Hoka skyward x 1

Learn more about the Hoka skyward x 1 male running shoes, including key features, performance, reviews, model updates, and more.

Hoka skyward x 1

Price

420

Rating

High

Popularity

Moderate

The Hoka Skyward X 1 is a versatile trail running shoe that offers a balance between cushioning and responsiveness, placing it between the more cushioned Bondi and the lighter, faster Speedgoat in the Hoka lineup.

5 colorways

Colorway: Blanc De Blanc / Virtual Blue

Widths available: normal

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Summary

The Hoka Skyward X 1 is designed as a versatile road running shoe that offers a balance of cushioning, support, and responsiveness. It is part of Hoka's advanced lineup tailored for runners seeking a combination of comfort and performance for long distances. Compared to other models like the Clifton and Bondi, the Skyward X 1 provides a slightly firmer ride while maintaining the brand's signature lightweight, breathable feel. It manages to fit neatly between the maximal cushioning of the Bondi and the more moderate Clifton, offering a unique option for runners who desire endurance features without overly plush cushioning.

Surface

road

Cushioning

MinLowMediumHighMax(43.5mm)

Breathability

LowMediumHigh(Matryx upper)

Weight

260g

Heel-to-Toe Drop

5mm0mm14mm

Support

NeutralLightHigh

Width options

normal

Grip

LowMediumHighMax

Suitability

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Pros & Cons

AI-powered

Fittir conducts a detailed analysis of the Hoka skyward x 1 to provide you with a comprehensive overview of the shoes features, pros, and cons based on 22 wear-tester reviews.

Summary: The Hoka Skyward X is a highly cushioned and stable running shoe that excels in providing comfort for long and easy runs, making it ideal for high-mileage training. However, its heavier weight, narrow fit, and high price point may limit its appeal to budget-conscious runners or those seeking a shoe for speed work..

Most Mentioned Pros

Most Mentioned Cons

cushion
Cushion feeling: Firm

The pros of the Hoka Skyward X, particularly its exceptional cushioning and comfort, are highlighted frequently, while the cons mainly point out concerns about the shoe's firmness and potential lack of ground feel for some users.

comfort (5)

bounce (3)

cushioning (3)

stack height (3)

firmness (2)

stack (2)

responsiveness (2)

responsive (2)

Pros

"The Hoka Skyward X is described as having a blend of cushioning and bounce."

Peba foam

EVA frame

cushion

bounce

softness

"Many users report that the shoe's cushion effectively absorbs impact and provides energy return, enhancing their running experience."

cushion

energy return

bounce

"The midsole features a unique combination of materials that offer an impressive bounce and responsiveness."

bounce

responsiveness

midsole

"The shoe provides a smooth transition thanks to its rocker geometry."

rocker

smooth

transition

low drop

"The cushioning is firm yet comfortable, providing a good balance during runs."

firm

comfort

softness

thickness

"The Skyward X offers an extremely high level of cushioning, making it suitable for long runs."

high cushioning

long runs

comfort

"The cushioning in the Hoka Skyward X is extraordinary, providing excellent impact absorption for runners."

cushioning

impact absorption

long runs

"The Hoka Skyward X provides incredible cushioning for a plush running experience."

cushion

comfort

plush

"The Hoka Skyward X features a high stack height for exceptional cushioning."

high stack

cushioning

max cushioning

"The shoe provides excellent cushioning with a substantial stack height."

stack height

cushioning

comfort

"The shoe is designed to alleviate pain from various foot conditions, making it suitable for injury-prone runners."

injury prevention

maximalist

foot conditions

"The Hoka Skyward X provides a plush and cushioned ride, enhancing comfort during runs."

cushioning

ride

comfort

"The Hoka Skyward X features a high stack height, providing ample cushioning for increased comfort."

stack height

cushioning

"The shoe offers an impressive maximum stack height of 48mm, providing ample cushioning for runners."

cushioning

stack height

maximalist

"It has a generous stack height that contributes to the shoe's comfort and cushioning, making it suitable for long distances."

cushioning

comfort

long distance

"The two-layer foam system and carbon plate work well together to deliver responsiveness and support."

foam

carbon plate

support

"The midsole’s unique construction provides a spring-loaded sensation for easy-paced runs."

