Our verdict

We found the Hoka Skyflow to be a well-rounded daily trainer that performs admirably across the board—durability, cushioning, stability, comfort, and value. While we think it’s a bit stiffer than we’d prefer, it’s a fantastic debut for this new series. In our view, it’s a good pick for runners seeking more foam underfoot compared to the Mach and Clifton, offering a great balance of features for a variety of runs.

Pros

  • Great all-around performance
  • Enhanced midsole
  • Roomy for being a Hoka
  • Versatile across multiple distances
  • Solid stability
  • Durable construction
  • Breathable and comfortable upper
  • Secure lockdown

Cons

  • Limited flex
  • Could be a bit lighter
  • Not the best for walking

Audience verdict

89
Great!

Who should buy

We believe the Hoka Skyflow is an excellent choice for:

  • Runners who like other Hoka daily trainers but seek more cushioning underfoot, a roomier fit, or both.
  • Those who found previous Hoka trainers like the Bondi lacking in energy return, as this model features a new supercritical midsole for a more responsive ride.
  • Anyone in need of a highly cushioned yet stable daily trainer that excels on both short and long-distance runs.
  • Hoka fans drawn to the innovative Skyward X who prefer a similar, more affordable option without a plate.

Hoka Skyflow

Who should NOT buy

We think that runners who prefer a lightweight feel in their daily trainers might be disappointed with the Skyflow—it's simply too heavy to fit into that category. Fortunately, there are plenty of alternatives on the market, such as the Hoka Mach 6, which is also more affordable and shares the same foam, or the ASICS Superblast 2 for those willing to spend a bit more in a premium shoe.

In our view, the Skyflow may also not be the best option for those seeking an ultra-plush running experience. For a softer feel, we suggest exploring New Balance options like the 1080 v13 or the maximalist More v5, both featuring cloud-like Fresh Foam X midsoles.

Hoka Skyflow parts

Cushioning

Heel stack

We've highlighted how cushioned this shoe is, and our digital callipers confirm it—much like Shakira's hips, they don't lie!

With a heel stack of 39.3 mm, just shy of the 40-mm mark, it ensures that no rearfoot striker, regardless of weight, will lack cushioning in this area.

Hoka Skyflow Heel stack
Test results
Skyflow 39.3 mm
Average 33.9 mm
Compared to 365 running shoes
Number of shoes
22.5 mm
Heel stack
46.3 mm

Forefoot stack

The forefoot turned out slightly thinner than we expected at 30.6 mm—more details in our drop test—yet there is ample foam underfoot.

Hoka Skyflow foam forefoot

Just like the heel, the situation is similar for midfoot and forefoot strikers—the Skyflow consistently performs on long distances, comfortably handling workouts exceeding 15 miles.

Hoka Skyflow Forefoot stack
Test results
Skyflow 30.6 mm
Average 25.3 mm
Compared to 365 running shoes
Number of shoes
13.7 mm
Forefoot stack
37.1 mm

Drop

Measured to World Athletics standards, the heel-to-toe drop of the Skyflow clocks in at 8.7 mm, almost doubling the 5-mm drop claimed by Hoka.

Hoka Skyflow side

This considerable difference likely stems because Hoka doesn't follow these standards. While this variation might slightly benefit midfoot and forefoot strikers, the 8.7 mm drop is considered versatile for all types of footstrikes and we're good with it.

Hoka Skyflow Drop
Test results
Skyflow 8.7 mm
Average 8.6 mm
Compared to 365 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.0 mm
Drop
16.1 mm

Midsole softness

Note: a low durometer measurement equals a soft material, whereas a high measurement means it's firm.

We've had our gripes with Hoka's use of regular EVA midsoles in their daily trainers—feeling a tad outdated and lacking in energy return. This time, however, there's a shift, with the introduction of a modern supercritical EVA formulation, similar to Brooks' DNA Loft v3, that brings a lively and responsive feel, meeting our expectations for its price range.

As for the midsole's softness, we encountered a well-balanced composition that avoids an overly plush sensation underfoot. Our 19.4 HA measurement confirms this feel.

