Hoka Cielo X1 vs Hoka Rocket X2: Hoka racing shoes compared

[@SuboptimalRunner]

As someone who loves the Rocket X2 for everything up to half marathon, the Cielo X1 is very tempting. I will probably wait for the Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 and some comparisons between the Hoka and Pro 4. The Pro 3 is my current favorite marathon shoe, but Hoka has made some really great shoes lately. Thanks for the review and comparison!

[@jeroen1989]

First reviews of the pro 4 aren't that positive... 😮

[@SuboptimalRunner]

True, the reviews I’ve seen so far for the Pro 4 could kindly be called mixed. And rather than wait for a comparison, I just went out and bought the Cielo X1 at a local store 😂 haven’t run in it yet, but the step in comfort is incredible and the rocker is almost comically pronounced (which I like). And, yes, the laces are actually as bad as every reviewer has pointed out! I love the Rocket X2, but felt from the beginning that I wished it had slightly more stack in the heel and a slightly higher drop- so hopefully the Cielo fits the bill.

[@anthonyYT321]

Idk man. I’m obsessed with my Cielo x1. I have the Alphafly, endorphin elite, pro 3’s and it’s not even close. The fit, balance, pop and marshmallow comfort. 10/10

[@SuboptimalRunner]

@@anthonyYT321 I had a chance to take them out for a spin this past Sunday in addition another run since. I did a long run where I mixed up the pace, all the way from 6:00/mile to 10:00/mile, and found them to be fantastic at any speed. Granted, if you're in the easier range you're not getting the full benefit of the shoe, but it doesn't feel like the shoe is working against you at those speeds like other super shoes. I also think the Cielo X1 has possibly the greatest "sweet spot" of any shoe I've ever worn- if you find the right foot strike, cadence, and stride, it's a pretty magical shoe. And for me, that wasn't even at the faster range of things, just a nice cruising tempo that felt fun for miles at a time. I love the Rocket X2 as well, but appreciate the completely different sensation the Cielo offers. I also think the upper and overall fit is the most comfortable I've ever been in a super shoe. I'll most likely take the Cielo out for a half marathon in a couple weeks and can't wait to see what it's like for a race. (But, yes, the laces are bizarre. I did find that once they were double knotted, they weren't an issue though)

[@tinyrunner88]

This is the video I've been waiting for! 🙌

[@TheHutchRuns]

I thnk the Rocket X2 is the best shorter distance shoe but the Cielo X1 sounds like it will be better at 10 miles and up. Unfortunately the Alphafly 3 is the king at that distance, for me anyway!

[@ricardoreis3844]

That is my issue as well. I would like to try Cielo but I cant imagine anything better than Alphafly for a marathon, so the better option might be Rocket X for Shorter distances

[@keancabigao1461]

Hoping you’ll review the upcoming running UA models such as the Velociti Elite 2, Infinite Elite, and the Infinite Pro. These models are quite promising and I would love yo know your thoughts on that one.

[@MrJhockley]

When you say narrow do you mean forefoot or rearfoot? I assume forefoot. I found the rocket x2 had plenty of room in the heel but i had to go up 2 half sizes to get the toe width to fit.

[@ahmadathoillah7498]

Good review

[@rob_langer]

I saw that you did one of your runs with the Cielo on a track that was wet. How does the Cielo feel on a wet track? last season i used the Rocket X2 for my triathlon season and one of the sprint tris it was raining and felt like I was ice skating.

[@telebiopic]

How come the tread texture is wearing down in just 50k for both shoes!

[@i.p2088]

Possible to go down half a size in the Cielo X1. They look much longer and wider..

[@ozenfant_ozn]

they Cielos look yummy in black!

[@GamerholicAKA]

How do you get the black ones?

[@MrJhockley]

Cielo (Italian = Sky) pronounced like Cello?

[@knnth070]

Also Spanish for sky. Since Hoka have other Spanish names in their lineup (Rincon, Gaviota), is probably the Spanish pronunciation.

[@MrJhockley]

Muchas gracias@@knnth070

[@Dzaen2]

On the "How do they fit" section put the thumb in front of the big toe so the space is shown.

[@bildotunechi]

... Please.

[@TischTosh]

Decoupled like the puma fast-r nitro..... trend?

[@jeroen1989]

Not a true decoupled midsole like in the Puma, though; more similar to the mizuno rebellion pro.

[@RamrodSmothers]

QD: Speed 3… I’m a 15 EE and have very few options other than some daily trainers. 😢

[@ironmantooltime]

7mm drop??? If that's true I'm out 😮

[@fecardona]

Another narrow toebox

[@Nyelands]

You didn't curse a lot you just showed who you are when you are with your gym/frat bros. Surprised you didn't all cross the finish line shirless

[@illonggoako1372]

Puma replica

[@jeroen1989]

More mizuno rebellion pro...