PEBA foam

carbon plate

effortless running

"The shoe offers significant rebound, improving overall performance during runs."

bounce

performance

comfort

"The cushioning is exceptional, providing a soft yet responsive feel on runs."

cushioning

Peba foam

softness

responsiveness

"The wide base of EVA foam contributes to a responsive landing."

EVA_foam

landing

responsiveness

"The cushioning in the Skyward X provides a highly soft and rhythmic ride."

soft

high cushioning

responsive

"The Skywood X offers exceptional comfort with its midsole cushioning which is rated as unmatched."

comfort

cushioning

PE foam

"The cushioning and foam combinations deliver a plush and energetic running experience during long runs."

plush ride

energetic

long runs

"The midsole of the shoe provides exceptional cushioning, enhancing comfort while maintaining stability during runs."

PEBA midsole

EVA frame

cushioned

stable

"The cushioning aspect of the shoe is exceptionally thick, delivering maximum comfort to the runner."

cushioning

comfort

softness

"The soft cushioning effectively cradles the foot for comfort during long runs."

cushioning

comfort

long runs

"The cushioning in the shoe helps absorb shock on long runs, benefitting those prone to injury."

shock absorption

injury prevention

long run support

"The Skyward X offers excellent shock absorption, making it ideal for heel strikers."

cushioning

heel striking

comfort

"The shoe’s cushioning helps alleviate various running-related injuries according to a podiatrist, making it beneficial for many runners."

injury relief

podiatrist recommendation

"The HOKA Skyward X features substantial cushioning that provides a sensation of floating during runs."

cushioning

suspension

floating feeling

"The Hoka Skyward X provides an exceptional level of cushioning, making it one of the most cushioned shoes available on the market."

stack height

cushioning

softness

"The cushioning significantly reduces impact during runs, which helps in keeping fatigue at bay, particularly on long runs."

fatigue reduction

comfortable runs

cushioned

impact protection

"The Hoka Skyward X features incredibly plush cushioning that offers both protection and bounce."

cushioning

comfort

bounce

"The shoe features a significant amount of cushioning for a plush ride."

foam

comfort

ride

"The shoe is well-suited for recovery day runs, thanks to its cushioned design."

cushioning

comfort

protection

"The Skyward X utilizes a powerful spring mechanism for enhanced energy return."

spring

carbon_plate

bounce

"The shoe's cushioning helps to reduce fatigue during easy and long runs."

fatigue reduction

long runs

easy runs

Cons

"The shoe could feel firmer than expected due to its thickness despite the cushioning."

cushioning

midsole

softness

"The midsole is firm for how much foam is present, which could affect overall comfort."

comfort

cushioning

"The shoe's soft foam may lead to compression, impacting performance on flat surfaces."

compression

steady pace

"The shoe's cushioning may not suit all foot strikes, potentially leading to discomfort for some runners."

cushioning

footstrike

comfort

"The lack of adequate protection in the forefoot can be a concern during runs."

forefoot protection

cushioning

"The shoe's foam formulation may not provide the desired bounce."

bounce

foam formulation

"The shoes have a high stack height that may not suit all runners due to lack of ground feel."

high stack

lack of ground feel

"The cushioning can diminish ground feel, making it difficult to navigate uneven terrain."

cushioning

ground feel

control

comfort
Breathability: Less breathable

The main points to note are that comfort is frequently highlighted as a strong positive feature of the shoe, while issues with rubbing and stiffness are common concerns.

overall (2)

tongue (2)

breathability (2)

rubbing (2)

heel padding (1)

secure fit (1)

upper material (1)

ventilation (1)

Pros

"The design also features a padded heel for comfort and stability."

padding

comfort

stability

"The upper fits securely and contributes to overall comfort."

upper fit

comfort

breathability

"The knit upper is comfortable and adds to the shoe's overall feel."

comfort

knit

upper material

"The flat-knit upper facilitates good ventilation, adding to the comfort on hot runs."

