Hoka says it “threw out the rulebook” when creating the Skyward X, the brand’s latest mega-cushioned running shoe. It isn’t kidding. With a 48mm stack height, the Skyward X sprints right past the 40mm limit set by World Athletics, joining an exclusive club of so-called “illegal” running shoes that includes models such as the Adidas Adizero Prime X 2.0 (55mm) and New Balance Supercomp Trainer (47mm).
Of course, that doesn’t mean you can’t purchase the Skyward X or casually wear them on your next easy run around the neighborhood. But, were you to race in them, you technically could be disqualified from even a local 5K (if the organizers cared enough to check).
The World Athletics controversially bars both professional and recreational runners from competing in any “road event” with shoes that exceed a 40mm stack height. So why would Hoka, or any brand, even risk it? Let’s break it down.
Hoka Skyward X
HokaHoka Skyward X
Hoka built its brand on maximalist running shoes, so it’s no surprise to see the brand continue to push the limits on cushioning. The Skyward X combines hefty amounts of both PEBA and EVA foams with a convex carbon fiber plate that bows upward, “helping mimic the dynamic suspension of the foot,” Hoka says.
