HOKA Mach X 2

There are shoes that go unnoticed in the catalog of a brand and others that are born to be stars and from which much is expected at each launch. The Hoka Mach X 2 seems to be positioned in the second group. There was a lot of expectation with the launch of this shoe, after a first model that is still a real bestseller. With this new version, Hoka proves that speed and comfort need not be opposites. Without the omnipresent presence of a carbon plate (albeit with a plasticized plate), the Mach X 2 defies current trends and offers something different: a fluid, natural and surprisingly responsive running experience.

We are talking about a running shoe that, from the first step, invites you to run faster and to run confidently. Hoka has managed to balance cushioning and propulsion in a way that few other models do. The feel is almost intuitive: every stride feels light, but with enough solidity to keep you in control, whether on long training runs or races of almost any distance. If you're looking for an all-around colleague for your daily mileage and racing, even in preparation for your competitive exams, the Hoka Mach X 2 may be the shoe for you. Read on and see if it's a good fit for you or not...

What you need to know

• Weight: 261 g (US M95) / 175 g (US W75)
• Drop: 5 mm (44 mm in the heel, 39 mm in the forefoot).
• Ideal for: Daily training, long runs, fast paces.
• Key features: PEBA foam in the upper layer of the midsole, Pebax Rnew plate, woven breathable mesh upper, early stage Meta.
• Price: 190 euros (Available from September 1, 2024).

What we liked most

Balanced cushioning and reactivity: PEBA foam and Pebax plate provide a perfect combination of softness and responsiveness.

Lightweight and breathable: New woven mesh upper reduces weight and keeps the foot cool.

Stability at fast paces: The lateral extensions of the plate and the overall design provide security in each stride.

Versatility: Suitable for a variety of workouts, from series to long runs at brisk paces.

Renewed aesthetics: A modern and attractive design that does not go unnoticed.

First look: What makes the Mach X 2 different?

If you're one of those who are used to seeing carbon plates on every high-performance shoe, the Hoka Mach X 2 will surprise you from the start. Hoka has decided to take a different path, relying on the Pebax Rnew plate, a material that may sound more humble than carbon, but delivers perfectly in terms of reactivity and stability. There's no cheating here, no stiff feeling that some carbon shoes can convey. The Mach X 2 opts for a more natural feel, offering the best of both worlds: a fast and efficient shoe, but with the comfort needed to keep your feet from feeling punished after several miles.

From the first glance, it's the design that catches the eye. Hoka has opted for a very light and breathable woven upper, which already suggests a shoe designed to run comfortably even on the hottest days. But what really stands out is its midsole, where we find the magic of this shoe.

The combination of PEBA foam in the upper layer and EVA in the lower layer offers a soft and pleasant cushioning, but without losing that touch of reactivity that we are looking for on days of intense work or runs at fast paces. Together with the early-phase Meta-rocker, which supports stride transition, this shoe promises to offer you a unique experience, even if you're not a fan of plates.

Running feel: A shoe that responds almost effortlessly.

What really makes the Hoka Mach X 2 special is how it feels when you're in full race mode. It's one of those shoes that, from the first few meters, invites you to push the pace. Every stride feels fluid, and the Pebax plate seems to kick in at just the right moment, without being intrusive. That's the key: the plate doesn't dominate the underfoot feel, but it's there to help you when you need it.

In long-distance training, that's where the Mach X 2 shows its true potential. The cushioning is generous, and while it may seem too much for some runners who prefer more minimalist shoes, the combination with the Pebax plate and Meta-rocker makes the miles go by without you barely noticing. It's a shoe that allows you to maintain fast paces without the fatigue that often accompanies performance shoes.

And this is where the beauty of this shoe lies: it's not just a shoe for race days or speed work. The Mach X 2 feels just as comfortable on light runs, where cushioning and softness become your best allies. On long runs, the combination of PEBA and EVA foam absorbs impact perfectly, reducing muscle fatigue and allowing you to sustain your effort for longer.

Pebax plate: the alternative to carbon that barely sacrifices performance

In recent years, carbon has become the undisputed star of running shoes, but that doesn't mean it's the only valid option. In fact, the Pebax Rnew plate in the Hoka Mach X 2 proves that there is life beyond carbon, and it does so with flying colors. This material, much more flexible than carbon, offers a more natural underfoot feel, but without losing that responsiveness we look for in shoes designed to go fast.

