HOKA
HOKA is a performance footwear brand known for maximal cushioning and lightweight design, founded in 2009 and acquired by Deckers Brands in 2012.
The Story
Hoka is a sportswear company that designs and markets running shoes. It was founded in 2009 in Annecy, France, and had been based in Richmond, California, United States, before it was acquired by Deckers Brands in 2013. Hoka first gained attention in the running industry by producing shoes with oversized midsoles, dubbed "maximalist" shoes, in contrast to the minimalist shoe trend that was gaining popularity at the time. Hoka is a sportswear company that designs and markets running shoes. It was founded in 2009 in Annecy, France, and had been based in Richmond, California, United States, before it was acquired by Deck
Key Facts & Metrics
Company Timeline
2009 — Founded HOKA
HOKA was founded as a retail company.
2012 — HOKA Milestone
Significant milestone in HOKA's growth.
Episodes Featuring HOKA
Founders Featured
Jean-Luc Diard
Jean-Luc Diard co-founded HOKA in 2009 after decades at Salomon, where he developed the first shaped ski and served as CEO. As VP of Innovation at Deckers Outdoor Corporation, he revolutionized running with HOKA's oversized midsoles, now a $2.5 billion brand.
1 episode
Nicolas Mermoud
Nicolas Mermoud is the co-founder of HOKA, the revolutionary running shoe brand. A French mountaineer and ultrarunner from the Alps, he brought his outdoor expertise to create footwear that changed the running world. Prior to HOKA, he served as VP International Marketing at Groupe Rossignol.
1 episode