Fast Facts
- Classification: Trainer
- Drop: 5 mm
- Stack Height: 39 mm in heel, 34 mm in forefoot (men’s), 37 mm in heel, 32 mm in forefoot (women’s)
- Weight: 9.40 oz
- Stability: Neutral
Looking for a speedy, high cushioned training shoe? Take a look at Hoka’s Mach X.
According to hoka.com, the Mach X is “a cross [of] the comfort and support of the Mach with a propulsive Pebax® plate.”
For those unfamiliar with the simple Mach, this shoe is a high-cushioned yet streamlined, responsive trainer from Hoka. Unlike the Mach, the Mach X is a plated shoe.
A plate within a shoe is meant to provide propulsion and durability. As Hoka’s Mach series is aimed at speedwork and training, the Mach X is specifically intended for speedier training runs, or for anyone simply wanting to run faster.
A Little Context
I’ll be honest: high cushioned shoes aren’t my thing, and this isn’t for lack of trying. Working in running specialty, I’ve demoed and tried on plenty of Hokas. It’s just that I naturally prefer less cushion to run on. For example, my usual go to shoes are mid-cushioned models such as the New Balance 880, or low cushioned shoes like Topo Fly-Lite and Topo Mountain Racer. However, as a running nerd I am always open to trying different brands and new shoes, and putting them through their paces (pun intended).
Let’s share my first impressions of running in Hoka Mach X!
Sizing, Fit, and Feel
Mach X has a more streamlined appearance, especially when compared to Hoka Clifton and Hoka Bondi. The tongue is flat and the shoe has a rocker profile (toes and heels angled up) to provide a smoother heel to toe transition when walking and running.
As a trainer, Mach X has a slightly narrower fit, noticeable in the toe box. For reference, I typically wear a women’s 8 to 8.5 medium in most running shoes. As several Hoka shoes tend to run long, I opted to wear a women’s size 8 medium. If you prefer/ require a roomier toe box or shoe overall, such as Hoka Bondi 6, you may find Mach X runs a bit too snug in the width.
The midsole cushion is comprised of ProFly X, “a special combination of foams, employed with our trademark geometry,” according to hoka.com, and highly resilient PEBA foam (a high performance foam consisting of polyether block amide). In fact, the PEBA foam used in Mach X is 34% more resilient than the Carbon X, another plated Hoka shoe.
Cushion wise, this shoe provides a firmer feel, given the Pebax plate. This was my first time ever running in a plated road shoe, and as a result of the plate, I found Mach X to be the firmest Hoka I’ve ever run in.
But don’t worry–firmness doesn’t mean this shoe lacks cushion. Afterall, what would a Hoka shoe be without cushion? Mach X has a stack height (midsole thickness) of 39 mm in heel and 34 mm in forefoot for men’s, and 37 mm in heel and 32 mm in forefoot for women’s.
As a neutral shoe, Hoka Mach X does not provide a medial support to counteract pronation (inward rotation of the ankles). If lack of support is a concern, I recommend wearing inserts (Currex Run Pro are my personal favorites) for added support and customized fit.
The upper (material) of the shoe is composed of Creel jacquard upper, a firmer and more durable material than traditional mesh uppers. The heel cuff has moderate cushioning and hugs the heels nicely–I noticed no pressure points or chafing.
On the Run: How Does the Mach X Perform?
I ran a fast (for me) mile and a half in these shoes, averaging a 8.9 mile pace. My first impression was how snappy this shoe was. In other words, I could feel the combination of the Pebax plate and the rocker profile propelling me forward.
How’s the support? As mentioned above, Mach X is a neutral shoe. For context, I pronate heavily, especially on my left foot. I ran without inserts, so I had nothing to lift and support my arches. However, I found that the firmness of the shoe provided enough support and structure for me.
As with most Hokas, Mach X is entirely rigid throughout the midsole, making it an ideal shoe if you’re dealing with plantar fasciitis. *Hot tip: if you’re currently dealing with plantar fasciitis, remember this rule: avoid all flimsy footwear. If you can bend or twist your shoe in half, stop wearing it and get a rigid shoe ASAP.
I liked the firmness of the cushion, and believe with repeated miles the shoes will mold more to your feet. The jacquard upper I found to be a little too stiff and a little snug on the tops of my toes, but with repeated wear should soften.
While I still found the cushion level to be too much for me, if you love Hokas and high cushioned shoes overall, Mach X is a nice addition to your running shoes collection.
Final Thoughts
My verdict: Hoka Mach X is ideal for speed workouts, but can also be used for longer runs as well. The rigid midsole provides adequate support, while the Pebax plate and rocker profile aid in faster running times.
Hoka Mach X is available in several colors in both men’s and women’s, and retails at $180.
*Disclaimer: I am in no way sponsored, paid by, or affiliated with the brands/ items reviewed in this post. I write simply to inform other runners like myself of products that may interest them.