Find your next gear: HOKA Mach X 2 Review

Find your next gear: HOKA Mach X 2 Review

Gear, Run, Shoe reviews

Find your next gear: HOKA Mach X 2 Review

The perfect shoe to help you pick up the pace
Shoe category: Neutral / enhanced propulsion

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   

Online at HOKA or Rebel. 

Rediscovering the Run: ASICS GEL-NIMBUS™ 26 Review

Rediscovering the Run: ASICS GEL-NIMBUS™ 26 Review

Gear, Run, Shoe reviews

Rediscovering the Run: ASICS GEL-NIMBUS™ 26 Review

A beacon of comfort and performance

Shoe Category: Neutral / forward rolling

Experience: Training and competition 

Surface: Running, road running 

Suits Foot Arch Type: Neutral – normal size arches

Cushion: Maximum

Midsole Technology:FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO cushioning

Upper Technology: Soft engineered knit

Outsole: Hybrid ASICSGRIP™

Weight (g): 260g

Stack height: 40.5mm – 32.5mm

 

What ASICS says 

The GEL-NIMBUS™ 26 shoe has soft cushioning properties to help you feel like you’re landing on clouds. This design is revamped to help create a softer and smoother running experience, providing dynamic comfort for the duration of your run to help you run further, longer. Suitable for every day, easy runs for all runners looking for a highly cushioned, neutral shoe.

A soft engineered knit upper comfortably wraps your foot while supplying advanced ventilation. Additionally, the knit tongue and collar help provide a soft and supportive feel.

By using FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO cushioning, this trainer creates a lighter and softer cushioning experience with less of an impact on the environment.

Lastly, Hybrid ASICSGRIP™ outsole rubber helps create better traction, improved softness, and advanced durability.

 

What I say  

I recently crossed the finish line of a half marathon that I hadn’t trained enough for. Following the race, I had a persistent niggle in my right knee and for a couple of weeks I was feeling more tired that usual. To try and pump up my energy stores, I found myself on the lookout for the perfect shoe to accompany me on my post-race journey. Enter the ASICS GEL-NIMBUS™ 26, a beacon of comfort and performance in the world of running shoes.

From the moment I slipped on these sleek and gorgeous mint-green kicks, I knew I was in for a treat. The plush cushioning enveloped my feet like a cozy embrace, providing the support and stability needed to tackle getting back into running. Whether running on pavement or the belt of my Peloton Tread, the GEL-NIMBUS™ 26 effortlessly adapted to the terrain, delivering a smooth and responsive ride with every stride.

One of the standout features of this maximum cushion shoe is its innovative FlyteFoam technology, which combines lightweight cushioning with optimal energy return. This not only reduces fatigue during longer runs but also enhances overall performance by propelling you forward with each step. The result? A shoe that feels light, yet packs a powerful punch when it comes to performance.

Another highlight of the GEL-NIMBUS™ 26 is its superior shock absorption, thanks to the rear and forefoot GEL cushioning systems.

The GEL-NIMBUS™ 26 also boasts a sleek and stylish design that’s sure to turn heads on the track or at the gym. With its eye-catching colorways and streamlined silhouette, this shoe is as fashionable as it is functional, making it the perfect choice for runners who refuse to sacrifice style for performance.

While the ASICS GEL-NIMBUS™ 26 has garnered praise for its comfort and performance, one critique is its weight. It’s 30g heavier than the On Cloudmonster and while it’s still a light shoe, I did notice the extra weight during longer runs and speed workouts.

While the shoe excels in providing maximum cushioning and a cozy upper, these very features sometimes contributed to breathability issues, especially during long runs or in warmer weather. The plush cushioning and snug fit of the upper, designed to enhance comfort and support, can inadvertently restrict airflow around the foot.

As someone who took a short break from running following a recent half marathon, I can attest to the transformative power of the GEL-NIMBUS™ 26. Not only did it reignite my passion for running, but it also helped me move through a period of injury and back into training with confidence. Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or a novice runner, this shoe has the power to elevate your running experience to new heights.

Lace up a pair today and get ready to rediscover the joy of running with every step.

Price  

$260

Where to buy   

Online at ASICS.

On Cloudmonster review

On Cloudmonster review

Gear, Run

On Cloudmonster review

Unleashing the Beast

Shoe Category: Neutral / forward rolling

Experience: Training

Surface: Road, trail or treadmill 

Suits Foot Arch Type: Flat, Medium, High

Midsole Technology: Helion™ superfoam

Upper Technology: Engineered mesh 

Weight (g): 230g

Midsole Drop (mm): 6 mm

 

What On says 

The Cloudmonster is different, that much is obvious. Designed to be the ultimate CloudTec® experience, it propels you forward stride after stride. It’s perfect for energising any run from an easy 5K to a big-effort 20. It may be a playfully weird ride, but it’s definitely serious about performance.

 

What I say  

It’s hard to believe it’s been six months since laced up my first pair of On Cloudmonsters, and what a thrilling journey it’s been. As a dedicated runner always on the lookout for the perfect training shoe, the Cloudmonsters have been a true game-changer in my arsenal. Let’s dive into the pros and cons of these mighty kicks.

The On Cloudmonster running shoe stands as a beacon of innovation in the world of performance footwear. Renowned for its superior cushioning, this shoe combines On’s CloudTec technology with an oversized Helion foam midsole, ensuring an ethereal and responsive running experience. Its versatile traction, breathable mesh upper, and robust durability make it a favorite among dedicated runners.

Loads of cushion: The Cloudmonsters are aptly named, providing an otherworldly cushioning experience. The combination of On’s signature CloudTec technology and the oversized, responsive Helion foam midsole delivers a plush sensation underfoot. Long runs feel like a breeze, as these shoes effectively absorb impact, reducing fatigue and allowing for extended mileage.

Versatile traction: Whether I’m navigating urban streets or tackling off-road trails, the Cloudmonsters excel in providing reliable traction. The segmented Cloud elements on the outsole adapt to various surfaces, offering a secure grip without compromising on flexibility. It’s a shoe that effortlessly transitions from pavement to gravel without missing a beat. One of the downsides of the chunky ridge sole is that it occasionally collects large rocks during a run, which can be uncomfortable underfoot and potentially dangerous. 

Breathable upper: The engineered mesh upper of the Cloudmonsters is not only lightweight but also very breathable. Even on hot days, my feet stay cool and comfortable. The material wicks away moisture effectively, helping prevent any discomfort or blisters during prolonged runs.

Durable build: Despite their lightweight construction, the Cloudmonsters boast impressive durability. The high-quality materials used in their construction have proven resistant to wear and tear, maintaining their structural integrity over countless miles. It’s great to find a shoe that can withstand the rigors of regular training without losing its performance edge.

Premium running shoe: The Cloudmonsters come with a hefty price tag, positioning them as a premium running shoe. While the investment is justified for serious runners, budget-conscious individuals might find it challenging to justify the cost. On balances this with the shoe’s durability and performance, but it remains a point worth considering. 

In conclusion, the On Cloudmonster is a formidable running shoe that lives up to its name. Its exceptional performance over many kilometres has made it an integral part of my running journey, propelling me forward with each stride.

 

Price

$259.95

 

Where to buy 

Online.