Co-founders of HOKA, trail enthusiasts Jean-Luc Diard and Nicola Mermoud, are from the French Alps. While running the rugged mountain trails, they came up with the idea to start crafting a running shoe that makes the experience ... Co-founders of HOKA, trail enthusiasts Jean-Luc Diard and Nicola Mermoud, are from the French Alps. While running the rugged mountain trails, they came up with the idea to start crafting a running shoe that makes the experience of running easier and smoother while maintaining optimum momentum. The two began crafting shoes for themselves, but shortly after, word got out, and more people wanted what they had. In 2009 HOKA was initially founded. Since its origin, it has made it a goal to inspire people to move and empower athletes by providing access to optimal running, walking, and overall fitness shoes that are comfortable and approach athletics from a problem-solving perspective. Each HOKA shoe is distinct. Each design features a cushioned midsole, meta-rocker, and more technological components that emphasize HOKA’s commitment to making their consumers “feel like they can fly” while on the move. Moncler, Engineered Garments, and Cotopaxi have collaborated with the revolutionary athletic shoe brand, and celebrities such as Gwyneth Paltrow, Julianne Hough, Winnie Harlow, and Emily Ratajkowski have been seen wearing the cutting-edge silhouettes. View more