A pioneer in the maximalist category, HOKA unveils their all-new trainer, the Skyward X
Singapore, May 31, 2024 - HOKA®, a division of Deckers Brands (NYSE: DECK), is proud to announce the launch of the all-new Skyward X, the latest addition to their maximally cushioned performance road trainers.
Celebrating the latest innovations in footwear technology and signature HOKA cushioning, the Skyward X is engineered with advanced carbon technology and supreme cushioning, the innovative trainer is ready to inspire and provide every runner with an experience that feels entirely new and unmistakably HOKA.
Big Moves
Pushing soft and smooth to the extreme, Skyward X was designed with easy days and slower miles in mind.
The Skyward X blends the brand’s maximalist design principles with a revolutionary suspension system featuring advanced materials and extreme geometries. The result? A big innovation in training that provides all runners their easiest miles yet.
The Skyward X represents the latest of HOKA’s running innovation in the spring season, after the successful launch of the acclaimed Cielo X1 - a resilient and lightweight road-racer with a speed-centric rocker shape that allows users to fly through races with ease.
While the Cielo X1 enables runners to move at top speeds, the HOKA product team wanted to inspire users to tackle longer distances with the Skyward X. Emphasizing extreme cushioning and carbon technology, the Skyward X employs an overstuffed combination of foams, plates, and geometries.
This includes a PEBA-based Active Foot Frame securing the foot within the midsole walls, the brand’s signature MetaRocker for additional stability and smooth toe off, and a plush combination of foams underfoot. Together, these elements provide a dynamic ride that is lively, cushioned, and inherently stable – designed to make easy days feel more effortless.
Providing a training experience like no other, the new Skyward X has been engineered with a revolutionary suspension system that springs back with every step.
An innovative convex carbon fiber plate bows in the middle through each stride, providing an amazing feeling of suspension. The plate is nestled between a PEBA-based Active Foot Frame on top and a supercritical EVA rocker frame below. The soft, resilient top layer directly underfoot provides a lively, cushioned ride, while the firm, supportive bottom layer provides a stable platform.
Combined with the MetaRocker, the system is designed for weightless suspension and an automatic roll through the gait.
Paired with a new flat knit upper with zonal engineering, the Skyward X provides an accommodating fit. An external TPU heel counter delivers extra structure and dimension, while an integrated ghillie system at the lace line locks allows for a more accommodating lock-down across the midfoot.
Tipping the scales at 9.2 oz for a Women's size 8 and 11.3 oz for a Men's size 10, the Skyward X affords a 48mm stack height and 5mm drop.
Extreme Cushion Meets Carbon
"The Skyward X is the result of extensive testing, prototyping and thoughtful innovation, creating something entirely new for HOKA. We increased the stack height and completely reimagined our use of elements like PEBA foam and carbon fiber plates, typically associated with race day products, to create a super trainer that provides core runners with a supremely plush experience for their daily miles", said Colin Ingram, Vice President of Product and Apparel at HOKA.
"Our team started with a blank slate to innovate the signature cushioned ride that HOKA is known for. We are looking forward to sharing the unique Skyward X ride experience with everyone to try out on the roads.”
The Skyward X is now available for purchase today at the HOKA ION brand store, as well as both in-store and online at Running Lab and iRun for SGD $349.