Road Trail RunVideo · May 19, 2026INFERRED
The Hoka Skyward X 2 is a very well-executed update, offering a marvelously soft and energetic ride with a more engaged carbon plate and a dialed-in fit.
HOKA
Skyward X2
Super trainer · Stable Neutral · 300 g · 5 mm drop · MSRP $225
BuildMax cushionPlated
Critic consensus
Reviewers agree
Highly cushioned, soft, and bouncy ride from the PEBA and supercritical EVA foam combination
Stable feel provided by a carbon fiber framework and large side walls
Versatile for various paces, ranging from easy recovery runs to marathon goal pace
Reduced weight compared to the previous version
Breathable jacquard mesh upper
Considerations
Potential fit issues, specifically rubbing on the pinky toe for some users
Less suitable for walkers or casual users who prefer a traditional max-cushion shoe
What reviewers use it for
Long run6 of 6
Easy5 of 6
Tempo4 of 6
Race2 of 6
A shoe earns a tag as soon as one reviewer recommends it for that kind of run; the count shows how many agree. Mentions include synonyms, so “recovery”, “zone 2” and “conversational” all count toward Easy.
Critic reviews
6 reviews · 6 scores inferredAlastair RunningVideo · May 19, 2026INFERRED
The Hoka Skyward X 2 is worth it due to its excellent performance across a huge variety of runs, comfort, protection, and ability to serve multiple roles.
KofuziVideo · May 13, 2026INFERRED
Its blend of PEBA and supercritical EVA, combined with strategic weight reduction, creates a wonderfully bouncy and comfortable experience.
Believe in the RunVideo · May 19, 2026INFERRED
The shoe offers excellent comfort, a lively ride, and high durability for its intended use as a workhorse daily trainer.
The Run TestersVideo · May 19, 2026INFERRED
It excels as a cushioned daily trainer for high mileage, protecting the legs and offering a fun, bouncy ride.
Fordy RunsVideo · May 13, 2026INFERRED
The shoe works well due to its comfortable and stable ride, but HOKA has priced it too high, making it a difficult recommendation.