HOKA Cielo X1 2.0 review: A lightweight rocker for a speedier run
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Hoka Cielo X1 2.0: Two Minutes Review
I was ecstatic when I had the opportunity to try the Hoka Cielo X1 2.0. It looks luxurious and has a rocker design that is known to relieve pain and stress on your feet and ankles. It sounds like the shoes I need to test: Two years ago, when I was running, I kept getting pain in my toes, upper feet and hips, so I often had to stop running for weeks at a time. Finally, I found the Hoka Stinson 7, a plush running shoe that relaxed when nothing else (stretching, doctor visits, etc.). That said, most of the time I run on the road, the trail running shoe is heavier and bulkier than I like. Hoka may start with trail running shoes The best running shoes round up. Hoka Cielo X1 2.0 was launched in February 2025, the second iteration of the Cielo X1, which was launched by February 2024. The CieloX1 2.0 has a more breathable upper for Jacquard Mesh – too breathable – too breathable, I can see my sock toes and on my feet and rain, when I get wind and rain, I can rain in my storm.
Hoka also enhances forefoot cushioning and improves outsole traction. During my tests, it was especially rainy in Texas, so I had to run after it rained or after it stopped. Even if I had to cross the smooth brick roads of the city’s historic downtown, I always felt safe and never slipped.
The biggest improvement in the CIELO X1 2.0 must be weight and a more aggressive rocker curve. The Cielo X1 is 9.3 oz, and the Cielo X1 2.0 drops to 8.10 oz. For those who compete, an extra 1.2 ounces can go a long way. To lose weight, Hoka used a lot of incisions on the soles.
Perhaps the most obvious change is the more obvious rocker design. Running shoes used to be flat with a slightly North Korean near their toes, but the rock shoes changed the game while on the spot. They took the name from the obvious curves under the shoes, which looked like a rocking chair base. The idea behind the design is that once the runner’s foot hits the ground, they will naturally and easily shake forward, thereby increasing speed. Not only are they meant to make your running faster, but they have to do a lot of work on your feet or legs, but rocking shoes may reduce pain in your toes, forefoots and Achilles heels and relieve stress on your ankles and calf.
I’ve never tried rocking shoes before, so when I was wearing a Hoka Cielo X1 2.0, I felt like a freshman rocking foal when I first stood. This swaying feeling disappears when you start wearing shoes.
I initially found the shoes were soft and luxurious. Hoka notes that the shoes have a “low buffer to bring your feet closer to the ground”, but I must disagree. It’s not low-key, especially considering that the thickest part of the insole is two inches; this pair has a lower profile than the other (known) thick one from Hoka.
My feet are not narrow, but they are not “broad”. I was able to wear these shoes comfortably, but I could see that the toe box was a problem for wide foot runners who felt more comfortable with more space.
From the first round, I really liked the Hoka Cielo X1 2.0. When I started running, I almost disappeared immediately when I first put them on. Right away, I felt steady and confident, and I noticed that I was moving faster than usual, but not as stress or weight as I used to run shoes. I didn’t have to spend too much effort to run faster because my ankles and feet worked seamlessly with the rocker profile to push me forward. The bounce and stretch of the shoes felt great on my big strides.
To be fair, my ankles were shaking a little during the first few runs. I think it has to do with the cut in the sole and how I naturally rotate with one foot and sit with the other. I bent so many times in my life that I lost the number so I didn’t have the strongest ankle, but because the incision near the arch was prominent, I could feel my ankle trying to prevent too many feet and the other couldn’t give in. It was awkward at first, but after each run I noticed that my ankles felt stronger, with pro and dives far lower than before.
The way I ran during the test also changed. I realized that on my previous running shoes, I had been effectively “into a stumbling block” and hitting it with my mid and forefoot while running. With the Hoka Cielo X1 2.0, I often hit it with my heel or midfoot and shake it forward. This new running style feels more natural, causing my feet and legs to relieve stress. If you naturally hit the front foot, you can definitely wear these shoes, but I think you might miss the benefits of the rocker design.
This is definitely a pair of shoes for long-distance runners who operate all kinds of distances, especially those for marathon training, as it provides an inefficient and fast running experience. Of course, Hoka Cielo X1 2.0 may have a period of adjustment, but it’s worth it in the long run (pun is not intended).
Hoka Cielo X1 2.0: Price and Availability
- $275/£250/au $399
- Available in cream/black
Anyway, the Hoka Cielo X1 2.0 is not cheap. Their price is $275/£250/au $399 and their rock shoes are more expensive, although it’s no surprise for a brand like Hoka, which aims to provide marathoners with the best types of running shoes. Currently, the Cielo X1 2.0 is available in monochrome options only (Frost/Black) and is available through running stores such as Hoka and Road Runner Sports, Marathon Sports and Paragon Sports. Hoka offers free shipping and free 30-day returns.
Hoka Cielo X1 2.0: Specifications
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Weight (per shoe): |
8.10 oz (229 g) |
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Heel to foot: |
7mm |
|
superior |
jacquard mesh for engineering |
|
Midsole |
Double density PEBA midsole |
|
Outsole |
eraser |
Hoka Cielo X1 2.0: Scorecard
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category: |
Comment: |
Fraction: |
|---|---|---|
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price |
The $275 price means it’s an investment shoe, and for racers, they need to shave in running and long-distance runners, who want to minimize the impact on their feet and legs. |
4/5 |
|
design |
The 7mm high heel to the feet isn’t the biggest, but when you run in these lightweight and breathable shoes, it feels like it when there are cuts on the bottom. |
4/5 |
|
Performance |
This elastic and plush shoe will naturally increase your speed with very little effort. |
4/5 |
|
Comprehensive |
Whether you run two miles or 10 miles, this rocker will make any running easier, faster, and a more enjoyable experience. |
4/5 |
Should I buy Hoka Cielo X1 2.0?
purchase…
if…
Consider it too
| Line 0 – Unit 0 |
Nike Zegama 2 |
Nike Pegasus Trail 5 |
Inov-8 Trailfly G270 V2 |
|
Weight (per shoe): |
320g |
300g. |
270g |
|
Heel falls |
4mm |
9.5mm |
0mm |
|
Summary |
A great trail shoe for a long distance, but on the heavier side, it is more expensive. |
A lighter, rounder off-road shoe based on the brilliant Nike Pegasus is also cheaper. |
A more neutral shoe with cushioning and a stronger ride, we love lightness, comfort and grip. |
|
RRP: |
$180/£165/au $250 |
$150/£130/au $200 |
$140/£135/au $240 |
How do I test it
I tested the Cielo X1 2.0 for a week and a half, running all kinds of distances on the road, paved trails and indoor tracks. During the testing period, I was able to evaluate the effectiveness of the shoes in a variety of weather conditions (sunny, dry days and rain) and how they performed in comfort, feet and joint relief. Everything from the weight of the shoe to the material and design was considered during the test.
First review: February 2025
