Shadowing Practice: Hoka Challenger 8 Review - Learn English Speaking with Video
Creating lesson...
1
Hey guys, welcome back.
2
I'm Alastair and this is the Hoka Challenger 8.
3
This one is very much still a road to trail running shoe, so it's not really designed to be going all mountain on highly technical trails you could do it,
4
but there are better running shoes out there for that use case.
5
It's not a hugely radical update from version 7, which by the way, for the record, I really did like.
6
And if you are looking at that shoe now, maybe because you want to pick up a deal, I'd recommend checking out that review to learn more about that shoe.
7
The Challenger 8 does come with some subtle updates that, in my opinion, make it a better trail running shoe.
8
It has a really refined fit, better traction and that same soft stable ride that I really liked on a previous version.
9
They cost $155 which now puts it very much in line with the Hoka Speedgoat 6.
10
Same price so if you're really not sure
11
which one of those shoes to go for this one or the Speedgoat 6 definitely follow that link up there.
12
I put an article together that compares the two shoes how they perform in different scenarios
13
and ultimately that will help you find the best running shoe for you and your needs.
14
They weigh 9.5 ounces or 265 grams.
15
That's for size US Men's 9, my pair.
16
They have a drop of seven millimeters from heel to toe.
17
The upper is super comfortable.
18
It's using 100% recycled material on there.
19
It is breathable.
20
And the collars around here, the heel counter, which is articulated and has a good amount of flex to it.
21
They're just super comfortable to slip on.
22
This is definitely for me the most comfortable Hoka trail running shoe right now.
23
The midsole is using a compression molded EVA foam.
24
It has a really nice balance.
25
It feels very soft but it maintains stability and it has a good amount of response as well,
26
meaning it bounces back and springs back when you compress it.
27
The outsole is using Hoka's dual abrasion rubber compound.
28
Now, it's not Vibram Mega Grip, so this is one of the downsides to this shoe, and it's one of the reasons it's not the best all-mountain trail running shoe,
29
just because the rubber compound isn't quite as effective as some of the other trail running shoe offerings from Hoka,
30
like the Speedcoat series and the Mafat as well.
31
And they have 4mm lugs, so not incredibly deep, but certainly capable enough for most things.
32
Some additional features then include some reflective highlights, you've also got this finger pull at the rear to make them easier to slip on,
33
and also the last in the shoe has been improved to improve the fit overall
34
so I think more people with different foot shapes are going to enjoy the fit in this one for sure.
35
When it comes to sizing and fit they are very much true to size so go with your usual sizing.
36
Now the toe box does have a little bit of extra room in there
37
which is really nice so if you are a fan of the Speedgoat
38
or you didn't get on with the Speedgoat
39
because the toe box was too tight
40
and a little bit triangular then you're really going to like these
41
because there is more room and the fit for me is just spot on.
42
It really is fantastic.
43
The lockdown within the shoe is really good as well so there's no heel slip.
44
The lacing system here is very traditional but it just works
45
and it's very easy to get that nice perfect fit very quickly.
46
Collars and the heel counts are all very padded, but also the tongue is very padded too.
47
Not like the Speedgoat series or the Mafat, the most recent release of that, which was August 1st. This one is actually a really nice soft tongue,
48
and I'd love to see Hoka bring a tongue like this to the Speedgoat and the Mafat series.
49
It would just make the comfort levels so so much better.
50
If you know you have wide feet, then there is a wide version available as well.
51
So just go with that version.
52
If you're enjoying this review so far, please give a video a like.
53
I really appreciate it when you guys do that.
54
It really helps the channel, but also comment on the video.
55
I want to get your opinions of running shoes that I review because that will help future subscribers or current subscribers.
56
It'll help them decide whether or not the shoe I'm reviewing is going to be right for them.
57
So yeah, drop all your comments on this shoe or just let me know what your favourite Hoka trail running shoe is.
58
Love to hear it.
59
And of course, subscribe to the channel for more running shoe reviews just like this one.
60
I always keep things genuine, honest and as insightful as possible to help you decide whether or not the shoe I'm currently reviewing
61
is going to be best for you and your needs.
62
But if at any point, maybe I've missed something in my reviews, just drop a comment down below and I'll get back to you.
