HOKA Skyward X Reviews

At about 450 km, a runner finds the Skyward X good and stable, even on trails, though not nimble.

A hulking but comfortable shoe that shines at easy-to-moderate paces, smooth and stable, with a surprisingly snappy feel and an accommodating fit. Minimal outsole wear after 50+ miles. Not for all-out speed, heavier than rivals and not cheap.

Exceptional cushioning, stability and smooth transitions for long easy runs and recovery days. It protects the legs on downhills and makes easy paces feel quick. Heavy and huge, so not for tempo or race day, and pricey.

Over 200 miles in all kinds of weather. The foam and plate still felt lively and bouncy at that point, the outsole rubber was intact and the upper stayed comfortable and secure, though the shoe looked scuffed and beat up. They described the ride as stable rather than soft and plush, with no ground feel, and still fun to run in. The price is not cheap, but they judged it worth it for a secure, bouncy everyday trainer.

About 100 miles over two weeks, including double days and roughly 60 miles in one week, at paces between 6:30 and 7:30 per mile. They found the ride bouncy and stable, with no loss of pop at 100 miles and only cosmetic wear on the foam, and said the weight faded into the background at pace. Downsides are the heavy build, a slightly tight outer toe box on a standard-to-wide foot, and the high price. They suit high-mileage runners, especially bigger ones, wanting a marathon-training workhorse.