The Rocket X is HOKA’s common marathon racer. It has HOKA’s greatest midsole foam and it has a full-length carbon plate for propulsion. It has a friendlier, extra steady trip than HOKA’s different carbon racer, the Cielo X1. Model 3 of the Rocket X has a couple of updates which give it a vastly completely different trip to model 2. They each value $250.
This comparability will inform you which model is healthier for you.
Verdict
The HOKA Rocket X 3 is an honest, very steady racer with a smooth trip that’s greatest suited to the marathon distance; nonetheless, it suffers from outsole sturdiness points as a result of its midsole being too smooth. Model 3 has a softer trip and a extra versatile carbon plate, leading to a slower, extra relaxed trip than its predecessor. It additionally has a plusher higher with higher consolation.
The Hoka Rocket X 2 is a top-tier marathon racer with a smooth, energetic trip. It has easy, steady transitions and a stiff carbon plate for velocity help. Model 2 is an enormous enchancment over the unique model though it is available in at the next weight and a a lot increased value.
Beneficial for
Racing, speedwork
Racing, speedwork, lengthy distance racing
Cushioning sort
Balanced/plush
Responsive
Cushioning quantity
Extremely cushioned
Extremely cushioned
Stability
very steady
some stability
Sizing
purchase half dimension greater
purchase half dimension greater
Retail value
US$249.95
US$250
The Rocket X 3 has a dual-density PEBA midsole with a softer PEBA on the highest and a firmer PEBA on the underside. It has a smooth trip in comparison with different tremendous footwear and it has a excessive degree of power return.
The Rocket X 2 has the identical midsole setup because the X 3 nonetheless its midsole foams are firmer. Which means throughout transitions, your toes don’t sink down into the midsole as a lot and it ends in a quicker trip. The X 2 gives a firmer platform to push off from.
The carbon plate within the X 3 has been redesigned. It has a wing that extends out on the lateral facet and it feels extra versatile than the plate within the X 2. The stiffer plate of the X 2 gives extra propulsion (it feels extra snappy) and it will increase the rocker impact.
The X 2 has a extra distinguished rocker because of its stiffer forefoot and its firmer trip. This makes transitions really feel quicker. The X 3 additionally has a rocker but it surely’s noticeably milder.
In terms of stability, the Rocket X 3 feels extra steady. It has a wider base so foot strikes really feel extra planted. It additionally has the redesigned carbon plate which gives extra stability and help. In case you want a number of help when racing, the X 3 will really feel higher for you.
The outsole sturdiness of the X 2 is healthier than the X 3. It’s because its midsole foam is firmer, which makes it extra resilient and extra proof against scratches and chips. The X 2 will last more than the X 3 for those who’re a tough striker.
The Rocket X 3’s higher is lot extra comfy than the X 2. That is primarily because of the additional padding that’s within the collar and heel tab of the X 3. The fabric can be softer and conforms to your toes higher than the plastic-like higher of model 2.
The X 2 has a semi-gusseted tongue however the X 3’s tongue isn’t gusseted. There isn’t any tongue slide although as a result of it has broad wings that maintain it in place.
Each variations have very slender toe-boxes so it’s necessary to go up a half dimension. Each variations aren’t appropriate for runners with broad toes.
