Quick Review: Choosing between HOKA vs ASICS vs Brooks vs Mizuno comes down to the type of running shoe you need, how it fits, and the feel you prefer underfoot. HOKA is worth shortlisting if you want to explore highly cushioned models, while ASICS and Brooks offer a broad range of everyday and stability-focused options. Mizuno is another option to compare if you prefer its Wave platform and the ride of its individual models. In this guide, we compare their key differences, explain which shoes to shortlist for running and walking, and highlight what Australian shoppers should check before buying, including specifications, prices and return policies.
Top Summary
When trying to decide between HOKA vs ASICS vs Brooks vs Mizuno, bear in mind that not all brands fit all runners. If your taste leans toward maximum cushioning, then HOKA would do you proud, but ASICS certainly offers a wide selection of shoes, including neutral and stability. Brooks excels when it comes to everyday running shoes, and Mizuno deserves a closer look as well. You can use this comparison when searching for running shoes for walking.
How We Made This Comparison
The HOKA vs ASICS vs Brooks vs Mizuno comparison is based on current manufacturer information, published shoe specifications, available model features, and practical use cases for Australian runners. I’ve considered how each brand’s shoes may suit different needs.
HOKA vs ASICS vs Brooks vs Mizuno
My personal preference would be HOKA for their soft cushioning, ASICS for their versatility, Brooks for reliable everyday runs, and Mizuno for responsiveness.
And that’s probably the first thing I’d want to clear up. When I look at these four brands, I don’t see four versions of the same shoe.
I see four different approaches to the running experience.
Hoka usually comes to mind if you prioritize cushioning in your shoes. ASICS provides you with a wide selection of neutral, cushioned, and stability shoes. Brooks is very well-known for its running shoes, whereas Mizuno is known for its Wave technology and its energy-driven approach to shoes.
But here’s the thing: the brand name on the side of the shoe isn’t enough to choose from.
A HOKA Bondi and a HOKA stability model won’t necessarily feel alike. The same goes for ASICS, Brooks and Mizuno. So I’d use the brand comparison as a starting point, then narrow it down to the individual model.
I’d put HOKA slightly ahead when the main priority is that soft, substantial feeling underfoot. The Bondi 9, for instance, is based on a concept called plush ride at HOKA, and it’s for everyday running, walking and recovery.
As far as the ASICS line goes, it’s much harder to sum up in one sentence due to its great diversity. The existing Australian range consists of neutral, stability, as well as speed shoes.
And this is where HOKA vs ASICS gets interesting.
If I were buying mainly for easy kilometres and I wanted a heavily cushioned sensation, I’d start with HOKA. If I wasn’t sure whether I wanted neutral cushioning, structured support or something faster, I’d spend more time looking through ASICS.
ASICS also makes a strong case for runners who want one brand with different options as their training changes.
ASICS vs Brooks: Which Running Shoe Brand Is Right for You?
ASICS is a good pick if you are new to running. Brooks is also appealing for a daily running or walking option.
I find ASICS vs Brooks more difficult to separate than HOKA vs Brooks because both brands cover so many everyday needs.
ASICS gives you a clear spread of cushioning, stability and performance shoes.
Its current Australian range includes the GEL-NIMBUS for highly cushioned neutral running, GEL-KAYANO for structured support and GEL-CUMULUS for a more versatile neutral option.
Brooks takes a similarly practical approach, with Ghost, Glycerin, Adrenaline GTS and other models aimed at different comfort and support preferences.
But the fit can change the whole decision. I’d rather spend ten minutes comparing fit than pick a shoe simply because someone called it the “best” online.
HOKA vs Mizuno: Soft Cushioning or Responsive Feel?
I’d start with HOKA if maximum plushness matters most and Mizuno if you prefer a more energetic, responsive feel.
The HOKA vs Mizuno comparison is probably the most interesting one for runners who already know what they like.
HOKA’s identity is easy to associate with substantial cushioning. Mizuno’s current Wave Rider 30, meanwhile, uses Mizuno Enerzy NXT foam alongside a full-length Wave Plate and is positioned for neutral runners and daily training.
Mizuno describes its Wave technology as balancing cushioning and stability. That gives the brand a slightly different angle from the simple “soft versus hard” debate.
And I wouldn’t say Mizuno is automatically firm. That would be too simplistic.
The newer materials can provide plenty of cushioning while still producing a more energetic sensation.
For those who enjoy feeling more cushioned in their footwear, HOKA would definitely be an option worth considering. However, if one is looking for a cushioned shoe that is still responsive while sprinting, Mizuno should definitely not be ignored.
I’d compare these brands by use case rather than trying to crown one overall winner.