63
Well, congratulations, you made it to my performance review.
64
This is my favourite part of every review because I get to share my experience running with the shoes.
65
And this one for me is a real winner.
66
I absolutely love it.
67
I love the previous version, but this one goes that little step further in terms of how the ride feels, but also the comfort levels in the upper.
68
So I'm going to start with the midsole and the ride that this shoe gives.
69
So first off, you can see the geometry.
70
There is a rockered geometry to this.
71
All that means is the shoe will give you a nice transition from heel landing to toe takeoff.
72
But it performs really well whether you heel strike or you strike towards your forefoot.
73
So whatever kind of stride you have, this shoe does perform really well.
74
I tested it, so I know that for certain.
75
So the transition is really good, but it's not just the geometry that's doing it.
76
It is this EVA foam, which is really nice and soft, but it does bounce back and it's not plush.
77
So you don't get an unstable shoe.
78
The midsole does also rise up around your foot on both sides,
79
giving you somewhat of a cage or a structure that actually supports and stabilizes your foot within the shoe.
80
That support on the run is really noticeable.
81
It makes it a much more stable shoe when you consider the fact that the midsole is nice and soft, meaning it's going to be good for hard surfaces like running on the roads,
82
but also light trails as well.
83
And if you want to go long distances, the comfort level on here is next level, to be honest.
84
So you can really run as long as you like in these shoes on any terrain.
85
Just don't go for anything too technical.
86
Now, although the Challenger 8 is very ever so slightly heavier than the previous version,
87
it feels just as nimble doesn't feel like a heavy shoe and that's because it's not.
88
If you are looking at some of the specs on paper
89
and you're thinking whether you should get this one or the previous version, I definitely recommend going with a newer one.
90
There have been refinements that definitely make it a better shoe.
91
Moving on to the outsole, it is still using duo abrasion rubber and
92
that was one of my downsides on the previous version and the fact that the lugs aren't all that aggressive.
93
They are multi-directional now, which makes the
94
traction much better than the previous version
95
and the outsole does kind of get inset more meaning there is more range in the outsole
96
so if you are running on wet mud
97
that kind of stuff then you will get better traction than a previous version
98
but it's not fiber mega grip
99
so the rubber compound isn't gonna be as good on stuff like wet slick rocks
100
but this shoe really is designed as a all-terrain shoe in
101
terms of being able to run on roads really well
102
but also light trails really well it's not an all-mountain trail running shoe
103
if that's something you're looking for definitely either watch my best all mountain trail running shoes roundup there
104
or head over to my roundup on alistairrunning.com
105
that will point you in the right direction for the best all mountain trail running shoes for you.
106
And this one really does feel just as good on the roads as it does on light trails.
107
Honestly it just it breezes across the transition really really well so
108
if you do have to run to your trailhead then you're
109
not going to be worrying about a shoe that's too firm
110
or just not going to perform well on roads because this does.
111
I've also been using mine for dog walks
112
and taking my dog Kepler to the park and just walking around the neighborhood doing lifestyle things, just going out to restaurants,
113
all that kind of stuff.
114
I actually really enjoy this one because it is just so comfortable and breathable.
115
One thing to note, if you are running on the roads you will notice
116
that kind of clawing sound as the aggressive lugs are trying to dig into asphalt or concrete.
117
That's just something that, you know, that's a natural thing because the outsole is a lot more aggressive than the road running shoe.
118
It's not that noticeable and to be honest it's nice knowing
119
that your shoe is going to be better prepared than most
120
if you are walking around town or you're taking a shoe on holiday or vacation.
121
It's nice knowing that the outsole is going to be more than capable.
122
All in for a road to trail running shoe then performance on this one is next level.
123
It's 10 out of 10 for me, I absolutely love it.
124
It is currently ranking number one on my best road to trail running shoes roundup and for good reason.
125
If you're wondering where this one placed on my best road to trail running shoes roundup on alistairrunning.com, well you'll just have to go and visit that post up there.
126
That's always kept up to date as and when I review road to trail running shoes that list will get updated.
127
Very quickly then, how does this one compare to the previous version?
128
Well, first off, the fit has been refined, so it is certainly a lot more comfortable in the upper now, and there's a little bit more room in the toe box.
