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Hoka’s Original City-to-Trail Shoe Suddenly Feels More Hoka-Like Than Ever

Hoka’s go-to go-anywhere shoe picks up a few brand points in a new update scheduled for early 2026.

Black and gray Hoka running shoe with textured sole and mesh upper against a blue background.Hoka
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By Jack Seemer

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Half sneaker, half trail shoe, the Transport lives up to its name as Hoka’s most venturesome design.

The idea is simple: a versatile, everyday walking shoe that splits the difference between city and trail, with attributes that make it flexible to a wide range of environments.

But if version one fell short in any category, it’s brand points. With a modest sub-30mm stack height, the shoe just didn’t feel very Hoka-like underfoot.

That’s changing now.

Black and beige trail running shoe with brown rubber sole and quick-lace system.
The Transport 2 is the follow-up to Hoka’s original go-anywhere shoe, released in 2023.
Hoka

The Transport 2, available in early 2026, carries over everything that worked on its predecessor but serves it up on a supple bed of cushion measuring 36mm in heel (its thickest point).

Pair of black and beige Hoka running shoes shown from the back on a white background.
The Transport 2 measures 36mm in the heel.
Hoka

While that may pale in comparison to some of Hoka’s max-cushioned trainers, such as the Bondi and Skyward X, it’s still a significant jump from the original Transport.

As such, it promises extra bounce without totally turning its back on stability and responsiveness.

That said, stack height is far from the only change.

The Transport 2 also features a softer sockliner and more padded collar, both underscoring Hoka’s comfort-first reputation regardless of the category.

Black athletic shoe with Cordura fabric tag and Vibram sole logo in orange.
The shoe features a new collar and sockliner, both optimized for comfort.
Hoka
Pair of black Hoka running shoes with quick-pull laces viewed from above on a white background.
Thought comfort drove the design updates, the Transport 2 actually looks sleeker than the original.
Hoka

Despite the changes, however, the Transport series won’t be giving up on its adventurous spirit any time soon.

A water-repellant upper, Cordura-reinforced tongue, Vibram outsole, reflective detailing and speed laces all contribute toward a design that’s equally at home on sidewalks and trails.

Close-up of a gray and black trail running shoe with textured sole and quick-lace system.
Features like a water-repellent upper and Vibram outsole make the Transport 2 plenty capable off-road, too.
Hoka

Availability and pricing

The Transport 2 will be available in early 2026. It comes in half a dozen colorways at launch and costs $155. It’s also available in wide.

About the Author:

Jack Seemer is the executive editor at Gear Patrol, with over a decade of experience in product journalism. He currently reports on a wide range of topics, including footwear, watches, EDC, cookware and more.

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