First impressions
Perhaps not one of the better known HOKA models, this shoe really does offer something a little different from the brand.
The new Elavon is positioned at the top of the brand's neutral range above the better known Hoka Bondi 6, Hoka Clifton 6 and the Hoka Rincon models.
Midsole
It’s a maximal cushioned shoe as you’d expect, but it’s also very stable thanks to the PROFLY cushioning sitting within an outer cradle of secondary cushioning material. This gives a softer initial impact yet with a control stable ride; its works well and even manages to keep mild over-pronators stable.
While it’s not a heavy shoe it does feel a little bulky on the foot at first due to the deep cushioning and heel flare, but after a couple of runs it’s a very capable, relatively fast riding shoe.
Upper
The upper has a new lacing system, midfoot straps wrapping the foot for increased stability and creating a very secure fit; again, making the shoe very stable.
Sole
The toe-off is improved and enhanced by strategic forefoot grooving. Crystal transparent rubber some durability.
Conclusion
Whilst being quite different to many of the brands other models we actually like it and think it’s probably one of their more versatile models, performing well at short easy runs, tempo sessions and those long endurance miles.
Technical info
Top layer PROFLY midsole offers a responsive toe-off with a forgiving landing.
Active foot frame in the midsole is deeper for added support.
Extended heel provides more cushion underfoot and smoother transitions.
Crystal transparent rubber provides a clean aesthetic.
Strategic forefoot grooving offers increased flexibility during toe-off.
Lightweight engineered mesh on the upper offers lightweight comfort with ideal airflow.
TPU heel clip supports the foot within the shoe for enhanced security.
Asymmetrical tongue provides a secure feel.
Tongue features strategic cutouts for breathability
An almost perfect shoe
This shoe, as mentioned in the title, is almost a perfect milage shoe. There is a great balance between support and responsiveness. Whether I’m on road,grass,trail I am able to run comfortable. And like with any other Hoka shoe I’ve had. No injuries or niggles!
However. The one small downside is the softness of the sole. For running it’s great, but I’ve got a few stone holes in the shoes from where I’ve done strides on gravel surfaces and stones have lodged in and cut through the bottom. This hasn’t effected how the shoe feels but the thought of having a hole in the sole of your shoe can be slightly concerning.
750 miles in and I would deffo recommend
