Table of contents Best PricesCoreScoreVerdictProsConsComparisonWho should buy the Hoka Carbon X 2Hoka Carbon X 2: A protective speedsterA fantastic rideA cozy cradleThe Hoka Carbon X 2's upper unitA stable baseEasy to wear actionCarbon X 2 vs. 1: A familiar but upgraded rideNice to know about the Hoka Carbon X 2Facts / SpecsPopularityVideo reviews
Overview

Who should buy the Hoka Carbon X 2

The Hoka Carbon X 2 might suit you well if:

  • A shoe that offers ample airflow to keep your feet fresh and cool.
  • Daily errands require you to change footgear every so often that an easy-to-put-on pair would be convenient.
  • You are looking for a shoe that could handle marathon and above-marathon distances.
  • You like running on pavements. 

Hoka Carbon X 2 Logo1

Hoka Carbon X 2: A protective speedster

Sporting a combination of flexible carbon-fiber plate, Meta Rocker, and lightness, there is no doubt that the Carbon X 2 from Hoka is designed to go fast. But what's even better is that it doesn't forgo Hoka's signature impact protection. Thanks to the shoe's ample cushion, the foot is enveloped in comfort in each step. 

Hoka Carbon X 2 Midsole1

A fantastic ride

The Hoka Carbon X 2 creates a feeling of constant forward motion. It "runs for you," thanks to its carbon-fiber plate and rockered shape.

Hoka Carbon X 2 Ride1

A cozy cradle

Less stiff than the original, many runners agree that the step-in feel is outstanding and the shoe requires little to no break-in period. They even go as far as saying that all miles are pain-free. 

Hoka Carbon X 2 Insole1

The Hoka Carbon X 2's upper unit

The Hoka Carbon X 2 offers consistent lockdown, thanks to its non-stretch upper. It also has a "nice, breathable feel."

Hoka Carbon X 2 Upper1

The shoe's heel cup, experts claimed "resists pull-out fairly well." There's no slippage at all. 

Hoka Carbon X 2 Upper2

A stable base

Runners find the shoe's stability first-rate and exemplary especially on uneven asphalt and gravel, attributing it to the shoe's wide base. 

Hoka Carbon X 2 Outsole1

Easy to wear action

Because of the elf-like heel collar, which can double as the shoe's pull tab, this iteration permits easy on and off.

Hoka Carbon X 2 Pull Tab

Carbon X 2 vs. 1: A familiar but upgraded ride

The feel and ride of the Hoka Carbon X 2 and the 1's are pretty much alike. But here are some tweaks Hoka made to the Carbon X 2 to make it more fit for both slow and uptempo paces: 

  • Less stiff upper for better comfort 
  • Just like the Nike Zoom Fly 3, the shoe's carbon-fiber plate is less rigid for a more flexible toe-off. 
  • The extended tail (Swallow Tail design) adds stability and dampens impact during heel strike. 
  • Because the shoe's foam is much softer, it's also bouncier. 

Hoka Carbon X 2 Upgrades1

Nice to know about the Hoka Carbon X 2

The Hoka Carbon X 2 has reflective accents on the upper, which is perfect for nighttime running or low-light hours.  

Hoka Carbon X 2 Nice to Know1

Facts / Specs

Terrain: Road
Weight: Men 247g / Women 221g
Drop: 5mm
Arch support: Neutral
Update: Hoka Carbon X 3
Forefoot height: Men 27mm / Women 25mm
Heel height: Men 32mm / Women 30mm

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Hoka Carbon X 2 video reviews

Author
Jens Jakob Andersen
Jens Jakob Andersen

Jens Jakob is a fan of short distances with a 5K PR at 15:58 minutes. Based on 35 million race results, he's among the fastest 0.2% runners. Jens Jakob previously owned a running store, when he was also a competitive runner. His work is regularly featured in The New York Times, Washington Post, BBC and the likes as well as peer-reviewed journals. Finally, he has been a guest on +30 podcasts on running.

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