breathability

hot runs

comfort

"The shoe feels lightweight during runs due to its design and the bounce from its cushioning, despite having a max cushion."

lightweight

bounce

"The overall comfort of the shoe is described as supreme and ideal for recovery runs."

comfort

recovery

cushioning

"The Hoka Skywood X is widely praised for its exceptional comfort, making it enjoyable for long runs."

comfort

long runs

positive feedback

"The upper of the shoe is comfortable and provides adequate support while maintaining a good level of firmness."

upper comfort

support

fit

"The plush upper of the Skywood X enhances overall comfort, distinguishing it from the Cellow X1."

plush

upper

padding

"The shoe's tongue is described as plush, contributing to overall comfort."

plush tongue

comfort

no lace bite

"The shoe excels in providing a comfortable and enjoyable running experience, making each run feel effortless."

ease

enjoyable

easy run

"The shoe is designed for high-mileage training, allowing for comfortable long runs."

high-mileage

easy runs

comfort

"The shoe's thick and plush tongue prevents any potential lace pressure, enhancing overall comfort."

comfort

lace pressure

"It offers impressive comfort during runs, making it suitable for recovery days."

comfort

recovery

long runs

"It is designed for comfortable wear with a breathable upper material."

upper comfort

breathability

fit

Cons

"The large sidewalls cause some rubbing on the ankle, which could be uncomfortable for some."

ankle

rubbing

discomfort

"There are several internal seams that can cause rubbing if not paired with proper socks."

socks

seams

"The ride of the shoe feels stiff and not engaging, which may detract from the running experience."

stiffness

engagement

running experience

"The midsole design can be uncomfortable for runners with wider feet or flat arches."

fit

arch

wide feet

"Long runs could lead to discomfort due to foot swelling and the bucket seat design."

long distance

comfort

bucket seat

"The shoe may not provide adequate ground feel due to its maximum cushioning design."

cushioning

downhill

"The tongue lacks a gusseted design."

tongue

gusset

comfort

"The tongue of the Cellow X1 can bunch up if not properly aligned, causing discomfort."

discomfort

fit issue

"The shoe’s bounciness may be excessive on the treadmill."

excessive

treadmill

bouncy

"Some runners may find the max cushion to be too plush over long distances."

overly plush

long distances

"Changing foot strike patterns to adapt to the shoe may result in physical discomfort and aches."

gait

aches

comfort

"The breathability of the upper is subpar in hot conditions."

breathability

heat

comfort

"While the upper is snug and chafe-free, it lacks adequate breathability."

snug

chafing

durability

The main points to note are that durability is frequently highlighted as a strong feature of the shoe, while concerns about average outsole durability and wear after limited use are also significant.

longevity (2)

outsole (2)

midsole (1)

durability (1)

build quality (1)

performance retention (1)

coverage (1)

wear-resistance (1)

Pros

"The shoe is built with durability in mind, supporting high mileage runs."

durability

high mileage

long-lasting

"The shoe is expected to last for a long time, with the reviewer anticipating over 500 miles from it."

long-lasting

value

durable

"The midsole technology adds to the shoe's durability."

durability

lifespan

midsole technology

"The shoe features a high level of durability, making it ideal for extended use."

durability

long-lasting

robust

"The rubber outsole of the Skyward X has been designed with good coverage and durability, showcasing minimal wear even after extensive use."

outsole durability

rubber coverage

"The outsole design enhances durability, helping ensure the shoe lasts longer even after many miles of use."

durability

grip

high mileage

"The durable rubber outsole positively contributes to the longevity of the shoe, making it suitable for frequent training."

durability

outsole

high abrasion

"The outsole of the Skyward X performs well in various conditions and is made from durable rubber."

durability

grip

wet conditions

"The shoe has durable outsole construction, showing little wear after extensive use."

outsole durability

long-term use

wear resistance

"The shoe is well-constructed, giving the user confidence in its build quality and durability."

durability

build quality

long-lasting

"The shoe maintains its performance and feel even after extensive mileage, suggesting high durability."

durability

long-lasting

consistent feel

"There's plenty of coverage for the outsole, which is ideal for various weather conditions."

