HOKA Tecton X 2 Review

Ultimate trail shoe – our HOKA Tecton X 2 Review.

The HOKA Tecton X 2 is the ultimate trail shoe for runners who crave speed, cushioning and protection. Whether you’re tackling technical terrain or flying down a smooth single track, this shoe offers the perfect combination of features to keep you comfortable and confident on any run. The robust yet versatile Tecton X 2 provides optimum support wherever your adventure takes you.

Quick summary of the HOKA Tecton X 2 shoes:

• High-performance trail shoe designed for speed and durability.
• Exceptional traction with Vibram Megagrip outsole for all terrains.
• Superior cushioning with PROFLY midsole for comfort and responsiveness.
• Dual carbon plates boost propulsion and efficiency.
• Lightweight, breathable design for peak performance on long runs.

One of the standout features of the Tecton X 2 is its superior traction. Designed for the toughest trails, the Vibram Megagrip outsole offers exceptional grip on both wet and dry surfaces. The lugs on the outsole are strategically placed to provide maximum traction and stability, allowing you to push your limits without worrying about slipping or sliding.

But it’s not just about grip – this shoe also offers unbeatable cushioning. HOKA’s signature PROFLY midsole technology provides a balance of softness and responsiveness, giving you a smooth ride no matter the terrain.

The HOKA Tecton X 2 is an excellent choice for serious trail runners seeking top-tier performance in any season.

Price from £129.49 (UK)

(Note: The new HOKA Tecton X 3 has just been released and is available for purchase here.)

Pros

• Featuring double carbon plates that provide a responsive and springy feel
• Supportive around the forefoot
• Comfortable, no rubbing
• Breathable yet sturdy upper
• Cushioned for ultra-marathon distances
• Reliable traction across a wide range of terrains
• Lightweight

Cons

• Price tag may be too steep for some buyers
• Limited space in the toe area
• The EVA midsole does not provide adequate energy return.

Introduction

The HOKA Tecton X 2 is a top-of-the-line trail running shoe designed to elevate your performance on the toughest of trails. With its advanced features and impressive technology, this shoe has quickly become a favourite among serious trail runners.

Upon its release, the Hoka Tecton X significantly impacted the trail-running community. This shoe, known for being lightweight, fast, responsive, and high-performance, introduced a new standard of excellence to the niche market of carbon-plated trail shoes. Even the top ultra-trail runners have embraced it.

With its sleek and sporty design, the Tecton X 2 is not only high-performing but also eye-catching. This shoe is an excellent choice for runners looking for a combination of speed, cushioning, and protection on any terrain. The all-new Matryx engineered mesh upper provides a snug and breathable fit, whilst the double carbon plates in the midsole give you that extra spring in your step.

This shoe is perfect for long-distance trail runners who need a reliable and durable shoe that can take on any challenge.

HOKA Tecton X 2 first impressions

Out of the box, the HOKA Tecton X 2 boasts a sleek and modern design. The attractive, vibrant colours and sharp lines give it a sporty look. Holding the shoe in my hands, I could feel its lightweight construction. The midsole felt very cushioned and flexible. The overall shape and design create a sense of stability and comfort. It was impossible not to miss the Vibram Megagrips on the outer rubber sole panel, but we’ll delve into that in more detail later. Slip on the HOKA Tecton X 2, and you’ll be impressed by its snug and secure fit. The PROFLY+ technology in the midsole gave me a cushioned but responsive feel, and the Matryx upper hugged my foot comfortably without any rubbing or discomfort. Overall, my first impression of the Tecton X 2 was very positive.

On my first 4-mile trail run through the undulating local heathland in the Tecton X 2s, I was struck by how secure and stable my feet felt. There was no slipping, sliding or discomfort – just a smooth ride on every stride. The grip is outstanding on all terrains, including wet rocks and muddy trails, thanks to the Vibram Megagrips.  I also quickly noticed how lightweight this shoe is, which is always a plus for long-distance running.

The Profly+ technology definitely lived up to its promise of providing a balance of softness and responsiveness, giving me a cushioned yet efficient energy return. This was especially noticeable on uphill sections where I felt like I had extra spring in my step.

Overall, my first impressions of the HOKA Tecton X 2 were extremely positive. It’s clear that this shoe has been designed with top-tier performance in mind, and it delivers on all fronts.

Tecton X 2 breathable Matryx mesh upper

In the Tecton X 2, we found an exceptionally breathable upper, ideal for ultra-distance races. The innovative Matryx mesh upper offers a snug and secure fit, crafted from Kevlar and nylon for a lightweight and durable performance. Its excellent breathability ensures your feet stay cool and dry, even during the longest runs. Additionally, it’s hydrophobic, allowing it to dry quickly after stream crossings.

