If I’m being honest, the Hoka Skyward X is likely my favorite shoe of 2024. How is that for an introduction? With the Skyward X, Hoka is jumping into the super trainer game. I mean, what is a super trainer, really? These trainers typically have a Peba midsole, a carbon fiber plate, and aggressive shaping. They often exceed the legal stack height limit with over 40 mm of midsole in the heel. While Hoka has a ton (too many in my opinion) of carbon-plated shoes, the Skyward X is really their first super trainer.
Hoka Skyward X Quick Facts:
- Price: $224.95
- Weight: 11.3 oz men’s / 9.6 oz women’s
- Drop: 5 mm
Hoka Skyward X Upper and Fit:
Just one look at the Skyward X, and you think, “Wow, that’s a lot of shoe.” I actually laughed out loud when I took it out of the box. I think it is the most “shoe” of any Hoka shoe. The Skyward X fits true to size with a slightly wider forefoot and a quickly tapered toe box. The upper consists of a light mesh with mild stretch, transitioning to a snug midfoot fit with a non-gusseted, wide tongue. The laces secure the foot well, and the padded heel with a rounded counter offers comfort and stability.
The best running shoe uppers disappear off your feet, and for the most part, I found that to be true. I did find the large sidewalls to cause a bit of rubbing on my ankle, but nothing that caused blisters. It’s easy enough to accommodate that by adding thicker socks.
I typically wear between a women’s size 10-11 wide, and I found the women’s size 11 to be the best fit.
Hoka Skyward X Ride:
The midsole combines a Peba foam with an EVA frame, providing substantial cushioning and bounce. Despite its softness, the midsole feels firmer than expected due to its thickness. When I first saw the shoe, I expected it to feel similar to the Bondi X. I don’t love the Bondi X, so I was unsure if I would really like the Skyward. Boy, was I wrong. The low drop is balanced by a good rocker, ensuring a smooth transition. The carbon plate adds stiffness, making the forefoot rigid but facilitating a smooth toe-off.
The first run I did in the Hoka Skyward X was on the treadmill, and I could tell within 2 minutes that I would love the shoe. It is so bouncy, and running feels “easy.” It felt like I was cheating wearing them, LOL. I’ve been looking for something similar to the ASICS Superblast (one of my favorite trainers). A high cushion, daily trainer, to protect my feet. I’ve since run over 100 miles in the Hoka Skyward X, and I’ve found it best for daily runs, although I do find it easier to pick up the pace. For shorter and faster runs, I prefer something with less shoe. Something to keep in mind is that the large stack height makes it illegal to win prize money races in.
Outsole:
I’ve used the Hoka Skyward X on several different types of runs, including in the rain and on the trails, and I’ve found it can handle any terrain and weather. The outsole offers great traction, and despite being so high off the ground, I haven’t fallen because of the shoes.
I’ve put just over 100 miles on the Skyward X with no signs of them slowing down. I anticipate it will last around 400 miles.
Hoka Skyward X Conclusion:
The Hoka Skyward X is a premium daily trainer designed for high mileage with maximum cushioning. It stands out with its blend of soft Peba midsole, carbon plate, and rocker geometry, providing a comfortable and protective ride. As mentioned, it’s one of my favorite shoes of 2024, and I’ll likely buy a second pair soon.
Who Should Buy the Hoka Skyward X:
- Runners seeking a highly cushioned and stable super trainer for easy and recovery runs.
- Those who appreciate a rockered ride with a stiff forefoot and good transition.
Who Should Not Buy the Hoka Skyward X:
- Runners on a budget, as the Skyward X is expensive for a daily trainer.
- Those who prefer a lighter shoe for faster-paced runs.
My Current Shoe Rotation:
Easy/Daily Runs: Hoka Skyward X, Topo Magnifly 5, Antepes Muscle Runners, New Balance 1080v13 Shoe Review , Newton Gravity 12, , ASICS Superblast
Speed Work: 361 Degrees Furious Future 1.5 Shoe Review Nike Tempo Next%, Reebok Float Ride Run fast Pro, Nike ZoomX Streakfly, Nike Alphafly 3
Long Runs: Topo Specter 2, 361 Degrees Eleos Shoe Review
Trail Running/Hiking: 361 Futura, Hoka Tecton X2 Shoe Review Speedland SL: PDX,
Races: 361 Degrees Furious Future 1.5 Shoe Review Hoka Cielo X1, New Balance Fuelcell 5280, Reebok Run fast Pro ,Nike Vaporfly 3 , ASICS Metaspeed Edge Paris
You Can See All Current Shoe Reviews Here.
Looking to learn more about running shoes? In my ebook, I talk about why you need a good running shoe, a shoe’s anatomy, neutral vs. stable, and even myths of running shoes.
Questions for you:
What is your current favorite trainer?
Are you training for anything?