Doctors of Running Podcast
#283 Breaking Down the Cielo X1 with Hoka
51m
Hoka's making big strides in 2026 with a big updated to their top-tier distance racing shoe: the Cielo X1 3.0. Matt is joined by Rebekah Broe, Senior Director of Product Performance Footwear at HOKA, to dive into every detail of the changes. They talk foam composition, midsole geometry, tweaks to the plate and much more!
Get your DOR Merch: https://doctors-of-running.myspreadshop.com/
We're thrilled to have Rabbit as a presenting partner! You can use code DORMARCH10 to get 10% off your entire order of $50.00 or more. Note that the code is limited to one use per customer and can’t combined with other discounts. The code is active from 1st of every month to last day at 11:59PM PST, but don't worry because we'll be bringing you a new code every month. Shop now at https://www.runinrabbit.com.
Our In For Testing segment is fueled by Skratch Labs! Get 20% off your first order from Skratch with code: DOCTORSOFRUNNING! https://www.skratchlabs.com
Chapters
- 0:00 - Intro
- 2:06 - The origin of the Cielo X1 line
- 5:26 - How long did development take?
- 8:26 - How has 3.0's geometry changed from the previous version?
- 14:34 - Why did the cutouts change?
- 19:14 - What Hoka sees as the ideal use for this shoe
- 22:18 - The role of the central groove
- 27:12 - How has the plate changed?
- 33:02 - The nature of the midsole foam
- 39:30 - Upper changes
- 45:18 - Who does Hoka think this shoe will/won't work for?
- 49:36 - Wrap-up
