Kicks

Fly Human Fly: HOKA releases running shoes for higher tempos

The HOKA Cielo X1 2.0 is available now for $275 in adult sizes.
Michael Ehrlich|
A detailed look at the HOKA Cielo X1 2.0 running shoes.
A detailed look at the HOKA Cielo X1 2.0 running shoes. | HOKA

HOKA continues their winning ways in 2025 with another highly-anticipated running shoe launch. Fresh off of releasing the Bondi 9, Speed Loafer and Kaha 3 GTX, the Goleta, California-based brand has added an updated runner to their arsenal.

The all-gender Cielo X1 2.0 - arriving in a frost / black colorway - is a road racing shoe built for speed seekers. The follow-up to the 2024 introduction, this second iteration introduces a reduced weight, more breathable upper and a sticky rubber outsole for improved grip.

At 6.8oz - in a size M7/W8 - the Cielo X1 2.0 is HOKA's lightest, most propulsive road racer yet. But the new runner is not just a lightweight marvel.

Enhanced MetaRocker technology, a forefoot-focused Active Foot Frame and a winged carbon fiber plate combine for maximum speed as well.

The dual-density PEBA foam delivers ultra-responsive rebound, with updated dynamic cutouts for additional weight reduction.

Additional tech features include a breathable engineered jacquard mesh upper, 3D screen-printed overlays and a warp-knit tongue made with 100% recycled polyester.

A redesigned cushioned collar ensures lockdown while the sticky rubber outsole provides reliable grip during road racing.

The Cielo X1 2.0 is available now for $275 in the "Frost and Black" colorway at hoka.com, HOKA retail locations and select retail partners. Long-distance runners can expect more colorways to drop throughout the year.

Stay locked into Sports Illustrated's Kicks On SI for all your footwear news from the running world and beyond.

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Michael Ehrlich
MICHAEL EHRLICH

Michael Ehrlich is a seasoned sports marketing executive with experience across the global sports brand, athlete representation, media and education sides of the business. The Founder and CEO of Playbook Marketing, Ehrlich consults with brands on all things NIL and athlete partnerships, advises student-athletes on their personal brand building endeavors and is an adjunct professor at his alma mater, the University of Southern California where he teaches a course on athlete communications and marketing. As a writer, his previous bylines include Boardroom, Business of College Sports, DIME Magazine and UPROXX, among others. You can follow him across social media at @MichaelEhrlich and reach out via michael@playbook-marketing.com

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