Hoka Gaviota 4 | Max Cushion Stability Shoe Review | Is This The Right Shoe For You?

[@ewewewewe673]

Thanks Tim, your reviews are always my go to when it comes to deciding my next pair of runners! Keep up the great work 🙌

[@RunTall]

Hey thanks Johan. I greatly appreciate it. Have a great day and stay safe.

[@MrRight.11.11]

Try the Gaviota 5! Now with an H-frame.

[@RunTall]

I picked up a pair a little bit ago and really like them so far. I've really only had a chance to take the Gaviota 5 out for a short jog on a treadmill. I'm recovering for an injury unfortunately that's kept me on my bike. I'm looking forward to putting some run miles in them though. I've been wearing them around as a lifestyle shoe to run errands and that in and they are really comfy. Have a great day.

[@mikemendiola9683]

I've been waiting for you to come out with this video Tim. I'm really encouraged by your review. I'm another who though the 3 was a bit too firm so bought a couple of extra 2's of which I'm down to my last pair. If they did indeed make it a little softer I'd be super happy with the Arahi / Gaviota combo. Thanks!

[@RunTall]

Hi Mike. They definitely feel softer than the Gaviota 3. I think in terms of cushion they fall between the Gaviota 2 and the 3 with the Gaviota 2 being a little softer in the midsole. The Gaviota 4 may soften up a little more as I put more miles on them. Overall I really like the changes they made too version 4. Have a great day and stay safe.

[@josephsanjuan7204]

I may be in the minority but I tried the Gaviota 4 out and felt the cushion wasn’t enough for me. I felt the 3 had more cushion but, to be fair, I tried the 4 out in the shoe store only. The 3 helped with my plantar fasciitis. I am willing to test out the 4 on the treadmill and road in the near future.

[@TheChessPlayer1956]

I continue to be fascinated by the science behind running shoes even though I'm stocked for a long time. You really give wonderfully detailed reviews Tim. Thanks.

[@RunTall]

Hey Ray. Hope everything is going great for you! Enjoy the rest of your weekend! Thanks for watching.

[@markjenkins6176]

This really helped me decide between the two shoes. Thanks so much!

[@RunTall]

No problem. I’m glad it helped Mark. Have a great weekend!

[@madeleinehenry3261]

Really helpful. Thanks for taking the time to review these for us.

[@RunTall]

No problem Madeleine. I’m glad you liked it. Have a great weekend and stay safe!

[@WinningInters]

Thank you for doing this, still no release date in the UK 🇬🇧 though 😢 The Gaviota 3 was my best shoes last year, absolutely loved it. Definitely be picking this version up the minute it lands

[@RunTall]

Hopefully it will drop there soon for you. I'm glad the Gaviota 3 had worked or so well for you. I think you'll really like version 4. Have a great day and stay safe.

[@shakirahegmann5187]

Awesome review! Just bought these and love them

[@RunTall]

That’s awesome I’m glad they are working for you! Have a great weekend Shakira.

[@fidelbanuelos9601]

Great review. Appreciate the comparison between the Gav 3 vs. the Gav 4.

[@RunTall]

Thanks. I appreciate it. And thank you for watching. Have a great day and stay safe!

[@JohnBrown-be6re]

Many thanks Tim. enjoyed this review. Interesting points about the sound of shoes, I find shoes with rockers are much quieter and smoother and it depends on the outsole material too (Mach 4s are pretty silent) . For the motion control I was thinking it would be more logical to have a softer material on the outside of the heel area and denser on the instep but Hokas j-frame seems to use denser on the outside too (for a shorter distance) but there must be a scientific reason for it!

[@RunTall]

Hey John. I hope you are having a great weekend! You are right about the rocker creating a smoother and quiet ride. The Mach 4's are something special. I'm looking forward to the Mach 5. The Supersonics are just okay. Maybe they will grow on me over time. Stay safe.

[@christymurray1675]

I learned a few extra features on my shoes :)

[@RunTall]

Awesome! I’m glad you found it helpful. Have a great weekend and stay safe Christy.

