Hoka Mach X Review: Fulfilling the Need for Speed

When looking for a solid pair of daily training sneakers, you essentially want the multitool of running shoes — a silhouette that’s comfortable and cushioned enough for extended mileage yet peppy enough for those speedy circuits around the block. You also don’t want a ton of “excess” in either direction, which is why sky-high cushioned profiles and carbon-plated racing sneakers are often left at the door when it comes to these more mundane training sessions throughout the week.

Hoka’s Mach stable of running shoes has long been regarded as a worthy pick for these daily demands, routinely blending solid senses of energy return and comfort in each rendition. So, when we heard about the brand overhauling this foundational profile with a Pebax plate and new foam construction, we were admittedly worried about the future of this trustworthy kick. Was Hoka finally done with people forgoing the Mach’s “Race Day” recommendation? Would this all-new Mach X have us searching for a new go-to for daily excursions?

To find out, I took to my normal streets and routes across Pittsburgh to see how the Mach X’s PEBA foam midsole, creel jacquard upper and Pebax plate fared in terms of daily training. Paces and distances changed with each given session, giving each component it’s chance to state its case. I also ran across asphalt, packed trails, concrete and gravel to see if the running experience was altered depending on terrain — again, dailies should be multifaceted.

Hoka Mach X: What We Think

Despite the plated construction, this all-new Mach X maintains the stable’s reputation as a top daily running shoe. I found no pace or distance that felt uncomfortable, and the Pebax plate proved to be the “just right” component for fast-paced circuits.

Granted, the bounce and energy return is not on par with more marathon-minded silhouettes (an arena which Hoka also did quite well in this year). Still, I think this Mach X profile is a worthy pick for athletes wanting to mix in some speed days across their weekly regimen. Plus, the iridescent upper, in my opinion, is the perfect blend of vibrancy and subtlety that fits the daily training aesthetic — simple and trusting, with room for flash and spectacle when you really want it.

Hoka One One

Hoka Mach X

• $180.00 at hoka.com

This is one of the few plated running shoes I’d consider for daily training.

I’m a definite fan of carbon-plated running shoes … when my training calls for higher RPMs. When taking on a route at a slower pace, that rigid structure can do a number on your underfoot comfort, so I typically reserve this performance-focused component for when I know I’ll be pushing the tempo, or when my comfort is pushed to the back of my mind for the sake of crossing a finish line. (No pain, no gain, right?)

Surprisingly, though, I didn’t feel like the Pebax plate within the Mach X hindered my gait at any pace. It kept me well-cushioned at slower paces, but still gave enough boost to my steps when needed. I could easily slow or quicken my runs without any interference from the embedded tech, and the PEBA foam also proved its worth by keeping landings bouncy yet cozy, no matter the speed.

Admittedly, this more resilient, rigid makeup sacrifices some ground connection — you can’t really feel the asphalt underneath — but I don’t think it’s a detriment to the overall running experience. After all, I’d mostly be looking for that ground contact when honing in on sprints and turnovers, so if a shoe can still perform in that regard while also giving transitions an added zest of coziness, I’m willing to forgo the sensation.

Ben Emminger

The Mach X’s wide footprint helps promote stability.

When you think of running shoes designed for faster paces, you’re likely to conjure images of sleek profiles that give little room for missteps or improper form. Any excess foam or material would lend itself to a higher weight total, right? Thankfully, though, the Mach X’s wider footprint grants some added stability while still keeping the silhouette lightweight at just 9.4 ounces. I really enjoy this build quality for gravel trails and throughways, as the wider base keeps my strides secure and stabilized across the less-than-flat terrain.

Despite the wider design, I didn’t feel like the Mach X created a clunky running sensation that fights through each pickup. The lightweight nature of the PEBA and EVA foam midsole pairs well to the creel jacquard upper for a silhouette that glides through the air. This aspect, combined with the boosted underfoot confidence, allows for quick transitions between paces and takes the thought out of circuit training — a definite plus when trying to fit a worthwhile run in at the end of the day.

Ben Emminger

The underfoot cut-outs can pick up gravel.

If you look underfoot with the Hoka Mach X, you’ll notice two distinct cut-outs across the outsole — one in the middle of the footprint that showcases the Pebax plate, and one at the heel where the foam forks. While these material omissions do cut some weight from the profile, they do create a great place for debris to lodge when out on a run. I had a few instances where an errant piece of gravel became lodged in these areas, which called for a quick pit stop to help correct the issue.

Now, this isn’t the most egregious feature considering the fact that most daily runs are conducted on streets and sidewalks, but for those days where an open trail is your training ground of choice, it can lead to more mid-workout breaks than wanted. In future training endeavors, I plan to stick with my tried and trusted pathways around my house … or, at least, trails that have larger-sized gravel strewn across the land.

Ben Emminger

If you want cool-as-ice breathability, look elsewhere.

Now, with recent record-high temperatures across the globe, I doubt any running shoe will have the breathability components to combat the weather conditions of today. Yet still, there is a heightened sense of sweat when it comes to these all-new sneakers from Hoka. While I love the creel jacquard mesh for its looks, there is some room for improvement when it comes to ventilation, especially on particularly humid days. Sure, the perforated holes provided some relief, but it’s not as present as the brand claims, in my opinion.

Because of the slightly-hot environment created through this upper construction, I recommend running in the Mach Xs during early morning hours or late afternoons. This can help keep you out of the sun during peak hours and goes a long way in asking just the right amount from the embedded tech.

Hoka Mach X: Alternatives

If you’re looking for a plated daily training silhouette that would put some aches and pains in your gait, a comparable profile to the Mach X would be the New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Trainer. This can be a great pick for those training sessions leading up to race day, but I feel the stack height is more attuned to marathon prep than it is to nightly jogs around town.

In terms of Hoka-specific profiles, the Carbon X 3 is one of my favorites thanks to its sock-like upper and springy underfoot sensation. I’ve taken on a handful of 5ks and 10ks with this sneaker and think of it as a definite contender for tempo days. Admittedly, though, the embedded carbon plate does begin to take its toll at slower paces, so it may not be ideal for every pace or distance.

Hoka One One

Hoka Mach X

• $180.00 at hoka.com

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