HOKA Cielo X1 3.0 · ATPU Insole
HOKA Cielo X1 3.0: ATPU Insole
For a racing shoe like the HOKA Cielo X1 3.0, an insole must deliver responsive cushioning within a limited thickness profile. This supercritical TPU insole combines a slim 5 mm profile with high resilience, while maintaining the fit and dimensional requirements of the shoe.
The challenge
Balancing Rebound and Thickness in a Racing Insole
The Cielo X1 3.0 combines a highly engineered upper with a midsole and a polyurethane outsole. Inside that system, the insole has a precise job and a limited volume. The challenge was to identify a cost-effective supercritical foam solution that could deliver the required rebound, consistent quality and suitability for brand production.
Our work
What We Did
We focused on material selection, performance requirements and production consistency to meet the needs of a brand performance insole.
Worked to the Required Insole Profile
We worked to the specified insole thickness and outline requirements to ensure the material solution met the component’s dimensional and fit requirements.
Matched Material to Performance and Cost Targets
We assessed suitable supercritical foam options against the required rebound, hardness, density and compression behavior, balancing material performance with target cost.
Supported Consistent Mass Production
We supported the transition to mass production, with a focus on consistent material properties, product quality and cost control.
Result
The Result
The resulting insole combines a slim profile with good rebound, addressing the thickness and fit requirements of a racing shoe. Its material characteristics and geometry can be evaluated at component level, followed by an in-shoe assessment within the complete footwear construction.
References
Sources
The project brief confirms the component. The brand page provides the finished-shoe context.
Scope: This case focuses on the supercritical TPU insole for the HOKA Cielo X1 3.0, including thickness and outline requirements, material performance, cost and production consistency.
| Reference | Used for |
|---|---|
| Project brief | Confirms the footwear model and component named in this case. |
| HOKA US — Cielo X1 3.0 official product page ↗ | Provides the finished-shoe construction and product context. |
| FX Footwear — PulseSport supercritical foam platform ↗ | Explains our relevant component platform and development scope. |
FAQ
Common Questions
Why does insole thickness matter in racing shoes?
Insole thickness can affect foot position, upper fit and the available internal volume. A controlled thickness profile helps maintain the intended fit and underfoot feel.
Which supercritical TPU insole specifications can be customized?
Depending on the project, specifications may include hardness, density, resilience, compression behavior, thickness, outline, surface finish, color, branding and top-cover options.
What information is needed to develop a performance insole?
Please share your target performance requirements, thickness, target cost and any available reference sample or drawing. Based on the project brief, we can recommend suitable material options and assess development feasibility.
How do you select cost-effective materials for performance insoles?
Material selection depends on the required rebound, hardness, density, compression behavior, quality consistency and target cost. We assess suitable material options to balance physical performance with cost and production requirements.
More work
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