Discover the Hoka Mach X Road Shoe: A Fresh-Take for Runners

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Hoka Mach X: A Comprehensive Review
Introduction:
In the dynamic world of road running and marathon training, the right footwear you choose is essential in the entire training block process. The Hoka Mach X, a recent addition to Hoka's vast running shoe lineup, claims to offer the best in comfort, performance, and durability. In this review, we'll dissect this new road running shoe, focusing on its upper, midsole, and outsole, to determine if it lives up to its performance promises. Yes, that dual-density midsole is a very fun ride!
Upper:
The Mach X's upper is a testament to Hoka's commitment to comfort and long-haul breathability. Crafted from a lightweight, jacquard mesh, it offers a snug, sock-like fit that comfortably wraps around the foot. This design not only enhances comfort but also improves ventilation, a critical aspect for long-distance runners in those summer months. The shoe's upper also boasts a minimalistic design with reduced overlays, providing a sleek look without sacrificing structural integrity. The highlight of the upper is probably the extra padding that Hoka chose to put on the tongue. Although the pad is a very small detail, it makes all the difference in the lockdown feel over the top of the foot. Of course, the semi-gusset drives home the Hoka commitment to a sock-like fit. And yes, the heel counter is like butter ladies and gentleman. No complaints on this Mach X upper.
Midsole:
Hoka is renowned for its cushioning, and the Mach X doesn't disappoint. The midsole is designed with a dual-density foam that offers a soft heel for shock absorption and a firmer forefoot for propulsion. Inside the EVA and PEBA foams is a PEBAX plate that creates a snap through the footstrike; quite pronounced snap I might add. This configuration ensures a comfortable, responsive ride that's particularly beneficial for road runners who expect both speed and long-distance performance. The maximalist stack height of 39 mm in the heel and 34 mm in the forefoot will provide a great supportive ride for those long runs. The shoe's overall geometry, coupled with the midsole's design, facilitates a smooth heel-to-toe transition, essential for minimizing fatigue during long runs.
Outsole:
Durability meets traction in the Mach X's outsole. Constructed with durabrasion rubber, it strikes a balance between being lightweight and providing ample grip. This material choice also contributes to the shoe's overall durability, making it a reliable option for the long haul. The outsole is made of durable rubber strategically placed in high-wear areas. This ensures long-lasting traction on both dry and wet surfaces. The outsole is also surprisingly thin and flexible, which contributes to the overall responsive feel of the shoe.
Final Thoughts:
The Hoka Mach X stands as a compelling option for marathon runners and road running enthusiasts. Its comfortable upper ensures a comfortable, breathable fit, while the innovative dual-density midsole offers a perfect blend of cushioning and responsiveness. The durable and versatile outsole makes it suitable for a variety of road conditions. Whether you're chasing a new personal best on a rolling half marathon course or simply enjoying a long run, the Mach X could be the companion you need for your next challenge in the new year.
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[@annestrock4917]

After taking my grandson to McDonald's today ( I haven't been there in years) and being in sticker shock over the cost of the meals now a days, I can see how these shoe companies are charging these hugh prices !!! So keep reviewing these older shoes for those of us that need a deal! I'm loving the format of these new reviews.

[@SethJamesDeMoor]

Thanks Anne for the feedback, and let’s keep pinching those pennies in 2024.

[@pranayama-running-Jendrik]

⁠​⁠​⁠@@SethJamesDeMoor To be honest to that topic 😄 I only buy shoes that are reduced by quite a margin 👌 I don’t buy always the last year model so for example I bought the Superblast from Asics but I didn’t wanted and still want to buy the full price of 220 € Hefty price for „only“ shoes 😄 I struck when the time came and found a deal for like 183 € 😄 I‘m on the same page here 👍 Yeah I‘m not very often at McDonalds too 😅 It isn’t the best fuel for the human body to say the least 😬 The quality of the input decides the quality of the output 🙏🫶🏻 Everyone feel free to go there but I won’t lie about what is fact to sugarcoat it 👍🤷

[@jefreywith1f924]

Running shoe companies are charging inflated prices because they know people will buy them no matter what, not because of inflation. It's called price gouging. Can't blame the pandemic anymore. Most of them are making record profits, including McDonald's.

[@brianway4240]

I think the coming-soon Brooks Hyperion Max 2 and NB SC Trainer 3 are set at $180. Another competitor to this would be Saucony ES. I get the feeling they look at comparable models from their competition and set the price the same. Seems like it anyway!

