Hoka Tecton X 3 Review

When it comes to navigating technical terrain with confidence, few carbon-plated shoes rival the sure-footedness of the Tecton X 3. While earlier versions lacked the responsiveness of other carbon-plated options, this latest iteration from Hoka delivers improved energy returns without compromising stability or confidence. Its knit collar and Matryx upper effectively keep debris out, while the redesigned lugs offer enhanced grip, particularly on downhill sections. For trail runners seeking top-tier performance across diverse terrains, the Tecton X 3 continues to set itself apart in the carbon-plated shoe category.

Performance Comparison

Foot Protection

The Tecton X 3 has ample underfoot cushioning that provides great protection against both trail debris and fatigue. Thanks to the carbon-plated wings embedded in the midsole, the shoes feel springy yet protective. A blend of high cushioning, stack, and carbon plates provides high protection. This high protection does cause the model to feel vague at times and on technical terrain as there is less feedback to your brain for micro-adjustments. However, the Tecton provides the most confidence out of any of the carbon-plated shoes.

A thin toe bumper helps protect against any accidental impacts but is less rigid than some of the others in our lineup. The Matryx upper is both comfortable and durable, and the new knit upper helps keep out trail debris. Most carbon models suffer in technical terrain, but this Hoka shoe is an exception in the market.

Traction

The Tecton X 3 works solidly in a wide variety of terrain. Out of all the carbon models we tested, this model has the most aggressive lug pattern. The shoe has directional lugs in this update, with the heel lugs reversed to offer increased downhill performance and grip.

The Vibram Megagrip with Litebase is our favorite compound on the market. This offers great durability and performance on a wide variety of terrain and offers security on both dry and wet terrain.

The hardness of the Vibram rubber also allows for better mud shedding in wet conditions. This is particularly important for long races where changing conditions and terrains are expected. The X 3 works well over a wide variety of terrain. It can be used for everything from uptempo road runs to more technical mountain races where performance matters.

Sensitivity

With a heel stack of 36 mm and forefoot stack of 32 mm, this is one of the higher-stacked trail shoes in our lineup. This isn't a surprise, given its ample cushioning and carbon-plated midsole. While the Tecton X 3 excels in a lot of scenarios, it's better during full strides and less precise for micro footsteps in technical terrain and through rock gardens. Your technique and skill level will determine how far you can push the X 3 but expect it to feel less sensitive than a low drop, low stack model.

This reduced sensitivity does, however, aid in the reduction of fatigue, and this would be one shoe that we'd recommend up to the full 100-mile distance. This is due to the benefits that carbon provides once you begin to fatigue. Carbon tends to feel overbearing when not running as hard, but if performance is your greatest concern, this is the model we'd recommend — especially if you are running buffed/moderate trails.

Stability

Hoka does a great job of blending many aspects of performance, and this shoe is decently stable. The X 3 feels playful but provides lateral support that aids the effectiveness of the carbon wings. This benefits your running economy even when fatigued, and we noticed confidence in the ankles, knees, and hips.

The high stack creates more discomfort when side-hilling or traveling on talus and scree, so this shoe should mostly be used on trails. It does a great job on roads, gravel, and easy-to-moderate terrain. We took it on some advanced ridgelines and noticed no discomfort, but more caution needs to be taken, especially when running at speed. Out of all the carbon-plated models, the Tecton X 3 feels the most like an unplated shoe.

Comfort and Fit

The most noticeable change in the X 3 version is the updates to its knitted upper, which extends just above the ankle. This helps keep out sand and small rocks — handy in race scenarios where keeping your feet clean is crucial. We continue to like the Matryx fabric, which breaks in nicely and helps form around your feet after use. The model is a little less snug than the previous version, which helps with swelling after long days.

The lacing system is now integrated into the knit upper. While we largely don't have any complaints, we find the previous tongue design fits our feet better. One downside of knit uppers is that if your foot does not quite fill the shoe, it folds over on itself. A standard tongue design, in our opinion, does a better job of filling these volume changes over different foot shapes. But if it fits your foot well, this is one of the shoes we'd recommend across speed and distance, all the way from short-tempo runs to hundred-mile efforts.

Weight

At 10.38 ounces per shoe (men's US size 10.5), the Hoka Tecton X 3 packs a punch in such a light package. The shoe feels fluid and lively and not weighed down. Its pop and rocker help maintain great form throughout hard workouts, and it offers a consistent ride over many different terrain types. With great protection and stability, it's easy to see why this is such a favorite by professionals and serious runners.

If you're looking for a lightweight shoe packed with the latest tech, this is the model for you. While there are lighter carbon-plated options on the market, none provide as nearly as much versatility and performance. We'd recommend this most to serious runners who want a lively, comfortable shoe that's great for training and racing.

Should You Buy the Hoka Tecton X 3?

The Tecton X 3 is best for those who care about time and performance. The added carbon plate makes the shoe springy and lively but can sometimes feel overbearing if you aren't running focused and engaged. For more serious athletes, the Tecton X 3 makes a lot of sense and is our favorite carbon-plated trail running shoe. It excels in technical terrain where other carbon-plated models feel tippy and uneasy. For beginners and those less focused on pure time, the model may be overkill and you are better off finding a shoe that more closely aligns with your current running style.

What Other Men's Trail Running Shoes Should You Consider?

For days with big verticals, we love the Nnormal Tomir 2.0, which features one of our favorite midsoles. This provides great energy return without sacrificing comfort on long runs. If you aren't quite convinced you need carbon but still want the feeling of high energy return, check out the La Sportiva Prodigio or the Brooks Catamount 3.