Hoka Arahi 6 vs New Balance 860: Which Shoe is Right for You?

If you’re looking for the best stability running shoes for overpronation, Hoka Arahi 6 vs New Balance 860 are two of the top choices. Whether you’re a nurse, walker, or runner, picking the right shoe is essential for comfort and performance. This in-depth comparison will help you decide which shoe suits you best, whether you’re comparing New Balance vs Hoka for running, walking, plantar fasciitis, or everyday use. We’ll also dive into specific comparisons like Hoka vs New Balance for nurses, New Balance Fresh Foam vs Hoka cushioning, and New Balance vs Hoka sizing, among others.

Comparison

Hoka Arahi 6 vs New Balance 860

Feature	Hoka Arahi 6	New Balance 860
Type	Stability running shoe	Stability running shoe
Weight	9.3 oz (M), 7.6 oz (W)	10.9 oz (M), 8.7 oz (W)
Heel-to-Toe Drop	5mm	10mm
Cushioning	CMEVA midsole (soft)	Fresh Foam X (firm)
Stability Tech	J-Frame™	Medial Post
Best For	Mild to moderate overpronation	Moderate to severe overpronation
Sizing	True to size, roomy toe box	Snug fit, multiple width options
Durability	Good, but softer outsole	Longer-lasting rubber outsole
Use Cases	Walking, running, all-day wear	Running, standing all day, stability
Price	~$140	~$140

1. Hoka vs New Balance for Nurses

Which one is better for standing all day?

• Hoka Arahi 6: when we talk about Hoka Arahi 6 then its Softer cushioning, lightweight feel, and smooth transitions make it great for long hospital shifts.
• New Balance 860: More structured, durable, and firm, offering better long-term support for nurses on their feet all day.

Winner: New Balance 860 for nurses needing extra stability and durability.

2. Hoka vs New Balance for Walking

 Which shoe is better for walking?

• Hoka Arahi 6: Plush and lightweight, ideal for daily walks or all-day wear.
• New Balance 860: Slightly heavier, but offers better arch support and stability for long-distance walking.

 Winner: Hoka Arahi 6 for comfort, NB 860 for support.

3.  New Balance Fresh Foam vs Hoka Cushioning

Soft vs Firm Cushioning

• Hoka Arahi 6: Uses CMEVA midsole—light, soft, and responsive with J-Frame™ support.
• New Balance 860: Features Fresh Foam X, which is firmer and offers better pronation control.

 Winner: Hoka for soft comfort, NB 860 for firm stability.

4.  New Balance vs Hoka Reddit Opinions

 What does Reddit say?

• Runners on Reddit praise New Balance Fresh Foam vs. Hoka cushioning, with some preferring Hoka for comfort and New Balance for durability.
• Hoka Arahi 6 is often recommended for lightweight feel.
• New Balance 860 is praised for long-lasting support and better for heavier runners.

5. New Balance vs Hoka Running Shoes

 Which one is better for running?

• Hoka Arahi 6: Great for daily training, easy runs, and long runs.
• New Balance 860: Better for runners who need maximum stability and pronation control.

 Winner: Hoka Arahi 6 for everyday running, NB 860 for overpronators.

6.  New Balance vs Hoka Sizing

 Do they fit the same?

• Hoka Arahi 6: Roomier toe box, true to size.
• New Balance 860: Runs snug, but available in multiple widths.

 Winner: New Balance 860 for better width options, Hoka for a wider natural fit.

7.  New Balance vs Hoka for Plantar Fasciitis

 Which one helps with foot pain?

• Hoka Arahi 6: Soft cushioning reduces impact on heels.
• New Balance 860: Firmer support keeps the foot stable.

 Winner: Hoka Arahi 6 for soft relief, NB 860 for arch support.

 Pros & Cons

✅ Hoka Arahi 6 Pros & Cons

1. Lightweight, breathable, and cushioned
2.  Smooth ride for walking & running
3. Softer feel for foot pain relief
4. Less durable than NB 860
5.  Not as much support for severe overpronation

✅ New Balance 860 Pros & Cons

1. Maximum stability & arch support
2. More durable for long-term wear
3.  Available in wide & narrow sizes
4.  Heavier than Hoka
5.  Firmer feel, not as plush

 Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?

• Choose the Hoka Arahi 6 if you want a lightweight, cushioned, and smooth stability shoe that feels soft but still offers guidance.
• Choose the New Balance 860 if you need a firm, durable, and highly stable running shoe with a structured fit and long-lasting support.

 Our Recommendation:

• For casual runners & walkers → Hoka Arahi 6
• For serious stability & pronation control → New Balance 860
• For nurses standing all day → New Balance 860

FAQs

1.  Are the Hoka Arahi 6 and New Balance 860 true to size?
   Both fit true to size, but Hoka Arahi 6 has a wider toe box, while NB 860 has a snug fit with multiple width options.
2.  Which one is better for flat feet?
   The New Balance 860 offers stronger arch support, making it better for flat feet.
3.  Can I use these shoes for marathon training?
   Yes, but Hoka Arahi 6 is better for long-distance comfort, while NB 860 is better if you need extra stability for overpronation.
4.  Which one is better for walking all day?
   Both are great, but New Balance 860 is more durable for all-day wear.