outsole coverage

weather resistance

durable

"The outsole of the Hoka Skyward X shows minimal wear even after extensive use, demonstrating excellent durability."

high-abrasion rubber

durable outsole

minimal wear

Cons

"The outsole durability is only average and can show wear quickly."

durability

outsole

"The middle channel tends to trap debris like small rocks."

outsole

debris

durability

"Potential for rocks to get stuck in the midfoot cutout area."

cutout design

potential hazards

"The exposed foam showed some wear after 100 miles, raising durability concerns."

durability

foam

wear

"Durability issues noted with heel wear after multiple uses."

heel wear

durability

outsole

performance
Distance suited: Long (>20km)
Rocker: More rocker

The main issues with the shoe are its heaviness and bulkiness, which affect performance during faster runs, as these concerns appear frequently in the reviews.

weight (10)

speed (6)

energy return (3)

responsiveness (3)

rocker (2)

enjoyment (2)

transition (2)

daily runs (1)

Pros

"Its performance is rated highly for daily runs and maintaining pace."

performance

daily trainer

ease of use

pace

"The shoe's carbon plate adds a layer of performance enhancement."

carbon plate

performance

stiffness

toe-off

"The shoe incorporates a stiff plate and high toe-spring that results in a prominent rocker effect for easier transitions."

rocker effect

efficient transitions

"The Hoka Skyward X promotes a smooth and natural rocker motion which aids in running efficiency."

performance

rocker

running smoothness

"It has a more energetic ride compared to its predecessor, the Bondi X, enhancing the overall running experience."

energetic ride

improvement

"The energy return from the PEBA foam is fantastic, making runs feel more dynamic."

performance

energy return

dynamic feel

"The midsole offers energy return that enhances speed on roads."

energy return

speed improvement

road running

"The shoe is light enough for long-distance runs while still providing noticeable responsiveness."

lightweight

long-distance

responsive

"It offers surprising responsiveness despite its focus on comfort."

responsiveness

recovery

performance

"The responsiveness of the shoe enhances the running experience."

responsiveness

energy return

underfoot feel

"The shoe's midsole design promotes an efficient running gait, allowing for a more upright posture."

gait

posture

cadence

"The Hoka Skyward X is effective on various terrains, including hills, making it versatile for different runs."

hills

varied terrain

spring

"The lightweight nature of the shoe contributes to an overall faster and more efficient running experience."

lightweight

efficiency

"The overall design allows for enjoyable performance on runs, described as 'fun'."

fun

performance

bounce

"The Hoka Skywood X has a fun and enjoyable running experience, making it pleasurable for casual running."

fun

enjoyment

casual running

"The midsole construction integrates a carbon plate for enhanced performance."

carbon plate

responsive

bouncy

"The shoe features a carbon fiber plate to enhance the run."

carbon fiber

performance

"The Skyward X allows for smooth transitions during runs."

smooth transition

forefoot rocker

easy paces

"The shoe offers a smooth and efficient transition through foot strikes, ideal for easier running paces."

performance

smooth transition

easy running

"The responsive PEBA foam midsole enhances the overall performance of the shoe."

PEBA foam

midsole

performance

"This shoe is specifically designed for middle and back of the pack runners, providing a responsive experience for long-distance runs and intervals."

middle pack

back of pack

long distance

"The shoe incorporates advanced technology, including a carbon plate and various foam layers, which enhances its overall performance."

carbon plate

super foams

performance

"The Cellow X1 is a fast shoe designed for speed, making it ideal for competitive runners."

fast

race

speed shoe

"The shoe features a dense bounce back that enhances energy return during runs."

energy return

performance

bouncy

"The shoe features a bouncy ride, contributing to an enjoyable running experience."

bounce

snap

versatile

"The carbon fiber plate within the midsole contributes to a smooth and energetic ride, ideal for high-mileage training."

carbon plate

meta rocker

smooth ride

energetic

Cons

"The high stack of the shoe makes it illegal for competition prize races."

stack height

prize money

illegal

"Increased shoe weight makes it feel cumbersome during faster paces."

weight

speed

"The shoe is heavier than anticipated, affecting performance during faster runs."

