HOKA Cielo X1 2.0 Reviews

A 2:49 marathoner found the Cielo X1 2.0 fast, but its aggressive forefoot rocker caused discomfort under the ball of the foot on longer runs, so they raced in another shoe.

A runner found the Cielo X1 2.0 fast, but the outsole wore quickly and a piece came loose during a marathon at about 100 km; Hoka refunded under warranty.

A runner did their hardest marathon-block session, 21 miles at 6:50/mile, in the Cielo X1 2.0 and calls it unbelievable.

A runner raced the Cielo X1 2.0 for the first time and took 2 minutes off their half marathon PB, with no stability issues on a hilly, cambered course.

A 55-year-old 1:30 half marathoner used the Cielo X1 2.0 for threshold runs and finds it amazingly bouncy and smooth at pace, true to size with ample room, though the soft heel feels odd standing.

Definitely not a world-beating super shoe, and not an easy-run shoe. The rocker propels you but forces you onto your toes, and it fits small (his toes were wrecked after a workout; size up). Too much shoe for him to race in, but a solid, aggressive workout tool.

Comes alive when you pick up the pace: the rocker propels you forward and toe-offs feel effortless. The jacquard mesh dried within minutes after a snow-melt splash. The narrower heel and midfoot cost some of v1's stability, so it's not for wide feet, heavier runners or those with stability needs.

Faster, lighter and more propulsive than v1, with an exceptionally thin, breathable upper. A big rockered racer for workouts and marathons. Some testers found the soft foam too much late in long efforts.