The clock is ticking. Activewear brands are competing to make the best running shoes on the market.
The days are getting longer, the weather is getting warmer, and marathon training season is in full swing. With the Olympics buzz fueling sports tourism and shopping trends, Hoka has unveiled a new sneaker that is so “so good” that it is technically prohibited in competitive racing.
that's right. Another “illegal” running shoe has been added to the list, alongside the Adidas Adizero Prime and New Balance Supercomp Trainers. Hoka, the 15-year-old French sportswear company owned by UGG's Deckers brand, has been following the lead of its competitors for years, and it certainly seems to be gaining some traction.
In June, Hoka will open a brand new flagship store on New York City's iconic Fifth Avenue, arguably the shopping mecca of the world. All of his best-selling products will be on display, but many customers will also be excited to check out the new Hoka Skyward You're probably thinking of getting one.
It's not difficult to identify a hocus. The brand's undeniably popular models, the Bondi 8 and Clifton 9, are known for their high-contrast wavy neon soles, wide, rounded toes, and chunky construction. Hoka's sneakers have never tried to be particularly fashionable. They look like daddy shoes and are almost anti-trend. However, they are designed to keep the father away.
The Sykward
On April 25th, Hoka announced Skyward X, a new pioneer in the maximalist category. According to the company's April press release, the sneakers boast “the ultimate luxury experience” and are specifically designed “to help runners enjoy every step.”
“We increased the stack height and completely rethought the use of elements such as PEBA foam and carbon fiber plates typically used in race day products to give core runners the ultimate in luxury for their daily miles. We've created a super running shoe that delivers an experience. Colin Ingram, HOKA's Vice President of Products and Apparel, said:
To deliver on these lofty promises, Skyward features a stack height of 48 millimeters and an innovative suspension system sandwiched between two foam layers. Such high boost levels are prohibited by the World Athletics Championships, and drops must be kept below 40 mm to participate in Time Lord events.
However, the brand doesn't seem too concerned that the new shoe might not be shown at the Olympics. It's already sparked enthusiasm among the public, especially avid joggers, recreational racers and people recovering from injuries. Shoppers have even suggested that the shoes make them want to “keep going” with their runs.
Runners suggest the Skyward X outperforms many competitors, including the popular Bondi and Clifton models.
“I've 'tasted' all the shoes to find the right one for my daily runs,” explains one delighted customer, adding that Skyward's carbon plate is like a “launching pad” for every shoe. The steps provide a spring and the “fluffy cushioning'' gives you the feeling of floating in the air. “The eagle has soared!”
Despite the stack height, that hasn't stopped some runners from crossing the finish line in this shoe. Many of these runners, some of whom are competing in races for the first time, even claim that Skyward X has dramatically increased their speed.
“I ran my first marathon in these and they were perfect!” one racer shared. “When I first wore them, I couldn't believe how comfortable and bouncy they felt…I blew my marathon goal out of the water while wearing them. Unreal shoes!!”
Sneakers have inspired some people to start running again after suffering from various injuries, lower back pain, knee pain, Achilles enthesitis, bunions, metatarsalgia, and more.
“I've been away from running for about a year because of back and leg problems,” said one shopper. “I managed to run 5km in these and my back and legs didn't hurt after that. I'll definitely buy more when a new color comes out.”
The Skyward
The women's Skyward Soft, resilient PEBA foot frame foam cushions and cradles your foot for a responsive ride. This shoe comes in sizes 5-12 and her two spring styles are Sunlight and Swim Day.
The Men's Skyward External her TPU heel counter strengthens the structure and works with the ghillie system to further secure the entire midfoot. The men's Skyward X is available in sizes 7 through 15 and in her two shades: Sunlight and Virtual Blue.
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