“I Want to Be One of the Greats” — Hans Troyer on His New HOKA Deal

“I want to be one of the greats.” That’s how Hans Troyer frames the next chapter of his career - and why his new long-term deal with HOKA is about far more than a logo on a jersey.

In this episode of the Singletrack Podcast, Finn Melanson sits down with Hans to unpack why he chose HOKA, what he’s chasing in 2026 and beyond, and how he’s thinking about development, team culture, and racing at the very highest level of the sport.

Hans discusses:

* Why being part of an elite team mattered more than being “the guy”
* His long-term focus on Western States Endurance Run
* What he’s learned by racing aggressively early in his career
* How teammates like Jim Walmsley and Hayden Hawks have shaped his thinking
* Why racing IQ — not just fitness — is his defining strength
* Early thoughts on UTMB, Europe, training environment, and what’s next

Partners:

* Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (nordarun.com)

* Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next order (precisionhydration.com/planner)

* Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (raideresearch.com)

*Janji - premium trail running apparel (janji.com)

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