Helly Hansen Skyhawk Review – We Put Them Through Their Paces

In Use: My Thoughts

After spending a good amount of time testing the Skyhawk Trail Shoes in different conditions, I can confidently say they are a solid option for anyone who wants a balance of comfort, performance, and breathability from their shoes. Whether I was walking, running, or just heading out for casual wear, the shoes consistently felt great on my feet. They’re incredibly lightweight, making them easy to wear all day without any discomfort or fatigue. I could go from a long hike straight into running errands without feeling like I needed to change shoes, which is a huge plus for me. Feeling more adventurous? These shoes would be great for something like Go Ape to help keep a grip on all the slippery wood surfaces in the forest.

The comfort starts with the sole, which I found to be perfectly cushioned for rough terrain. It’s thick enough to absorb shocks from rocks and uneven surfaces, ensuring that the impact is taken by the shoe, not my foot. This makes a big difference during longer hikes when fatigue can set in. The rubber sole also has a surprisingly soft and pliable feel, providing excellent grip, especially on rocky surfaces. When my foot hit the ground, I could feel the sole moulding to the surface beneath me, giving me confidence that I wouldn’t slip. It’s a big improvement over other shoes I’ve tried with harder, less forgiving rubber soles.

One of the things I appreciated most was the fit of the Helly Hansen Skyhawk Trail Shoes. The toe box is nice and wide, giving my toes plenty of room to move naturally, which is essential during extended walks or runs. No pinching, no discomfort, just a comfortable, spacious fit. The heel is well-padded, preventing any of the rubbing or chafing that can happen with less supportive shoes. However, I did notice a bit of heel slippage at first. But, once I started using the top eyelet for the laces, the problem was solved. The heel then stayed secure, and I didn’t have any further issues with movement inside the shoe.

When it comes to breathability, the Skyhawk shoes really shine. While they’re not fully waterproof, they do a great job at allowing your feet to breathe. I could actually feel the wind working through the fabric as I was moving, which kept my feet cool and comfortable, even during long runs or hikes. This breathability is a big plus for me, especially during warm weather, where my feet usually get hot and sweaty in other shoes. Of course, with this added ventilation, the trade-off is that the shoes don’t perform as well in heavy rain. While they do have a water-resistant upper that will protect against light showers or splashes, if you’re facing more extreme conditions like a downpour or a lot of puddles, your feet are going to get wet.

However, I actually appreciated the lack of a full waterproof coating that you would find for example on the heavier Keen Zionic hiking boos. Not having that extra layer means the shoes are incredibly lightweight, which is part of what makes them such a joy to wear. They don’t feel bulky or stiff at all, quite the opposite. They’re flexible, breathable, and responsive, allowing me to move freely on the trail without feeling weighed down. This made me feel more agile, especially on technical terrain, where I needed my shoes to react quickly to changes in the ground beneath me.

Another thing worth mentioning is how these shoes perform in everyday situations. While they’re clearly designed for trail use, I found them equally comfortable for casual wear. I could easily wear them to run errands or even just for a walk to the local pub. They look good enough for casual outings, and their lightweight, breathable nature means they don’t feel out of place when you’re not out in nature. I think this versatility is one of the best features of the Skyhawk Trail Shoes, you’re not locked into using them just for hiking or running. They perform well in both outdoor and urban environments. Perfect for county walks.

In terms of durability, these shoes held up well over multiple hikes and runs. The rubber sole still feels strong, with no significant wear or tear even after tackling rough, rocky paths. The upper has maintained its structure, and the overall integrity of the shoe seems to be holding up very well despite extensive use. I expect these shoes to last a long time, and they’ve certainly proven they can handle a variety of terrains without falling apart.

The shoe sizing for the Skyhawk Trail Shoes is true to size for the UK market. If you typically wear a size 7, then I’d recommend ordering a size 7. However, if you know from experience that your feet tend to swell after long periods of running or hiking, going up by half a size could provide extra comfort. Luckily, Helly Hansen offers half sizes, making it easier to get the perfect fit.

In conclusion, I would gladly recommend the Skyhawk Trail Shoes to anyone looking for a lightweight, breathable, and versatile option for trail running, hiking, or even just day-to-day use. They’re comfortable enough for all-day wear, offer great traction on a variety of surfaces, and provide the kind of flexibility that makes them suitable for both outdoor adventures and casual outings. Just be mindful of their limitations when it comes to water resistance, while they’re great in most situations, heavy rain or snow will leave you with wet feet. But for the weight, breathability, and overall performance they offer, they’re hard to beat. If you’re looking for a shoe that can keep up with your active lifestyle while remaining comfortable and lightweight, the Skyhawk Trail Shoes are definitely worth considering.