Hoka Skyflow Midsole softness
Test results
Skyflow 19.4 HA
Average 21.1 HA
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 292 running shoes
Number of shoes
8.5 HA
Midsole softness (soft to firm)
38.9 HA

Midsole softness in cold (%)

As we said before, the midsole is crafted from EVA, so it inherently struggles in cold temperatures. Nevertheless, our tests revealed this EVA variant stiffens less dramatically compared to others, showing only a 25.1% uptick after 20 minutes in our freezer, which is a decent outcome.

Hoka Skyflow Difference in midsole softness in cold
Test results
Skyflow 25%
Average 26%
Compared to 292 running shoes
Number of shoes
0%
Midsole softness in cold
100%

Insole thickness

We were surprised by the drop and the insole thickness—measuring at 5.1 mm, it's slightly thicker than what we typically encounter.

Hoka Skyflow Insole thickness
Test results
Skyflow 5.1 mm
Average 4.5 mm
Compared to 361 running shoes
Number of shoes
1.5 mm
Insole thickness
7.3 mm

Rocker

Many runners think of Hoka as synonymous with rockered designs, but our tests show the Skyflow strikes a balance comparable to popular trainers like the Nike Pegasus 41.

Hoka Skyflow side
The Skyflow features a well-rounded heel bevel designed to smooth the transition for heel strikers.

Hoka advertises an early-stage meta rocker for the Skyflow, and our measurements confirm this. Yet, the rocker is subtle, ensuring the ride remains natural and versatile enough for handling all paces.

Hoka Skyflow Rocker

Size and fit

Size

Hoka Skyflow is true to size (12 votes).

Owners of this shoe, how does this shoe fit?

1 size small ½ size small True to size ½ size large 1 size large
Compared to 301 running shoes
Number of shoes
½ size small
Slightly small
True to size
Slightly large
½ size large

Toebox width - widest part

Hoka is shifting away from their traditionally snug-fitting uppers to more spacious designs in their recent models, and we love it.

Hoka Skyflow fit

The Skyflow's toebox, measuring 98.6 mm, aligns with the 80/20 rule, comfortably accommodating most runners with ease.

Hoka Skyflow Toebox width at the widest part
Test results
Skyflow 98.6 mm
Average 98.5 mm
Compared to 366 running shoes
Number of shoes
91.6 mm
Toebox width - widest part
104.9 mm

Toebox width - big toe

The real standout change in the Skyflow is in the big toe area, which we measured at 77.7 mm. To put that in perspective, the Mach 6 (75.9 mm) and Clifton 9 (74.5 mm) are significantly more tapered and restrictive. We really hope that Hoka continues this trend in future models!

We also found that the vertical space is good enough, with a more rounded toe cap that offers ample room for your toes to move comfortably, enhancing the overall fit.

Hoka Skyflow Toebox width at the big toe
Test results
Skyflow 77.7 mm
Average 78.4 mm
Compared to 240 running shoes
Number of shoes
67.6 mm
Toebox width - big toe
89.2 mm

Stability

Lateral stability test

Hoka has significantly enhanced stability in the Skyflow by implementing their Heel-focused Active Foot Frame technology, which on paper is a good call for this high-stack shoe.

But we are not sure. While this technology certainly boosts stability, it also introduces a downside—increasing the shoe's stiffness beyond the typical flexibility expected of a daily trainer.

Hoka Skyflow wide midfoot

Additionally, we've observed that the unusually wide midfoot compromises agility, which could be a dealbreaker for some runners that prefer a more natural running experience.

Torsional rigidity

As we hinted earlier, Hoka has opted for a stiffer design to boost stability.

Indeed, our evaluations confirm that the Skyflow is noticeably more rigid compared to typical daily trainers, earning a 4/5 on our rigidity scale.

Test results
Skyflow 4
Average 3.3
Compared to 344 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Torsional rigidity
5

Heel counter stiffness

Similarly, the heel counter is notably stiff, yet it remains quite comfortable due to the ample padding surrounding it. For us, it merits a high 4/5 rating.

Test results
Skyflow 4
Average 2.9
Compared to 328 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Heel counter stiffness
5

Midsole width - forefoot

We discovered that Hoka also enhanced the stability of the Skyflow by widening the sole to 116.3 mm.

