Hoka - Tecton X Series

Have tried a few and here are my thoughts Saucony endorphin edges Very similar to endorphin pro 3s in ride. They are a fast shoe but let down badly by the grip (atrocious on wet rocks) and i struggled with the upper. Go half a size up to normal for these Brilliant for open firetrail Speedland SFD Is it carbon plated? Well they are in there but they offer the least assistance of any i have tried. Broad base and good grip with the absolute highlight being the lock down from the boas. Down side is they drain like shit without cutting the plug out and if you do that they let water in from any wet ground. Price is absurd for what you get Adidas terrex speed ultra This shoe is fast! Probably the quickest trail shoe i have used BUT They are incredibly unstable on anything even remotely uneven, hit a rock wrong and goodbye ankle. The instep rubbed my arch badly so only got 30k in them before passing them on l Hoka tecton x2 These have been an absolute workhorse for me. 400ks in my first pair and they have tons of life left in them. Maybe not the quickest ride but they are on par with the speedlands for stability but much lighter (cheaper too) Highlight for me is the way they drain Downside would be the tongue could be longer and thicker. Had issues with lace bite early on but got the fit dialed now. Great shoe for up to 50ks for me so far. Hoka tecton X3 Very bouncy ride, for me the most on par with road going super shoes. Took me a little to like and trust these shoes but now my go to race shoe. The grip is easily the best of all I have used including the X2s (can't beat vibram megagrip imo) They are wearing well and the ride settled down a touch to not throw me on bad landings( note it still will a bit) Down side, the lacing system not allowing a heel lock. Have to use thicker socks than normal (i prefer steigens) to mitigate the heel not locking 100% The upper is thicker than the X2s and doesn't drain quite as well but on par with most others

Have tried a few and here are my thoughts Saucony endorphin edges Very similar to endorphin pro 3s in ride. They are a fast shoe but let down badly by the grip (atrocious on wet rocks) and i struggled with the upper. Go half a size up to normal for these Brilliant for open firetrail Speedland SFD Is it carbon plated? Well they are in there but they offer the least assistance of any i have tried. Broad base and good grip with the absolute highlight being the lock down from the boas. Down side is they drain like shit without cutting the plug out and if you do that they let water in from any wet ground. Price is absurd for what you get Adidas terrex speed ultra This shoe is fast! Probably the quickest trail shoe i have used BUT They are incredibly unstable on anything even remotely uneven, hit a rock wrong and goodbye ankle. The instep rubbed my arch badly so only got 30k in them before passing them on l Hoka tecton x2 These have been an absolute workhorse for me. 400ks in my first pair and they have tons of life left in them. Maybe not the quickest ride but they are on par with the speedlands for stability but much lighter (cheaper too) Highlight for me is the way they drain Downside would be the tongue could be longer and thicker. Had issues with lace bite early on but got the fit dialed now. Great shoe for up to 50ks for me so far. Hoka tecton X3 Very bouncy ride, for me the most on par with road going super shoes. Took me a little to like and trust these shoes but now my go to race shoe. The grip is easily the best of all I have used including the X2s (can't beat vibram megagrip imo) They are wearing well and the ride settled down a touch to not throw me on bad landings( note it still will a bit) Down side, the lacing system not allowing a heel lock. Have to use thicker socks than normal (i prefer steigens) to mitigate the heel not locking 100% The upper is thicker than the X2s and doesn't drain quite as well but on par with most others

I use mafate speed 4s for most my runs but with use tecton x2s or tecton x3s for races depending on terrain.

I use mafate speed 4s for most my runs but with use tecton x2s or tecton x3s for races depending on terrain.

The front landing area is felt was already large. Noticed the issue on a few slightly rocky decents where I landed slightly awkward and yes would just roll straight out. Was enough for me to decide not for me. Stupidly quick shoe when it smoothed out though. Love my tecton X3s but the ultras were quicker on the flats and rolling stuff.

Few are duplicate pairs because i like the shoes that much. 3 pairs of hoka mafates and 2 pairs of tecton x2s

Not easy at all as each has its own roll to play really. For speed and versatility it's hard for me to go past the hoka tecton X2. Has been incredibly hard wearing, easy to hold quick paces in and yet to find terrain that is to much for it.

For me the lockdown is much better. The tecton x 3’s weak spot is there lacing and feeling harsh due to the carbon plate on technical terrain. I’ve never been a fan of On until this shoe. The lacing is solid and the nylon plate is just forgiving enough to be tolerable. There is a reason many people are still using the tecton x 2.5

If you back yourself to navigate the mud relatively well I’ve found the Tecton is the best shoe I’ve worn for jumping between techy/rocky trail and running on the road. I’m also England based and have used it in the mud a lot (obvs) and while it’s not ~great~ it holds up well enough that the benefit you get on other surfaces is worth it.