129
There is more foam in the midsole, but that does make it much softer and a much smoother ride.
130
It also makes it a touch heavier, really not noticeable by any means, but it's there.
131
The outsole is of course more grippy as well, It's more aggressive on their multi-directional lugs, and there's more inset areas,
132
making it better for muddy trails as well.
133
It's still super versatile and smooth in the transition, but it just feels more dialed in overall.
134
And it's certainly worthy of an upgrade if you are looking at buying this one.
135
Is it worth $155 then?
136
Well, yes, if you've been watching this video closely, I think it's pretty clear I really like this one.
137
It is currently my favourite rototrail running shoe for all the reasons I've outlined in this review.
138
It's super comfortable.
139
The ride is next level.
140
The transition is just fantastic.
141
I like the fact the drop isn't too high.
142
It's a medium drop.
143
So you're able to have a nice natural foot fall.
144
So whether you do strike towards your heel or your midfoot, you have a really, really nice
145
cushion ride underfoot and transition the works really well all the way across the shoe
146
so it's a super versatile shoe in terms of what it can do
147
but also who it's going to be good for
148
if you've tried the shoe I want you to let me
149
know what you thought of it as well have you found it to be incredibly comfortable
150
and versatile as I have or maybe you're new to the channel
151
and you just want to introduce yourself to say hello or
152
if you've got a question about this shoe that I didn't cover in this review.
153
Let me know in the comments and I'll get back to you.
154
I reply to everyone.
Why practice speaking with this video?
Practicing your English speaking skills with the "Hoka Challenger 8 Review" video can provide numerous benefits. Firstly, the speaker, Alastair, discusses various aspects of a trail running shoe in an engaging manner, making the content relatable and applicable. By listening and repeating his phrases, you can enhance your english speaking practice while familiarizing yourself with vocabulary related to sports and footwear. Additionally, the video presents information in a clear and organized way, which is excellent for developing your ability to summarize and discuss product features in English.
Grammar & Expressions in Context
Throughout the video, several key grammatical structures and expressions can help improve your English communication skills. Here are a few highlighted examples:
- Comparative structures: Phrases like "better traction" and "more comfortable" help describe how one item compares to another. This structure is essential for articulating opinions effectively.
- Descriptive adjectives: The use of adjectives such as "soft," "stable," and "refined" allows for vivid descriptions. Utilizing descriptive language helps listeners visualize the subject being discussed.
- Present tense for reviews: Alastair often uses the present tense, as in "this shoe is" or "the outsole is," to deliver immediate and relevant information. Practicing this structure will assist you in conducting your own reviews or discussions.
- Conditional statements: Phrases such as "if you're really not sure" help frame suggestions. This can aid you in expressing conditions or hypothetical situations in your own conversations.
Common Pronunciation Traps
As you engage with the video, be aware of certain words and phrases that might present pronunciation challenges:
- “Articulated” – This word requires careful attention to the syllables, ensuring you pronounce it clearly to avoid confusion.
- “Traction” – The ‘tr’ sound can be tricky for non-native speakers; practicing this word will help improve your overall clarity.
- “Compression molded” – The combination of sounds in this phrase can be difficult; break it down into parts while shadowing to master its pronunciation.
- “Reflective highlights” – Focus on the ‘r’ and ‘h’ sounds here, as they often pose challenges in English speaking.
By using the shadowing technique with this video, you can imitate Alastair’s speech pattern and improve your English pronunciation. Consider using a shadowing app to record your practice sessions and compare your pronunciation with his, facilitating continued progress in your English skills.
What is the Shadowing Technique?
Shadowing is a science-backed language learning technique originally developed for professional interpreter training and popularized by polyglot Dr. Alexander Arguelles. The method is simple but powerful: you listen to native English audio and immediately repeat it out loud — like a shadow following the speaker with just a 1–2 second delay. Unlike passive listening or grammar drills, shadowing forces your brain and mouth muscles to simultaneously process and reproduce real speech patterns. Research shows it significantly improves pronunciation accuracy, intonation, rhythm, connected speech, listening comprehension, and speaking fluency — making it one of the most effective methods for IELTS Speaking preparation and real-world English communication.