2024.08.15
New Road Model with a New Concept From HOKA: What Kind of Shoes Are the "SKYFLOW"?
Three pillars support a runner's feet with the HOKA shoes: a lightweight midsole with excellent shock absorption, an active foot frame midsole for a stable fit that wraps around the entire foot, and a unique meta-rocker structure that promotes smooth weight transfer.
Runners should be familiar with the popularity of road running shoes like "BONDI," "CLIFTON," and "MACH."
Now, HOKA has released the new model "SKYFLOW," which sets itself apart from the existing popular series. What kind of shoes are the "SKYFLOW," and what technology is being used?
Now, HOKA has released the new model "SKYFLOW," which sets itself apart from the existing popular series. What kind of shoes are the "SKYFLOW," and what technology is being used?
Model Inspired by "SKYWARD X"
"The SKYFLOW was developed inspired by the SKYWARD X released in April this year," says HOKA's Assistant Manager of Field Experience Rep, Masanao Ando.The "SKYWARD X" is a model equipped with a carbon plate that pursues the ultimate smooth fit. Below the midsole is supercritical foam based on supercritically foamed EVA, and above it is elastic PEBA foam, achieving a dynamic and comfortable ride.
The midsole of the "SKYFLOW" also uses supercritical foam. This is the same material used in the popular speed model "MACH 6."
"Supercritical foam is an EVA-based material that has been supercritically foamed. By applying high pressure and temperature to the resin, it is put into a state between gas and liquid called a supercritical fluid, then molded into the mold. This allows for the creation of higher density foam parts, providing superior rebound and strength."
Thick-Soled Running Shoes with Excellent Cushioning
The sole thickness is 40mm in the heel and 35mm in the forefoot. Given that the "BONDI 8" has a heel of 33mm and a forefoot of 29mm, the "CLIFTON 9" has a heel of 38mm and a forefoot of 33mm, and the "MACH 6" has a heel of 37mm and a forefoot of 32mm, the "SKYFLOW" is classified among the thicker-soled shoes in HOKA's lineup.The "SKYFLOW," which adopts elastic and highly cushioning supercritical foam, provides an exciting riding sensation. There's a concern that the large volume of soft foam could sacrifice stability.
Recent thick-soled running shoes often ensure stability by expanding the base and increasing the ground contact area, but the "SKYFLOW" has a slim impression despite its thickness.
HOKA shoes feature a bucket seat-type sole structure called an active foot frame. This cups the foot and stabilizes the heel. The "SKYFLOW" employs a sole structure that enhances stability and suppresses overpronation (excess inward roll of the heel upon landing).
If the contact area is too wide, the forward weight transfer might feel less smooth, making the shoe feel "sticky," but the "SKYFLOW" is very smooth in this regard. It can be said that these shoes respond well when you want to go faster."
The rocker structure, also inspired by the "Skyward X," allows for very smooth weight transfer.
For those attracted to the high cushioning and rebound typical of thick-soled shoes but troubled by the clunky feel, the "SKYFLOW" might be worth trying.
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