Announced at $250, the Hoka Rocket X Trail positions itself as a race-focused model that draws on the DNA of the Rocket X 3, well known on the road for its dynamic midsole foam and carbon plate. The author was expecting to find a “fast, fun, bouncy” feel on paths, but feels that the road’s energy return doesn’t translate in quite the same way to trail running.
When it comes to fit, the most striking point is the adjustment. The author says the Rocket X Trail offers a better fit than more traditional Hoka models like the Speedgoat 7 and the Mafate 5. They also note that, after testing a U.S. men’s 13 following a too-short 12.5, they didn’t find the usual pressure on the forefoot in this category, attributing that comfort to the upper’s design.
In terms of measurements, the shoe uses a 37-millimetre stack under the heel and 31 millimetres at the forefoot, for a 6-millimetre drop. The author also compares its on-foot behaviour to a closely related version, the Tecton X 4, noting that the Rocket X Trail has shallower lugs, a softer midsole, and more foam under the foot.
The most concrete episode comes from the Rattlesnake Ramble race, held last year in Eldorado Canyon near Boulder (Colorado). On a 4.25-mile course, the author estimates that only “about half a mile” is truly technical, and describes how, after practice runs with the Rocket X 3, a full-speed test on the technical section nearly led to an injury. They then move on to the Rocket X Trail, which they find is enough and fast for that part.
Finally, the outsole and the traction/efficiency compromise are presented as the main limit. The lugs measure 3 millimetres and are positioned to reduce resistance, with a central zone where the outsole is almost lugless. The author says it’s enough on firm ground, gravel, and dry singletrack, but that the limits show up on climbs on loose terrain, in mud, and on wet rock.