[@erinrichardson1285]

Thanks for all the info!

[@RunTall]

No problem. I’m glad you liked it. Have a great weekend Erin!

[@zofiaread7268]

Another great review!

[@RunTall]

Thank you Zofia. I greatly appreciate it. Have a great weekend and stay safe!

[@garethbranigan9277]

Great reviews buddy

[@RunTall]

Hi Gareth. Thanks I really appreciate it! Have a great day!

[@Gamesake2]

Thanks...they are having a sale ($135) and I was wondering if I should buy them. I'm a Mach 5 fan and some of their others just don't do it for me. These look a bit klunky for me. I don't run much, but prefer running shoes for my walks.

[@RunTall]

Hey thanks for the question. These probably aren’t what you are looking for. They are a stability shoe designed to correct pronation issues to bring your foot strike into a healthy level of pronation. They are a very good stability shoe as stability shoes go. But in comparison to the Mach, it will be heavy. Good luck shoe shopping!

[@sergiogolden6109]

Awesome job

[@RunTall]

Hey thanks Sergio. I really appreciate it. Have a great day and stay safe.

[@daneckit]

Tim, thanks for the review on the Gaviota 4. I run in the Gaviota 2, Arahi 5, and Hurricane 23. How does the Gaviota 4 compare to the Gaviota 2 and the Hurricane 23 in terms of softness? I really enjoy the smooth feeling I get in the Gaviota 2 but wish it was a bit softer, which is why I added the Hurricane 23 to my rotations, soft and springy for a stability shoe but not quite as solid and smooth as the Gaviota. Thanks for any further information in the comparisons.

[@RunTall]

Hi Ted. The Gaviota 4 falls between the 2 and the 3 for the cushion or softness of the ride. They are definitely softer than version 3 but I think the Gaviota 2 is still softer over all. I haven't had a chance to run in the Hurricane but you've definitely piqued my interest. I'm gonna have to check them out. Have a great day. Stay safe.

[@daneckit]

@@RunTall Hi Tim, thanks for the reply and further detail you provided. Unfortunately, the Hurricane 23 is the last model in the line as Saucony is discontinuing it. However, they are coming out with a new model, Tempus, which is supposed to be under 9 oz and use their "super foam." I believe it will be out in June/July. At this point I'll probably wait for some reviews on the Tempus before deciding which shoe to choose. I wish Hoka would use their springier foam in the stability models. Blessings to you.

[@RunTall]

Hey thanks for the great info. I'll be looking out for their shoe drop around June and July. Have a great day.

[@madfemurfast]

The J frame on the Gaviota 3 is very hard making those shoes very firm. That was a huge disappointment. And the 3 are so slippery that I have 0 appetite for the 4. Great video as always!

[@RunTall]

Hey thanks for watching and taking the time to share your thoughts. I really appreciate it. Hope you are having a great weekend! Stay safe.

[@davidclark7050]

Tim, thanks for the Gavoita 4 review. Good to know it is softer than the Gavioita 3 which i found to be firmer than the Gaviota 2 (my favorite Gaviota to date). I am considering switching to the Arahi 6 (lighter weight and less upper material). Do you have perspective on the Arahi 6 or will you do a show battle between the new Hoka stability shoes? Thanks!

[@RunTall]

Hi David. I haven't picked up the Arahi 6 yet but I'm sure I will. I like the Arahi 5. They are lighter and quicker than the Gaviota with a little less pronation control. The midsole is a bit more firm than the Gaviota and feel best to me when I'm striking more on my mid to forefoot.

[@davidclark7050]

@@RunTall Hi Tim, Thanks for the feedback on the differences between the Gaviota and the Arahi. Always appreciate your comprehensive reviews and feedback

[@RunTall]

Thanks David. I appreciate you watching. Have a great day.

[@Abdullah-lq7jh]

Amazing review as usual Tim, i want to buy new stable shoe but im so confused between Asics Gel Kayano 28 or Hoka Gaviota4. Kindly, which of these two shoe do you think will work better for heavy set male to do an easy long runs?