I’m ~800 miles deep on a pair of Tecton X2s

I’m on my 3rd season of switching to trail runners over hiking boots. Everyone may have a different experience but for me, my feet have never been happier (Hooka, Speedgoat 5).

I love the Hoka Tecton 2s for racing. They were a natural fit after predominantly training in wide Speedgoat 5s. Now splitting my training trail miles between worn out SG5s, newish SG6s (which I don’t like and will likely retire from running and use exclusively for hiking), and Norda 001s (currently wearing in). I’ll be happily using the Tectons again for my next race. Realistically the marginal benefits of super shoes will only be realised if they fit well and work for your gait / stride pattern. So trying on a bunch is the best way to go about it.

Hoka Tecton x3 Also bought Nnormal Kjerag as a rotation but it wasn’t working for my feet. Still looking for another shoe but the Kjerag has become a daily walking around shoe doing whatever. I actually find it’s getting more comfortable so I might give it another try (but maybe it’s wearing thicker non-running socks lol).

I’m a fairly competent climber but last summer I did some class 3 with the Hoka Tecton X3. It’s definitely not made for that but I wasn’t ever worried about having the wrong shoe either.

I sold my Speedgoat 6 after putting in about 60km, grip is good but overall quality is sub par. Have not run in Mafate but own two pair of Tecton x2, I like them but one pair blew out in the toe box after ca. 150km... I fixed them and they still go strong but I only use them on dry days and dry trails (Portugal and Colorado) for reference I am in Norway where the trails are super technical (rocks and roots) and often wet. Saucony... I love the Endorphin Speed for the road or treadmill but I have had two pair of Peregrine and not only do they run at least 1/2 size small for me they fell apart after less than 100km...and the grip was sub par to say the least. Never felt confident with them on wet trails. I have never ran in LaSportiva, I just don't like how they look or feel... same with Solomon. With all that said here is what I am currently running in: Tecton x2: again for dry trails only. 8/10 New Balance More Trail3: for the easy days and to have a little more cushion when running slow. Good grip, excellent comfort although the stack is a little high for technical terrain. 6/10 Scott Supertrac Ultra RC: A little on the heavy side but I use them with crampons in the snow. Good fit, good cushion and good traction after you break in the sole. 7/10 Speedland GS:RAR : very good shoe, very good quality... they pinch my pinky toe a bit but this has gotten better the more they break in also they were a little "slappy" at first when I was running slow but I trimmed some rubber at the heel and now they go smooth. 7/10 !!! Speedland GL:PDX : I fooking LOOOVE this shoe! So well built, such good traction... the velcro strap could be an inch longer but I am not complaining I have never had heel slippage, my toes have room to splay, the stack is low and I can add the carbon plate for extra fire! I have run almost exclusively in these since Christmas putting in at least 60km a week (~4,000m vertical) in wet technical trails and I have never felt insecure. Plus they are built to last! Tempted to buy another pair soon just to have as backup. 9/10 If you go Speedland put in Freetrail20 at checkout for 20% off 👌🏽

I have tried GoreTex and Seal Skinz and found that shoes or socks that have a membrane end up just as wet by the end of the run because my feet get all sweaty and maybe even heavier because they don't drain for shit. As far as brands go, here is a quick review NNormal (Tomir) started falling apart after 30km. Not impressed with fit, look or durability. Hoka: SG4 fantastic shoe, had 3 pair SG 5, never felt stable in my foot ran maybe 20km before I retired them to leisure shoe. Tecton/x V1 and V2 Super comfortable shoes, dog shit in the mud but I love them on the dry days. V3 blew apart in the forefoot after only two runs. I fixed them but they are not super stable either... we see how much I end up using them in the future. Altra: Lone Peak and Olympus...meh OnClouds went straight to goodwill, Saucony: Peregeine / Endorphin Rift again not impressed with durability and no good for mud and wet roots. Speedland: GL-PDX I looove them, just yesterday I was heading up the mtn and caught my foot on some hidden rebar, this would have destroyed the toe on any other pair of shoes that I own and I was sure I would look down and see a hole... nope, not even a mark. I am greatly impressed. They drain well and have nice traction as good or better than Vibram. GS:RAR Initial impression is that they fit well and after some minor adjustments to lugs are comfortable to run in on the treadmill, nothing outside yet as I will use them in the snow with crampons and in the summer. when it is dry. No experience with Norda, I don't like how they look imo Keep in mind that wool insulates even when wet and if you are going in a long run maybe bring a dry pair along for a pit stop ✅ I recommend this over membranes any day. For reference I run in Southwest Norway where we get around 300 days of rain yearly. Happy Trails 🤙🏼