[@jefreywith1f924]

@brianway4240 Yeah! It's sort of a mixed bag. Sneaker prices in 2023 continue to increase at a rate 1.5 times faster than in 2022. But as of April 2023, 29.7% more sneakers are on sale at a discount compared to April 2022. The average discount for 2023 is at 30.65%. This is all according to CentricSoftware.

[@upsetuloss]

Glad your back, blessings to you and your family in 2024.🙏🏾🏃🏾‍➡️

[@iambrent]

My favorite trainer of all the the Glideride 3 with a nylon plate ✅

[@SofaKingA]

I love the Mach X colorway and you're right, way too much $$$!

[@joshschoenick]

Yes! Thank you Seth for considering everyone who is deal shopping. I’m buying shoes for myself and 4 distance running kiddos. So buying last year’s model on sale is often a must. Loving the shoe reviews before the upcoming spring season. It’s nearly track season.

[@ChrisSee]

Really enjoying the early video access! Thanks for adding more value to the channel. Also, I'm really interested in this shoe, just might have to pull the trigger on this one.

[@SethJamesDeMoor]

Let’s do this Chris. These early releases will become more important too with the new shoes in 2024.

[@tedforsstromjacobsson4160]

I almost exclusively buy discounted shoes too. Can’t afford otherwise and by then I can have some long term data from people like you. It’s worked for years and so I’m glad you’re open to reviewing not-super-new stuff!

[@matthiassventoest6800]

I appreciate you taking the time to review old shoes. I also appreciate the fact that you don’t watch reviews or any reviews before you were if you review a shoe. I generally watch reviews a bunch of them merely for entertainment purposes, and sometimes to see if I will think about a shoe and I’ll just drop down the name of the shoe by the time it gets time till I actually purchased a shoe I generally forgot all the reviews. The hardest thing for me to find is a reviewer that is in similar stature to me at least weight wise. I know gait-wise I’m not gonna find somebody with the exact same gait, but I will try to find somebody that at least looks like they weigh about 175 pounds and up so I buy a lot of max cushion shoes because max cushion shoes are different for guys that are over 175. I do buy some tempo-ish shoes too though 😂 As for your question of the day I have two pleated shoes, the Endo speed ones.., and the tecton X one both were on sale. I rotate between the rebel v3, and endo for tempo days.., and use the tectons, only on my favorite trails.

[@johanrr4]

You definitely got me in a pair of Mach 4's at least. That shoe changed my perspective on running completely. I now also own the 5 and hope they don't mess up with the 6. I'm pretty sure I'll always have a pair of Mach's in my rotation.

[@JustinKortuem]

Love the color coordination with the shoes

[@SethJamesDeMoor]

socks 🧦 ❤

[@JustinKortuem]

@@SethJamesDeMoor Santa delivered a pair for me. I haven't worn them yet, but I'm looking forward to it!

[@AbleHammer]

Inflation! It’s hitting everything! Thanks Seth. No plates necessary!

[@SethJamesDeMoor]

Appreciate you, pinch those pennies.

[@jeroenschmit]

I love doing my longruns in my old Vaporflys. I own plenty of 'daily trainers', but the comfort of the Zoomx midsole and the stability that comes with the plates easily beats any of them. Even after 800km/500miles.

[@zaphod2]

I agree, I tried so many "max cushion" shoes, but ironically, the Vaporfly which is a lightweight race show is more cushioned than all of them.

[@roccozambrifoto]

Alphafly for long runs with speed work… Nothing comes close.

[@Trailrunner1978]

In Norway, Hoka is by far the most expensive shoe company.

[@cevasbinghost]

Ever since the plates came into play I've had mixed feelings about them. I can't remember which of your videos you were talking about them (it was just after the endorphin speed 1 I think) I was pretty much agreeing with you about all of the things you were saying. Yes, I do own a few pairs with plates and rods, and even though I do feel they help me out in speed and tempo workouts, I still prefer not to train everyday with them. I just feel that in my daily trainers I have more composure and a better control of my gate cycle. Thanks again for your reviews Seth, you're the man.

[@davidsaxe7077]

Love that you giving the members 1st chance to see these review

[@SethJamesDeMoor]

Will become more important for the new shoes too!