Hoka Skyflow sole flare forefoot

Comparatively, its little sister, the Mach 6, measures slightly narrower at 113.9 mm in this area. This adjustment contributes significantly to the improved stability of the Skyflow.

Hoka Skyflow Midsole width in the forefoot
Test results
Skyflow 116.3 mm
Average 114.0 mm
Compared to 366 running shoes
Number of shoes
103.3 mm
Midsole width - forefoot
126.9 mm

Midsole width - heel

In our evaluation, we also found that the tongue of the shoe is semi-gusseted and equipped with an excellent, breathable elastic strap on each side.

Here in the lab, we really appreciate these subtle touches—the ones that often go unnoticed. Although it would have been more cost-effective to use a non-perforated fabric, Hoka opted to spend a bit more here, and we're glad they did.

Hoka Skyflow Midsole width in the heel
Test results
Skyflow 94.7 mm
Average 90.7 mm
Compared to 366 running shoes
Number of shoes
73.0 mm
Midsole width - heel
106.6 mm

Flexibility / Stiffness

We discovered that the Skyflow was somewhat stiffer than desired, both torsionally and longitudinally.

In our 90-degree bend test, it registered 31.2N—quite distant from the flexibility found in running shoes better suited for everyday activities such as walking the dog or gym workouts, like the Brooks Ghost 16.

Test results
Skyflow 31.2N
Average 28.2N
We use an average of four tests. The video shows one of those tests.
Compared to 348 running shoes
Number of shoes
2.2N
Flexibility <> Stiffness
72.1N

Stiffness in cold (%)

The Skyflow underwent another 20-minute exposure in our freezer here in the lab, resulting in a 35.7% increase in stiffness.

Test results
Skyflow 36%
Average 34%
Compared to 348 running shoes
Number of shoes
0%
Stiffness in cold
105%

Weight

The weight of the Skyflow isn't a major concern for us, though it's not outstanding either. At 9.9 oz or 282g, it's good enough for a max-stack daily trainer, and we're in peace with this outcome.

But Hoka is known for producing lighter shoes compared to competitors, and the Skyflow is somewhat heavier than similar models like the ASICS Novablast 4, which offers comparable cushioning and comfort.

So even though it's under 10 ounces and the first in the Skyflow series, we hope Hoka will create a lighter version for the next version that should arrive in 2026.

Hoka Skyflow Weight
Test results
Skyflow 9.95 oz (282g)
Average 9.38 oz (266g)
Compared to 366 running shoes
Number of shoes
5.61 oz (159g)
Weight
12.59 oz (357g)

Breathability

When we brought the Skyflow back to our lab after purchasing it, we were sceptical about the breathability of its creel jacquard upper due to its dense appearance and lack of visible ventilation holes.

However, our doubts were quickly went away during testing. Using our smoke-pumping machine, we discovered that the toebox ventilation was exceptional, earning a perfect score of 5 out of 5.

With the aid of a light, we identified the areas with superior ventilation in the Skyflow. It became evident that Hoka concentrated on enhancing airflow in the toebox, while the midfoot area remains denser than your average daily trainer.

Hoka Skyflow microscope

Under the microscope, the jacquard mesh upper doesn't look very breathable, and without our smoke test, we might have continued to underestimate its ventilation capabilities. But airflow through the clearer, thinner blue zones was surprisingly efficient.

Hoka Skyflow mesh
It's amazing how we've developed manufacturing methods with such incredible precision.

We also noted that the upper is excellently structured for comfort, featuring ample padding in the heel collar and tongue.

A reinforced toe cap adds a layer of durability, enhancing the overall value. Overall, it's a fantastic upper for the price.

Test results
Skyflow 5
Average 3.8
Compared to 295 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Breathability
5

Durability

Toebox durability

Expecting that the Skyflow's top breathability might indicate a weaker upper, we put it to the test.

We subjected the mesh to a stress test using a Dremel at 5K RPM and 3.2N of force. The results were better than expected—we awarded its durability a solid 3 out of 5!

Hoka Skyflow Toebox durability
Test results
Skyflow 3
Average 2.5
Compared to 229 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Toebox durability
5

Heel padding durability

We've had our gripes with Hoka's use of regular EVA midsoles in their daily trainers—feeling a tad outdated and lacking in energy return. This time, however, there's a shift, with the introduction of a modern supercritical EVA formulation, similar to Brooks' DNA Loft v3, that brings a lively and responsive feel, meeting our expectations for its price range.