I have tried GoreTex and Seal Skinz and found that shoes or socks that have a membrane end up just as wet by the end of the run because my feet get all sweaty and maybe even heavier because they don't drain for shit. As far as brands go, here is a quick review NNormal (Tomir) started falling apart after 30km. Not impressed with fit, look or durability. Hoka: SG4 fantastic shoe, had 3 pair SG 5, never felt stable in my foot ran maybe 20km before I retired them to leisure shoe. Tecton/x V1 and V2 Super comfortable shoes, dog shit in the mud but I love them on the dry days. V3 blew apart in the forefoot after only two runs. I fixed them but they are not super stable either... we see how much I end up using them in the future. Altra: Lone Peak and Olympus...meh OnClouds went straight to goodwill, Saucony: Peregeine / Endorphin Rift again not impressed with durability and no good for mud and wet roots. Speedland: GL-PDX I looove them, just yesterday I was heading up the mtn and caught my foot on some hidden rebar, this would have destroyed the toe on any other pair of shoes that I own and I was sure I would look down and see a hole... nope, not even a mark. I am greatly impressed. They drain well and have nice traction as good or better than Vibram. GS:RAR Initial impression is that they fit well and after some minor adjustments to lugs are comfortable to run in on the treadmill, nothing outside yet as I will use them in the snow with crampons and in the summer. when it is dry. No experience with Norda, I don't like how they look imo Keep in mind that wool insulates even when wet and if you are going in a long run maybe bring a dry pair along for a pit stop ✅ I recommend this over membranes any day. For reference I run in Southwest Norway where we get around 300 days of rain yearly. Happy Trails 🤙🏼

When I "technical trail" I winder what people mean because where I am at we have some black diamond shit. Wet, mossy rocks, mud, roots, more rocks and scree... we have everything except dry trails for 300+ days a year to put it into perspective. With that said I run in the following, ranked from most used to least... 1. Speedland GS GAR with some spikes added (3 on toe area and two all the way at the back) for a liiiitle extra grip on wet roots or rocks. I love these shoes for the wet, long run days. I leave the carbon plate out of these. 2. Speedland GL PDX: tempo/threshhold/ 5k, 10k even 20k but no more than that. Deeper lugs also helps when it gets really sloppy and also same spike arrangement added and I like the carbon plate in these. 3. VJ Ultra 3: Not the super deep lugs like the Inov8 shoes but amazing rubber and a really good wide toebox fit... at least by my standards. Hoka Tecton/x 3: On the dry days where the trails have had a couple days prior to really get things dry. I really love these shoes but they just don't have the traction for trails as technical as these. Hoka Zinal 2: For the short up's / hill races, hill sprints, etc. added a Sper Feet sole to these to add a little stiffness and protection. That's my quiver and my recommendations :) at least for trails...

I really like the Hoka Tecton X and X 2. You can still find those online at a few places for really good prices. I haven’t tried the X 3, which have good reviews but are $$$

I really like the Hoka Tecton X and X 2. You can still find those online at a few places for really good prices. I haven’t tried the X 3, which have good reviews but are $$$

Hoka Tecton X. I haven’t tried the newish X 3, but the original X and the X 2 have been great for races with lots of runnable trail plus road sections. I’ve run in other trail shoes that felt awful when I had to cover road sections, but the Tectons are great.

Hoka Tecton X. I haven’t tried the newish X 3, but the original X and the X 2 have been great for races with lots of runnable trail plus road sections. I’ve run in other trail shoes that felt awful when I had to cover road sections, but the Tectons are great.

Buy the Tecton X3. Run a lot of technical trails. Do some downhill-specific leg strength training and your ankle issues are going to be a thing of the past.

Try a pair of Tecton X3's if you are a Speedgoat-fan. Carbon-plated supershoes made for 100 milers.

I thought I would hate the built in gaiter on the hoka tecton x, but it turns out I love them and the shoes stay on my feet better than the previous two model years of the Challenger I wore. I've been wearing hokas for over 10 years.

Hello. I come from the same issue. I had major issues with Plantar Fasciitis after running in the Speedcross and S/Lab Speed for many years. My first shoe was the Hoka Speedgoat Evo. That was an epic shoe, but sold out everywhere so quickly I only ever ran in one pair. Since then I’ve tried many similar shoes, looking for great grip, soft and bouncy ride, but good stability as I over-pronate, plus I recently developed osteoarthritisin my big toes. So, I really rate the following: - Hoka Mafate Speed 4. Good all rounder - Salomon S/lab genesis. A little narrow and unstable but speedy and shed mud quickly - La Sportiva Prodigeo Pro - great foam and good grip, lightweight. - Saucony Xodus Ultra - 1 and 3 are pretty good, ignore the 2. - Hoka Tecton X 3 - my go-to race shoe for hard packed trails and gravel I like the Speedgoat, Catamount, Fuji Lite, Ultra Glide too but they all have compromises that the shoes above don’t have in the same way.

