Marathon runners eyeing a new set of trainers will be happy to learn a new pair of Hokas just surfaced. The French performance brand’s latest race-ready silhouette, the Rocket X 2, aims to provide athletes with bolstered comfort compared to the first pair of Rockets.
Weighing in at precisely 8.30 ounces and equipped with a 5mm drop, the revamped design weighs a tad more compared to the 7.40 Rocket X, but much of that is a result of all-around improvement. Moreover, the new release’s most notable addition is its curved carbon fiber plate, wholly improved by HOKA’s early-stage MetaRocker tech, which aims to provide optimum propulsion and stability when taking on the pavement. Similarly to the original, the X 2 is based around a synthetic mesh upper that hugs the foot for secureness but maintains a surprising level of breathability all the while. Additionally, they boast a gusseted tongue to prevent any unwanted pebbles or debris from interrupting your workout.
For additional support and guaranteed speed, the shoe’s PEBA foam compound and PROFLY-X construction operate alongside each other to deliver optimized rebound cushion, cloud-like landings, and rapid-fire toe-offs. With all these elements in mind, it’s no surprise to see HOKA tout its new release as its “most pinnacle performance running shoe to date.” Upon garnering feedback from its roster of athletes, it’s clear that the brand took a good amount of real-life consideration into account before mindlessly churning out a new pair; that said, if they’re good enough for professional road runners, odds are they’ll bode just fine for you.
While the premium new trainers are only available in one colorway now, we can expect to see Hoka add to its repertoire with a few more looks. Nevertheless, the Rocket X 2 is available on the brand’s webshop for $250.
