Hylo Impact 100 Mile Review

The Hylo Impact is a neutral eco-friendly daily trainer, designed to show that “nature can perform” as they say. In my opinion they accomplished their goal with the midsole feeling extremely light, but also very cushioned. However at $165, is the extra price really worth it for a normal runner?

Hylo Impact Specs

 - Stack Height: 33m heel /25mm forefoot

 - Price: $165

 - Foam: Supercritical-EVA

 -Verdict: Supwell Certified (If on sale)

Hylo Impact Overview

Since I got the shoe I’ve gone through many phases due to some clear issues with the shoe. Out of the box, it was EXTREMELY light and bouncy and honestly I was very surprised with how well it performed. Although there’s nothing crazy going on in the midsole, and it does just feel like a slab of foam under your foot, it was somehow still extremely fun to run in. However as I ran in it more I did find it lacking in support with my arch and heel feeling a bit fatigued over runs, keeping it from being a great option for long runs. Then at around 30ish miles, the foam started losing some of its feel and I chalked it up to the Impact being a eco-friendly shoe. (I also only weigh about 140lbs and don't really destroy shoes that fast)

However after a bit, I picked it back up and found the midsole very lively, although not as bouncy as it once was. After the initial decrease in cushion, I’ve found that the Impact has responded pretty well to the increased mileage I’ve put on the shoe. Too date, I’ve put almost 200 miles into it and admittedly it is nearing the end of its life. However the outsole has seen little wear and still is one of the best I’ve seen on a shoe so who knows maybe it will live on for another 100 miles.

So would I recommend it? Unfortunately probably not unless it's on sale. For me this shoe is a joy to run in. It's light, cushioned, and fast but just doesn’t have the durability or support for me to recommend it at $165. However if it goes on sale for $130 or even $140, it could be an interesting option that supports a good company trying to change the running industry.

Midsole and Ride

The Hylo Impact features a remarkably soft Supercritical-EVA midsole proving that it is in fact possible. However without any other technology in the midsole, it does feel very simple and like you're just running on a slab of foam. It's also extremely flexible, making it lack any arch support which you will feel if this is your only trainer. If you like the New Balance Robel V3, you will definitely like this as it feels very similar but a bit more premium. However, this shoe CANNOT be your only trainer. The foam really needs a day or even two to feel fresh and cushioned again and if you're a bigger runner, it will probably not be a great option.

Pros and Cons of the Hylo Impact

Pros

• The Hylo Impact feels like a feather on your foot with its extremely light weight
• The Midsole gives back a noticeable bounce and feels very cushioned underfoot
• The Outsole is one of the best I’ve ever run it for rainy sessions (A winter version would make me cry)

Cons

• Lifespan of the Impact is unfortunately not great
• The upper is pretty thick and the build quality isn’t great
• There is ZERO support from the midsole

Below is a list of a few alternatives that do are similar to the Hylo Impact but without the Eco-Tax, if that’s not something your looking to pay for. Although I love the shoe and sentiment, its just not quite something I can recommend at this time for $165. (all links take you to Running Warehouse or the website with the best deal we've found on the shoe at the time of publication. Email at caden@supwell.io if you see a better deal).

Some Alternatives Without the Eco-Tax

New Balance Rebel V4

Adidas SL2 

Asics Cumulus 26

Hoka Mach 6

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