Hello. As a lot of people say, a good road shoe will be good on the hard packed trails as well. But if you want a bit more traction and security, go with something that has a good foam and a smaller lugs. Options I’ve run in and like include: - Hoka Mafate Speed 4 / Tecton X - Salomon Genesis / Ultra Glide - La Sportiva Prodigio Pro - Merrell Agility Peak 5 - Brooks Catamount 4 - Saucony Xodus Ultra 1 / 2 (avoid the 3) For reference I am 85kg and usually run 30km / week.

Hoka Mafate 5 is comfy and fun. Mafate Speed 4 is still good but a little narrower and not quite so bouncy. I used to run in Speedgoats a lot but think the 5 & 6 are missing some comfort and the foam isn’t returning the energy of newer shoes. Salomon Genesis or Ultra Glide are both good if you can accommodate a narrower fit. I prefer the protection of the Genesis over the Ultra Glide. Prodigio Pro is also fun and bouncy, but much lighter, less protection around the ankle and so a bit more stripped back. Everyone I know loves them though. Hoka Tecton X 3 is a similar proposition to the Prodigio but both are spendy. Hoka is slightly more stable and bouncy but there is very little in it. If you want the best outsole rubber money can buy, look at the VJ Ultra 3. Seriously, the lugs and rubber is like glue. Finally, the Saucony Xodus Ultra is a good shoe for distances like this. It’s also comfy and protective. Just avoid the 2 or 3 and go for the latest version 4.

My absolute favorite shoes for long haulers is Tecton x3 and I feel they are well worth their price tag. Only they don’t cut it on more technical terrain. That said shoes like Prodigio Pro are quite close.

I used to rock Altra shoes. But when I increased mileage uphill I got problems. Running on road gave no problems. Today I prefer 4-6mm drop over zero drop. Presently my favorite trail shoes are Tecton x3 and Prodigio Pro. I am keen to try out Norda 005 and VJ Ultra 3.

I have the same experience with Saucony Edge. Great shoe but I also get blisters on my heels. I have therefore migrated to Hoka Tecton x3 for non technical trails and La Sportiva Prodigio Pro for more technical trails.

I have done the same thing and have tried out very many shoes. One of my favorites have been Inov8 TrailFly 300, but in wet conditions it lack grip on hard surfaces. I also like Saucony Endorphin Rift for its midsole but I get blisters on the side of my heels. At the moment the Tecton x3 is my favorite for long runs but the upper lacks support so it is not that good on technical terrain. Brooks Cascadia is such a joy to run but I would not take it past 30k. On Monday the mailman will deliver a couple of new candidates namely The North Face Enduris 4 and the Vectiv Pro 3. Maybe one of them is the holy grail or maybe such a shoe doesn’t exist.

I do not have any experience with the Norda. The Tecton x3 is great shoe if things aren’t to technical. The Prodigio Pro is also great and it handles technical stuff much better

Sure, but there is more to it. The Tecton x3 gives me problems with low support from the upper and the high stack. But a shoe like Prodigio Pro seems much more stable.

I like the Hoka Tecton x3 for running in sand though it has been on beaches not deserts.

La Sportiva Akasha II is fairly wide and great for technical terrain. Brooks Cascadia is wide and has a great outsole. Hoka Tecton x3 is wide has a great outsole but the upper does not give a super hold down. Still a great shoe.

Brooks Cascadia if you don’t run very far Hoka Tecton x3 if the terrain is not too technical (the upper is kind of loose - good for comfort bad for support). Saucony Endorphin Rift is kind of the same as the Tecton x3 though I prefer the Tecton x3. And then I hope the coming North Face Vectiv Pro 3 will be the holy grail…

I like Tecton x3 and Saucony Endorphin Rift though both could use more support in the upper. La Sportive Prodigio Pro are in the mail so I hope they will be perfect

I have done most of my trail running in Tecton x3. As goes for vests I have been testing Eclipse 12 from Instinct Trail as well as the All Weather version of Adv Skin. Both vests will be included in my rotation.

My favorite shoes in 2024 for the trails have been Saucony Endorphin Rift and Hoka Tecton x3. Both accommodate rather wide feet.

I bought the Mafate Speed 4 in the fall and found them to have really good grip on complex terrain. Ran a 30km race in them quite comfortably with lots of steep technical terrain. I also have a pair of the Tecton X3, which someone else mentioned, and used them for a relatively less technical 80km. I would not use them on the types of trails you described. They are killer fast for gentler stuff but not great when every step involves roots and rocks.

