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Hoka Carbon X 2 is their flagship model and an impressive performance running shoe. Suitable for a range of runners, it can be used for everything from daily training to marathon races.
The X2 stands out with its ultramarathon and long-distance racing heritage. Its flexible carbon plate and Meta-Rocker technology make it a versatile racer capable of taking on anything from 5k to marathon distance races.
Hoka's Hyper-Rocker carbon plate also features a softer foam composition underneath, creating an airy and responsive ride. Together with their aggressive Meta-Rocker shape, you get an exhilarating sensation without taxing your muscles too much.
The Hoka Carbon X 2 is the ideal performance shoe for runners seeking lightweight, responsive and comfortable running experience. It's suitable for both beginners and professionals alike; however, if you need something more performance-oriented, consider trying out Bondi X or Rocket X instead.
What are the HOKA Carbon X Good For?
The Hoka Carbon X 2 is an all-around shoe suitable for sprints as short as 5K, everyday road training, and even racing longer distances like half/full marathons. Our testers found the combination of carbon-fiber plate and ProFly midsole particularly responsive during high intensity running.
This second version of the Carbon X utilizes a new foam composition beneath the carbon plate, giving it greater softness and versatility compared to its predecessor.
Testers rave about the stiff feel provided by its carbon plate, though it still provides a comfortable ride thanks to its curved shape and aggressive Meta-Rocker technology. Furthermore, they note how surprising stable this shoe is considering it uses carbon fiber despite its stiffness.
However, the Carbon X 2 isn't intended for trail running or off-road with a rocky surface as that could quickly wear down its rubberized foam outsole.
Can the HOKA Carbon X Be Used As a Daily Trainer?
The Hoka Carbon X 2 is not the softest or cushioned shoe among HOKA's three Carbon plate shoes. That being said, it still makes for an excellent long distance running option. Lightweight and highly durable, it comes with Hoka's signature impact protection. Thus, making it perfect for high cadence runners looking for performance shoes with extra cushioning.
One of the most remarkable innovations HOKA did with the Carbon X was designing a plate that replicated the gait cycle of your foot. This allowed them to create a shoe with an organic curve in the midsole but added spring at toe off. I, too, was seeking a Hoka carbon x 2 review. I love these shoes.
There are some adjustments to the upper that could prove beneficial for those returning to Carbon X or having difficulty finding a good fit with the first version. For instance, the tongue is longer for added support and comfort, while the heel collar has been softened so as not to chafe your foot. Furthermore, PROFLY midsole foam now features increased reflectivity for improved visibility during low light runs.
What is the Difference Between HOKA Carbon X and X
HOKA's Carbon X 2 running shoe has been updated for faster workouts and longer distances. With softer midsole foam and reworked fit, testers report increased comfort during extended distances.
The midsole features a bouncy foam composition combined with a stiff carbon-fiber plate to increase efficiency by decreasing the energy needed to transition from heel strike to toe-off. HOKA's well-known Meta-Rocker midsole shape delivers an engaging and propulsive ride, making running feel easy and enjoyable.
Fleet Feet's testers have unanimously declared the Carbon X 2 to be an incredibly versatile shoe. Also, that it is capable of handling any long run or race you throw its way. Its new elf-ear heel tab design fits anatomically flush with your Achilles. Also, while a newly sculpted heel offers a softer landing zone.
Though its sleek design may suggest otherwise, the Carbon X 2 lacks traction in damp or wet conditions. This is especially true on wet roads and bridges where traditional rubber options tend to be more grippier.
Hoka Carbon X 2 vs Carbon X 3
The Hoka Carbon X 2 is a lightweight, high-stack carbon plate road shoe designed for racing and uptempo training. Featuring an adaptive midsole for smooth ride comfort, this shoe provides optimal cushioning.
Though this shoe is lightweight and fast, it lacks the same springboard effect as other carbon plate shoes. For example, the Nike's Vaporfly or Adidas' Adios Pro 2. Furthermore, its stiff plate and moderate toe spring aren't quite up to par with some of Hoka's higher-tier runners.
Hoka Carbon X 3 offers a more stable platform with wider ground contact, firmer foam and side walls, and smooth transitions compared to its predecessor. Plus, thanks to an updated midsole composition and knit upper, it's more versatile than before.
Hoka's Carbon X has been updated with supercritical midsole foam and a knit upper. It weighs 0.21 oz / 6g less than its predecessor while still featuring the same overall geometry, stack height, and rubberized foam outsole as before.
Hoka Carbon X 3 vs Nike Vaporfly
The Hoka Carbon X 3 is an elite racing shoe used by several Hoka athletes. Jim Walmsley used it to set a World Record for 50 miles and Peres Jepchirchir donned it when he won both the Olympic marathon and New York City marathon.
This shoe is lightweight and ideal for long races as well as fast training runs. Unfortunately, the price point may be a bit high for the average runner.
The primary distinction between the X2 and X3 lies in their midsole foams. The former used rubberised EVA, while the latter utilizes ProFly X, a supercritical foam similar to Skechers Hyperburst or DNA Flash from New Balance that lacks bubbles like its predecessors. This new foam feels much denser than previous options without any bubbles present.
Hoka Carbon x2 vs Mach 4
The Hoka Carbon X 2 offers more substantial upper and mid-foot support than its predecessor. It also has a gusseted tongue, well-designed heel counter, as well as Achilles protection.
The midsole of the Carbon X is constructed with ProflyX foam, which is stiffer and more responsive than its counterpart. This dual-density construction gives the shoe a stiff feel while creating a “rocking sensation” while you run.
This shoe is ideal for speed work or high-tempo workouts, but may not be the most comfortable option when running long daily training runs. It's narrower than the Mach 4 and may feel tight on wider feet, but still provides excellent comfort while running.
The Hoka Carbon X is a carbon-plated shoe specifically designed for ultrarunning races. However, many people find enjoyment running in it as their daily trainer too.
Hoka Mach 5 vs Carbon X3
HOKA's latest shoe, the Mach 5, builds upon its predecessor with an upgraded dual-density midsole for a soft and energetic ride. It also boasts a sleek jacquard engineered mesh upper along with a lay-flat gusseted tongue for secure lock-in comfort.
For a smoother, lighter ride, consider the Carbon X3. It offers all of the same stability features as the Mach 5 at lower weight, making it suitable for a wider range of runners. Ideal for long distance uptempo training runs, marathons, and ultramarathons alike!
The Supersonic's midsole tooling has been altered slightly to increase volume and enhance PROFLY+ foam compound. As a result, it feels softer and more responsive than before while the redesigned heel also optimizes fit of the upper. Finally, the outsole is thin with an added rubberized EVA layer for improved traction. I hope that this Hoka carbon x 2 review has been helpful.