It is important to note that this is not a carbon plate shoe, but that should not discourage you. The Pebax plate performs perfectly in terms of propulsion, and does so without the stiffness we often associate with carbon shoes. This makes it an ideal choice for runners who are looking for speed, but don't want to compromise on comfort or the naturalness of their stride.

In addition, this plate works in conjunction with Meta-rocker, a signature Hoka technology that helps make the transition of the foot from heel to toe off much smoother. This not only improves running efficiency, but also reduces impact on the joints, which is a key point when it comes to long runs or hard workouts.

Lightweight, breathable upper: a perfect fit for hot days

Hoka has completely revamped the upper of the Mach X 2, and the result is a shoe that fits like a glove. The woven mesh is extremely lightweight and breathable, which is especially appreciated on hotter days. But at the same time, it offers a firm and secure fit that prevents any movement inside the shoe, even on the most intense runs.

The textured lacing system also plays an important role in this fit, ensuring that the foot stays in place without the need to over-tighten the laces. This is especially useful on long runs, where any small movement can become a serious problem after several kilometers.

Heel problems: a detail to improve

Not everything is perfect in the Hoka Mach X 2. One of the aspects that has received the most criticism is the design of the heel collar. Unlike other Hoka models, the heel on this shoe lacks structure, which can make it tricky to put on and take off. Also, some runners have reported heel rubbing during the first few outings, something that can be uncomfortable until the shoe adapts to your foot.

It is true that once the shoe fits and the foot adapts, this problem becomes a secondary issue, but it is an aspect that Hoka should take into account in future versions.

Lightweight without compromising stability

Weighing in at 9.4 oz (266 g) in US size M105 and 62 oz (176 g) in US size W75, the Mach X 2 is surprisingly light for a shoe that offers so much cushioning and stability. This is crucial, especially on long runs, where any extra gram can make a difference.

The 5 mm drop, along with the height of the sole (44 mm in the heel and 39 mm in the forefoot), provides a feeling of stability and cushioning that is perfect for runners looking for a shoe that can offer comfort without sacrificing efficiency in every stride. We're not talking about an ultralight racing shoe, but a model that can handle any distance without sacrificing speed or comfort.

Ideal for versatile runners

The Hoka Mach X 2 is not a shoe for everyone. It is designed for runners of average weight (under 90 kg) who are looking for a shoe capable of performing both in daily training and in competitions. It is especially suitable for fast paces, under 4:30 min/km, although its cushioning and stability make it an excellent choice also for runners who prefer to maintain a steady and comfortable pace on long runs.

In terms of distances, the Mach X 2 is a versatile shoe. From 10K to marathons, this shoe is capable of offering you the cushioning and reactivity you need to face any challenge. But its greatest virtue is its versatility: it is equally efficient in speed training as in long runs, which makes it an ideal choice for those runners who do not want to have a different pair of shoes for each type of race.

Its rivals on the market

HOKA Mach X

The Mach X 2 is a significant evolution over its predecessor. Improvements to the upper, the addition of more PEBA foam and the optimization of the Pebax plate make the running experience more dynamic and comfortable. While the original Mach X was already a good shoe, this new version takes performance to another level.

Puma Deviate Nitro v3

The Puma Deviate Nitro v3 is designed for speed, performance and comfort over long distances. They incorporate Nitro Elite Foam technology, an ultra light and reactive foam that provides great cushioning and energy return in each stride. The great novelty is the INNOPLATE carbon fiber plate, which optimizes propulsion, improving the runner's efficiency by maintaining a stable and dynamic stride. Its lightweight and breathable technical mesh upper ensures a comfortable and secure fit, while the PUMAGRIP outsole offers exceptional grip on a variety of surfaces, making them ideal for both intense training and competition.

HOKA Cielo X1

The Mach X 2 is inspired by the geometry of the Cielo X1, a racing shoe. However, it offers enhanced cushioning and comfort for everyday use. It is a more versatile option for those looking for a racing feel in training without sacrificing protection over long distances.

The Hoka Mach X 2, a shoe without gimmicks

You see, while it may seem that all performance shoes need a carbon plate to be considered competitive, the Hoka Mach X 2 wants to take them to task. It doesn't need carbon to deliver a fast, smooth and comfortable running experience. With the combination of its Pebax plate, PEBA foam and Meta, this shoe offers everything a runner could ask for, but with a softness and naturalness that other super shoes can't match.

If you're looking for a shoe that gives you the best of both worlds-speed and comfort-without sacrificing stability or performance, the Mach X 2 is an option you should seriously consider.