heavy

effort

"The shoe is considered too heavy for racing."

heavy

performance

racing

"The shoe's heaviness can detract from performance, especially at faster paces."

heaviness

performance

"The shoe feels bulky and heavy, impacting performance."

heavy

bulky

"The shoe is heavy, affecting performance during runs."

heavy

weight

performance

"The shoe’s substantial weight may affect running efficiency during faster workouts."

heavy

weight impact

"The shoe can feel heavy and clunky during faster runs."

heavy

clunky

speed

"Despite comfort, the shoe's weight might limit its overall performance on quick runs."

performance

cushioning

versatility

"The shoes are prohibitively heavy, affecting overall performance."

heavy

performance issue

"The shoe's design does not offer what's expected from a carbon plate, as the individual feels no propulsion from it."

carbon plate

propulsion

feeling

"The shoe may not be suitable for very fast runs, especially for competitive athletes."

fast runs

performance

competitive

"The shoe is not suitable for fast paces."

performance

speed

"The shoe's performance decreases significantly at faster paces."

performance

speed

disappointment

"Limited use for faster paces, mainly suited for slower runs."

slow

limited use

"The shoe feels cumbersome and disconnected during faster runs."

disconnected

cumbersome

lack of snap

"The shoe may not be the best choice for speed work."

speed work

tempo

training versatility

"The cushioned midsole lacks flexibility and responsiveness, which may hinder performance."

stiffness

transition

"The shoe lacks the responsiveness desired for faster speed training."

speed days

bouncy foam

"The shoe operates best at easy paces, lacking versatility for more competitive or varied running styles."

easy runs

neutral

performance

"The shoe's ample cushioning makes it less responsive during faster runs."

cushion

speed

"The midsole prioritizes comfort over responsiveness, which may make tempo runs more challenging."

midsole

comfort

tempo

performance

"There is a lack of aggressive responsiveness for faster runs."

performance

speed

easy runs

"The Skywood X has a height that makes it illegal for competitive racing."

racing

competition

"The shoe may not perform well for faster-paced workouts or races due to its cushioned design."

performance

fast-paced

workouts

"The unique carbon plate design might not provide the desired propulsion for faster paces."

carbon plate

propulsion

performance

"The shoe can be clunky during interval sessions and threshold work."

clunky

heavy

lower weight preference

"The shoe may not provide an aggressive toe-off for speed work, making it less responsive for some."

lack of aggressiveness

carbon plate

stability

"Although the cushioning is praised, those looking for a shoe that can perform at faster paces may find this model unsuitable."

performance

speed

heaviness

"The shoe may not be suitable for runners looking for an ultralight option."

heavy

performance

"The shoe is not suitable for World Athletics-sanctioned races due to its weight."

racing

regulations

"The shoe may not be ideal as a daily trainer due to its specialized features and weight."

daily use

overkill

fit
True to size: True to size
Toebox width: Narrower
Heel width: Narrower
Orthotic friendly: No

The shoe's fit is often described as narrow, which may not be comfortable for many users, appearing in over 25% of the feedback.

width (7)

narrowness (5)

roomy (2)

narrow (2)

secure fit (2)

toe box (2)

true to size (1)

snug fit (1)

Pros

"The shoe fits true to size with a secure fit around the midfoot."

fit

size

forefoot

midfoot

"The upper material is designed to provide a snug yet comfortable fit."

mesh

snug

comfort

fit

"The shoe fits true to size, which can be beneficial for ensuring a correct fit."

true to size

fit consistency

"The shoe maintains a true-to-size fit and has a roomy toe box, accommodating various foot shapes."

true to size

toe box

comfort

"The fit is roomy which allows for added comfort during runs, making it suitable for various foot shapes."

toebox

comfort

"The fit of the shoe accommodates Hoka users comfortably, providing a secure feel."

size

secure fit

"The upper of the shoe is made from tightly woven mesh that ensures a secure fit without stretching."

mesh

secure fit

"The shoe's fit is true to size, providing confidence for buyers."

fit

size accuracy

"It fits true to size with a comfortable overall fit."

true to size

comfortable

forefoot width

"The upper fits true to size, providing a comfortable and secure fit."

