In Depth with HOKA’s Mach X

Hoka has been missing a speed shoe from its lineup. While, sure, you can do all of your workouts in the Carbon Rocket X2, these can get expensive to replace and Hoka racing shoes aren't known for their durability. Although it’s all relative considering the cost of almost anything for the bike.

Nowadays, the "speed workout shoe" has become one of the most popular trainers. People want a plated shoe without paying the carbon-plated shoe price. However, the Hoka's Pebax-plated shoe, the Mach X, is almost as expensive. Is it worth the cost? Hoka already has several plated models, including the Carbon X2, Carbon X3, Tecton X2, and now the Mach X with a Pebax plate. There is a rumor that the Carbon X3 is going away, though.

Finally, while the Mach X and Mach 5 share the Mach name, they aren't similar. The Mach X is more similar to the Carbon X2 than the Mach 5. It's actually weird that Hoka named it the Mach, but it fulfills a plated training shoe Hoka that has been missing in their lineup, similar to the Brooks Hyperion Tempo or Max, Saucony Endorphin Speed, Nike Tempo Next, or ASICS Magic Speed 3.

First Impression

My first run in the Hoka Mach X was on a training day. I wanted a faster run but not necessarily a speed workout; just something above an easy run pace. When I put it on, I immediately noticed it ran a half-size small, but other than that it felt comfortable. It was much softer than I imagined but not as soft as the Hoka Clifton. It was easy to pick up the pace, and I ran about 30 seconds faster than my easy run pace with minimal effort.

Hoka is known to run wider for the most part, and the Mach X runs wide but short. I would try it on if you can. The mesh upper is soft to the touch and breathable. Breathability is essential in the Mojave Desert summer. The tongue is relatively flat, and the heel collar is padded. For the most part, the Mach X has a comfortable upper, but finding the right fit will probably discourage many runners.

In running shoes, I wear between a women's size 10-11 wide, and I've found the size 11 to fit the best.

Performance

The "X" in Hoka shoes typically means plated. For most other Hoka shoes, it means carbon plated, but the Mach X is Pebax plated. Perhaps the Hoka Rocket P (for Pebax) would have made sense or something of that nature. But I digress.

The Mach X is soft, and the Pebax plate provides structure but doesn't firm up the shoe as much as a carbon-plated one. The Mach X midsole is made up of two layers. There's Profly X — As the top layer, it is softer. There is more Profly X in the forefoot than the heel. This makes the front of the Mach X feel more peaceful and have a more natural transition from heel to toe. And then there's CMEVA: The firmer foam on the bottom is designed for durability and stability.

In my experience, many of Hoka's carbon-plated shoes don't have durable outsoles. The Carbon X3 has no blown rubber, so you run on raw EVA foam, and you're lucky if you get 200 miles out of it. Luckily, that isn't the case with the Mach X, and the rubber wraps to the edge of the midsole. The "durabrasion" rubber outsole is much better than any other racing shoe Hoka has. For those who heel strike, you'll have a bit more durability.

Regarding traction, I used it on a few bad weather days, including rain and on sandy trails, and it handled decently well. It's not the best shoe for traction, but it's the best plated shoe from Hoka.

The Mach X is designed as a speed work shoe, and that's precisely how it falls into my rotation. It's a great trainer for faster runs and long runs. It's not something I would use for track work, but it's an excellent option for longer intervals and faster long runs.

Conclusion

The Hoka Mach X is the missing trainer Hoka has needed. It's an excellent option if you are looking for a soft, responsive, and durable workout shoe. While it is about $20 more expensive than similar nylon plated shoes, I believe it's worth it, especially if you can save your Carbon X2, or whatever carbon-plated shoe you use, for race day.

Who should buy the Hoka Mach X?
If you like Hoka and are looking for a workout and hard-effort shoe, or if you have wider feet and are looking for a plated shoe.

Hoka Mach X Stats

:
Speed/workout shoe
Weight: 9.4 oz
Heel Toe Drop: 5 mm
Cost: $180

Pros of the Hoka Mach X:
–More durable than most speed shoes
–Durable

Cons of the Hoka Mach X:
–It runs a half-size short
–More expensive than competitors

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