In the world of high-stack and plated distance trainers, we are feeling a bit like Hoka has been struggling to land the plane on this one. The original Mach X was fine, but there are better shoes out there, so with the Mach X 2, Hoka went back to the drawing board. So let’s look at the aesthetic and technical updates that make this shoe stand out and see if they have delivered something that can compete with the other big names out there. Hint… it is a mixed bag.
Technical Specs
- Weight – 9.2oz or 261g for a US Men’s 9, 6.2oz or 176g for a US Women’s 7
- Cushion – 44mm of cushion and a 5mm heel/toe drop
- Pricing – $190 USD
- Colors – 2 colors
Upper
Let’s kick things off with the Mach X 2’s upper construction. It features a lightweight woven mesh material, providing a breathable and supportive experience. The fabric feels minimal yet manages to securely wrap the foot, which runners might find more race-ready than the previous iteration. The textured laces add a touch of finesse, offering a snug fit that improves upon last year’s design. With this upper, Hoka has prioritized both style and functionality, creating a shoe that looks as good as it feels.
BUT the heelcup is an absolute trainwreck. While you can get a really solid fit and lockdown, the collar just rips into your ankle and this has been a recurring theme for most reviewers. We wish they had left the old padded collar in here because this is a killer for a well performing shoe and for us really a deal breaker. This is a trainer and not a race shoe but it feels like its trying to do double duty.
Midsole
Now, onto the midsole, where the magic truly happens. The Mach X 2 boasts a PEBA foam top layer, complemented by a Pebax plate and additional EVA cushioning. This combination strikes an ideal balance between softness and responsiveness, delivering an energetic underfoot feel. Whether you’re aiming for a cruisy daily run or picking up the pace, this midsole configuration ensures smooth transitions and excellent shock absorption, making each stride feel lively.
Outsole
The outsole is crafted with durability in mind, using rubber that doesn’t skimp on grip. Its tread pattern is designed for versatility, handling roads with ease and providing stability on urban surfaces. There’s a pleasant balance between grip and flexibility, allowing for reliable performance across various terrains. Runners can expect this outsole to stand up well over time, maintaining its traction even as the miles add up.
How They Run
The Mach X 2 shines when it comes to on-the-run performance. This shoe demonstrates an impressive ability to adapt, moving seamlessly between short, speedier efforts and longer, more leisurely runs. We found this shoe surprisingly light on foot, with a noticeable reduction in fatigue thanks to its thoughtful construction. Its slightly higher stack height might seem unconventional for speedwork, yet it supports an efficient stride and offers a stable ride throughout. Whether it’s tackling tempo intervals or settling into a comfortable rhythm on long runs, this shoe feels like an all-around workhorse without losing its edge.
The problem it is plagued with though is that upper and in particular that heelcup and collar. If you take these for any sort of distance, you are going to be looking for a band-aid by the end. To us, it is the deal killer for these and is such an incredible bummer because the performance is amazing.
Conclusion
In summary, the Hoka Mach X 2 makes strong strides with its notable upgrades, delivering on style, comfort, and performance. However, it is hampered by a massive design flaw in that heel cup and collar and for us really kills what is a solidly performing shoe. If you want to try them consider a more cushioned sock or go in with moleskin in advance and just reinforce those areas because the ride is a fun one.
Learn more on the Hoka website
Buy them now and read more on Running Warehouse
These shoes were provided by the manufacturer or its partners for the sole use of review. No implied or explicit guarantees were provided as it relates to the provision of these products and all editorial commentary is strictly the property of Running Northwest. In short, the fact they allowed us to test these shoes does not mean we are required to give it a favorable review… every product must earn it. We appreciate our manufacturer partnerships and if you have any questions, you can read our Disclosure Policy in further detail.
Check Out Other Reviewers Thoughts
As always, we gather together some of our favorite reviewers so you can get a well-rounded view of the shoe. Here are our favorites.