true to size

secure fit

comfortable

"The shoe offers a true-to-size fitting with a specialized design for the foot."

true to size

narrow fit

fit

"The tongue design is well thought out, as it is neither too thick nor too thin, ensuring comfort and stability."

comfort

fit

"The upper of the Skyward X provides a secure and substantial fit, ensuring that the foot stays in place during runs."

secure fit

padding

upper construction

"The shoe has a good lock down and heel counter that prevents heel slip, making for a secure fit during runs."

fit

heel counter

secure fit

"The shoe features a secure fit due to its well-constructed upper."

well-constructed

secure

lacing adjustment

"The Cellow X1 features a traditional lacing system which is preferred over the alternative used in the Skywood X."

traditional

laces

comfort

"The heel counter design of the Skywood X provides easy entry and exit while enhancing structure and comfort."

heel counter

entry

structure

"The fit of the shoe is notable, with ample padding and support, making it comfortable for various foot shapes."

fitting

comfortable

supportive

"The improved fit of the Skyward X offers better midfoot lockdown and heel security compared to previous Hoka models."

lockdown

secure fit

heel cradling

"The Hoka Skyward X features a flat knit upper that provides a snug yet comfortable fit accessible to wider feet."

snug fit

padded collar

comfortable

accommodating fit

"The fit is true to length and offers improved lacing for a better hold."

true_to_length

tight_fit

"The upper of the shoe features a comfortable design that fits well with the wearer's foot."

upper design

comfort

fit

Cons

"The fit of the shoe is very narrow, which may not accommodate all foot shapes."

fit

narrow

"The midfoot of the shoe narrows significantly, potentially causing fit issues for those with wider feet."

fit

narrow

midfoot

"Wider foot runners may find the fit a bit uncomfortable without trying before purchasing."

fit

widefoot

"There may be an issue with the fit for runners with wide feet."

fit

narrow

comfort

"The shoe may not be suitable for runners with wider heels or midfeet due to its dialed-in fit."

fit

width

narrow

"The shoe's fit is narrow despite having a wide platform."

narrow

fit

size

"The shoe is not suitable for runners with wide feet."

wide feet

fit

comfort

"The internal heel counters were deemed necessary to achieve adequate lockdown."

heel lockdown

fit

"The fit of the shoe is narrower compared to other brands, which might be uncomfortable for some runners."

size

fit

narrow

"The fit is narrow and restrictive."

narrow

restrictive

fit

"The fit feels slightly narrower than other Hoka models."

narrow

fit

comparison

"The fit of the shoe is narrow, which can be uncomfortable for some users."

fit

toe box

midfoot

"The fit may be too narrow for some users, potentially requiring a size adjustment."

fit

narrow

sizing

"The large sidewalls may cause discomfort for certain runners, particularly those with wider feet."

sidewalls

width

"Some runners experienced a snug fit at the midfoot due to the prominent sidewalls."

snug fit

midfoot

"The toe box tapers quickly, which might cause pressure on the toes during runs."

toe pressure

fit

"The toe box is slightly narrow, which may not suit all foot shapes."

tight

foot shape

"The shoe's sidewalls may cause abrasions for some runners due to their prominence."

abrasion

sidewalls

"The ankle fit was a little loose for some testers."

ankle

fit

loose

"The Cellow X1 appears overly large compared to other brands, which might not appeal to everyone."

aesthetic

perception

"There is some heel slippage experienced during running."

heel slippage

fit issue

"The front of the toebox may be slightly narrow for some runners, potentially causing discomfort."

toebox

fit issue

size recommendation

"The toebox may still be too narrow for some users during longer runs."

toebox

narrow

long runs

"The tongue is not gusseted, causing it to slip during runs, which can be annoying especially on longer distances."

tongue

slippage

discomfort

stability
Stability level: Average

The main concerns about the shoe's stability are that some runners feel it lacks stability, which was mentioned multiple times, indicating that this issue is significant for many users.

support (2)

height (2)

stability (1)

wide base (1)

carbon plate design (1)

heel support (1)

lateral (1)

stability feature (1)

Pros

"The stability of the Skyward X is impressive for such a thick midsole, providing confidence during runs."

thick midsole

confident running

"The Hoka Skyward X offers a stable ride despite its height, contributing to confidence during runs."

wide base

stability

secure fit

"The H-shaped design of the carbon plate enhances support and stability during runs."