[@ilovejesusdude]

Thanks for the review

[@jeffsapida4838]

I got a couple of plated shoes last year and coincidentally experienced more foot and leg issues than I’ve ever had. I’ve since limited my use of these shoes except for tempo workouts with most of my runs with non plated daily trainers. And I’m also trying to work my feet with lower stack height shoes now to mitigate injury risk

[@madmickomm1885]

Glad to see the ride comparison with the speed. I think the Mach x feels like a beefed up endorphin speed. Perfect for cruising long long runs for me.

[@Thesamh2121]

QD- I do like having some sort of plated shoe in my rotation, but not as my everyday trainer. I usually reserve plated shoes for runs where I want to do a tempo pace or intervals.

[@jasonpaulsonrealtorontheru4745]

Thank you for always calling out the companies for their high pricing!

[@Will_Wiebe]

I'm very curious what you think about the Boston 12

[@citymariner]

I’ve just burnt through my second pair of Mach 5s and probably seeing if I can pick up a Mach X this afternoon.

[@David-tr9zz]

Ive never had a plated shoe but thinking about getting the endorphin pro for marathon racingwhen it goes on sale. Im an older slower runner, but i do want to try one. Love the Ride and Triumph

[@hollis613]

I have the Rebel v1, v2 and the v3. I would put them in order v2, v1, then v3. But I love them all. Can't wait for v4 to come out.

[@georgesoto5436]

On the question of the day, the only time I use plates is while racing half and full Marathons. I like the feel of that psychological advantage of having these plates for races only.

[@derkong7114]

Ok I am a slight heavy could use to lose some pounds, slightly older late 50's, trying to run and train for triathlons, I can personally say the Mach x are the best most comfortable shoe I have ever run in... Usually my feet would hurt beyond four or five miles now with the Mach X I can run and run and run pain free.... And Yes I wear them with easy runs, fast runs, slow runs, short runs, long runs. Really anything that has run in the description. I would also pay double if I had to to purchase the next pair, and the next, and the next....

[@coolmon26]

Hey, missed your shoe talk, but I noticed there is one thing missing from shoe reviews, and I’m talking almost alll of them. A break in/ break out timeline. As in these Hokas take 15miles to get them feeling right and about 300miles it’s time to pick a new color. Anyways I just moved from CO to GA, and watching you run around makes me click my heels together and make a wish loll

[@pranayama-running-Jendrik]

When you say the ride feels almost like The Triumph line from Saucony than it must be a really really good long run shoe 🫶🏻 And it has the stackhide too for 20 miles and plus 🙏 My Long Runs I will manage in my Superblast and I have frankly speaking already ran 180 k in them. It shocked me as read it because it didn’t feel that much for me 😂🤷 One more shoe pair to put in the work 🔥🫶🏻

[@kennethpfaff8261]

I am not a fan of plates in daily trainers. I feel that they change my foot strike and aggravate my right hip to the point that it starts hurting after a few miles

[@Mumrik597]

I've been running in the Hoka Mach X since august, and I've done 450 miles on them. Really enjoyed them. I'm looking for replacement to them and I'm considering Boston 12. It's just that Hoka shoes really work well for me, and I'm not familiar with Adidas. Modern day issues right? 😅

[@ericwhite80five]

QOD: Saucony Endorphin Speed 3 has been the shoe of shoes for me. It covers any training run I’m doing. Sorry Seth but I do use them sometimes on easy days, but usually when the legs are barking. This is because they provide me with that little extra energy return to make the easy day just that much easier lol

[@jamesotto7884]

Video is looking crisp. Noted that as soon as is started!

[@SethJamesDeMoor]

thanks James! Hope you're well sir!

[@jamesotto7884]

@@SethJamesDeMoor we are well thank you hope you all are too. Look forward to many things this year including Chicago in October! 😃

[@pranayama-running-Jendrik]

Hoka has become a shoe brand in my mind that are producing some great shoes that have more durability as a few years ago 👌😁 or so I think Unfortunately most Hokas are to tight width wise for my foot shape. So at the moment I wear most of the time other brands like New Balance or Asics. When I think about it, that are really the only two brands I really run in at this times 🤔🤷😁

[@JM-nu2jg]

I run 70% of my runs in non-plated shoes, but the remaining 30%, which are workouts/speed sessions, I definitely wear plated shoes. Whenever I buy new Carbon Plated racers, my old ones become my designated workout/speed shoes. They no longer have the pop that I need for race days, but they still are way snappier and energetic compared to my daily trainers/easy day shoes. I also like to maximize as much as value as i can for each pair of running shoes that I own

[@cdigdawg]

Mach 4 is still my favorite shoe of all time.

