I have run two ultras and train regularly in this shoe. The performance of this shoe is phenomenal because of its responsiveness, lightness and fit. One point I disagree with other reviews on is that this shoe is absolutely capable on any terrain. I was skeptical of the small lugs and proprietary Hoka rubber, but after racing hard and using this shoe in fast downhill workouts (all of which in technical terrain), I have found it to perform just as well as any other shoe with Vibram rubber and bigger lugs. I find that it is perfectly capable on any Wasatch trail! The shoe is also quite stable for the stack height due to its wide footprint. Overall it is a fantastic shoe and Hoka nailed it with this one!
Sizing: True to size is slightly small for typical Hoka sizing, but I just wear a thinner sock with them and don't have an issue. If you prefer thicker socks, consider going up a half size.
HOKA Rocket X Trail Shoe
When The Oracle (Strava) says you haven't beaten your PR yet, maybe it's time to fix with a supershoe. Introducing the HOKA Rocket X Trail, a super-shoe designed for a faster time on less technical ultra-marathon courses. Like the Tecton X 3, this supershoe features an H-shaped carbon-fiber plate for enhanced dynamic propulsion and energy return, along with a highly secure upper and a minimalist tongue. The midsole has been inverted, flipped 180°, beneath the plate, to focus on shock absorption before pressure is distributed upward to the carbon plate. This allows the shoe to remain stable at high speeds and replace high cushion with a more targeted specialization on shock absorption. With a rocker profile that would make road super-shoes blush, and a lightweight Vibram outsole for unparalleled grip, the Rocket X Trail stays true to its name by allowing you to blast off and leave your competitors and old PR in the dust.
SkyRun Fit Tip - The Rocket X Trail fits true to your measured US size.
- Dual carbon H-shaped plate for dynamic energy propulsion.
- Inverted midsole to prioritize stability and shock absorption rather than cushion directly underfoot.
- Light, minimalistic, breathable mesh upper and low-volume tongue.
- Dynamic and breathable upper keeps your toes cool and flexible.
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
|
Weight |
285g [10.5] |
| Weight (pair) | 570g [10.5] |
|
Lug |
3.5mm |
| Drop | 6mm |
| Stack Height | 35mm |
| Specs Verified | Yes |
| Design | |
| Fit | Medium Volume |
| Last | Medium |
| Cushion | High |
| Protection | Medium |
| Lacing System | Traditional |
| Outsole | Vibram |
| SkyRun Says | |
| Usage | Speedy distance runs |
| Notes | Parallel carbon-fiber plates |
| Bottom Line | Long races of a less than technical nature |
| Compare to other Race Shoes | |
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Questions & Reviews
Comment on this review:
6/4/2026
ben s
(used product regularly)
Echoing Mathew's opinion below. These shoes are awesome when used in the right setting. Living in the Wasatch, I grab these shoes when going for any pace run on smoother, flowy trails (sections of the bst, Millcreek and N side of BCC singletrack), or whenever I find myself pounding pavement. The energy return from the midsole is truly phenomenal, promoting fast turnover without an overbearing amount of rocker. Ankle stability in these shoes was my main concern, however on the kind of terrain these were built for, I have not had any issues, and my trust is growing greatly. All around phenomenal shoe for cruisey trails, gravel roads, and even pavement.
Comment on this review:
11/20/2025
Matthew
(downright abused product)
If using these for the right thing: flowey trails I think these things hit the mark. I’ve trained extensively and ran 50 mile ultra race, and they’re holding up extremely well. I think importantly they keep the legs fresh after long runs. Traction no concern. Despite running in them for 7+ hours feet felt great no blisters or toe issues.
I think size up they may fit a little short.
I think size up they may fit a little short.
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