H-shaped

landing support

crash pad

"The shoe's heel cup design enhances stability for heel strikers, promoting a more secure fit."

stability

heel cup

support

"Designed for stability, the shoe holds together well during runs."

stability

midfoot support

secure hold

"Stability is enhanced by the shoe's innovative H-shaped carbon plate design."

stability

carbon plate

support

"Runners experience a smooth, rockered ride with this shoe, aiding in transitions."

rocker

smooth transitions

ride

"The shoe features a stable ride thanks to its guided elements."

guided

neutral

impact control

"The shoe’s rocker shape allows for a more leisurely stride, improving the running experience."

rocker shape

stride improvement

ease of running

"The shoe is stable due to its wide base and quality design, providing good foot support during runs."

wide base

stable fit

"Despite its high stack height, the shoe remains stable, allowing for a confident running experience over long distances."

high stack height

stable heel

long distance

secure

"The shoe features a unique H-shaped carbon plate design that enhances stability and support."

H-shaped plate

landing support

"The design of the Skyward X includes a wide platform that offers inherent stability for runners, particularly beneficial for those with heel to midfoot strikes."

stability

wide platform

"The shoe has good overall stability for its design, providing a planted feel during runs."

stability

planted

comfort

"It tracks reasonably well at a relaxed pace, making for smooth runs during easy mileage."

tracking

smooth

easy mileage

"The shoe provides reliable stability for the runner, reducing the risk of wobbling or instability while running."

stability

support

no wobble

"Hoka's high stack height design provides excellent stability during runs."

stack height

stability

smoothness

"Despite its large stack height, the shoe remains surprisingly stable during runs, enhancing overall performance."

stability

performance

balance

"The shoe has a well-designed midfoot lockdown system which enhances stability during runs."

lockdown

stability

"The shoe provides great stability despite its high stack."

stability

ankle support

high comfort

"The shoe encourages a midfoot strike, beneficial for running form."

midfoot_strike

running_form

"The deep Active Foot Frame cradles the heel for enhanced stability."

heel_support

stability

Cons

"The height of the shoe may not feel stable for all runners, particularly during longer runs."

stability

high stack

"The shoe's high stack may not appeal to all runners due to potential instability."

risk

different preferences

"The shoe does not provide much in the way of stability despite being labeled as neutral."

stability

neutral

"The ride feels unstable and can make strides feel erratic."

unstable

erratic

wobbly

"Some runners feel there is a lack of stability in the shoe."

stability issue

"The shoe lacks stability for supinators, which can lead to potential issues during runs."

stability

supinators

instability

"There are concerns about the overall stability of the shoe, particularly for runners with weaker ankles."

stability

ankles

instability

grip

The main concerns about the shoe's grip are that it struggles in wet conditions, which was mentioned frequently, while the benefits highlight its strong traction and stability on various terrains.

traction (4)

versatility (1)

wet_conditions (1)

wet performance (1)

terrain (1)

Pros

"The outsole offers great traction and stability on various terrains."

outsole

traction

stability

terrain

"The outsole design features more rubber coverage, enhancing durability and grip on various surfaces, including wet ones."

durable outsole

good grip

wet traction

"The shoe provides excellent traction on various surfaces."

good traction

versatile

road performance

"The traction of the shoe is reliable on various surfaces, providing security during tight turns."

traction

road grip

stability

"The shoe performs well in various conditions, maintaining adequate grip even in less than ideal weather circumstances."

grip

varied conditions

Cons

"The exposed cushioning could lead to potential issues with traction on wet surfaces."

wet traction

cushion breakdown

running surface

"The grip on the outsole is not reliable, especially in wet conditions."

grip

wet

traction

"The exposed cushion design may lead to issues with traction in wet conditions."

wet conditions

cushion breakdown

"The traction of the shoe is mediocre on loose surfaces, limiting its versatility."

