Hoka Challenger ATR 2

The shoe is more comfortable than the ATR3s. Excellent cushioning especially for someone like me with Plantar Fasciitis. Enough room for good but not excessive toe splay and the mid foot and heel are snug enough to keep the foot snug and locked in.

Initially, I had a weird sense of being to high up, but as I used the shoe more, my feet settled in nicely to the cushioning. I have several trail runners and it seems that I use this shoe more than the others. Good transition shoe too.

I have plantar fasciitis so I was looking for a good shoe to use for trail running and hiking that would deal with my condition. My podiatrist had recommended and I purchase the Hoka Bondi 5 for everyday use, to deal with my P.F. I thought that Hokas were a joke because of their looks, but was I wrong.  

The Bondi 5s were so comfortable that I decided to buy the Challengers for my trail running and hiking. I tried on the Challenger ATR 3s and  they were comfortable but a little to snug in the forefoot. I then got lucky enough to find a pair of Challenger ATR 2s, at Nordstroms Rack, tried them on and loved the fit and feel. I found them online for a steal.

One of the best purchases ever. Enough toe room for toe splay and a snug mid and forefoot to prevent them from being sloppy. Lots of control, the shoe goes where you want it. Initially, when I ran trails with them, I felt weird, like I was too high and unstable. But after wearing, hiking, and running in them, my feet seemed to settle into the cushioning and I lost that sensation.

I have also found that they are good transition shoes for going from the road to trail and vice versa. They are sticky too.  

Only other criticism is that the tongue could have a bit more padding for when you tighten the laces down. But when I'm running or hiking in them, I forget about the laces.

I have also used them for day packing despite my friends telling me I'm crazy because that is not what they are made for. But comfort is the key no matter what you use the shoe for and they are comfortable. Too bad they stopped making it, but if you can find it online, buy it.