HOKA Skyward X 2 Introduction
In the original Skyward X, HOKA created a fascinating midsole. With the plate suspended between a layer of PEBA foam on top and EVA on the bottom, the 49mm of stack height gave bottomless cushion. For those who had the right footstrike, it really was a ride like no-other. Sadly, the weight of the behemoth and fit issues made it a no go for some runners.
Then came shoes like Nike’s Vomero Premium. An absolutely gargantuan shoe which gave a lively ride while feeling like floating on air. What is HOKA’s response to this move to the max of max cushion? It might not be what you’d expect. They have downsized the Skyward X for its second iteration.
What’s new in the Skyward X 2?
At TRE, HOKA unveil the new Skyward X 2. Here, HOKA have not thrown the baby out with the bathwater. Instead, they have taken the good parts of the original and refined it. The weight was an issue in the original. The Skyward X 2 loses over 10g per shoe to make those long runs less heavy on the legs.
Despite the move towards the sky from other brands, HOKA have decided to shave the heel down on the Skyward X 2. This is designed to give runners a more engaged stance and works along with the newly shaped carbon fibre plate to make running those long miles easier. Finally, to combat fit issues from the original version, the upper has been redesigned for comfort and the materials elevated. HOKA is also offering the X 2 in a wide and extra wide fit.
Conclusion
Will this midsole monster be a hit for HOKA? Stay tuned to our channels across the internet for news and reviews as they land. We will be sure to bring you our honest runner driven reviews as soon as we get the shoes on foot!
