Nuuksio National Park’s forests, lakes and challenging trails make Nuuksio Classic an adventure that attracts both experienced trail runners and new participants. The diverse nature and community atmosphere make the running experience unique.
HOKA, the trail runner’s favorite shoe brand, will join Nuuksio Classic as the main partner from 2025. HOKA brings expertise, vision and mountain and trail running roots to Nuuksio Classic, which will delight both the race organization and the participants alike.
HOKA offers high-quality and adaptable running shoe options that are tailored to the needs of trail runners. The shoes can be tested during the group runs on August 10 and 27 and at the Nuuksio Classic race site. In addition, in connection with the Nouxfest outdoor festival on August 15-17. It is possible to test run the shoes thoroughly: you can borrow test shoes from a HOKA booth for your own run on the race route or participate in guided runs of the festival.
— HOKA wants to build the Nuuksio Classic into a memorable, long-lasting and traditional outdoor event together with the organizers and, above all, the runners, says HOKA importer representative Tuukka Vauhkonen, and warmly welcomes the runners and the audience to the event.
— Cooperation with HOKA is a great opportunity for Nuuksio Classic. HOKA’s top products and the brand’s significance in the trail running community are unique, and together we can bring that spirit to Nuuksio Classic in a new way, says event director Terho Lahtinen.
HOKA: The running shoe that changed the game
It all started in the French Alps in 2009. Passionate ultrarunners Jean-Luc Diard and Nicolas Mermoud faced a challenge in the mountains: downhill running was hard and tiring on the feet. They wanted to develop a running shoe that would make long distances easier, protect the feet and make the stride more rolling and faster.
Something completely new was born. While other shoe brands were moving towards minimalist barefoot shoes, Jean-Luc and Nicolas went against the flow. They added cushioning – a lot. The first HOKA model, the Mafate, looked different: a thick midsole, exceptional cushioning, stable and rolling.
A favorite of ultrarunners and trail runners. HOKA quickly gained a foothold, especially among ultrarunners and trail runners. Long distances, challenging terrain and the need to protect the body from impacts – HOKA answered this need.
Expansion to road and everyday use. As its popularity grew, HOKA expanded its range to include road running. Models like the Clifton and Bondi began to appear in marathons and everyday workouts. More and more exercisers discovered HOKA – a combination of comfort, performance and versatility.
HOKA today. HOKA is one of the world’s fastest growing running shoe brands. The range includes shoes for walking, hiking and everyday use. HOKA is more than a running shoe – it’s a new way to move.
“HOKA not only changed the running shoe, but also how running can feel.”
Come and experience this feeling at the Nuuksio Classic community runs! In August, we will organize two longer runs on the race route and one special shoe test run in the vicinity of the competition center, during which it is possible to compare several shoe models on a short, multiple-lap route.
The dates are Aug 10th and 27th, registration via Facebook events. The group runs are free of charge and open to everyone.