Nnormal Kjerag 2 (24/18mm) and VJ Lightspeed (29/23mm) are my favorite shoes for technical trails (up to 21 km). For 42 km runs, I have used VJ Maxx2 (31/25mm) and Hoka Tecton X3 (40/35mm) for some extra cushion. The new Kjerag 2 is really good! I would probably have the Tomir as well in my rotation, if not for the 8mm drop ... (There is always VJ Ultra 3 (38/30mm), Mafate 5 (44/36mm), Mafate X (49/41mm), Rocket X Trail (50/44mm) for even more stack ... but good luck to your ankles if you wear those on technical trails ...)

I’ve been training with the Tectonx3 as well and enjoy them. Thinking about using them for my 25’ races unless I find something snappier. The logo’s started to peel off the sides for me and they have <100miles.

Thanks for the feedback. I have been looking to replace my ASU’s with something similar and was considering the Vectiv Sky 2’s. The ASU’s are my favorite race shoe to date but I rolled my ankle in them 4 times during my last 100 and it really pissed me off towards the end. I have the TectonX3 too but they feel much flatter and less snappy. 

I tried Nike Ultrafly’s and the Hoka Tecton 2. I liked the Tecton a lot and used them for a 50M non technical race , they were great.

Hoka Tecton X 3, and on technical trails La Sportiva Prodigio Pro

I have a Tecton X 3 from Hoka with a carbon plate, and in really technical terrain the plate is more of a problem.............I'm taking the Prodigio Pro to a very technical 100km ultra next week, instead of the Tecton X 3, the absence of a plate is more of a positive for me on the trail [https://believeintherun.com/shoe-reviews/la-sportiva-prodigio-pro-review/](https://believeintherun.com/shoe-reviews/la-sportiva-prodigio-pro-review/) [https://www.roadtrailrun.com/2025/04/la-sportiva-prodigio-pro-review-4.html](https://www.roadtrailrun.com/2025/04/la-sportiva-prodigio-pro-review-4.html)

I’ve switched almost entirely to trail runners including on a lot,of rugged terrain. I did find that when I was using Hokas that I had an increased tendency to roll my ankle after about ten miles. I like the padding, but have found lower drop shoes to be better for this. Altras are good, but I destroy them in about 300 miles. Trying Topos right now. Not as padded, but low drop with a wide toe box and they seem to be holding up better.

Trail runner will be fine. I was talking to a guy recently that said the AT requires real boots. But even by his argument, trail runners will be fine. The thing with trail runners is when you are tired, it is easier to roll your ankle. I have only found this to be a concern when I was using Hoka. Altras and Topos have less to zero drop and they don’t have this occur for me. Though Altras kind of suck for durability (expect 300 miles unless they fixed things). And Topos have less padding and are not as comfortable.

Love my Tectons as well.

I have the Saucony Endorphin Edge, the Nike Ultrafly, the Adidas Speed Ultra, S/Lab Genesis, S/Lab Pulsar, Hoka Tecton X1 et X3, etc. I have over 60 shoes, trail and road. Each of these super shoes is very different ... For 12km technical races, I've been using **Pulsar SG** for the past few years because it's the lightest + most nimble + deeper lugs. But it's not the most versatile imho, it's quite narrow and I would not run longer distances. I would say my top 3 so far : 1- Tecton X3 : first pick for training and for races over 25km, if it's not too technical 2- Endorphin Edge : first pick for less than 25km, if it's not too technical 3- Nike Ultrafly : first pick for soft midsole, training any distance I'm not sure what I would use for a technical 12km+ race. Maybe S/Lab Genesis but I've not tested enough. Regarding, Adidas Speed Ultra, it's a very narrow shoe, not a fan so far. Tecton X1 is fine for training. I tried Norda 001 but returned it, I was not really impressed for the price. I will probably try Norda 005.

I have the Saucony Endorphin Edge, the Nike Ultrafly, the Adidas Speed Ultra, S/Lab Genesis, S/Lab Pulsar, Hoka Tecton X1 et X3, etc. I have over 60 shoes, trail and road. Each of these super shoes is very different ... For 12km technical races, I've been using **Pulsar SG** for the past few years because it's the lightest + most nimble + deeper lugs. But it's not the most versatile imho, it's quite narrow and I would not run longer distances. I would say my top 3 so far : 1- Tecton X3 : first pick for training and for races over 25km, if it's not too technical 2- Endorphin Edge : first pick for less than 25km, if it's not too technical 3- Nike Ultrafly : first pick for soft midsole, training any distance I'm not sure what I would use for a technical 12km+ race. Maybe S/Lab Genesis but I've not tested enough. Regarding, Adidas Speed Ultra, it's a very narrow shoe, not a fan so far. Tecton X1 is fine for training. I tried Norda 001 but returned it, I was not really impressed for the price. I will probably try Norda 005.

ASICS Trabuco Max 3, Hoka Tecton X3, and Adidas Agravic speed ultra are three of my favorite trail shoes right now.

Just got the new Salomon Slab UltraGlide. It’s very nice. The foam feels nice and springy. I also really like the Hoka Tecton X3s.

