Kit & Gear

REVIEW: HOKA Mach X

TUNED FOR TRAINING. READY FOR RACE DAY

What do you get when you cross the comfort and support of the Mach with a propulsive Pebax plate?

You're looking at it. A pace-pushing shoe built with high-rebound cushioning, HOKA have supercharged the Mach X with a layer of PEBA foam that’s 34% more resilient than the Carbon X3 foam.

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SHOP ALL HOKA MACH X RUNNING SHOES NOW

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Pictured: Men's HOKA Mach X (Product ref: hok2112)

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Our SportsShoes athlete, Ben Mounsey, has been busy putting the HOKA Mach X to the test. Check out his review below;

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FIRST IMPRESSIONS

Having tried and tested the HOKA Mach 5, I was very excited to see how this shoe compared in terms of look and performance.

Both are designed to provide everyday speed, but the Mach X is built on a much higher platform and very different in terms of appearance. Less sleek in style, but more tuned for comfort and cushioning. To me it looks more like a training shoe than a super-fast streamlined racer.

In terms of colour and design, it's not a shoe I would normally go for, but I must confess to being a really big fan! The light blue/aqua colour and snake skin style pattern is very unique, so it's nice to break out of my comfort zone and wear something a little bit different for a change.

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Pictured: Men's HOKA Mach X (Product ref: hok2112)

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THE UPPER

The most notable feature of the upper is just how lightweight and breathable the material feels. I've found every HOKA shoe I've tested to be extremely comfortable to wear and the Mach X is no exception. A thin layer of jaquard mesh wraps around the foot, allowing it to bend and move without restriction. Thousands of tiny perforated holes in the material promote airflow and increase breathability. Perfect in hot conditions and on race day when you want to keep your feet cool.

Everything about this shoe looks and feels to be a premium standard, quality that even extends to the laces - something I noticed immediately when I held it in my hand.

In terms of fit, this particular HOKA model is only available in a standard width, no extra-wide option like other styles e.g. Speedgoat. Personally, this isn't an issue for me at all as I have thin feet. As mentioned above, they fit me like a glove. However, I still opt for a UK 10.5 as I find a UK 10 just a fraction too small in length. Something worth noting if, like me, you often find yourself in between two sizes depending on the shoe brand.

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Pictured: Women's HOKA Mach X (Product ref: hok2146)

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THE MIDSOLE

The biggest compliment I can pay to this shoe is that it's one of the best road models I've ever worn. Simply because it blends max-cushioning with responsiveness like no other. It looks and feels like a cushioned training shoe, but at the same time performs like a lightweight racer.

Inside the PEBA and EVA midsole foams, lies a Pebax® plate, sandwiched in the middle. It's the combination of these two technologies that help create a unique running experience. Each stride feels smooth and responsive – engineered to absorb impact efficiently, providing excellent shock absorption and protecting your joints from stress and fatigue. Whether you're aiming for a personal best in a 10K or training for a marathon, the Mach X running shoes will keep you comfortable and supported mile after mile.

Underneath the shoe you can see that the midsole is essentially split into two sections with a fan tail at the back and a cut-away in the centre. Not only does this save on weight, but more importantly, it is designed to provide both increased stability and flexibility. This wide-based platform also makes cornering much easier, which is ideal for a high-stack shoe.

Without blinding you with confusing tech talk and tongue-twisting technologies, the best way to describe the Mach X is to say that it feels like the Mach 5 meets Bondi X - delivering the best features of both. It has the lush, plush cushioning that HOKA is so famous for, whilst also providing a snappy and responsive spring in your step - something you would not normally expect from a max-cushioned shoe. It's super-comfortable to wear and genuinely puts the fun and enjoyment into your running. Whenever I'm feeling demotivated before a session and in need of some encouragement to train, then this is a shoe I will turn towards to help me hit the road.

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Pictured: Men's HOKA Mach X (Product ref: hok2112)

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THE OUTSOLE

The Mach X features a Durabrasion Rubber Outsole for increased traction and durability in high-wear zones (see orange sections in the images above and below). This technology is used on a number of other shoes within the HOKA road range e.g. Rocket X 2. The zonal rubber placement in key areas reduces overall weight whilst still providing excellent durability.

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Pictured: Women's HOKA Mach X (Product ref: hok2146)

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OVERALL

As an athlete who prefers to run on the trails rather than the road, I often need a helping hand to get out and hit the tarmac. In this case, it's a helping HOKA!

Truthfully, the Mach X is a joy to wear and I no longer dread running on the road. It ticks all the boxes, delivering everyday speed with maximum cushioning and comfort. Engineered with precision and designed to elevate your running experience, this cutting-edge running shoe is a must-have for all runners. This adaptable trainer is comfortable enough for those looking for a plated daily trainer and fast enough for those seeking a race day style.

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SHOP ALL HOKA MACH X RUNNING SHOES NOW

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Pictured: Women's HOKA Mach X (Product ref: hok2146)

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HOKA MANIFESTO

We are meant—and made—to move.​

With every step. Every climb. Every leap.​ We feel free.​

Because in the movement,​ all definitions, expectations ​and limitations fall away.​

And only possibility remains.​

Of a new path.​ Or a new pace.​

With new people and new perspectives.​

So go with it.​ Flow with it.  ​

Move yourself in any direction you choose, as long as that direction is forward.​

In a world where so many​ are perfectly fine standing still,​ join us and find out what’s possible​ when you let yourself soar.​

FLY HUMAN FLY™

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