Introduction to the Hoka Rocket X 3
THOMAS: Hoka has gone from having zero street race day choices a few years in the past to now having two. First got here the Rocket X 2. Then, final 12 months, the Cielo X1 arrived. Of the 2, solely the Rocket felt prepared for critical race day efforts, lastly sporting a PEBA midsole with an aggressive rocker that stored issues shifting shortly. That’s to not say we didn’t love the primary Cielo– it was one of the crucial enjoyable sneakers we’ve ever examined. It simply wasn’t race prepared.
This 12 months, Hoka seemed to tighten issues up and redraw the borders across the race day duo. The outcome? The Cielo X1 2.0 was lighter and tighter, making it quick and enjoyable for any distance. It mounted most of the points we had with the unique, and although it’s nonetheless a tad heavier than most race day sneakers, its aggressive rocker, distinctive bounce, and added stability turned it right into a reliable choice for the marathon.
Two years in the past, the Rocket X 2 was the apparent race-day choose for Hoka. However now, with a redesigned Cielo within the combine, is the brand new Rocket X 3 nonetheless the higher alternative?
The reply: It relies upon.
When you’re a heel striker—or a triathlete—the Rocket X 3 may go greatest. However for midfoot strikers, the Cielo X1 2.0 seemingly takes the sting.
Let’s have a look at what’s modified within the Rocket X 3.
