The HOKA ONE ONE Carbon X is a race-day speedster disguised as an everyday trainer.
Featuring a carbon-fiber plate, the Carbon X propels you forward with each step. Designers put a slight curve in the stiff plate to work with the midsole’s rocker shape. Together, the plate and midsole shape give the shoe an exaggerated forward roll for a silky smooth ride.
But it’s not just another fast racer: Carbon X packs the cushion, too. HOKA sandwiched the carbon-fiber plate between two slabs of protective foam, which gives it a signature HOKA feel. The two layers of foam aren’t as squishy as other HOKA running shoes—like the Bondi 6 or Clifton 6—but they make the shoe a capable distance runner.
Fleet Feet runners praised the shoe’s ability to run fast and provide maximal cushion. In the Carbon X review, one runner says, “It has a rare combination of the low-to-the-ground feeling and responsiveness of a racing flat and the protectiveness of a high-cushion shoe.”
So lace up the HOKA Carbon X next time you’re targeting your personal records—it’s up for the challenge.
Tech specs
Price: $180
Weight: 7.2 oz, women’s size 7; 8.7 oz, men’s size 9
Drop: 5 mm
Use: Race day, everyday trainer
Surface: Road, track
4.8/5 on 22 total reviews
This is a great shoe. It's fast. It's comfortable. It keeps you on your forefoot. It's super light. Two complaints: They are impossible to put on. I know that sounds crazy, but the heel collapses very easily. Must have the heel loop to pull on. Secondly, they untie 100% of the time if I don't double tie. However, if you can get them on and remember to double tie, they are a great shoe!
Bought them for a birthday gift. He loves them! They run small so order 1/2 size up from the normal. Otherwise, wonderful running shoe. I have the same in women's and love them as well.
Great shoe. I'm using it as my daily trainer. Lots of spring in it. About 30 miles in so far and it still feels great. The carbon plate definitely gives a bit of push, but not like some of its competitors, which is why it's not a racing shoe for me, although one could race in these. I would definitely recommend these and will buy them again.
Fast, comfortable, and durable shoe for training and race day. The carbon fiber plate is not just hype. An excellent road shoe.
Shoes feel light and comfortable. I recommend them.
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