A few months back, we got a glimpse of new winterized slip-on versions of the Kaha 2 hiking shoes, equipped with uppers that looked like puffer jackets. At the time, they were only going to be sold in the European market but have now become available in the U.S., but now alongside a cold-weather iteration of the Kaha 2 hiking boot, which looks as cool as it sounds (literally).
Hoka Kaha 2 Frost GTX Basics
While casual hikers may prefer Hoka’s Anacapa boots, the Kaha — now in its 2nd generation — is the boot of choice for more serious adventurers. And now those same outdoorsmen have something ready to go for the wintertime.
Built very similarly to its non-Frost Kaha 2s, the Frost retains the same GORE-TEX lining for waterproof-breathable protection and Vibram Megagrip outsoles with 5mm lugs for digging into both wet and dry terrains. However, these can be considered entirely different boots.
In terms of its design, the visual styling of the Frost takes the mid boots and not only lifts up the rear to cover the entire ankle area with a compression collar to “seal out the elements” without restricting movement but the signature wave design on the uppers have been removed entirely. Now, a similar pattern has moved to the trio of top-hook lacing brackets and swoop down instead. These brackets have been redesigned a bit for even faster on-off. Also, a tighter, glove-friendly pull tab has been added to the heel.
For keeping your feet warm, Hoka has given the boots a significant amount of insulation. Now rated down to -25ºF, the Kaha 2 Frost boasts 400g of PrimaLoft Gold insulation in the ripstop polyester mesh uppers, which isn’t too noticeable on these boots. Some insulated hikers look a bit too obvious but Hoka has made the winterization pretty subtle here. You’ll also get aluminum reflective foil in the bottom of the sockliner so no heat escapes out the soles either.
The Slip-On Mocs Version
As we’ve stated, these boots come alongside the availability of the Kaha 2 Frost Mocs, which looks like a puffer jacket on your feet. We can’t attest to the capability of hiking in these low-profile slip-ons but they remind us of the Teva ReEmber that are pretty popular right now. However, the same 5mm lugs on the Vibram Megagrip will surely help you stay on your feet on the trail.
Also rated to -25ºF, the shell is constructed with a polyester ripstop upper supplemented with a GORE-TEX membrane, all insulated with a 300g of PrimaLoft Black. You also get a polyester-based stretch-fleece top collar to keep your feet closed off. Rather than standard laces, there’s a quick-lace bungee toggle for quick cinching.
Spec Sheet
Uppers: Polyester ripstop
Insulation: 400g PrimaLoft Gold (Frost Mid), 300g PrimaLoft Black (Frost Moc)
Membrane: GORE-TEX
Outsole: Vibram Megagrip
Lug Height: 5mm
Temp Rating: -25ºF
Pricing & Availability
Priced at a whopping $280, the Kaha 2 Frost GTX boots will cost you $40 more than retail for the standard Kaha 2s — which have now dropped even more in price. Meanwhile, the slip-on Kaha 2 Frost Mocs are a bit more affordable (relatively) at $200. Head over to Hoka’s website to learn more.
Recap
Hoka Kaha 2 Frost GTX
Hoka’s Kaha 2 GTX gets 400g of PrimaLoft Gold insulation, rating the hiking boots down to -25ºF.