[@RunTall]

Both are great choices with similar tech in the shoes as they both use a dual density foam to correct over pronation. I have one on each foot right now to get a better idea of the differences. They feel remarkable similar in the mid to forefoot for cushioning. The heel in the Gaviota feels a little more firm but I don't think you could go wrong with either one. Have a great day and stay safe.

[@Abdullah-lq7jh]

Thank you so much for the informative info. Much appreciation Tim. Have great day.

[@Mr.Reality3000]

Thank you for this video, a simple question: is this gaviota 4 is not the softest and more cushioned Hoka on sale now, maybe the bond or clifton are?. Thanks

[@RunTall]

The Gaviota 4 is a soft stability shoe. Yes you are right that the Bondi is softer and I think many runners would agree that the Clifton is also. Have a great day!

[@mikelites150]

How's the traction in wet conditions? Concrete, not trails.

[@RunTall]

Hi Mike. I've found it to be good. I haven't felt unsafe running in these at all. I've been wearing them around to run errands in as well. They are a comfortable stable shoe. Have a great day and thanks for watching.

[@cordovanhobbyist895]

Hey Tim. Do you recommend this shoe for standing all day on concrete? Or will the Clifton provide better comfort?

[@RunTall]

Hey thanks for the question. The Gaviota 4 is a max stability shoe that helps to bring your feet into proper pronation. As stability shoes go, it’s also a highly cushioned midsole. The Clifton is a neutral shoe with a balanced cushioned midsole. If you over pronate than the Gaviota is a good choice. Otherwise the Clifton might be the way to go. Many people like the Bondi for its max cushion midsole for standing or being on your feet all day. Have a great day and stay safe!

[@roybogue6085]

Tim, I currently wear the Gaviotta 3 c which were recommended at a running store. I'm training for ironman in Nov. My Gaviotta 3's have a lot of miles on them and probably need to be replaced before the ironman marathon. But the 3's are not available now in size 12. should get the Gaviotta 4's ?

[@RunTall]

Hi Roy. That's awesome that you are training for an Ironman! Very cool. You'll have to let me know how it goes. And, yes I think you'll enjoy the Gaviota 4. It's definitely worth a look. Have a great day and good luck with your training.

[@fondofmusic6223]

Hey Tim, Hope u r doing great!!! Wanted to know which gaviota (2,3 or 4) is best for long hours of standing for a person with flat feet and varicose veins and spider webs and leg pain? And is bondi ok for someone with overpronation?

[@RunTall]

The Gaviota 2 is the softer of these in the midsole and if you can still find them, would be my choice. Otherwise I’d go with the Gaviota 4. The Bondi a neutral shoe and might work if you only slightly over pronate. Have a great day and thanks for watching.

[@brucemihalick4117]

Hi Tim, great review. All your reviews are! Any word on the updates for the Bondi 8 ? Thank you

[@RunTall]

Hi Bruce. I haven't heard anything about the Bondi 8 yet. Hoka has some great running shoes coming out but that's one that I haven't picked up any details on yet. Thanks for watching and have a great day.

[@brucemihalick4117]

@@RunTall Thank you Tim. It seems to be a mystery on when this new version is coming out. Great reviews and keep running 🏃‍♀️

[@RunTall]

The best info I have is an expected release date of late September of this year. I think that's likely the time frame. Have a great day. Stay safe.

[@PNKF]

how is it for flat footed people

[@RunTall]

They are excellent. They are a max stability shoe so they do a great job bringing your feet into a healthy level of pronation. I’m flat footed and severely over pronate and they with great. They are a little heavy for a daily trainer and are a bit warm. Have a great weekend!

[@PNKF]

@@RunTall Do you recommend me getting those or the bondi 7 for my flat foot

[@thetattooedguy1413]

This shoe is hard to me. There isn’t any give. They just seem stiff. I have the Clifton 9 and WOW that shoe is amazing. It was my first pair of Hoka so I thought hey let me check out some more. I like the look of the Gaviota but damn they are to stiff. Unless they get more comfortable as you wear them. The Clifton 9 was super comfortable right out of the box.