As for the midsole's softness, we encountered a well-balanced composition that avoids an overly plush sensation underfoot. Our 19.4 HA measurement confirms this feel.

Hoka Skyflow Heel padding durability
Test results
Skyflow 5
Average 3.2
Compared to 225 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Heel padding durability
5

Outsole hardness

Turning our attention to the outsole, we began by measuring the rubber's hardness using our Shore C durometer. The result was 79.3 HC, indicating the use of standard high-abrasion rubber that offers good grip and, we hope, at least average durability.

Hoka Skyflow outsole
The midsole design stands out with its ultra-wide midfoot area, setting it apart from most other brands.

We noticed that Hoka aimed to reinforce areas typically prone to wear, yet much of the midsole remains exposed—a common trait for this brand. For those who tend to wear out outsoles quickly, a max-cushioned trainer with full-length outsole coverage, like the Nike Invincible 3, might be a better option.

Hoka Skyflow Outsole hardness
Test results
Skyflow 79.3 HC
Average 80.1 HC
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 346 running shoes
Number of shoes
60.3 HC
Outsole hardness
93.0 HC

Outsole durability

We were eager to test the robustness of the Skyflow's rubber with our Dremel—so we got right to it!

After the test, it became clear that the Skyflow outsole delivers, showing a modest 0.8 mm indentation. While it doesn't match the toughest rubbers on the market, its durability is certainly sufficient to ease any concerns about its longevity.

Hoka Skyflow Outsole durability
Test results
Skyflow 0.8 mm
Average 1.0 mm
Compared to 207 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.0 mm
Outsole wear
2.0 mm

Outsole thickness

Any doubts about durability were quickly dispelled when we discovered that the outsole boasts a thickness of 3.3 mm.

Hoka Skyflow Outsole thickness
Test results
Skyflow 3.3 mm
Average 3.2 mm
Compared to 365 running shoes
Number of shoes
1.0 mm
Outsole thickness
6.0 mm

Misc

Reflective elements

Hoka usually adds reflective elements to its running shoes, and we truly appreciate this commitment, as it carry no downsides and significantly enhance safety at night.

In the Skyflow, we were thrilled to see that they raised the bar for daily running shoes by incorporating 360-degree reflectivity!

Test results
Skyflow Yes

Tongue padding

During our review, we discovered that the Skyflow prioritises comfort over weight reduction, with the tongue serving as a perfect example. Instead of adopting the ultra-thin 1.5 mm tongue from the Mach 6, Hoka opted for a plush, luxurious 9.6 mm tongue with three layers of foam.

Hoka Skyflow tongue lockdown

We also loved the effective lockdown achieved by the simple lacing system. It features punched eyelets and offering the option to secure a runner’s knot if necessary. And that's all we want in a daily trainer.

Hoka Skyflow Tongue padding
Test results
Skyflow 9.6 mm
Average 5.8 mm
Compared to 363 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.5 mm
Tongue padding
14.2 mm

Tongue: gusset type

In our evaluation, we also found that the tongue of the shoe is semi-gusseted and equipped with an excellent, breathable elastic strap on each side.

Here in the lab, we really appreciate these subtle touches—the ones that often go unnoticed. Although it would have been more cost-effective to use a non-perforated fabric, Hoka opted to spend a bit more here, and we're glad they did.

Hoka Skyflow Tongue: gusset type
Test results
Skyflow Both sides (semi)

Heel tab

While some recent Hoka designs have omitted the heel tab, the Skyflow includes one. We believe this non-essential feature marks the Skyflow as a pricier model within Hoka's lineup, highlighting its position among the higher-end trainers.

Hoka Skyflow Heel tab
Test results
Skyflow Finger loop

Removable insole

You can easily swap out the removable insole of the Skyflow for custom orthotics or higher-quality insoles from other shoes to boost comfort.

If you look closely at the picture, you’ll also notice that Hoka has incorporated a perforated strobel board—a nice addition to enhance ventilation. However, it would have been even better if they had paired it with a perforated insole.

Hoka Skyflow Removable insole
Test results
Skyflow Yes