The Hoka Cielo X1 Review & Lab Test of 2026

The Hoka Cielo X1 is a performance-oriented racing shoe designed for serious runners. Our lab tests indicate that this shoe is ideal for those seeking an energetic ride, particularly in marathon and 5K/10K events, despite its weight potentially being a limitation for advanced users.

Equipped with features like PEBA foam and a carbon plate, the Hoka Cielo X1 delivers stable cushioning. The firm 31.5 HA foam offers a reliable platform, enhancing overall durability. While it carries a premium price of $275, its design effectively integrates Hoka’s renowned rockered geometry with advanced racing technology.

Pros

  • Thrilling, fun ride
  • Leg-saving midsole
  • Marathon-ready
  • Fantastic energy return
  • Enhances forward motion
  • Plush and bouncy PEBA foam
  • Excellent durability
  • Excels at long runs

Cons

  • A bit heavy
  • Some stability issues
  • Pricey at $275
  • Not the grippiest supershoe

Key Features

  • Synthetic upper: Provides a lightweight and breathable fit.
  • Advanced Cushioning: Delivers superior comfort during long-distance runs.
  • Running shoe: Designed specifically for performance and stability.

Specifications

  • Sole material: Rubber, ensuring good traction and durability.
  • Shaft height: Ankle Strap, providing added support.
  • Outer material: Synthetic, which aids in flexibility and weight reduction.
  • Inner material: Nylon, enhancing comfort against the skin.

Hoka Cielo X1 Review & Lab Test – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

Hoka Cielo X1 PUMA Deviate Nitro 3 Nike Alphafly 3 Saucony Endorphin Pro 4
Price $275 $160 $285 $225
Pace Competition Tempo Competition Competition
Arch support Neutral Neutral Neutral Neutral
Weight lab Weight brand 8.8 oz / 249g 9.5 oz / 268g 7.1 oz / 201g 7.8 oz / 220g
Lightweight
Drop lab Drop brand 9.5 mm 10.1 mm 8.5 mm 9.5 mm
Strike pattern Heel Heel Heel Heel
Size True to size Slightly small Slightly small True to size
Midsole softness Soft Soft Soft Balanced
Difference in midsole softness in cold Small Normal Small Small
Toebox durability Good Decent Bad Good
Heel padding durability Good Decent Good Good
Outsole durability Good Decent Bad Good
Breathability Moderate Moderate Breathable Breathable
Width / fit Medium Narrow Medium Medium
Toebox width Narrow Narrow Medium Medium
Stiffness Stiff Stiff Stiff Stiff
Torsional rigidity Stiff Stiff Stiff Stiff
Heel counter stiffness Flexible Flexible Flexible Flexible
Plate Carbon plate Carbon plate Carbon plate Carbon plate
Rocker
Heel lab Heel brand 39.8 mm 37.4 mm 38.1 mm 38.1 mm
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand 30.3 mm 27.3 mm 29.6 mm 28.6 mm
Widths available Normal Normal Normal Normal
Orthotic friendly
Season All seasons All seasons Summer Summer
Removable insole
Ranking Top 37% Top 32% Top 34% Top 39%
Popularity Top 37% Top 17% Top 6% Top 10%