First Look at the HOKA Cielo X1 2.0
Updated in almost every aspect, the Cielo X1 2.0 is a Supershoe well worth looking at, providing pure speed in pursuit of marathon racing excellence.
The HOKA Cielo X1 2.0 tunes its formula for a more dynamic, faster feel, especially through the forefoot, taking the Cielo from another shoe in the pack, to one of the race leaders.
Check out our in-depth YouTube review below!
KEY INFO
Price: £249.99
Foot type: Neutral
Weight: 230g Men’s, 193g Women’s
Stack height: 40 – 33mm legal for World Athletics but increases with shoe size
Heel drop: 7 mm
Surface: Road
Best for: Racing, especially over half marathon or marathon distances
HISTORY
The original Cielo X1 was a super fast shoe that suited every runner, but was it the absolute fastest possible? HOKA elite athletes often found themselves in the Rocket X when winning races and breaking records, so the 2.0 is updated to be the unequivocal fastest shoe possible, the tip of the spear as HOKA are calling it. Ready for the pros and everyone else, to be hitting PBs and brand-new records in this enhanced super shoe.
CLOSER LOOK
The biggest change in the Cielo X1 2.0 is at the forefoot. An increased rocker gives a more aggressive, forward feel to your stride, while improved cushioning lets you make the most of that fabulous PEBA based midsole foam.
Talking of that pinnacle, lightweight and responsive foam, a max stack of it features dynamic cut outs through the midsole to help keep weight as low as possible. It is also bisected by a new winged carbon fibre plate. Designed to offer that pop of energy carbon plates are known for through the forefoot, the addition of the wings provides a little extra stability, giving you a more efficient stride, something you might be glad of by mile 26.
In the outsole, HOKA have used a brand-new sticky rubber to help provide confidence inspiring traction, whatever the conditions.
A lighter and more breathable upper is made from a jacquard mesh to give a featherlight feel around your foot. A warp knit tongue combined with 3D screen printed overlays ensures a comfortable, accurate fit.
CONCLUSION
HOKA have lightened the Cielo X1, improved the fit, improved the traction and given it a more aggressive, faster feel through the forefoot, meaning that just about every element of this already excellent race shoe has been updated.
What HOKA call their forefoot-focused active foot frame means your foot is cradled in this area for a confident fit, and it features all the power, and efficiency you need to make the most of each run, and each race, making it a serious contender in a crowded marketplace.
FAQ
IS THE CIELO X1 2.0 RACE LEGAL?
Yes, they are. Designed for winning races, they come under the 40mm max stack limit and single plate rules for World Athletics races.
IS HOKA OWNED BY NIKE?
HOKA started out as two ex-Saucony employees and alpine runners who wanted to make the perfect downhill running shoe and originated in Annecy, France in 2009. In 2013 it was acquired by Deckers brands and based in Richmond California. It has no link to Nike.
IS THE HOKA CIELO X1 2.0 STABLE?
With a wider fit than many, a winged plate and a smooth transition, the Cielo X1 2.0 feels pleasantly stable for a max stack race shoe.
DOES THE HOKA CIELO X1 2.0 HAVE A CARBON PLATE?
Yes, it does, a winged plate that provides an excellent pop of speed.
