The Hoka Mach X 2 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models of 2026

The Hoka Mach X 2 is a versatile running shoe, ideal for tempo and long runs. Designed for runners seeking a lightweight option, it features a significant energy return that enhances performance.

Lab results indicate that the shoe's cushioning provides a responsive ride, making it suitable for various paces. The design includes a low-volume, tapered toebox, which may restrict comfort for some users. Additionally, the heel collar has been reported to cause irritation and blisters.

While the Hoka Mach X 2 offers strong overall performance metrics, further comfort improvements could enhance the running experience.


Pros

  • Excels in long-distance workouts
  • Fun running experience
  • Superior energy return
  • Lightweight design for a supertrainer
  • Adapts to multiple paces
  • Surprisingly good durability
  • Airy, breathable upper
  • Ideal for tempo runs

Cons

  • Heel collar causes Achilles discomfort
  • Price increase
  • Small, tapered toebox
  • Drop differs from stated

Key Features

  • Breathable Woven Upper: Keeps your feet cool and reduces moisture buildup.
  • PEBA-Topped Midsole: Provides excellent cushioning and energy return.
  • Increased Rocker Profile: Allows for an aggressive toe-off, enhancing speed.
  • Pebax® Plate Design: Extends for added support and propulsion.
  • Sleeker Collar: Offers improved fit for a more streamlined experience.

Specifications

  • Origin: Imported
  • Sole Material: Thermoplastic Elastomers
  • Outer Material: Cotton
  • Inner Material: Textile

Hoka Mach X 2 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

Hoka Mach X 2 Puma MagMax Nitro HOKA Mach X 3 NOBULL Journey
Price $190 $180 $190 $179
Pace Daily running Daily running Daily running Daily running
Arch support Neutral Neutral Neutral Neutral
Weight lab Weight brand 8.7 oz / 247g 10.3 oz / 291g 9.3 oz / 264g 9.4 oz / 266g
Lightweight
Drop lab Drop brand 10.9 mm 9.6 mm 9.5 mm 9.4 mm
Strike pattern Heel Heel Heel Heel
Size True to size True to size - -
Midsole softness Soft Soft Soft Soft
Difference in midsole softness in cold Small Big Small Big
Toebox durability Good Decent Decent -
Heel padding durability Good Decent Good -
Outsole durability Good Decent Good -
Breathability Moderate Moderate Moderate Breathable
Width / fit Medium Medium Narrow Narrow
Toebox width Medium Medium Narrow -
Stiffness Moderate Stiff Stiff Stiff
Torsional rigidity Stiff Stiff Stiff Moderate
Heel counter stiffness Flexible Moderate Flexible Flexible
Rocker
Heel lab Heel brand 44.6 mm 42.9 mm 42.9 mm 35.2 mm
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand 33.7 mm 33.3 mm 33.4 mm 25.8 mm
Widths available Normal Normal Normal Normal
Orthotic friendly
Season All seasons All seasons All seasons Summer
Removable insole
Ranking Bottom 1% Top 9% Bottom 4% Top 35%
Popularity Top 14% Top 46% Top 20% Bottom 7%