HOKA Cielo X1 3.0 review

Full review

The Cielo X1 3.0 is HOKA's top road racer, and the third version is lighter and bouncier than the one before. A retailer lists HOKA's figures as a 38 mm heel and 31 mm forefoot stack with a 7 mm drop, and a men's weight near 213 g in US size 10.

The midsole is a dual-layer PEBA foam over a carbon plate, which gives a springy, propulsive ride, and HOKA's rocker geometry keeps turnover smooth when legs tire. The upper is a Leno-weave mesh that holds the foot snugly, with a narrow midfoot that suits a snug race fit.

It is the most expensive shoe on this page, so it is best kept for key sessions and races. We did not find the outsole rubber or width options stated in sources we could open.

It makes sense for experienced runners chasing a personal best. Everyone else is better served by the Mach 7 for speed and the Clifton 11 for daily miles, both of which cost far less.