Hoka Cielo X1 2.0: Rocker Fuelled Ride

Cielo X1 2.0: Quick Facts

 Weight: 

• M: 229g US 10
• W: 193g US 8

Best For: 

• Road racing
• Runners who want an aggressive fast feel

Price: 

• $400 AUD

Stack Height & Drop: 

• 39mm heel / 32mm forefoot
• 7mm drop

Favourite Features: 

• The midsole geometry is unique and feels fast!
• 30g drop in overall weight makes a huge difference.

Release Date: 

• February 14th, 2025

What's the Cielo X1 2.0 all about?

The Hoka Cielo X1 2.0 builds upon the foundation of its predecessor, but the updates made have transformed it into almost an entirely new shoe. While the original Cielo X1 was a highly protective, smooth rocker shoe, it was a relatively heavy super shoe. We found that local recreational runners and even some Hoka sponsored athletes, were choosing the Rocket X 2 over the Cielo X1 for race day. Now, with significant refinements, the Cielo X1 2.0 emerges as a true contender in the super shoe category, offering a much lighter, more aggressive ride designed for all out speed and chasing personal bests.

There's three key changes in Cielo X1 2.0:

1) Dialled in upper fit

One of the most noticeable changes comes in the upper. Gone is the experimental design of version 1—Hoka has opted for a more traditional translucent mesh, which enhances breathability while offering a better midfoot lockdown. The heel collar and counter is actually relatively padded for a super shoe as Hoka have used a thicker material back here, before moving to that lightweight mesh in the midfoot and forefoot. 

There's some subtle overlay reinforcements which helps to hold your foot on top of the high stack midsole platform. This update not only improves fit but also broadens the shoe’s appeal to a wider range of runners. Small refinements, like the new laces actually make a real difference, as the laces were pretty bad and often came undone on the previous Cielo (sorry Hoka).

2) "Banana-shaped" geometry?

The Cielo X1 2.0 retains its winged carbon fibre plate, but this time with improved stability, making it a more confidence-inspiring ride. The midsole features a dual-layer PEBA foam that delivers a punchy, bouncy and propulsive feel underfoot.

Perhaps the most dramatic change comes in the midsole geometry. The rocker has been moved further back, creating an extremely aggressive shape—almost "banana-shaped". Just standing in the Cielo you tend to rock backwards, giving a sensation reminiscent of the Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 3. But once you're up and running the updated geometry really throws you onto the forefoot. Combine that with the midsole and plate combination, the Cielo X1 2.0 feels exceptionally fast.

The speed of the Cielo X1 2.0 does come with a catch, as it's not the most stable super shoe. Hoka have moved the midsole cutout that was on the lateral side of the previous Cielo and it's now been taken from the medial side. Now super shoes aren't known for being overly 'stable', but it's something worth noting as you do lose a bit of integrity through the medial side. As a result, we think the Cielo X1 2.0 will reward runners who land more midfoot and forefoot.

3) Dropped weight, faster feel 

A major focus of the update to the Cielo X1 2.0 has been reducing weight and Hoka has cut almost 30g out of the shoe. This weight loss comes from multiple refinements, including the redesigned upper, strategic cutouts in the midsole geometry and less rubber coverage on the outsole. 

As a result, Cielo X1 2.0 feels like a lot less shoe on foot and much more nimble than the original Cielo, even though they share a similar stack height. You don't lose any of the bounce from the previous Cielo, it just feels a lot faster this time round.

Our first thoughts

The Hoka Cielo X1 2.0 is a significant evolution from the first version. The drop in weight, changes to the upper and redesign of the midsole setup make for an aggressive ride. Hoka have now added another option into their race day category to complement the more conservative Rocket X 2.

While it may not be the most stable super shoe, it delivers a unique experience and speed in abundance, making it a compelling choice for runners looking to chase down a personal best this year.

About the author

Nathan Pope - Runner and Shoe Nerd

I'm really passionate about running footwear and how shoes can be used as a tool to get the best of your running, whether that be general fitness or performance.

My favourite event is the marathon. I feel as though the marathon is the ultimate test both physically and mentally! It requires careful planning both within the race and during the training block and it can be super satisfying when it comes together on race day.