HOKA Launches F25 Koshi Tan-Tan Capsule Inspired by the Spirit of Ekiden

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21 Nov 2025
10 mins
Out of Town Blog
Melo Villareal

Author: Melo Villareal

HOKA proudly presents the F25 Koshi Tan-Tan Capsule, an exclusive limited-edition collection crafted for passionate runners who are eager to embrace every opportunity, whether pounding the pavement, tackling rugged trails, running solo, or joining forces with a team. This unique capsule features both road and trail footwear alongside high-performance apparel, all presented in a striking […]

Out of Town Blog

HOKA Launches F25 Koshi Tan-Tan Capsule Inspired by the Spirit of Ekiden

HOKA proudly presents the F25 Koshi Tan-Tan Capsule, an exclusive limited-edition collection crafted for passionate runners who are eager to embrace every opportunity, whether pounding the pavement, tackling rugged trails, running solo, or joining forces with a team. This unique capsule features both road and trail footwear alongside high-performance apparel, all presented in a striking black-and-gold colorway designed to inspire confidence and stand out at every finish line. Tailored for athletes who dedicate themselves to the sport, the collection promises not just style but uncompromising performance for those ready to give their all and leave everything on the course.

Drawing inspiration from Japanese culture, the Koshi Tan-Tan Capsule honors the principles of patience, perseverance, and unity, core values celebrated in the Japanese ekiden—a revered long-distance relay race that embodies teamwork and determination. The campaign comes to life through evocative imagery shot on the scenic roads and picturesque trails of Japan, featuring a dynamic team of athletes moving in perfect unison. Their synchronized strides and shared goals mirror the very spirit of the ekiden, emphasizing the power of collective ambition and harmonious achievement.

In an ekiden race, instead of the traditional relay baton, runners pass a tasuki—a distinctive, diagonal cloth sash that symbolizes mutual trust, shared responsibility, and a collective goal. Before each runner begins their segment, there is often a ceremonial moment where the tasuki is prepared for the handoff, heightening the emotional stakes of the event. Each athlete runs a designated leg, which can vary widely in length depending on the race but often includes distances exceeding 12 miles (20 km). Exchanges occur in dedicated handoff zones, where teammates anxiously await their turn, feeling the weight of supporting their team’s overall effort. The dramatic tension, sense of duty, and emotional intensity make the ekiden a highlight in Japan’s sporting calendar, renowned for its unpredictability and compelling narratives.

The tradition traces its origins to 1917, when the first ekiden—a grueling 300-mile (about 482-kilometer) relay from Kyoto to Tokyo—was held to mark the 50th anniversary of Tokyo becoming Japan’s capital. The event evoked the imagery of ancient foot messengers, who rapidly passed critical information across regions. Since then, the ekiden has grown in popularity, now deeply embedded in Japanese society. It is celebrated at all levels—from elementary schools to elite universities and major corporations. The most prestigious races, such as the Hakone Ekiden, held over two days each January, attract massive crowds along the route and millions more watching live on television. Teams invest significant time in strategy, training, and team-building, recognizing that the relay format requires seamless cooperation, careful pacing, and unwavering focus from every participant.

Today, ekiden races dot the calendar throughout Japan and have inspired similar events worldwide, stretching to North America, Europe, and the rest of Asia. In these races, participants seize the rare chance to compete jointly in what is often perceived as a solitary sport. The relay’s inherent challenge not only tests individual speed and endurance but also fosters a powerful sense of shared achievement, unity, and camaraderie. For many runners, participating in an ekiden encapsulates the joy of being part of something greater than oneself—making it a universally cherished experience.

Inspired by the call to “Together We Fly Higher,” the HOKA F25 Koshi Tan-Tan Capsule motivates runners to achieve their goals, from personal bests to team triumphs.

You can find the HOKA F25 Koshi Tan-Tan Capsule at exclusive HOKA stores in One Ayala Mall, GH Mall, SM Aura, Ayala Malls Manila Bay, and the new Trinoma branch. HOKA products are also available at select Foot Locker, Commonwealth, Sole Academy, Planet Sports, Runnr Stores, Toby’s Sports, REV, The SM Store (SM Mall of Asia and SM Megamall), and R.O.X. in Bonifacio High Street.

More information is available at www.hoka.com or through HOKA Philippines’ official pages on Facebook and Instagram (@hoka_philippines).