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Hoka’s Plushest Shoe Is More Comfortable Than Ever Thanks to Elevated Upgrades

The Skyward X 2 makes its debut as a lighter, more comfort-focused update to the maximalist super daily trainer.

Close-up of a white sneaker heel with blue midsole gradient and bright green outsole accents.Hoka
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By Hayley Helms

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When it launched in 2024, the Skyward X was dubbed “illegal” by World Athletics standards.

That didn’t stop it from becoming a sought-after daily trainer, prized for its plush cushioning and carbon-plated ride.

White and light gray HOKA running shoe with neon green accents and thick cushioned sole on a green background.
The Skyward X 2 retains its identity as a plated super trainer geared for daily miles, just with a few upgrades.
Hoka

Now, Hoka is back with a sequel. The Skyward X 2 introduces measured changes while maintaining what made the shoe great in the first place.

Sky’s the limit

The original Skyward X’s illegality stemmed from its stack height: at a whopping 48mm, the shoe was a full 8mm over the World Athletics limit.

The forthcoming sequel is still technically illegal in terms of racing, but the Skyward X 2’s refined revisions make it an even more compelling daily trainer.

Light beige running shoe with blue and green sole accents and a blue logo on the side.
The Skyward X 2 keeps its 5mm heel drop but shaves the stack height by 2mm.
Hoka

Hoka’s team reworked the shoe by way of a selection of thoughtful updates.

The stack height has been reduced by 2mm. The weight has been shaved down to 11 ounces for a men’s size 10, slightly lighter than 2024’s 11.3 ounces.

White and blue Hoka running shoe with bright green sole accents and "Skyward X 2" text on the heel tab.
Part of the secret sauce in Hoka’s plush super daily trainer is the suspension system, paired with a convex carbon fiber plate that allows it to compress and spring back with each step.
Hoka

The carbon fiber plate has been repositioned to put runners in a new, more engaged stance.

The upper has been retooled, with a premium jacquard mesh replacing the synthetic flat knit on the previous version.

Pair of athletic shoe soles with green and beige rubber tread on a light green background.
The minimal, durable high-abrasion outsole remains the same on the new model.
Hoka

Hoka changed key attributes of its max-cushioned super daily trainer, but kept much of its core DNA intact.

That includes large amounts of both PEBA and EVA foams, as well as its neutral stability.

Pair of white running shoes with neon yellow midsoles and iridescent heel tabs labeled "SKYWARD X 2" on a green background.
Reflective details add visual interest and enhanced safety on long road runs.
Hoka

All told, the Skyward X 2 combines enhanced security with its lively underfoot feel, resulting in a sequel that’s even more compelling than the original.

While the shoe is still expensive, it retains the pricing of its predecessor … which in today’s economy, is no small feat.

Availability and pricing

The Skyward X 2 will be available on Hoka’s website for $225 beginning May 15.

About the Author: Hayley Helms is an associate editor at Gear Patrol specializing in outdoor gear. Once upon a time, she wrote for Men’s Journal, Gearjunkie and Shape. Whether it’s testing a new rain shell or putting a pair of hiking boots through its paces, she leaves no stone unturned (however, she always Leaves No Trace).

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