Shoe Review- Hoka One One Challenger ATR3
Getting back in shape
after the birth of my first baby has not been as straightforward as I imagined
it would be! So my goal has been to focus mostly on regaining my running
fitness and get back into trail racing first.
Training time is very
precious and I need to be as efficient with the time as I can be. I have been
doing most of my runs straight from home to maximise the actual running time, rather
than driving to the forest or trails. I needed a shoe that I could run
comfortably in on both the road and any trails/ gravel roads that I could get
to from home.
I decided to try the
Challenger ATR 3 as it is the perfect all terrain/hybrid shoe for training on a
mix of roads and trails. It feels like the Clifton 3 (which is my all time
favorite shoe!) with a similar lightness, responsiveness and cushioning in the
mid and forefoot but with a more aggressive grip on the sole, and a more
durable upper.
So far it has been
brilliant on all terrains and from the very first run I have loved it!
I started out been
heavier and less fit than normal post pregnancy so I found it to be a great
option cushioning wise, helping me not to overload my joints as I began the
process of re-strengthening.
The lugs/tread on the
sole are sturdy but not to aggressive so its been super comfortable running on
the roads, yet rugged enough that I have felt really confident running off road
in a variety of conditions and terrains in terms of traction and grip. So it
has been perfect for the style of training I have been doing.
Its upper is durable and
yet breathable and quick drying, with a snug form-fitting feel. I have run
through a few small rivers and creeks and deep mud puddles and not had any
feelings of wet uncomfortable feet.
Its super responsive and
has a great underfoot feel, although for the more rough or technical trails I
would probably opt for a shoe with slightly less forefoot cushioning like the
Speed Instinct to gain a better underfoot feel or the Speedgoat with a more
rugged sole/tread for the more technical terrains.
I had the opportunity to
race in the Challenger ATR3 for a mid distance 24km off road event recently and
found that, distance wise it was perfect. It felt light/ responsive and had
just enough grip to keep me up right in the clay and mud. It worked well as the
race had 3 distinct styles of terrain and I was just as happy on the gravel
roads as I was on the mud/clay and bush tracks. However if I were doing that
length race again with less gravel roads and more mud or technical running I
would opt for the Speed Instinct.
So if your looking to do
some trail running this winter but want a shoe that is versatile between both
road running and trails, is super light, form fitting, and responsive with a
great grip that works for both training and racing then I would defiantly
suggest the Challenger ATR 3 as the perfect option. Your feet will thank you
for it!
