Hoka Skyward X2
About me: M41, 6’1, 180 pounds. Marathon pace: 7:45/mile, easy pace 8:15-8:45/mile
Sizing is TTS, maybe a touch snug but not enough for me to size up.
I have used this shoe for the last month, now have over 35 miles on it with a long run of 11 miles, some easier runs and even a tempo run. Knowing the profile of the Skyward X, that might surprise some but this has genuinely become a more versatile shoe.
Starting with the upper, this feels very traditional Hoka. For my narrow feet, it’s very secure and comfortable. Heel collar is padded and there is some padding over the tongue to prevent lace bite. Decently breathable too-my 11 miler this morning was in some sticky humidity but my feet did not overheat. If Hoka’s fit doesn’t work for you, I don’t think this will but those who know what they’re getting with Hoka will feel right at home.
The ride and midsole here is vastly improved for me. Whereas v1 was far too clunky, the reduced weight and stack of v2 make this much easier to take out on a variety of runs. It can even do a slight bit of tempo now, but is just as happy plodding along at recovery pace. The sensation I’m getting is a pleasant, bouncy Peba feeling, with a very stable broad base and bottom EVA layer. There is more pop from the plate here and it helps keep paces ticking along even when you pull back, effort wise. The shoe seems to do a lot of work for you. Stable, bouncy, protective in a comfortable package is a great combo when you’re putting a lot of miles through your legs and indeed my legs feel fresh after every run in this. This shoe would be a great companion for anyone loading up miles for a marathon training block.
Outsole is standard Hoka fare. I’m seeing some cosmetic wear on the exposed rubber but seems to be holding up well. Overall, quite happy so far. I think the changes Hoka made to reduce stack by 2mm and weight make this a shoe that has a lot more use cases. Happy to answer questions.