HOKA Skyward X 2 vs Skyward X
Skyward X 2 or Skyward X? Here’s how they compare on feel, fit, brand specs and price, from the fitting team at The Run House.
The short answer
The Skyward X 2 replaced the Skyward X.
Much lighter and softer, with a broader base and a redesigned outsole.
What changed
- Foam: PEBA top layer again, now softer.
- Shape: A broader base (about 3.6mm wider) and a slightly lower stack.
- Outsole: Redesigned outsole.
- On the run: Softer and much roomier. Bounce and forefoot about the same.
- Measured: 1 oz lighter and drop down from 9.2mm to 7.6mm. Heel stack about the same.
Still like the Skyward X? It’s $45 less than the Skyward X 2 while supplies last, with 3 colors in stock.
On the run
Skyward X 2: Max cushion with a carbon plate. Ultra-cushioned and remarkably stable for its height, with a carbon plate and rockers at both ends that keep you rolling. Lovely for slow long runs, but stiff and not built for speed.
Skyward X: Extreme cushion with a carbon plate. Extremely cushioned, very stable and smoothly rockered, with PEBA foam and an H-shaped carbon plate. Heavy, and not for fast paces.
Specs side by side
| Skyward X 2 | Skyward X | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $225 | $179.99 (was $225) |
| Stack height (heel / forefoot) | 44 / 39mm* | 49 / 44mm* |
| Drop | 5mm | 5mm* |
| Weight, men’s | 11 oz | 11.1 oz* |
| Weight, women’s | 9.3 oz | HOKA no longer lists it |
| Support | Neutral | Neutral |
| Plate | Carbon plate | Carbon plate |
| Widths | Standard | Standard |
| Built for | Easy days, Long runs, Recovery runs | Easy days, Long runs, Recovery runs |
| Expected life | 400–500 miles | 450–550 miles |
Stack, drop and weight come from each brand’s own website. Numbers marked * aren’t published by the brand and come from other published specs. Weights are for the size each brand quotes. Expected life is our estimate.
Fit
Skyward X 2. Runs slightly short, so if you’re between sizes, go up a half. Secure fit with a plush upper. Standard width only.
Skyward X. True to size but narrow. Standard width only.
Try them on
Come try on both at The Run House in Walpole, Needham or Falmouth. Gait analysis is always free.
Shop the Skyward X 2 · Shop the Skyward X · Compare other running shoes