I live in AZ and a lot of the races I’ve done have been in the desert. I really like the Hoka Tecton X (haven’t tried v3, but I’ve had several pairs of the v2) paired with gaiters to keep the sand out. Even with the rocky desert terrain, I can get 300+ miles out of these shoes, which is way better than some others I’ve tried (cough, Speedgoats).

I loved these too! I still have a couple pairs in my rotation because I was able to find them on clearance at Nordstrom Rack, but I haven’t checked lately to see if they still have any. I have a pair of the 3s and they’re fine but I don’t like them as much as the 2s (or even the originals) and they’re even more expensive!

I loved these too! I still have a couple pairs in my rotation because I was able to find them on clearance at Nordstrom Rack, but I haven’t checked lately to see if they still have any. I have a pair of the 3s and they’re fine but I don’t like them as much as the 2s (or even the originals) and they’re even more expensive!

Looks like the same treatment they gave to the Tecton X 3. I absolutely loved the first two versions of that shoe but the 3 was a mess. Wider, bigger, squishier stack, just stretchy everywhere. The thing literally tried to roll over on my foot on anything more technical than smooth hard pack. I don't know why they're moving away from anything that could be considered a fast but still comfortable, technical shoe.

Yes, absolutely. For me it’s how likely I am to clip the outside of my heel. Lower height and zero-drop shoes make me run more on the forefoot, much safer on technical terrain. I run in Speedgoats on my easy weekday runs, Tecton X’s for the more technical weekend

I agree that Speedgoats are more ankle-rolly than my Tecton X’s or eg Altras. Chunkier heel = more chances to catch the outside edge of the heel. But your (my!) technique is the more important factor.

There isn’t a shoe that will work well in fells and road. You’ll have to sacrifice one or the other. There’s unfortunately no shoe that does it all. NVII Terra TT, VJ Xtrm have a bit nicer protection than Inov8s while being a proper hill shoe with superb grip. Various Scott Supertrac versions have more cushioning but they often have a very “dead” feeling on the road. Saucony Peregrine ST are very decent in mud but not so good on the rock and feel a bit burly. More than decent on the road as far as shoes go. Hoka Mafate/Tecton are great on more groomed trails but wouldn’t be my choice for most hill races in Scotland. Ditto on Saucony Xodus.

Late to the party here. How would you compare the lockdown to the Tecton x 3? I found my foot moved more than I would like with the tecton on steeper descents.

If you can find Tecton X2 in your size, they were great for that. I don't think the plate makes someone like me faster but my legs are fine after long runs.

So I’m in a predicament, I’ve put about 25 miles in these tecton x 3s. Last week I felt slight rubbing in my big toe but learned to run in the shoe and it went away. Today, I experienced crazy heel slippage and started getting a heel blister, as well as rubbing on the side of my feet causing slight irritation/baby blisters. Size 9 fits great on me but I’m thinking about returning :( only issue is that everyone here says it takes a while to break in? Am I jumping the gun? All of a sudden I’m having a hard time justifying the price on shoes that cause issues. I normally run with saucony exodus 2s (the 3s were terrible) and never had any issues, any thoughts?

Oh God. Superblast -> daily trainer, 780km, nearing end of life. Love it. Superblast 2 -> expect to be new daily trainer. Still giving me blisters, but seems otherwise good. Sc trainer -> was daily trainer until I did 100km in superblast. Now use as a slower daily trainer. Alphafly 3 -> did my Achilles in them on my 3rd run, so not using them until after my next ultra. Love the feel, worried they are too aggressive. Sc elite v4 -> go fast shoes. Give me blisters, but great shoes. Rc elite v2 -> keep up with a faster mate, occasional quicker parkrun. Favourite shoes ever. 1080x v12 -> going away shoes, sore and *need* to run slow shoes. Comfortable for slow Speedgoat 5 -> daily trail shoes, nearing end of life. First pair was super comfy, second pair less so. Speedgoat 6 -> expect to be new daily trail shoes. Tecton x 3-> go fast trail shoes. Blisters made me bleed, bit unsteady, but fast on easy trails. Tarkine trail devils-> change up trail shoes (particularly slower runs). Probably good value per km compared to hoka, but feel very similar to speedgoats. Maybe a touch low volume given my forefoot tends to hurt, but nice and wide toe box. Retired, but still have: 3x ultraboosts x21 Pegasus 35 (probably should bin) Ultraboost 19 (or something) Speedgoat 5 (hiking only)

Hoka Tecton X. Great energy return, breathable for summer.

X 3 feels sooooo good on my foot, but I’ve come to realize I’m nowhere near fast enough to justify shoes this expensive. They’re super fun though and had my feet feeling amazing from start to finish of this year’s Black Canyon 100k.

