Comparison:
HOKA Rocket X 3 vs HOKA Rocket X 2
The Rocket X is a long-distance, carbon-plated super racer from HOKA. Here we will be comparing version 3 and version 2.
Comparison:
The Rocket X is HOKA's popular marathon racer. It has HOKA's best midsole foam and it has a full-length carbon plate for propulsion. It has a friendlier, more stable ride than HOKA's other carbon racer, the Cielo X1. Version 3 of the Rocket X has a few updates which give it a vastly different ride to version 2. They both cost $250.
This comparison will tell you which version is better for you.
Similarity and differences: HOKA Rocket X 3 vs Rocket X 2
Expert score
7/10
9/10
Weight
7.4 oz
8.3 oz
Heel Drop
7 mm
5 mm
Verdict
The HOKA Rocket X 3 is a decent, very stable racer with a soft ride that’s best suited to the marathon distance; however, it suffers from outsole durability issues due to its midsole being too soft. Version 3 has a softer ride and a more flexible carbon plate, resulting in a slower, more relaxed ride than its predecessor. It also has a plusher upper with better comfort.
The Hoka Rocket X 2 is a top-tier marathon racer with a soft, energetic ride. It has smooth, stable transitions and a stiff carbon plate for speed assistance. Version 2 is a vast improvement over the original version although it comes in at a higher weight and a much higher price.
Recommended for
Racing, speedwork
Racing, speedwork, long distance racing
Cushioning type
Balanced/plush
Responsive
Cushioning amount
Highly cushioned
Highly cushioned
Flexibility
rigid
rigid
Stability
very stable
some stability
Sizing
buy half size bigger
buy half size bigger
Retail price
US$249.95
US$250
Sole unit: HOKA Rocket X 3 vs Rocket X 2
The Rocket X 3 has a dual-density PEBA midsole with a softer PEBA on the top and a firmer PEBA on the bottom. It has a soft ride compared to other super shoes and it has a high level of energy return.
The Rocket X 2 has the same midsole setup as the X 3 however its midsole foams are firmer. This means that during transitions, your feet don’t sink down into the midsole as much and it results in a faster ride. The X 2 provides a firmer platform to push off from.
The carbon plate in the X 3 has been redesigned. It has a wing that extends out on the lateral side and it feels more flexible than the plate in the X 2. The stiffer plate of the X 2 provides more propulsion (it feels more snappy) and it increases the rocker effect.
The X 2 has a more prominent rocker thanks to its stiffer forefoot and its firmer ride. This makes transitions feel faster. The X 3 also has a rocker but it’s noticeably milder.
When it comes to stability, the Rocket X 3 feels more stable. It has a wider base so foot strikes feel more planted. It also has the redesigned carbon plate which offers more stability and support. If you need a lot of support when racing, the X 3 will feel better for you.
The outsole durability of the X 2 is better than the X 3. This is because its midsole foam is firmer, which makes it more resilient and more resistant to scratches and chips. The X 2 will last longer than the X 3 if you’re a hard striker.
Upper unit: HOKA Rocket X 3 vs Rocket X 2
The Rocket X 3’s upper is lot more comfortable than the X 2. This is mainly due to the extra padding that’s in the collar and heel tab of the X 3. The material is also softer and conforms to your feet better than the plastic-like upper of version 2.
The X 2 has a semi-gusseted tongue but the X 3’s tongue isn’t gusseted. There isn’t any tongue slide though because it has wide wings that hold it in place.
Both versions have very narrow toe-boxes so it’s important to go up a half size. Both versions are not suitable for runners with wide feet.
Which one to buy: HOKA Rocket X 3 vs Rocket X 2
The Rocket X 3 is the version you should buy if you prefer a softer ride with more stability. It has more long-distance comfort and it offers more support thanks to its wider base. The X 3 also has a more comfortable upper with better heel lockdown. Version 3 is lighter than v2 if weight is an important factor for you.
The Rocket X 2 is the version you should buy if you want a faster ride which is firmer. It has a stiffer midsole thanks to its more rigid carbon plate. It also has a more prominent forefoot rocker which makes the ride feel more punchy. It has a more durable outsole which will last longer- you can use it for training workouts.
Best price online: HOKA Rocket X 3 vs Rocket X 2
This expert review is written by
Brandon Law
Marathon Runner and Shoe Expert
Brandon is a South African marathoner based in Malaysia, where the humidity is high and his shoe rotation is even higher. He’s a runner with a full-blown addiction to running shoes. Most people buy shoes to run—Brandon runs to justify buying more shoes. If there’s a new drop, he’s probably already logged 100km in them.
