HOKA has released its new Skyward X, the latest addition to the company’s maximalist cushioned performance running shoes.
Pushing soft and smooth to the extreme, Skyward X was designed with easy miles in mind. The Skyward X blends the brand’s core design principles with a revolutionary carbon fiber plate system. This provides a dynamic ride that is supremely cushioned, responsive and stable, to make every run feel more effortless.
“The Skyward X is the result of extensive testing, prototyping and thoughtful innovation, creating something entirely new for HOKA. We increased the stack height and completely reimagined our use of elements like PEBA foam and carbon fiber plates, typically associated with race day products, to create a super running shoe that provides core runners with a supremely plush experience for their daily miles,” said Colin Ingram, Vice President of Product and Apparel at HOKA. “Our team started with a blank slate to innovate the signature cushioned ride that HOKA is known for. We are looking forward to sharing the unique Skyward X ride experience with everyone to try out on the roads.”
The HOKA product team emphasized superior cushioning starting with an overstuffed combination of plush foams. Closest to the foot, a soft yet resilient PEBA foam provides a cushioned, responsive ride. It has a supportive but forgiving Active Foot Frame to help cradle the foot. Closer to the ground, a slightly firmer super-critical EVA foam highlights the brand’s signature MetaRocker for additional stability and a smooth toe-off.
And, a Carbon Plate
The real magic of Skyward X resides in the revolutionary carbon suspension system nestled between two layers of foam. An innovative convex carbon fiber plate bows upward in the middle. This helps mimic the dynamic suspension of the foot, and specifically the arch through each stride, for an unparalleled feeling of weightless suspension and effortless movement. This unique combination of foams, carbon technology and geometry make the Skyward X a cushioned ride experience.
Paired with a new flat knit upper with zonal engineering, the Skyward X provides an accommodating fit. An external TPU heel counter delivers extra structure and dimension. The integrated ghillie system in the eye row provides the opportunity for additional lock-down across the midfoot. Tipping the scales at 9.2 oz for a Women’s size 8 and 11.3 oz for a Men’s size 10, the Skyward X affords a 48mm stack height and 5mm drop.
But Wait, There’s More
If you’re a hardcore racer and keep up with the technical details, the 48mm stack height may raise a red flag or two. That’s because the new Skyward X is illegal by the 40mm standard set by World Athletics.
Yep, HOKA released a new shoe that costs $225 per pair but isn’t legal for races. Seems weird, right? In this instance, and for other companies with shoes above the 40mm bar, HOKA doesn’t care. The top-tier runners already have their race shoes that meet the standards. That group is a blip, though, compared to the millions of everyday runners who may want more cushioning and a carbon plate.
Do you need a big slab of cushioning and carbon plate to run a local race? Of course not. You don’t need a loaded Suburban or Lambo to get groceries or your little booger-snatcher from school. But some folks want them. Some enjoy, yes, the extra cushion and maybe get a little boost from the carbon plate. Nothing wrong with that. Variety is the spice of life. The PEBA foam definitely makes a difference compared to shoes from just two or three years ago, too.
I suppose the Collard Greens & Neckbones 10K race director could disqualify a runner wearing the new Skyward X. But who’s going to do that? For a significant race like Cotton Row or a marathon, yeah, possibly. Likely, if prize money is involved. But probably not for anything else. If you’re interested in more cushioning and carbon plates for training, these could be right in your wheelhouse.
The Skyward X is available at HOKA.com and at authorized HOKA dealers worldwide.
(Information for this story comes from a press release from HOKA.)