traction

surface

versatility

"There were odd sensations reported during runs in wet conditions, indicating possible issues with grip."

traction

weather

"Outsole grip is not the best in wet conditions."

wet grip

rain

stability

"The outsole is not recommended for trail use, limiting its versatility."

road use

limits

other

The main concern with the shoe is its high price, which is mentioned frequently, while a common positive aspect is its comfort and design.

price (12)

weight (4)

heaviness (2)

mass (2)

versatility (1)

design (1)

value (1)

height (1)

Pros

"The shoe is versatile enough for casual wear, providing comfort for daily activities beyond running."

casual wear

comfort

"The Cellow X1 has a sleek and aesthetically pleasing design, significantly better than the Skywood X."

aesthetic

design

colorways

"Despite its substantial cushioning, the shoe maintains a relatively reasonable weight, making it feel lighter during runs."

lightweight

efficiency

comfort

"The price point for the Skyward X is justified by its quality, making it a worthwhile investment for serious runners."

investment

quality

high-mileage trainer

"This shoe provides enough foam underfoot to add approximately two inches of height."

height

cushioning

Cons

"The shoe is expensive compared to other daily trainers."

expensive

budget

cost

"The shoe is priced higher compared to similar models from other brands."

pricing

comparison

"The shoe is considered pricey compared to other options."

expensive

value

"The shoe is very expensive for what it offers."

cost

value

"The shoe is priced quite high, making it less accessible for some runners."

expensive

high price

"The price of the Cellow X1 is considered excessively high."

expensive

affordability

"Despite being cheaper, the Skywood X is still seen as too expensive for its purpose."

expensive

affordability

"The high price of the shoe may be a downside for some."

expensive

cost

"Due to their high price point, some may find them less accessible."

investment

affordability

"The shoe is expensive compared to other options."

costly

premium

"At $225, the shoe is positioned in a high price range, which may deter potential buyers."

expensive

investment

"The shoe's price is considered too high for its features and versatility."

cost

value

versatility

"The shoe may feel bulky and excessive for runners seeking a lighter option."

bulky

heavy

lightweight

"The Skyward X is noticeably heavier than its predecessor."

weight

comparison

"The weight of the shoe may still feel substantial to some runners despite being designed to feel lightweight."

weight

heavy

"The shoe is excessively heavy."

heavy

weight

"There might be a risk of debris getting stuck in the midfoot cut-out area."

cut-out

debris

midfoot

"The shoe's colorway is described as unattractive and clownish."

color

design

"The price of the shoe is considered high for a daily trainer."

price

value

"The shoe is heavy, which may affect performance during runs."

weight

performance

"Despite the impressive cushioning, the shoe's weight may still feel substantial to some runners."

weight

heaviness

design

"Absence of reflective elements is disappointing."

reflective

features

"The shoe might not perform well on rougher terrains or gravel surfaces."

not for trails

gravel

"The shoe's price point is considered excessive for its lack of versatility compared to competitors."

price

value

cost

"The shoe feels heavy and cumbersome during runs."

weight

bulk

versatility

"The Hoka Skyward X is relatively heavy, which could inhibit performance."

bulk

weight impact

"The shoe is not suited for those who prefer a feeling of ground contact while running."

ground contact

comfort

"The shoe may feel cheap to some users despite its performance."

cheap

quality

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Model Updates

The Hoka Mach 6 introduces a refined upper design made from engineered mesh for improved breathability and comfort, alongside a reimagined rubberized EVA outsole that offers enhanced grip and durability compared to its predecessor. Additionally, it incorporates a new, more responsive PROFLY+ midsole, providing a softer heel landing and a firmer forefoot for an energetic toe-off, setting it apart from the earlier models' cushioning and responsiveness.

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Wear-tester reviews (22)

4.0/5

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Hoka skyward x 1

Hoka skyward x 1

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Pros & Cons

Most Mentioned Pros

Most Mentioned Cons

cushion

Pros

Cons

comfort

Pros

Cons

durability

Pros

Cons

performance

Pros

Cons

fit

Pros

Cons

stability

Pros

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grip

Pros

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other

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4.0/5

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