I’m 300 km deep on a pair of Tecton X3s. Wild how good this shoe feels at the end of a long run. I’ve worn them on super technical stuff and haven’t had any issues with stability. Planning on racing in them at the Black Canyon 100k next weekend!

I’ve had two pair and just usually cut the gaiter off, I live in the SE USA were it stays wet and humid, so I don’t like having another piece of wet fabric stuck to me all day.

this is very helpful, thank you! Did you ever try the Tecton X2 (I did and absolutely abhorred it... cut into the back of my ankle hardcore and I read that was a common issue). The 3s are so pricy that I don't think I will try them. I will look inot the NF Enduris and Topo Vista. It's fun to try different shoes and ultimately, I could fall back on the Challengers if need be; I can get 500 miles or so on those and they are priced so well.

The tecton X2s cut into my ankle hardcore and I could not figure out how to make that not happen! They are also pretty firm!

6’1 and 205-210. I’ve really enjoyed Hoka Mafate 4’s. Better cushion (not too soft either) and last longer than the Speedgoat 5s. Current pair is at 400 miles and still feels great. I also have really liked the Tecton X2’s. I have a couple pairs that are all in good shape at 300+ miles each.

Not a different brand but you should try on a Hoka tecton X, they're not too tall and pretty stable.

I personally really like Hokas for the trails. I've put 500+ miles into every pair of Hoka Speedgoats I have owned--really just the lugs start to wear down after a while. The Hoka Tectons are the more responsive racing shoe and I like them for flatter, faster trail races. What are your preferred road shoes? Some brands have a trail "sister shoe" that is basically a re-soled version of the road shoe with a rock plate

I’m not sure what I’d use them for over the tecton. I find the tecton on the slightly wider side for me anyway and these look wider still? I’m just not sure I can justify the rocket x trail when the tecton can do their job and more?

Hoka Tecton X version 2 - sadly can’t find anymore anywhere

My go-to recently has been the Hoka Tecton x2's. I have Lone Peaks I enjoy wearing on occasion for a more natural feel.

Had my TX3s for around 60km now. There’s a lot to like but also some fairly fundamental issues that means I’ll most likely sell em. The fit is perfect - the upper fits me so much more comfortably than any other Hokas I’ve owned. I have a wider forefoot and have no issues in terms of either volume or big/little toe pain. The built in gaiter works well, and is super easy to get in and out of - I don’t know why this sorta thing is not standard on trail shoes. The issues for me are completely ride-based. I’m a forefoot striker and run at quite high cadence. I’ve found this quite hard in these. The bounciness/rebound is just too too much for me. It almost feels like the shoes want to take off with each step. Whilst climbing this is a very helpful aspect but on descents it just feels wrong. With all the foam under your feet you’d think descending would be fast and easy - I’ve found the opposite. Heel striking feels heavy and awkward. I put well over 1000km on my TX1s - they are still in light use - and I ran and raced in them with pleasure. IMO they are simply better trail running shoes than the 3s. I’ll be sticking em on eBay soon.

Had my TX3s for around 60km now. There’s a lot to like but also some fairly fundamental issues that means I’ll most likely sell em. The fit is perfect - the upper fits me so much more comfortably than any other Hokas I’ve owned. I have a wider forefoot and have no issues in terms of either volume or big/little toe pain. The built in gaiter works well, and is super easy to get in and out of - I don’t know why this sorta thing is not standard on trail shoes. The issues for me are completely ride-based. I’m a forefoot striker and run at quite high cadence. I’ve found this quite hard in these. The bounciness/rebound is just too too much for me. It almost feels like the shoes want to take off with each step. Whilst climbing this is a very helpful aspect but on descents it just feels wrong. With all the foam under your feet you’d think descending would be fast and easy - I’ve found the opposite. Heel striking feels heavy and awkward. I put well over 1000km on my TX1s - they are still in light use - and I ran and raced in them with pleasure. IMO they are simply better trail running shoes than the 3s. I’ll be sticking em on eBay soon.

20 is likely much, but compared to a SG5 (not your list of shoes) I’d say it’s a noticeable difference. I only had SG5 for a while. When I retired them I got the Tecton x3, and eventually the prodigio pro. Huge difference going from the sg5 to x3!! Maybe not 20 seconds but noticeable. I wouldn’t shut up about them for a while. But the x3 vs prodigio bro is much more comparable. I’m not a professional but my preference is the x3 for things that are more runnable and the prodigio pro for more technical climbing.

I think it's meant to be a straight competitor to the agravic speed ultra. The tecton is still biased towards comfort whereas this seems to be no compromise performance first. If it's more stable than the ASU it might win some people over. Lugs are a personal preference. I find they work on my ASU and the only scenarios they didn't are situations where any other shoe would have struggled aswel. (ankle deep mud soup or wet flat rock slab).

