Hoka

Tasked with capturing content for Hoka’s latest release I was on The Isle of Skye packing for an exciting shoot in some classic Hebredean mood. The conditions weren’t to play a huge factor in the images, so as long as the rain held off the steep hike that lay ahead of us would be worth the climb. Renowned in the running world for the extreme comfort and springy-ness, the TenNine Hike shoe is Hoka’s first proper venture into the mountains. Nicely padded ankle protection for extra support and a large foamy heel and sole that looked set to grip and absorb almost anything, which lined up with the tagline for the shoes: ‘Hike across any terrain’. I’d come to Skye for the famous slopes of Glamaig, where each year one of the toughest races in Scotland takes place. Starting from the Sligachan Hotel competitors run the 1.5km to the base of Glamaig, 2km straight up to the slope’s 775m summit, before turning around and heading back down the way you’ve come as fast as possible – the current record is held be Finlay Wild, with a ridiculous 44 minutes 27 seconds. Whilst I wouldn’t be trying to break any records, the steep gradient littered with scree slopes would be the perfect place for a dynamic shoot capturing the excitement and energy of movement.

Alongside Sarah Rodgers, who was helping to bring the project to life, I trudged through the boggy approach and made it half way up the punishing climb before finding the perfect location to shoot. With a clean background looking northwards, we’d have the sun’s diffused glow through the clouds working in our favour to help light me (the subject). The loose scree was great for capturing some exhilarating and performance focussed content; the small rocks of granite cascading down around my feet, emphasising the movement and technicality. Over the many fly-bys I did down the hill past Sarah, I noticed my trust in the shoe growing remarkably quickly, highlighting shows their effectiveness, and with the extra confidence I was able to really glide down the hill, tossing the loose stones everywhere. Frozen in motion by a fast shutter, the excitement and thrill of the activity shines through, really allowing you to feel the movement and energy.