[@RunTall]

I get that. The Gaviota is a stability shoe and unfortunately for stability shoes to work the midsole isn’t as soft or highly cushioned as neutral shoes. They do a great job correcting over pronation but you’re right they aren’t as soft as other max cushion neutral daily trainers. In the world of stability shoes it’s highly cushioned. Thanks fire sharing your experience. Have a great day.

[@thetattooedguy1413]

@@RunTall Do you have a suggestion for a work shoe that is cushioned ( like max cushioned ) I do like the Gaviota, I’m wearing it today and it isn’t bad. It’s been almost 4 hours so far and me feet aren’t hurting

[@RunTall]

@@thetattooedguy1413 if you like Hoka the Bondi 7 or 8 are very comfortable. The New Balance Fresh Foam More V4 is really soft and comfortable. Have a great day.

[@vongolavorace]

I find that the decorative "lines" in the fabric of the Gaviota 3 are a weak spot, they are ripping one by one, almost as if it were by design. The Gaviota 4 don't have that and to me it's the single most important improvement. Also, the outsole rubber seems to be harder and thicker.

[@RunTall]

Hey thanks for sharing the info! That’s all great to know. I appreciate it. Have a great day and stay safe.

[@danielcampuzano5601]

Hi Tim hope you're doing well! I just had a general question over all... Do you take out the stock insoles, and switch them out, with for example super feet or cadence insoles (which I heard were really good)? Thank you in advance.

[@RunTall]

Hi Daniel. In some neutral running shoes I will, like the Hoka Rincon. I haven’t changed out insoles in stability shoes like the Gaviota. Have a great day! Thanks for the great question.

[@theRogels]

would you choose this over the NB 1080v12 if you could only pick one?

[@RunTall]

They are so different. The Gaviota is a Max stability shoe so days when I need pronation control they are a great choice. But the NB 1080V12 is a soft and quick daily trainer that is definitely more fun to run in. If your a neutral shoe runner than the 1080V12 is a much better option. Hey have a great day and stay safe.

[@tizb5178]

Would this shoe work if you have high arches?

[@RunTall]

Hmm... I have flat feet and they work well for me. I'm not positive how they feel to someone with a high arch. They offer a lot of stability and do a great job bringing me into a healthy level of pronation. Sorry I couldn't be of more help. Have a great day and stay safe.

[@tizb5178]

@@RunTall Thks! I also have flat feet but high arches.

[@albrown8196]

Tim, I am coming back from Quad tendon surgery and have worn the Arahi before. which would you recommend Gav vs Arahi for walking to get back?

[@RunTall]

First, I want to wish you a speedy recovery!!! I'd go with the Gaviota. The Gaviota 2 is still my favorite midsole of the series and the 4 is great to. I'd skip version 3. Its a stiffer midsole. Get well and stay safe. Have a great day.

[@raymondnielsen7125]

Wonder shoes

[@RunTall]

Hey thanks Raymond. Have a great day. Stay safe.

[@PriyanshuKalra]

Tim , they don't have separate sizes for wide feet this time , unlike gaviota 3 series which has. Does this shoe have a wide toebox like the arahi 5 or even wider than that ? Unfortunately , my left food didn't even tolerate the arahi5 LOL

[@RunTall]

Hey Priyanshu. The Gaviota 4 isn't any wider than the Arahi 5. The fit is about the same as the Gaviota 3 in the toe box. Have a great weekend.

[@ajohnny22]

Hi Tim, I see you are running on a trail with the Gaviota. Would you recommend the shoe for trail running? I used Arahis and been looking to tey trail running, but Hoka does not have a trail shoes with stability, all neutrals. Is it ok if I get a neutral trail shows and just put custom insoles like the one roadrunner store sell?

[@RunTall]

They work okay on light trails that are heavily traveled with no real technical stuff. In soles can definitely help as long as the upper has enough room to accommodate them. For stability I’ve used ones called Powerstep Pinnacle Maxx. My physical therapist recommended to me. The cheapest place I’ve found them is on Amazon for around $30. I hope this helps! Have a great day!