At first glance, the Hoka Skyflow appears to be a standard training shoe. However, upon closer inspection, one can see that it was inspired by the geometry of the Skyward X model and that it uses supercritical EVA foam, just like the Mach model. These elements make it a fairly “fast” shoe. Nevertheless, the most comparisons can be found with the Clifton model — it is still a training shoe designed primarily for long, easy runs, but it also redefines the approach to training.
Basic info
Tech specs
Purpose
The Hoka Skyflow is a well-cushioned model ideal for everyday running on hard surfaces. Designed for maximum comfort, it is suitable for runners weighing up to 95 kilograms. It is best suited for training on hard surfaces, such as asphalt, cobblestones, and compacted dirt roads. It excels at easy, long runs at a moderate pace, but it is also a dynamic shoe that can handle slightly faster running. It is a neutral shoe suitable for feet without overpronation or supination.
Pros
- very high cushioning
- high dynamics and profiling to help roll the foot
- suitable for the longest distances
- low, natural 5 mm drop
- very low weight (among the 21% lightest training shoes)
Cons
- the heel counter may be too stiff for some
Hoka running shoes – lineup
The Hoka Skyflow is another training shoe from Hoka that offers solid cushioning and a design intended for neutral runners. Its cushioning is similar to that of the Clifton, but it stands out with its more dynamic feel. It also draws inspiration from the Skyward X model, though it lacks a carbon plate. While it’s hard to categorize, if you’re looking for a reliable, comfortable training shoe for long distances with a hint of dynamism, this model may be the perfect choice.
To learn more about shoes, check out the Hoka running shoe guide.
| NEUTRAL SHOES | STABILITY SHOES | |
|---|---|---|
| maximum cushioning |  Skyward X  Bondi 9 |  Gaviota 5 |
| very high cushioning |  Clifton 9  Skyflow |  Arahi 7 |
| high cushioning |  Rincon 4 |
Hoka Skyflow alternatives
In terms of functionality, it is most similar to everyday running shoes. That’s how I classify them here. Alternatives may include other universal running shoe models for hard surfaces.
| MODEL | STACK HEIGHT (mm) | DROP (mm) | WEIGHT MEN'S (grams) | WEIGHT WOMEN'S (grams) | REGULAR PRICE (€) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| adidas Adistar 3.0 | 43/37 | 6 | 275 | 235 | 150 |
| Asics Novablast 5 | 41.5/33.5 | 8 | 255 | 225 | 150 |
| Asics Gel-Cumulus 25 | 37/29 | 8 | 253 | 222 | 160 |
| Brooks Ghost Max 2 | 39/33 | 6 | 306 | 269 | 160 |
| Hoka Skyflow | 39/34 | 5 | 280 | 244 | 170 |
| Mizuno Wave Rider 27 | 38/26 | 12 | 273 | 235 | 160 |
| Nike Zoom Vomero 17 | 39.5/30 | 10 | 300 | 241 | 150 |
| On Cloudsurfer 7 | 32/22 | 10 | 245 | 205 | 170 |
| Saucony Ride 17 | 35/27 | 8 | 282 | 238 | 150 |
Very high cushioning
This model’s midsole is made of supercritical EVA foam, an improved version of traditional EVA foam that offers significantly better responsiveness and efficiency. This allows runners to enjoy a springier bounce, resulting in greater dynamics.
The midsole is 39 millimeters thick at the heel and 34 millimeters thick at the forefoot. These measurements indicate that this shoe provides high-level cushioning, making it ideal for long-distance running. The thickness also effectively insulates the feet from hard surfaces during training.
Its level of cushioning is similar to that of the versatile Clifton models, making it a great choice for runners weighing up to about 90 kilograms. However, the Skyflow is better suited to faster running due to its properties and intended use. The Skyflow is better suited to faster running. If your everyday pace is no slower than 5:00/km, the Skyflow is the perfect training shoe for you.
Dynamics like in much faster shoes
Supercritical foam stands out for its exceptional elasticity and responsiveness. Compared to the Clifton, the rebound effect is much more noticeable, making your run feel more energetic and fluid. In this respect, the model resembles the Mach 6 training and competition shoe, although it is significantly higher and softer.
One clearly noticeable element of this shoe’s construction is the rocker profile of the midsole. Despite the absence of stiffening elements in the foam, the entire midsole is rigid and not very flexible. This allows the profile to retain its shape and support the roll of the foot from heel to toe, even under load. However, the profile is not overly aggressive, so there is no need to worry about it forcing you to change your running technique. Everything happens in accordance with your natural running style.
Another characteristic feature of Hoka soles is FootFrame technology, a raised edge that keeps the foot in place and provides stability. This technology has also been used in the Skyflow model, albeit in a more subtle form adapted to its design. The raised edge, together with the stiffened heel counter, makes this shoe more stable than most shoes designed for neutral feet. If you tend to pronate during long training sessions, this shoe may be a good choice for you.
Incidentally, the raised edge of the midsole makes the shoe look bigger than it actually is.
Road outsole and durable
The outsole of the Skyflow model embodies urban functionality. Its 1.4-millimeter-thick rubber texture provides more than enough grip on urban surfaces. This is common for shoes designed for running on flat roads.
The amount of rubber is sufficient. It is primarily concentrated in areas most susceptible to wear and tear. This increases the shoe’s durability, causing the outsole to wear out more slowly while reducing the shoe’s weight. As a result, the Skyflow is a model that works well on urban routes and remains a solid choice for a long time.
Technical mesh upper and fairly narrow
The Hoka Skyflow’s upper is made of technical mesh. It feels pleasant to the touch. Thanks to its numerous perforations and cuts, as well as its moderate thickness, the shoe seems quite breathable. This makes it suitable for long training sessions on warm days.
In terms of width, the shoe is snug rather than spacious. At its widest point, the width of the upper is 101.8 millimeters, which is not very wide. This feature provides a rather narrow fit. This feature may appeal to lighter and slightly faster runners. However, compared to other running shoes on the market and even within Hoka’s own lineup, this is one of the narrowest available.
The heel counter of the Hoka Skyflow model features a traditional design with a rigid, wedge-shaped internal stiffener. Its purpose is to provide stability and prevent the foot from tilting sideways, a task it accomplishes well. The heel counter is surrounded by a moderate amount of foam padding. While this provides good comfort, if you’re looking for a soft and flexible heel hold, the heel counter may be too stiff and uncomfortable.
Low weight
The Skyflow model also stands out for its lightness. According to the manufacturer, it weighs 280 grams for men and 244 grams for women.
In size 12 US, the Skyflow weighs only 308 grams — an impressive result, considering it’s only 2 grams more than the Clifton 9. Notably, with such a low weight, the Skyflow ranks in the top 21% of the lightest training shoes featured on the blog. This is an excellent result, especially considering how well the shoe balances lightness and softness while running.
Summary
The Hoka Skyflow combines elements of several other Hoka models. It has the versatility of the Clifton for urban running. It has the dynamics of the fast Mach, but with much more foam. It also has a profile reminiscent of the Hoka Skyward. I feel that the Skyflow lacks a distinctive feature that sets it apart from the other models. Nevertheless, if you are looking for a faster, more dynamic training shoe, this is it.