[@ChaoticRodent]

I have been VERY eagerly waiting for this review. You were too generous on the price point. It is a full $40 CAD more than the endorphin speeds. I would LIKE to say I dont like plates for my daily trainers...but my most run in shoes are the Boston 12 and the Puma Deviate Nitro.

[@BassTonix]

Very impressive shoe!! I’ve been thinking of grabbing a pair, the price has kept me away from them though.

[@RobertHarridge]

QD: I’m not a huge fan of plates for daily trainers or even some speed workout shoes. I feel they take away from building those feet muscles and also give a false sense of speed vs. effort. I appreciate a show like the Brooks Hyperion Max where it has the super critical foam, is super light and breathable, fun, and snappy, but doesn’t have a plate. Of course I’m also a fan of the Novablast which can do pretty much everything. Don’t get me wrong, some days i feel like the Boston 12 is my go-to shoe because I need that little extra, but I would rather train with no plate, then come race day and set a PR with a plated shoe because it made the run that much easier.

[@jefreywith1f924]

The Adidas Boston 12 is all arounder. It can be whatever you want it to be, including daily trainer. It's like a pizza with everything on it. The fiberglass energy rods become thinner in the forefoot, which makes the shoe less rigid and gives it some natural flex. Plus it has a very accomadating toebox. The lightstrike pro foam does all the work for you. It even feels comfortable at slow paces where you dont have to apply much inertia to feel the snap from the energy rods. This shoe will save you money because it can replace lots of shoes in your rotation. Boston is back, " More Than A Feeling," not the band but the shoe.

[@cliftonwhaley9193]

I suppose it depends on the shoe. I sway towards the side of non-plated training shoes, but I also absolutely love the NB SC Trainer V1 and that has a plate. I'm by no means a serious runner but shoes like the Noosa Tri 14 & 15, Mach 4 & 5, and Triumph 20 are much better options in my opinion to train in.

[@SethJamesDeMoor]

Fair on this assessment Clifton, thank YOU for being a channel member!

[@cliftonwhaley9193]

@@SethJamesDeMoor Not a problem sir, and thank you for putting in the work for this channel and DGR! 👊🏾

[@robertnoland9156]

Messing around on eBay the other day, and saw that Etonic used plates in their running shoes in the late 80’s and early 90’s.

[@muhammadkhairul3621]

Seth want to know your marks for the gorun ride 11 and the maxroad 6 hehe

[@ABucc]

I always hear about last year's versions being cheaper, but when I go online, I always see the prices for last year's versions have stayed the same.🤷‍♂️

[@SethJamesDeMoor]

interesting, let me know a shoe you’re interested in and I’ll investigate for you

[@averagerunner_]

QOD > not a fan of plated in daily trainers, will use my plated shoes on some long runs and tbh speed work but that's just starting this yr I only have 2 plated shoes and will keep it this way

[@jaredstrauss617]

I’m at 375 miles on my Mach X. I’ve blown through the rubber on a couple spots but they still feel like they have some miles left.

[@seekingUltraNick]

Nice review, Seth! My take on this shoe? Love the fit, comfort, overall idea… but it simply doesn’t perform -like, anywhere in my shoe rotation. And for $180?? Geesh. So yeah, after 200+ miles, it simply has been retired. We’ll see what the 2nd iteration brings us…

[@meredithjones8593]

Ah the very shoe I was curious about. So is the Mach X replacing the Mach lineup or is there a Mach 6 in our future?

[@Pianoman1234321]

Mach 6 was confirmed at TRE 2023 😊 however it looks like a bit of a departure from what it has been. The Rincon 4 seems to be more in the spirit of the Mach 4 and 5.

[@SethJamesDeMoor]

Great insight here

[@meredithjones8593]

I’ve run in the Rincon before and liked it so I’ll have to keep my eye on that as well then. Thanks for the heads up.

