Hoka Cielo FLYX: The BEEFIEST of Track Spikes

Hoka Cielo FlyX: The beefiest of spikes

The Hoka Cielo FlyX is Hoka’s third attempt at a super spike, following in the footsteps of its older brother the Hoka Cielo LD. However in my eyes, the FlyX is leaps ahead of its siblings and features one of the most fun and bouncy rides I’ve ever felt on a spike. If your a true distance savant in need of a relaxed bouncy spike to take you 5k up, this spike could offer and amazing experience although, the upper does run a bit narrow, and it is a bit heavier than some other offerings.

Specs Hoka Cielo FlyX

• Weight 5.8oz/164
• 1500m-10k (Really a 3k-10k shoe in my opinion)
• $180
• 25mm of Stack in Heel

Midsole

In the midsole of the FlyX, Hoka opted to put 25mm of their PEBA based super foam which is the maximum amount legal for a track spike. The foam is the same compound seen in the Rocket X2 and Cielo X1, and honestly has a pretty similar vibe to those road shoes, but in track form. It also features a composite plate, similar to the Dragonfly 1, creating a nice rigid feel that isn’t overly clunky or stiff. My main complaint with beefy midsole would have to be the weight. Although it didn’t bother me too much, I think it does limit the FlyX to longer distances.

Ride

The ride on the Cielo FlyX is pretty neutral but not quite as aggressive as something like the Nike Dragonfly. With all that foam underfoot, you definitely get a noticeable bounce and squish underfoot feeling a lot like an aggressive road shoe. While not doing anything crazy, it definitely feels bouncy more than anything and like the foam is doing most of the work. Even with the composite plate, you don't get that snappy feeling that other super spikes have. Altogether Hoka has made an amazing distance shoe, but for those shorter distance like 800 and mile, I think the Cielo FlyX is a bit to beefy. Hoka has announced a lower 20mm spike which could prove to be a middle distance beast, but only time will tell.

Upper and Fit

The upper on is pretty narrow, so I would recommend wearing some thin socks or eve going sockless if that’s your jam. In my mens size 9.5 I found it squishing my to together a bit, but time will tell if it will loosen up a bit. (Check out my YouTube channel for a second later review after a few more races and tons of workouts). I do prefer going half a size in my spikes, and even with the narrowness of the upper I would still get a 9.5 again. I had no complaints with the breathability of the upper and the laces felt very premium to me. This also may just be me, but the upper looks absolutely amazing which is definitely an added benefit.

Alternatives 

Nike Dragonfly 2 - A bit lighter option, with a little less cushion

Brooks Hyperion LD - More lightweight minimalist option

Any Super Shoe (My Choice is the Brooks Hyperion Elite 4 but that might be a hot take) - Check out our shoe matcher tool for specific results

Who's is Best For

If your a true distance runner looking for something that will let your be efficient over 3k-10k on the track or XC course, I would highly recommend this as a bouncy and cushioned option. As someone who wore Vaporflys for distance events in high school, I wish this was an option as its a nice in-between of an super shoe and spike. If your a fan of the Adidas Avanti Tyo, this to me seems like a more super version that is a bit more aggressive. For more information on some other option, make sure to check out our shoe matcher tool, where we'll choose the best running shoes for you based on your goals and preferences.

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