HOKA Carbon X 3 looks fast – and is fast! With a carbon plate, ProFlyX foam and a metarocker propelling you forward, it's easy to be tempted for a pace run. This is where the shoe shines; on long intervals, tempo runs, speed play, and races from 5K to half marathon. For shorter intervals, it feels a bit too heavy and soft for my taste. But that's fine – as long as you know its purpose.
HOKA Carbon X 3 – innovative placement
Like many other running brands, has joined the race with . Unlike others, with , has placed the carbon plate at the base of the midsole. The idea is to gain both the effect of the carbon plate and the extra comfort from an uninterrupted midsole.
It works – to some extent. You can definitely tell you're wearing a carbon shoe. You feel the firmness and responsiveness when your foot hits the ground. You get the comfort of soft ProFlyX foam and can achieve good speed. Though, it's slightly too soft for my liking, leading to minor instability when pushing hard. Not an issue if maintaining a steady pace over longer distances.
Knit upper
The upper of differs from Carbon X 2. opted for a knit upper to optimize shoe fit. Opinions vary, so I was curious about this change.
I must say, I really like it. Both the look, feel, and fit. The knit upper looks great, especially with two colors, giving HOKA Carbon X 3 a cool appearance. The only downside is it can stretch slightly if not tightened properly. But if done right, no issues.
HOKA Carbon X 3 – Comfortable carbon shoe
is a fast shoe and is also comfortable. These two aspects make me choose these shoes for sessions where I run slowly, like warm-ups or between intervals, but also need speed. I benefit from both speed and comfort.
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