe features one of the highest measured flood levels of our lineup, which enhances waterproof performance by allowing for additional clearance when moving through spring runoff, fresh snow, or when hiking into higher elevations.

Although the GORE-TEX is high-performing, this may not be the shoe for those seeking more breathability for summer hikes at lower elevations and in hot climates. And while the mesh does a great job of beading water off the mesh in the beginning, the treatment eventually subsides, and the mesh can absorb some water after submersion. If you're looking for a waterproof design with high clearance, the Anacapa 2 is a great choice.

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Weight

Surprisingly, the Anacapa 2 falls somewhere in the middle of the pack despite its thickly cushioned and supportive athletic design. Though the thickly cushioned shoe is heavier than some of the more minimalist shoe designs, the weight isn't noticeable underfoot and didn't increase fatigue on the trail for us. If anything, the “springy” support is worth its weight and helps to propel you forward, even offering more stability for those who like to cover miles with the weight of a pack.

Though features such as the cushioned sole, the Vibram Megagrip rubber outsole, a metal-reinforced lacing system, and high-performing waterproof mesh increase the weight of the Anacapa, our testing team believes the additional durability and support are worth the trade-off.

Durability

Durability is certainly relative as the Anacapa 2 Low is more durable than some ultralight and minimalist designs that we tested, but not nearly as durable as those with fully leather uppers with multiple rand overlays. We love that the lacing system features reinforced metal eyelets to increase longevity and withstand the torque of constantly lacing up, as well as the Vibram Megagrip rubber outsoles that feature deep lugs for the best performance.

The outsole and midsole aren't entirely durable, as we've noticed the softer foam can be easily impacted by sharp rocks in boulder fields and pokey bushes in desert terrain. The mesh at the forefoot flexion point is also more susceptible to snags and tears, but overall, the Anacapa 2 is a high-quality design that is more durable than other running shoe-like designs that feature mesh uppers.

Should You Buy the Hoka Anacapa 2 Low GTX?

The Anacapa 2 has a thickly padded, comfortable sole for a soft landing. Though the shoe favors a narrow foot, the sizing also runs big, which allows room for those with regular-width feet. We love the high-quality performance of the Gore-Tex Invisible Fit waterproof membrane, along with Vibram Megagrip rubber outsoles that increase traction in soggy conditions. We think they're worth their price if the fit is right and you're looking for a flexible shoe that remains stable underfoot.

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