HOKA took all the good traits from the original Carbon X and stuck with them, while replacing the things that needed some work. The upper is high-end, providing a snug sock like fit with an in-built mesh bootie. In terms of improvements from the original Carbon X; the heel pull tab is way better, and the heel cup seems to provide a better lockdown.
Trail running is a dynamic and exhilarating sport that demands footwear capable of tackling diverse terrains. As we step into 2023, the trail running shoe market has witnessed the emergence of outstanding options designed to elevate your running experience. Let's explore the best trail running shoes that are set to dominate the trails this year.
Continuing Nike’s mission to keep all runners on the run, Nike has released the new Nike React Infinity Run 2. One of Nike’s most tested shoes in history, it features updates informed by extensive scientific testing to create a more intuitive ride, with daily training runs in mind.
A shout out to the team at Hyperice for sending us the latest Normatic 2.0 Pro for testing. After three weeks of daily use, we are not disapointed. This latest version has been created with the greatest performance and customisation to date. Built to help runners of all ability...
The design of the ACTIBREEZE™ HYBRID SANDAL has been revamped from its predecessor to offer even better preparation from one performance to the next. It now features a 3D printed footbed, parametrically designed in an extra-thick lattice structure to provide advanced breathability and zoned comfort.
HOKA ONE ONE, the brand known for its max cushioned shoes and metarocker midsole geometry, were second to the table. In 2019 they dropped their Carbon X road racing shoe, all reports indicate they sold like hot cakes.
Now zoom to the end of 2020, and HOKA have just launched the Rocket X (dropping soon in Australia). It is to be viewed like the Carbon X, but slightly faster, subtly better. Its stack height is slightly lower, and the shoe is lighter. Running in the Rocket X feels more like a traditional shoe than a HOKA. The wide base of a Clifton (and most models) is gone, trimmed down to increase performance.
The midsole foam used by HOKA is still their proprietary EVA, they haven’t switched to PEBAX foam used in a few other road racing shoes. The midsole foam found in the Rocket X is the lightest foam that HOKA has ever produced. The EVA foam works for HOKA, and if it ain’t broke….
Runner’s Tribe took the Rockets through three sessions (15km in total).
When most people think of HOKA they think of a maximalist type running shoe with loads of cushion. This is only partly true, there are many misconceptions.
Hoka’s Clifton 6 is a high mileage neutral training shoe with ample soft cushioning. Not designed for speed, but for long distances or easy runs.
The Clifton 6 is very reminiscent of the very popular Clifton 1, the midsole foam is very similar with a softness to it rarely seen in a running shoe. It is vastly different to the HOKA 4 and 5 which had harder foams and a narrower mould. With the Clifton 6 you get the feeling that Hoka listened to its customers and brought the Clifton series back to its origins – a nice, soft, lightweight, cushioned ride.
In our second ever review for HOKA ONE ONE (see our first one here on the Clifton 6), we dive into the Rincon, an incredibly light weight and versatile training shoe.
The Rincon is sort of like the Clifton 6, but lighter and faster. It has enough structure and support that it can still be used as a high mileage trainer. However, its lightness makes it feel more like a shoe perfect for up tempo shorter runs, speed sessions , or even racing.
Runner’s Tribe took these shoes through 100km of mostly road and light trail running, and below is our unpaid for analysis.
Carbon fibre plates and sub 2-hour marathons have been all the rage in the running world over the past 12 months. Nike’s global marketing campaign surrounding the launch of the Vaporfly was sensational, the hype was off the charts. But the athletes delivered, with numerous road world records being...
Oakley® has launched the next chapter of innovation with Re:SubZero, an advanced, lightweight frame made to wear during a run, training session, or whenever you’re breaking a sweat in pursuit of self-betterment.
