The Altra Lone Peak 9 is a neutral trail running shoe and the Hoka Challenger 8 is a neutral road running shoe with balanced cushioning. The Lone Peak 9 costs about $10 less (from $145) and has a lower heel-to-toe drop (0 mm vs 8 mm). The Challenger 8 is 1.5 oz lighter (9.7 oz vs 11.2 oz) and is rated higher by buyers (4.5 vs 4.2 out of 5).
Specs side by side
| Spec | Lone Peak 9 | Challenger 8 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $145 | $155 |
| Rating | 4.2 / 5 (304 reviews) | 4.5 / 5 (189 reviews) |
| Weight | 11.2 oz | 9.7 oz |
| Heel-to-toe drop | 0 mm | 8 mm |
| Heel stack height | 25 mm | — |
| Cushioning | Balanced | Balanced |
| Support | Neutral | Neutral |
| Surface | Trail | Road, Trail |
| Available for | Men & Women | Men & Women |
Specs and prices from Altra and Hoka, checked 2026-10-11. Weight is usually for a men's size 9–10.
Which should you get?
Get the Lone Peak 9 if…
- you want to spend less
- you land on your midfoot or want a lower drop
Get the Challenger 8 if…
- you want the lighter shoe
- you land on your heel and like a higher drop
More comparisons
- Altra Lone Peak 9 vs Hoka Speedgoat 7
- Altra Lone Peak 9 vs Saucony Peregrine 16
- Altra Lone Peak 9 vs Nike ACG Pegasus Trail
- Altra Lone Peak 9 vs Brooks Cascadia 20
- Altra Lone Peak 9 vs ASICS TRABUCO 14
- Hoka Challenger 8 vs Hoka Speedgoat 7
- Hoka Challenger 8 vs Saucony Peregrine 16
- Hoka Challenger 8 vs Nike ACG Pegasus Trail
- Hoka Challenger 8 vs Brooks Cascadia 20
- Hoka Challenger 8 vs ASICS TRABUCO 14