Runners have observed enhanced foot stability thanks to the reinforced heel padding, a new thin gusseted tongue and optimised lacing. These features guarantee secure navigation on more challenging trails and descents.

Tecton X 2 sole unit

The Tecton X 2 sole is equipped with HOKA’s signature PROFLY midsole technology, which combines a soft heel and firmer forefoot for a balance of cushioning and propulsion. The new dual-density EVA foam is much more responsive than the previous model, providing an added layer of comfort and energy return on long runs.

For added responsiveness, HOKA has also incorporated two carbon plates in the midsole, similar to their popular road running shoe, the Carbon X. These carbon plates provide an extra boost in propulsion and efficiency on every stride, making it easier to tackle challenging terrain without sacrificing speed or energy.

Vibram Megagrip outsole

One of the standout features of the Tecton X 2  is the Vibram Megagrip with Litebase outsole. The aggressive and durable tread pattern offers reliable traction on a wide range of terrains, including wet rocks, muddy trails, and loose gravel. This makes it an ideal shoe for trail runners who encounter unpredictable terrain during their training or races.

The Vibram rubber also provides excellent durability, making this shoe a great investment for long-distance trail running.

Two carbon plates

Embedded in the midsole are two parallel carbon fibre plates that curve under your toes, ensuring a seamless transition throughout the gait cycle. These carbon plates minimise energy loss, enhance propulsion, and provide robust structural support, making running feel effortless and empowering you to achieve new personal bests. The design aligns with a runner’s natural form, fostering an efficient and smooth roll from initial impact to toe-off.

HOKA PROFLY X Midsole: softer cushioning and a firmer forefoot

The Tecton X 2, featuring a ProFly X midsole, provides outstanding cushioning, comfort, and propulsion. This midsole offers a soft yet dynamic experience, absorbing heel impacts and propelling you forward with a firm toe-off.

It includes two complementary foam layers: a soft, supple foam on the upper part for enhanced comfort, and Hoka’s super-critical CMEVA foam on the lower part for increased responsiveness with a slightly firmer feel.

Early-stage meta rocker

The Tecton X 2 boasts a subtle early-stage meta rocker that guides you through the gait cycle, promoting a smooth and stable heel-toe transition. This feature is especially useful on technical terrain when maintaining balance and stability is key. The rocker design also helps reduce fatigue and strain on your feet, allowing for a more comfortable run.

Durable rubber outsole

The Tecton X 2 features a durable rubber outsole designed for longevity and adaptability across diverse terrains. Equipped with Vibram Megagrip and Litebase technology, it offers dependable traction and grip, even on wet or slippery surfaces.

This makes the Tecton X 2 an ideal choice for trail runners navigating various terrains. Multi-directional lugs further enhance its durability and grip, making it perfect for both uphill and downhill running.

HOKA sustainability: Better for the planet

HOKA is renowned for its commitment to sustainability and minimising its environmental impact. The Tecton X 2 is no exception, with the brand utilising recycled materials in the construction of this shoe.

The Matryx upper is made from recycled nylon, and the Vibram outsole is crafted from 30% recycled rubber. HOKA also uses eco-friendly dyeing processes to reduce water consumption and minimise chemical usage.

This makes the Tecton X 2 not only a high-performance trail running shoe but also a more sustainable choice for environmentally-conscious athletes.

Trail marathon test run

I gave my HOKA Tecton X 2 the ultimate test by running the Farnham Pilgrim’s Marathon.  This trail marathon consists of challenging terrain with steep inclines, muddy trails, and rocky descents.

From the very first step, I could feel the cushioning and support of the Tecton X 2. The breathable upper kept my feet cool and dry throughout the race, while the Vibram outsole provided excellent traction on all surfaces.

But what stood out to me most was the combination of softness and responsiveness in the midsole. It allowed me to confidently tackle challenging uphill sections while still maintaining energy for a strong finish.

Overall, the HOKA Tecton X 2 performed exceptionally well during this demanding race, proving to be a top-performing shoe for long-distance trail running.

Our verdict

9.5 out of 10

The Tecton X 2 is an excellent option for runners looking for a high-performance trail running shoe with a balance of cushioning, stability, and durability. The combination of HOKA’s signature technologies and the sustainable design make it an excellent choice for both runners and the planet.

Whether you’re tackling technical trails or long-distance races, the Tecton X 2 will provide the comfort and support you need to push through any challenge.

Overall, we highly recommend this shoe for serious trail runners seeking a versatile and reliable option for their training and racing needs.  So why wait? Get your hands on a pair today and experience the incredible performance of the HOKA Tecton X 2 for yourself! Happy trails!

About this review:

We purchased these products with our own money. Our review contains affiliate links, where we may earn a small fee from a purchase. All our reviews are honest and fair.

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