Yes, I've been using external hubs for a while.  I try to keep the VR headset and mouse and keyboard connected directly to the board but almost everything else is on a hub. 

I've been using external hubs for literally years with no issues until the two ports on one of mine failed just now. Works great, honestly. 

Edit: make sure you get hubs that are comparable with the USB types you use most commonly, though. USB 3.0 for most modern controllers and peripherals etc. You can plug 2.0 or lower into 3.0 ports but not the other way around, IIRC.