Hoka Cielo X1 2.0 Review (2025): Finally Up to Speed?

Julien Guyod

Published on 04/16/2025

Hoka One One is still as popular as ever and has many fans. But popularity doesn’t always equate to quality, and the brand has also released less successful models, such as the first version of the Hoka Cielo X1, which was not universally acclaimed despite its success.

The second version is significantly improved and finally seems to reach the level of the competition.

What performance can you expect from this revised model? Does it suit your goals?

That’s what you’ll find out with our complete review of the Cielo X1 2.0.

Our Verdict

Cushioning

The midsole design combines classic and innovative elements. The carbon plate, redesigned for this version, meets the standard, associated with its two layers of Peba foam (of different densities).

But the geometry is much more original, with strong cutouts and an atypical shape. This lightens the shoe and opens it up to a very aggressive ride. The Cielo X1 2.0 reminded me a lot of the Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro model (which perhaps explains why the same stability issues are found here).

The feeling upon impact, very balanced, leans towards plushness, for a very enjoyable running experience. The shoe will, in my opinion, suit a wide variety of runners (the points to watch will be elsewhere).

Surprisingly, there is a major doubt about the dimensions of the shoe, which may exceed the 40 mm regulatory limit, creating a unique issue for competitions.

The brand initially announced the maximalist 48 mm under the heel and 41 mm under the forefoot. These are the dimensions indicated in my summary, which seem consistent with what I have on my feet.

However, Hoka specifies on the model’s page: “Height less than 40 mm for Men’s size 42“. Does this mean we exceed this beyond size 42?

The official page of the international athletics federation listing approved models (1) remains ambiguous. For the Cielo X1 2.0, a first line lists the model as approved, but the second states: “Cielo X1 2.0 VALID: 11 OCT 2024 – 10 OCT 2025” .

What conclusion can be drawn? There is a doubt about the shoe’s approval. However, be aware that controls primarily concern elites, for race prizes and record validation.

Shock absorption is, in any case, optimal, so no limits are anticipated on distance. The Cielo X1 2.0 is therefore highly recommended for the marathon.

The 7 mm drop is standard and should not hinder anyone.

Energy Return

I admire a beautiful feat: 209 g in size 42, the shoe combines maximal dimensions and ultra-lightweight.

The dynamism is excellent and ranks among the best.

The very aggressive geometry and MetaRocker curved sole profile offer very smooth transitions, as well as very strong energy return, with a very pronounced rebound. Enough to accelerate and try to beat your record!

Support and Stability

The shoe is for a neutral stride and does not have stabilizing technology.

The midsole cuts are one of the points of commonality mentioned with the Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro. The sensation varies depending on each person’s foot strike, and some testers found the ride really unstable. This was not my case at all; on the contrary, I found the shoe to be very secure.

The bucket seat design (inspired by Formula 1 cars) mitigates these disparities in my opinion. The 9 rating attributed to stability is an average, and caution should still be exercised on this point.

Foot Lockdown

The upper is completely revisited — in the previous version, it was, along with the weight, the main subject of criticism. The new technical jacquard mesh upper is very well executed this time.

I am well placed to talk about it, as I’ve always struggled to find my size in this brand. I often have to shift sizes to find the right fit. For this Cielo X1 2.0, I was able to take my usual US size 8 (which is 41 1/3), instead of going half a size down.

I found the sizing quite standard, the shoe fits true to size in my opinion. There’s not much space, typical of a competition shoe, but the stretchiness of the mesh allows the foot to find its place.

The support is very good, and few testers mention a risk of slipping. The upper is very thin and ensures good breathability, with obviously lesser protection in cold weather, like most carbon rockets.

The comfort is very impressive for such a lightweight model, and the shoe stays on the foot for a long time. The rigid heel counter is (finally) well executed, without the flaws of the previous version, whose collar caused irritation.

The heel lock is good, with no reported slipping. The padding in this area is a notable advantage. However, the tongue is not gusseted, the only flaw on an otherwise expensive model. This can be a nuisance for runners with narrow feet.

The notched lace system is very effective and confirms excellent foot lock, for a very successful upper.

Traction

The outsole rubber, although thinner, offers powerful traction, superior to the previous version. Even on wet surfaces, I found the grip excellent.

We also applaud very good flexibility with numerous grooves, especially the deep central cutouts, which make the shoe less suitable for trails. It is primarily intended for tarmac.

Use Scenarios

The Cielo X1 2.0 is primarily made for competition. For now, the shoe is allowed in official competition; it will be necessary to check that it remains so in October 2025.

This caution, however, applies to very few runners, as controls currently apply to elites only. In case of doubt, the Rocket X 2, slightly less performant, can replace it.

It is especially suitable for marathons. Its excellent shock absorption will allow any runner to tackle long distances. However, the demanding ride and stability may limit its use for some.

This new Cielo is a rocket and it proves just as performant on shorter distances and for speed training.

Like most carbon-plated shoes, it will be less suitable and less comfortable for slower paces. The rocker clearly invites acceleration and avoidance of slow rhythms, despite the model’s plush nature.

Quality and Durability

Testers make several criticisms: the very thin upper would not resist obstacles well, and the amount of exposed foam might accelerate wear. In my opinion, this will not actually pose a problem.

A more delicate point to control, the outsole, thinner than the previous version, would decrease the model’s durability. It depends on foot strike, so pay attention to it.

Overall, the shoe’s durability remains on par with other carbon models. As this model is very expensive, I leave to you to judge the quality/price ratio.

The Hoka Cielo X1 2.0 was partially designed with recycled materials, including the knitted tongue, made of 100% recycled polyester knit. The shoe is also vegan.

Conclusion

The Hoka Cielo X1 2.0 will not be to everyone’s taste, whether due to its demanding ride or the stability issues mentioned. But it certainly joins the rather exclusive circle of the best carbon plate shoes, like the Adidas Adios Pro 4.

Its plush side, strong propulsion, and excellent energy economy make it a top choice for breaking your record in competition, particularly in the marathon, its favored distance.

References

List of shoes approved for competition
World Athletics (accessed on 04/11/2025)
https://certcheck.worldathletics.org/FullList

Facts

Reference: official site of