Looking for an alternative? Hoka Gaviota 3 Vs. 4

I always prefer balance and stability when buying running shoes. Amazingly, Hoka Gaviota 3 and 4 are such pairs that meet the requirements of every runner. However, they have a few distinctive differences.

The prime differences between Hoka Gaviota 3 and 4 are the upper construction and weight. Hoka Gaviota 3 has a traditional engineered mesh upper. On the other hand, the Gaviota 4 upper is made with flexible and updated mesh. Thus, the Hoka Gaviota 4 becomes lighter than the Gaviota 3.

Hoka Gaviota 3 vs 4: Comparison Chart

Parameter	Hoka Gaviota 3	Hoka Gaviota 4
Weight	Men: 11.3 oz Women: 9.3 oz.	Men: 10.9 oz. Women: 9.1 oz.
Cushion	Balanced	Plush
Stack Height	40 mm / 30 mm	40 mm / 30 mm
Best for	Walking/Everyday Run	Walking/Everyday Run
Stability	Stable	Stable
Heel-to-toe Drop	5 mm	5 mm
Price	Cheaper	Pricier

Feature: Hoka Gaviota 3 vs 4

Read the differences in features carefully. Choose a pair that fits your preferences and gives you ultimate comfort during a walk or run.

Straightforward engineered mesh design improves ventilation throughout the Gaviota 3. Also, the extended perforations extending up to the midfoot area support breathability. Your foot will remain locked down with the latest enclosure system. A cushioned tongue prevents lace bites, giving a comfortable running experience.

The Gaviota 4 upper is designed with updated, flexible, and stylish engineered mesh. Thus, you will get a comfortable fit all the time. Moreover, you will barely experience a hot burning sensation after wearing the pair. The flexible upper makes it more breathable and lightweight than the earlier version.

Midsole

Dual-density RMT foam in the midsole balances responsiveness and plushness. The thick foam helps to turn your gait cycle without discomfort. Also, the midsole absorbs impacts and shocks when running on asphalt, concrete, or other hard surfaces. You will get more landing surfaces on the midfoot with the meta-rocker technology.

Hoka uses CMEVA foam in the Gaviota 4 midsole. The midsole cushioning is perfect for all forms of running. Moreover, it has a plush footbed to provide plenty of support during landings and takeoffs. The big midfoot design makes it suitable for long and recovery runs.

Outsole

Many runners appreciated the outsole design of the Gaviota 3. The prime reason is its outsole longevity, which promises to deliver hundreds of miles of running experience. Rubberized EVA foam makes the outsole bouncy. Hoka manufactured the outsole with extra rubber in the forefoot to withstand significant wear and tear.

Dermabrasion rubber in the later model’s outsole to conquer slippery and wet surfaces. Interestingly, wide, thicker and different-colored rubber is used in the high-abrasion areas. The pair doesn’t lose its flexibility due to the thick rubber. You can run hundreds of miles wearing it. Also, the shoe retains excellent grip on a variety of terrains.

Size & Fit

Both the shoes are true to size.

If you wear Hoka shoes in size #09 from other styles, the same can be worn for Gaviota 3. The footwear fits like a glove and feels soft underfoot. A padded tongue and plush heel collar give you a cozy feel for a day’s activities. They perform together to establish an expected lock. Shoe balance is also perfect for long and easy runs.

The vegan and redesigned upper mesh of Gaviota 4 hugs your foot securely. Whether you walk or run, this shoe prevents flopping. A wide forefoot allows toe splay, providing ample room for people with wider feet. You will feel more secure in the footwear because of the extra padding in the Achilles, ankles, and tongue.

Breathability

The Gaviota 3 provides decent breathability with an engineered mesh upper. However, I felt the shoe was hot in the warmer months. Although, I found it excellent on the cooler days,. If you are worried about overheating, I recommend not buying this pair.

With an upgraded mesh upper, I felt the Gaviota 4 impressively breathable. I wore the footwear on a steamy midwestern summer and hadn’t felt hot spots. You will always have a blister-free wearing experience with the shoe. Gaviota 4 is designed to keep wearers’ comfort in mind.

Performance

The padded upper and midsole make the Gaviota 3 highly responsive. You can achieve bright and nice strides because of its rubberized outsole, low drop, and plush midsole. With 11 oz. of weight, the shoes are manufactured for slow paces and long distances. People with overpronators categorized these shoes as stable ones.

Breathable, well-balanced, and comfortable—these words go perfectly with the Gaviota 4. This pair is lighter than its earlier version. As a result, you can go for long runs without discomfort. Whether you go for a marathon, ultramarathon, or casual run, the shoes feel supportive by many users. It will be an ideal choice if you need a lot of protection from the ground.

Durability

The Gaviota 3 ticks all the boxes of durability, stability, and comfortability. Runners ran wearing them for around 400 miles. More importantly, they found minor wear and tear after 450 miles. Its overall quality and build performance are satisfactory.

Do you prefer durability over other factors? Choose Gaviota 4. The upper, midsole, and outsole are exceptionally durable. The engineered mesh upper hardly shows any sign of damage. Also, the outsole is designed to withstand hundreds of miles of runs, no matter what terrain you hit.

Hoka Gaviota 3 vs. 4: Which one to buy?

Undoubtedly, Gaviota 3 and 4 are both excellent shoes. Since buying a single pair will be the best choice, here are my recommendations.

I Suggest You Buy Hoka Gaviota 3 If	I Suggest You Buy Hoka Gaviota 4 If
You are an overpronator	Your preference is long-lasting comfort
You need maximum cushioning in the midsole	You prioritize durability
You require bounciness underfoot	You want a supportive and lightweight fit