Let me just start by revealing that Hoka Rocket X2 has been one of my absolute favorites when choosing a shoe for a quick 5 to 10 km. So it was with a bit of trepidation that it was time for the shoe to be updated, for what would happen to my beloved Rocket X2? You all know that feeling.
Hoka, like most other brands, operates with a partnership at the top of their race category. In this case, we have Rocket X3 and Cielo X1 2.0. I don't think the two shoes necessarily cater more to one distance than the other, but they offer two different forms of cushioning and energy return. The Rocket X is a bit simpler and more responsive, while the Cielo X1 2.0 is wilder and bouncier in its expression.
With that little introduction, it's time to dive into the direction Hoka has continued with in their Rocket X3 race shoe.
Hoka Rocket X3 - Specifications
- Type: Race
- Midsole: Dual-layer PEBA
- Drop: 7mm
- Weight: 208 g (men's US 9.5)
Hoka Rocket X3 - Major upper changes
When you look at the shoe from the outside, there are some noticeable updates. Most striking is the new upper, now made from a completely different material called Warp Knit. Warp Knit has more structure than the previous ultra-thin but not very breathable synthetic mesh. It is instead very breathable, which is welcome.
I was one of those who really liked the old heel counter, which was ultra-flexible. It has now been replaced by a heel counter with a bit more hold and stability, but without being too rigid, and I would actually say it matches Rocket X3’s general expression really well.
The tongue is made in a waffle material, which lies loosely in the shoe and therefore can be adjusted to fit perfectly to your foot.
When I look at the upper of Hoka Rocket X3, I think the aesthetics resemble a volume training shoe more. It's deceptive though, because when you put your hand inside the shoe, you discover how thin and finely Warp Knit is actually knitted. The more stable heel counter also offers some performance benefits, which I think most will appreciate as the kilometers begin to increase.
The fit of Rocket X3 is on the narrower side, and I would consider going up half a size. It's not a recommendation for everyone, but especially for those on the verge, since in the forefoot you might lack a bit of space.
Hoka Rocket X3 - "The table has turned"
Looking just one season back, I would choose Hoka Cielo X1 if I needed a fast shoe that wasn't too aggressive or unstable but offered some extra fun underfoot. Now it's completely opposite. Cielo X1 2.0 is thoroughly wild with a very aggressive rocker that wants you far forward on the foot.
The same development has Rocket X undergone, just the opposite way. Where Rocket X2 was very “pushy” with a rocker geometry that quickly got you to the next step, Rocket X3 with its updated upper and less aggressive rocker has a more stable and comfortable expression.
Hoka Rocket X3 - How does it feel?
The midsole on Rocket X3 measures 40 mm in the heel and 33 mm at the forefoot. The drop has thus been increased by 2 mm compared to earlier. It's not a big change, but it fits well with the other updates in the shoe.
Hoka is just extremely good at making shoes that are fun to run in. That's Cielo X1 2.0, that's Mach X, and that's Rocket X3 really as well. On Rocket X3, the rocker geometry is placed slightly further back on the shoe than before. This means the roll forward on the forefoot is a bit less aggressive.
The midsole still has plenty of pop, and if you own the previous model, you'll recognize the feel down the line – and that's purely positive.
My experience is that Hoka Rocket X3 feels much more comfortable at various paces than before. It has become a race shoe you can rely on without too many frills. Don't get me wrong, Rocket X3 still has plenty of speed. Hoka has just toned down the wildness and given it more calm. For me, that means Rocket X3 is now also a shoe you should consider if you're running a longer race like a marathon (if you're crazy enough to venture into that, hehe).
Hoka Rocket X3 - Conclusion
The roles have been swapped in Hoka’s race category, and I think Hoka makes it really easy for their customers to choose the right shoe for their needs going forward.
Hoka Rocket X3 caters to a wide range of runners, from those getting their first carbon shoes to the more experienced runner needing a stable and fast option for both training and competitions.
Hoka hits the mark with this update, and I look forward to spotting many runners in Rocket X3 out on the roads, for it deserves it.
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