What you want
Brand I’d shortlist first
Why
Plush cushioning
HOKA
Strong focus on cushioned everyday models
Wide choice
ASICS
Neutral, stability and performance options
Daily road running
Brooks
Strong everyday trainer range
Responsive feel
Mizuno
Wave platform and energetic cushioning options
Stability choices
ASICS / Brooks
Broad structured-support ranges
Walking and recovery
HOKA / Brooks / ASICS
Several models are positioned for walking or easy use
Beginner-friendly daily trainer
All four
Specific model and fit matter more than brand
This is where I’d be careful with a best running shoes comparison.
There’s no honest way to say that one brand wins every category. A runner who loves the feel of a HOKA Bondi may dislike a firmer shoe, while another runner may find the same plush sensation too much.
So I’d treat this table as a shortlist, not a verdict carved into stone.
What About HOKA vs ASICS for Walking and Running Shoes for Walking?
HOKA and ASICS both have models that can work well for walking, but comfort, fit, and your walking routine should guide the decision.
If you’re searching for HOKA vs ASICS for walking, I’d look beyond their running credentials.
HOKA’s Bondi 9 is explicitly positioned for walking as well as everyday running and recovery. ASICS also identifies the GEL-NIMBUS as suitable for walking, particularly when you want lightweight cushioning for longer walks.
But I’d ask myself a simple question: what am I actually doing in these shoes?
Walking long distances each day, as well as being active through commuting by foot or standing all day, may be more important than performance on race day.
Furthermore, since you will need shoes for both purposes, I would go for a multipurpose shoe and not an aggressive race shoe.
The same logic applies to HOKA vs Brooks for walking. Brooks has dedicated walking options as well as running shoes that can handle walking, so there’s no reason to assume a running shoe is automatically your best walking shoe.
How Should Australian Runners Choose Between the Four?
Start with your running surface, cushioning preference, stability needs, fit and budget before choosing a brand.
For Australian runners and fitness-focused shoppers, I’d use this checklist before opening the checkout page.
Question
What I’d look for
Where do I run?
Road, treadmill, trail or mixed surfaces
How far do I run?
Short runs, daily kilometres or long distances
What feel do I prefer?
Plush, balanced or responsive
Do I need stability?
Consider your individual needs rather than assuming
How does the shoe fit?
Secure heel, comfortable midfoot and toe room
What’s my budget?
Current price, sale price, shipping and returns
Will I walk in them?
Choose a versatile comfort-focused model if so
Because fit is personal, I wouldn't buy solely from a brand comparison.
If you can try the shoe in-store, walk around in it. Check whether your heel stays secure. Make sure your toes aren't being squeezed. If you're buying online, check the retailer's sizing information and return policy first.
And don't forget the Australian price.
Current official Australian listings show that these brands can sit in a fairly premium price bracket, but sale pricing can make older models considerably more attractive. Mizuno's Australian site, for example, currently lists newer Wave Rider models alongside discounted previous versions, while Brooks also has sale pricing across selected shoes.
My overall advice is simple: choose the brand that matches your preferred ride, then choose the specific model that fits your feet.
For someone looking for maximum cushioning, it would be wise to put HOKA shoes towards the top of the list.
If one is looking for maximum variety of models including cushioned, neutral, and stability, ASICS running shoes are an excellent starting point.
If someone is looking for reliable everyday road shoes, then they need not look further than Brooks running shoes.
And if you want cushioning with a more energetic, structured character, Mizuno running shoes are worth trying.
But honestly, I wouldn’t spend too much time asking which logo is best.
I’d ask which shoe feels right for your running.
This is the one that really counts.
When choosing between the different shoe brands, refer to this list while you’re shortlisting, and then see how the particular model suits you along with other details.
Check the latest HOKA vouchers and save on your next pair of running shoes!
Sarah Seemi is a shopping editor with more than seven years of experience in e-commerce and affiliate marketing. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Arts and a Master’s degree in English Linguistics from a reputable university. She has held the role of a content writer at leading digital magazines, including Evolution Magazine, and has worked as a full-time e-commerce blog writer for Tech Bloggers and Fashion.Blog.
Her work spans in-depth brand reviews, shopping guides, brand comparisons, and affiliate content. She specialises in creating thoroughly researched shopping content that helps readers make informed purchasing decisions and shop smarter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Not universally. I’d choose HOKA when plush cushioning is the priority, while ASICS makes more sense if you want a wider selection of neutral, stability, and performance-focused models.
Brooks would be a great option for your road running, but HOKA might fit better if you are looking for more cushioning.
Yes, certain Mizuno shoes are intended for training purposes and are suitable for beginners. However, fit and comfort should be prioritized before buying from any brand.
I’d recommend ASICS, HOKA and Brooks for walking. I’d choose based on cushioning, fit, weight, and how much walking you actually do.
