Hoka has revived the Zinal, one of its most beloved lightweight trail shoes, with a comprehensive update that brings supercritical EVA midsole foam, an integrated stretch-knit gaiter collar, and a more aggressive 5mm lug pattern. The result is a shoe that weighs just 213 grams in a men's size 9 — down from 252 grams in the original — making it one of the lightest trail shoes on the market from any major brand.
The supercritical EVA midsole represents Hoka's latest foam technology, offering improved energy return and responsiveness compared to the standard EVA used in the original Zinal. The ride is noticeably closer to the ground than most Hoka models, giving runners more trail feel and proprioceptive feedback — a deliberate departure from the brand's signature maximalist cushioning that reflects a broader industry trend toward shoes that let runners feel the terrain beneath them.
The integrated stretch-knit collar is the most visible design change, eliminating the traditional tongue in favour of a sock-like entry that doubles as a debris gaiter. This feature, increasingly common in trail racing shoes, prevents stones and grit from entering the shoe during fast descents and technical terrain. The upper itself uses a breathable mesh that prioritises ventilation, making the Zinal best suited to dry conditions and warmer months.
Reviewers have consistently praised the Zinal's agility on dry, technical trails over short to moderate distances — 5K to half marathon — while noting that traction suffers in wet, muddy conditions. The shoe is clearly designed for the fast trail runner who wants to feel the ground and move quickly, not the runner seeking maximum protection over ultra-distance terrain. At its weight class, the new Zinal competes directly with the Salomon S/Lab Pulsar and NNormal Tomir, positioning Hoka firmly in the lightweight trail racing segment that it had previously ceded to European competitors.