The Mach X is a really strong entry from HOKA into the “Super Trainer” category. This colorway is absolutely beautiful…..let’s nickname it the “Rainbow Trout”! Think of a Super Trainer as a training shoe that’s built for easy days, speed work, and long runs…..but can also translate over nicely to Race Day without compromising speed or performance. Before we jump into the shoe’s specifics, a few of our Philly Runner staff have been logging some mileage in the Rainbow Trouts. Here’s the particulars in their words…..
The Individual Experience, as shared with us by our very own Tracy Davis:
I ran in the Mach X with great results! I'm a huge Hoka fan, so it didn't surprise me that I enjoyed every mile in that shoe. I usually wear the Clifton, with a rotation of the (regular) Mach, as part of my normal training miles, so I was excited to try this new shoe. The fit of the Mach X was a familiar one, however, I quickly realized the midsole was nothing like the traditional Mach. The ride was very responsive with a snappy return which made the miles fly by. Unlike other performance shoes that I have tried in the past, my feet felt supported and not wobbly in the least bit. I could see this shoe as being a great choice for the half or even the marathon distance, as there's plenty of bouncy cushioning to support the longer distances.
The Individual Experience, as shared with us by our very own Sarah Tampio:
Philadelphia Runner hosted HOKA recently at one of our University Store group runs. The Mach X has a wider platform that will accommodate a foot that needs more room, but it does not feel like a wide "clunky shoe". The heel fit is locked in. I did use the back lace hole for an anchor down hold.
Pebax, Pebax, Pebax! I will say it again: the Mach X Got the Pebax equation right. On a hot day when the temps are hitting 90, and after a harder effort in the AM, the Mach X popped. Without effort, I hit an 8-minute mile with no sweat (well, I was sweating...a lot). The effort felt minimal. To say that on a very hot day makes me excited to try this out on a tempo run when maybe…just maybe…the temps are in the 60's? I would definitely “Fly, Human Fly” in the in Mach X.
The Tech Talk:
Covering both training and racing needs, the new Mach X is supercharged with a layer of PEBA foam that’s 34% more resilient than the Carbon X 3 foam. Softer and snappier than ever before, due to the addition of a propulsive Pebax® plate, this adaptable trainer is comfortable enough for endurance efforts and responds equally well to pace increases.
The Mach X features a low-profile cushion bed that keeps your foot closer to the ground, and utilizes a firmer material designed to provide an efficient push-off. Featuring a symmetrical bed of cushion without additional prescriptive technologies, the shoe is designed to provide the support you want and nothing you don't.
The Specs:
Weight – 9.4oz (men’s), 8oz (women’s)
Heel-To-Toe Drop – 5mm
The Key Features:
• Recycled creel jacquard delivers lightweight breathability
• Gusseted upper construction mitigates tongue migration and provides a locked-in feel
• ProFlyX™ midsole sandwiches a Pebax® plate between resilient PEBA and EVA foams
• Highly resilient PEBA foam delivers soft, high-rebound cushioning
• Propulsive Pebax® plate (65% bio-based content) provides extra pop to make fast miles easier
• Upper made with 84% recycled polyester and 16% recycled nylon
• Laces made with 35% recycled polyester
• 87% recycled polyester strobel board
• 40% recycled polyester eyestay lining
The Finish Line:
The HOKA Mach X is available online, as well as any of our four locations. Our staff of experts can answer any questions you have about this shoe and other shoes in our shops. Come in, schedule a gait analysis, or order a pair from our online shop today!