[@julienroy6113]

I tried lacing in different ways but my feet always get numb after 20-25minutes. The heel is also badly secured thinking of giving them away

[@smellysam]

100% in favor of plates in daily trainers (I find they load the joints less, allow for double sessions etc). But I do have a pair of traditional flats for the treadmill/gym as they load the calf more. Trying to kill a pair of OG Deviates WTRs... 1200km and still bouncy... I hope the Deviates 2 go below 90€ before they die

[@marrunslow3815]

Not a fan of CFPs at all. I too was a big fan of the speeds 1 & 2 -don’t care for the updates since. I most enjoy soft but not high ground feel shoes the best for this old runner 😊

[@SethJamesDeMoor]

Totally agree

[@andycleary]

I ran the Chicago Marathon in these they were my 2nd pair. I found them very good but when I went over 400km in them, I found myself getting a lot niggles so I retired them.

[@SethJamesDeMoor]

Great insight Andy, thanks!

[@brianpires8411]

Pretty soon gonna have to be getting a loan for the newest racing shoes

[@tobiascheesbrough3671]

Qd: I really think you should do most of your running in unplated shoes. I think plates are great at offering extra responsiveness, but the human body is already designed to do that and using a plate at all times only let's you body weaken, as the plate is doing some of the work. I think people who train mostly without plates will reap more of the benefits when they do use them as a consequence, in races for example.

[@KillStreakMcH]

I'm not a fan of plates or these huge stack heights taking over the market. I'm curious if we'll see more injuries as shoes are doing more of the work and weakening foot and leg strength.

[@seanbolger7371]

Will there be a Mach 6 or is this it, great all round shoes, but prefer shoes with out plates

[@SethJamesDeMoor]

sounds like Mach 6 is coming too in 2024

[@seanbolger7371]

@@SethJamesDeMoor thank you and happy new year

[@freedomwon2004]

My feet don't know what year it is. But my wallet is aware of emptiness. Last years shoes at a huge discount are budget friendly.

[@_Zabamund_]

Anyone has opinions about Newton running shoes to replace kinvara 13s? I'm so sick and tired of the massive stack on all these shoes and I'm hunting high and low for low stack low drop neutral flexible shoes

[@jefreywith1f924]

Low stack and flexable. It doesn't get any better than the Topo Athletic Cyclone 2.

[@_Zabamund_]

@jefreywith1f924 thanks I've tried them but didn't enjoy the ride personally, just a matter of taste though glad you like them

[@ericpetersen8645]

Plates for all but easy runs. Endorphin speed, adidas Boston 12, triumph 20 for easy.

[@hectorguzman6122]

My buddy is not friendly with plates shoes, as older runner I like to control my footsteps,

[@JustinKortuem]

:QOD yes plates, but not carbon. Endorphin speed all day

[@SethJamesDeMoor]

Agreed 👍🏻

[@griffitts7]

I like dinner plates!

[@benjaminmuradyan3185]

100% only buy last years version!!

[@garethwinter1367]

Not a fan of doing any running in plated shoes other than workouts/races - love the Mach 4 and 5 mainly because of the lack of plate but still being light and springy

[@tsubakichan]

I didn't get this shoe at all. Yes, it's comfortable for slower paces but I kinda felt like it didn't have anything to give if you wanted to pick it up. I personally prefer the regular Mach.

[@MC-vw1rp]

Inconsistent scoring on price with last two reviews. Hoka =4, On = 5. Both same price, $179. So On scores 25% better on price than Hoka. Head scratcher. 😎

[@trainwellracewell]

$130 is about my price limit for shoes

[@williamlau2575]

Hola, Uncle Sam

[@wunderlichdrive]

Prefer no plate in daily training.

[@dkmchui]

Unless your speed is faster than 4:30 min/km, plated shoes hardly have any benefit at all. Slow runner like me rather prefer more comfortable shoes with better geometry to propel me forward. Plated shoes are also very expensive.

[@ianwarner1429]

Plates are unnecessary for most of us. It’s just another excuse for jacking the price uselessly.

[@Pianoman1234321]

Nope! I do not like plates in my trainers. I don't mind a plated racer to chase down PRs as someone who's hitting a plateau, as I'm unsure whether I can really get much faster. I believe our fitness can be measured in our training: consistency, workout quality, long run metrics, etc. Our fitness is not simply measured by our PRs. As such, I don't mind shoe tech giving me fast times, but I want to be confident that my training is better or worse in a given year based on my hard work and strategy, not how much money I spent on shoes to inflate my workout stats. Caveat: race prep workouts can be done in racing shoes to acclimate to them.

[@michaeldominic2070]

I prefer no plates in my daily trainers. I do use plated shoes for tempo and speedwork!

[@SethJamesDeMoor]

Thanks for sharing!