HOKA - Skyward X

I rotate between 6-8 pairs, so I suggest getting at least two pairs. As far as what to suggest; running shoes are extremely personal. Everyone is different. I’ve been loving Adidas Adizero EVO SLs, ASICs Superblast 2s, Hoka Skyward X for those middle distance easy runs, Adidas Boston 13s for threshold work, Saucony Endorphin Speeds for threshold, and I also have a stable of race shoes (Nike Vaporflys, Alphaflys) for intervals and racing.

Saucony Endorphin Speed Asics Superblast 2 NB SC Trainer Hoka Skyward X (plated super stacked trainer and my go-to long easy run shoe). Adidas Adizero EVO SL

Neo Zen is bouncy AF. Skyward X is also bouncy and makes you 3 inches taller.

I've read both stories about the Rebels, so maybe there was an inconsistency in manufacturing or humidity and heat make a difference. Mine have been great but I've mainly trained with them through the winter and spring with cooler temps. I ran a half marathon in March in the Rebel V4s and they were perfect even with a little over 200 miles on them. They are my go to shoe for most runs although I do rotate Hoka Skyward X and Clifton 9s for 2-3 hour runs. I'm 6' and weight about 195 lbs for comparison.

I own the SB and Skyward X. The SB is definitely the fastest and lightest, they were my go to long run workout shoe. Hated them for anything short or recovery. The Skyward is a great long run shoe, I put some serious miles in my pair. But its a tank and feels like it on foot. The Puma is the most versatile of the bunch. It’s big but doesn’t feel like. They’re stable and protective and have a natural feel. They also have the best upper, super comfortable. I’ve used these for big long runs, short runs and recovery. They’re decent for speed but its size shoes up when picking up the pace.

* Easy/Recovery: Hoka Skyflow (52 mi) - Honestly, not my favorite shoe, but I bought them so I'll keep using them. It's probably back to my trusty Rincons after these are done. * Speed: Hoka Mach X (224 mi) - Still one of my favorites, especially for tempo runs. * Speed: Saucony Endorphin Speed 3 (225 mi) - The original speed was one of the first shoes I fell in love with, and this shoe has different mechanics from the Mach X. * Long/Race: New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v4 (190 mi/19mi) - I have two pairs. One that I've done all of my long marathon training runs in, and the new pair that I'm using for Philly this weekend and then Love Run in March. I wanted something wider and cushioned enough for longer runs, and while these aren't the fastest supershoes I've ever used, they're certainly reliable enough for 26.2. Ideally I'll replace them with the Cielo X1 3 when they're released. * Race: Hoka Rocket X 2 (146 mi) - I think these have one more race in them and then they'll be relegated to training. I adore this shoe and have to decide if I grab another pair or go with the 3 when I replace them. Also in my closet but not currently in use: * Brooks Ghost 15 (136 mi) - These feel like having a 2x4 strapped to your foot. They really ruined the shoe with this model and it's made me hesitant to try Brooks again. * Hoka Clifton 9 (153 mi) - I like the Clifton, they're just not ones I reach for on a regular basis. * Hoka Mach 5 (153 mi) - I bought these because of the hype around them, which I ended up not agreeing with. They're "fine" enough. * Hoka Skyward X (113 mi) - I've tried on and off to use these, but they make my peroneal tendonitis flare up. * New Balance More v4 (155 mi) - Another shoe that was overhyped for me. They never felt as "plush" as others talked about. * Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 (65 mi) - I bought these to use for my half marathon last year because of how much I loved the previous version. I strongly dislike this as a half/full marathon shoe because of the firmness, and it's not comfortable over 9 miles, to the point where I ended up using my almost-dead 3s for the race. They don't have a place in my rotation because the Rocket is a more aggressive shoe over the 5K/10K distance. I may end up using them for speed work when my current speed shoes are done.

I have run a marathon in the Skyward X: would  not recommend.  They’re far too heavy and excessively stiff to the point that my feet hurt whenever I pick up the pace. Sub 5-hour marathon, maybe. Sub 4:30, definitely not

Oh, nice. Do you like them? Do they protect your toes? I have hallux rigidus and wear Hoka Skyward X for the same reason. They are great and I like them but they are pricey. I’d like an alternative. Have been curious about ASICS Magic Speed 4. Have you tried those?

Skyward X is definitely a treat but it’s really difficult to justify the extra cost imo, they trend more towards easy long run shoes than true easy/recovery day shoes and I think most of the other options here are going to be just as good for shorter easy runs. That said they are definitely remarkable shoes and I love mine.

I think you’re referring to my post – I’m the guy running a half marathon at that pace while weighing 110 kg (240 lbs) ;) I agree, those myths about slower runners not benefiting from super shoes make me laugh. In my opinion, it’s typical gatekeeping from long-time runners who approach training in a very conservative way – often the same people who claim that if you’re above a certain weight, you shouldn’t run at all, only walk. I’ve lost 24 kg (53 lbs) in a year and I run in whatever gives me the best support and allows me to cover a lot of miles. On the other hand, there are very few super shoes suitable for heavier runners. I’d be afraid to run more than 10 km (6.2 miles) in the Vaporfly because I’d probably crush them into the ground. But shoes with a wide sole, lots of cushioning, and a more robust upper – like the Hoka Cielo X1, New Balance SC Elite V4, Adios Pro 3, or Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 – give me the confidence I need. That being said, your typical 60 kg (132 lbs) runner finishing a marathon in 2h30m is never going to wear those shoes – they’re unnecessarily heavy and bulky for him. The market offers a ton of models, so everyone should just run in whatever they like, and other people’s comments really don’t matter. I currently run in the Superblast, Hoka Mach X2, Hoka Skyward X, and Cielo X1. I highly recommend this kind of lineup for heavier runners 💪

Sounds like you are looking for a shoe that has good protection/energy return/cushion The Hoka mach x3 might be worth looking into The HOKA Mach X 3 has okay energy return, although the forefoot is much springier than the heel, thanks to a higher concentration of PEBA foam in the front of the shoe. The HOKA Mach X 3 has amazing cushioning. The thick stack of PEBA-based foam does an excellent job of absorbing impact without feeling mushy. The Sonic blast from Asics may also be worth considering The FF Turbo² top layer adds bounce, while the FF Blast Max bottom layer isn't as energetic. The result is a ride that's consistent and smooth rather than explosive, making it better for steady paces. The cushioning delivers excellent cushioning, combining a tall stack with premium foams that provide strong impact protection. It does an impressive job at keeping legs fresh both on easy runs and when picking up the pace. Finally if you were to look for something with even more cushion but still some response the skyward x could potentially work for you it features very good energy return thanks to its premium PEBA-based foam in the top layer. This foam absorbs and returns a good amount of energy, creating a bouncy and lively underfoot feel while it also provides remarkable cushioning, offering a plush and comfortable ride. This makes it suitable for long-distance offering a soft and protective underfoot feel when fatigue sets in.