Find your next gear: HOKA Mach X 2 Review
Experience: Everyday running and speed workouts
Surface: Road running
Suits foot arch type: Neutral
Cushion: Responsive
Midsole technology: Pebax® plate between resilient PEBA and EVA foams
Upper technology: Engineered woven upper
Outsole: PEBA foam
Weight (g): 226g
Stack height: 50mm
What HOKA says
Bolder than ever before, the Mach X 2 brings the heat to speedwork. Inspired by the Cielo X1’s race-ready geometry, we combined an extra-resilient PEBA-topped midsole and increased rocker profile for an aggressive toe-off, then extended the Pebax® plate design for enhanced support and propulsion. With an extra-breathable and supportive woven upper and a sleeker collar, this speed trainer keeps things light, cool, and fast for next-level efforts.
What I say
As I’m training to beat my half marathon PB in eight weeks, speed is my number one priority. And after trying out several shoes, I’ve found the HOKA Mach X 2 is built to help runners like me find that extra gear. Whether you’re ramping up for race day or just trying to get faster, this shoe brings the speed.
First impressions: Built for speed and comfort
The Mach X 2 immediately stands out with its increased stack height and incredibly responsive PEBA foam midsole, which delivers a bouncy, cushioned feel makes pushing the pace easier. HOKA has carried over the fast, smooth ride from the original Mach X but added more comfort and propulsion – without adding weight (how is this possible?!). This is a big win for those of us who want to feel light and quick on our feet.
For someone like me who isn’t an elite runner but is working hard to improve speed, the Mach X 2’s winged plate design feels like I’m cheating a little – but in a good way :). It provides extra support and propulsion, especially during faster workouts or tempo runs. I can feel a pop in my stride, with the shoe helping me roll forward faster, thanks to HOKA’s signature rocker profile.
What makes this shoe different from the original Mach X?
ProFlyX cushioning with PEBA foam: HOKA has integrated extra PEBA foam into the Mach X 2’s midsole, giving it a more energetic toe-off. The dual-layer design (PEBA on top and EVA below) combines plush cushioning with firmness where you need it, offering a neat balance between comfort and propulsion.
Extended Pebax® plate with winglets: The full-length Pebax® plate is new for the Mach X 2 and adds a lot of propulsion. The winglets along the plate give added support and control, especially during fast-paced runs, making this shoe ideal for interval workouts and race-pace efforts.
Ultra-lightweight: Despite all these performance features, the Mach X 2 is lighter than the original, thanks to cutouts in the EVA midsole and a redesigned woven upper.
Race-inspired design: Inspired by the Cielo X1’s race geometry, the Mach X 2 features a sleek gusseted tongue and a race-inspired collar for a snug, supportive fit. The reflective details are a nice bonus for runners who like to train at night or early morning.
Positives: Great for speed
- Cushioning and speed: The ProFlyX system with PEBA foam combines cushioning and responsiveness, making it great for faster efforts without sacrificing comfort. My legs feel less fatigued even after tough runs.
- Lightweight design: The cutouts in the EVA midsole and lighter upper make the Mach X2 ultra-light, which helps me feel quicker during tempo runs and sprints.
- Race-ready design: The extended Pebax® plate and Meta-Rocker technology make the shoe feel fast and help keep my momentum up when I need it most.
- Smooth, efficient ride: The Meta-Rocker design really helps smooth out my stride, and I can feel the propulsion when I pick up the pace.
What could be better
- Narrow fit: Like many performance shoes, the Mach X2 runs a bit narrow. It works for me, but runners with wider feet may find it less comfortable.
- Heel tab: The locked-in feel of the supportive heel tab is great, but the engineered mesh-upper sat flush to the back of my left ankle and kept folding down and rubbing for the first few runs.
- Grip on wet surfaces: While the outsole offers good traction on dry pavement, I’ve noticed that the grip could be better in wet conditions, especially on slick roads.
- Price: At $300, the Mach X2 is a premium shoe. For runners serious about speed, it’s worth the investment, but it might be a bit steep for casual runners.
Verdict: Ready to push the pace?
For runners looking to boost their speed and chase a personal best, the HOKA Mach X2 is a game-changer. The combination of lightweight construction, enhanced cushioning, and a race-inspired design helps deliver speed without sacrificing comfort. Whether you’re gunning for a faster half marathon like me or just looking to improve your daily training pace, the Mach X2 will help you get there faster.
With eight weeks left until my race, I wonder whether the Mach X2 is the shoe that’ll help me crack my PB? I can’t wait to see what race day brings!
Price
$299
Where to buy
