In 2023, added an X to their popular series of lightweight tempo shoes. The X added a plastic plate to the midsole.
HOKA's attempt to mimic the popular carbon plate technology with a plastic plate is quite popular: The plate provides the stiffening sensation sought for increased stability and responsiveness, without the price resembling super shoes.
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The plate sits in a rocking midsole made of, among other things, Superfoam, and this year is updated with a new and quite unique upper, making the shoe even lighter than its predecessor.
Waiter- There are holes in my upper
When I first got the shoes in hand, the first thing I noticed was the upper. It's quite unique. In the exposed areas, like the heel and around the toes, the upper is nothing special. But on top of the foot, the upper is woven "open" with holes.
This in itself is not unique, but the firm material that the upper consists of and how fine the resulting holes are, is unique.
The firm material ensures you feel well locked in by the upper, even though it is light. At high speeds, this is a huge advantage, as you don't slip back and forth in the shoe.
At first glance, you don't even notice the fine holes in the upper. But they are there upon closer inspection, providing good breathability and making the shoe weigh only 254 grams (US9).
Wide midsole = Broad functionality
The shoe's weight is quite low considering the size of the midsole. This is where Mach X 2 differs from super shoes like HOKA's . Cielo X1 focuses more on low weight than comfort and stability, which is reflected in a smaller midsole than Mach X 2.
The advantages of the larger and heavier midsole are that you get a more stable shoe, which thus lasts longer. Mach X 2 uses a blend of super foam (PEBA) and traditional (and heavier) EVA foam.
The EVA foam lasts longer and provides good stability, while the PEBA foam gives you a comfortable soft feel, ideal for longer intervals.
Between the two types of foam, you'll find a PEBAX plastic plate, mimicking the popular carbon plate technology. The shoe is not only stabilized but also stiffened, providing a rebound effect when you land.
The feeling of a smooth ride can best be described as a rocking sensation, which in your landing will help propel you forward. HOKA has worked on improved rocker technology, and I think this is what you notice quite significantly.
The massive midsole size and PEBAX plate provide a secure push-off, as you are never afraid of twisting or feeling insecure - regardless of speed.
Outsole- We protect the super foam
The undersigned always finds it extremely appealing when a brand combines super foam with a massive outsole. So when I saw the midsole on Mach X 2, I was pleased.
The PEBA foam is not only protected by a large layer of EVA foam material. The already durable EVA foam is protected by four rubber outsole panels.
Along with the wide and stable sole, the outsole delivers the feeling of a smooth ride and a secure push-off - during easy runs, as well as at high speed and even sharp turns.
HOKA Mach X2 - 5K or marathon?
HOKA Mach X 2's lightweight, unique upper and the midsole's combination of durability and speed combine to a dangerous feeling of comfort, speed, and stability.
If you're looking for a shoe you can run anything from 5,000 meters to marathon intensity in, Mach X 2 is an excellent choice. The midsole is responsive enough for fast intervals and stable and comfortable enough for long intervals.
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