It looked plush and had a rocker design, known to alleviate pain and stress in feet and ankles.
HOKA also enhanced the forefoot cushioning and improved the outsole traction.
The biggest improvement to the Cielo X1 2.0 has to be in the weight and more aggressive rocker profile.
Where the Cielo X1 is 9.3 ounces, the Cielo X1 2.0 has dropped to 8.10 ounces.
For those who race, an extra 1.2 ounces can go a long way.
To achieve the weight reduction, HOKA utilized significant cutouts on the bottom of the shoe.
Perhaps the most noticeable change is the more pronounced rocker design.
That wobbly feeling disappears when you start to run in the shoes.
I initially found the shoe to be springy and quite plush.
My feet are not narrow by any means but theyre not quite wide-wide either.
From the very first run, I really enjoyed the HOKA Cielo X1 2.0.
The instability I felt when I first put them on almost immediately disappeared when I started to run.
Theres a bounce and springiness to the shoe that felt nice on my stride.
To be fair, my ankles felt a bit shaky during the first few runs.
The way I ran also shifted during testing.
This new running style felt more natural and resulted in less strain on my feet and legs.
HOKA offers free delivery and free 30-day returns.
Performance
This springy and plush shoe naturally increases your speed with little effort.
Should I buy the HOKA Cielo X1 2.0?
Buy if it…
Youre a road racer looking for speed.
You prefer a super cushioned running shoe.
During a run, your joints will benefit from the thicker sole,just ask the science.
You suffer from plantar heel, toe, and Achilles pain or ankle and calf injuries.
It would feel awkward to lift weights or go to the store in these shoes.
Youre on a budget
The HOKA Cielo X1 2.0 is $275.
A lighter, more rounded trail shoe based on the brilliant Nike Pegasus, also cheaper.
Everything from the shoes weight to the materials and design were considered during testing.