Up to 9 models of trail shoe and still looking... La sportiva bushido (500+ mi): great shoe but not enough of a rocker and limited cushion for longer days. Salomon ultra glide (350 mi): great shoe but limited durability of midsole and not stable enough on varied terrain. Hoka speedgoat 5: loved this shoe but can only seem to get 300 mi out of the midsole before I notice significant decline (still brought 5 pairs of these to 300+) Hoka Mafate speed 4 (320+165mi): loved this shoe but a set or two of the eyelits are not reinforced and will eventually rip, and the toebox is too narrow for me and gives blisters on the outside of my big toes. Saucony peregrin 3 (150 mi): like this shoe but long days or steep ascents are too much and the heel counter gives blisters (disclaimer: I have bony heels). I wear this for shorter runs with some tech but not much steep uphill. Saucony xodus 1 (250 mi): like this shoe but doesn’t perform well on technical terrain in terms of stability and outsole-lugs sheered off on first technical downhill. I wear this for non technical trails. Altra lone peak 7 (300+ idk): like this shoe but just for non technical trails, Toe box is too wide to get a full lockdown. I use this shoe for hikes and walks on non technical terrain and it is the shoe i wear more than any other bc it is my daily shoe at work, where i am on my feet a few hours every day. Nnormal tormir 2 (200 mi): like this shoe but the lockdown doesn’t prevent my toes from cramming into the front of the toebox on steep descents. I wear this for technical trails without steep descents. Hoka tecton x2 (12 mi): I have only worn this shoe twice for shorter (6 mi) runs, but it doesn’t seem to have the level of midsole comfort/cushion that would get me past 20 miles. I wear this for workout/faster runs on trails. Hoka tecton x3: bought these for a race because of the upgrades to the midsole and then got injured and couldn’t do the race. Feel amazing on my feet and am excited to try these out when I have an opportunity. My trail shoe rotation is almost complete. But I am still searching for the unicorn: a trail shoe that has a grippy and durable outsole, a lockdown that is a good for technical trails and steep descents, and a midsole that is sufficiently stable, cushioned, and resilient. I like the outsole of the tormir, the midsole feel and durability of the tormir and xodus. And I like the lockdown of the bushido and speedgoat. If only the tormirs had a better lockdown…if only the speedgoat midsole didn’t degrade at 300 miles. Should I try the Nnormal Kjerag? Is there a frankenshoe out there for me? Redditors what say you TLDR: is there such a thing as a trail shoe that has a durable and grippy outsole, durable,stable, and cushioned midsole, and a lockdown for technical trails and steep descents?

Up to 9 models of trail shoe and still looking... La sportiva bushido (500+ mi): great shoe but not enough of a rocker and limited cushion for longer days. Salomon ultra glide (350 mi): great shoe but limited durability of midsole and not stable enough on varied terrain. Hoka speedgoat 5: loved this shoe but can only seem to get 300 mi out of the midsole before I notice significant decline (still brought 5 pairs of these to 300+) Hoka Mafate speed 4 (320+165mi): loved this shoe but a set or two of the eyelits are not reinforced and will eventually rip, and the toebox is too narrow for me and gives blisters on the outside of my big toes. Saucony peregrin 3 (150 mi): like this shoe but long days or steep ascents are too much and the heel counter gives blisters (disclaimer: I have bony heels). I wear this for shorter runs with some tech but not much steep uphill. Saucony xodus 1 (250 mi): like this shoe but doesn’t perform well on technical terrain in terms of stability and outsole-lugs sheered off on first technical downhill. I wear this for non technical trails. Altra lone peak 7 (300+ idk): like this shoe but just for non technical trails, Toe box is too wide to get a full lockdown. I use this shoe for hikes and walks on non technical terrain and it is the shoe i wear more than any other bc it is my daily shoe at work, where i am on my feet a few hours every day. Nnormal tormir 2 (200 mi): like this shoe but the lockdown doesn’t prevent my toes from cramming into the front of the toebox on steep descents. I wear this for technical trails without steep descents. Hoka tecton x2 (12 mi): I have only worn this shoe twice for shorter (6 mi) runs, but it doesn’t seem to have the level of midsole comfort/cushion that would get me past 20 miles. I wear this for workout/faster runs on trails. Hoka tecton x3: bought these for a race because of the upgrades to the midsole and then got injured and couldn’t do the race. Feel amazing on my feet and am excited to try these out when I have an opportunity. My trail shoe rotation is almost complete. But I am still searching for the unicorn: a trail shoe that has a grippy and durable outsole, a lockdown that is a good for technical trails and steep descents, and a midsole that is sufficiently stable, cushioned, and resilient. I like the outsole of the tormir, the midsole feel and durability of the tormir and xodus. And I like the lockdown of the bushido and speedgoat. If only the tormirs had a better lockdown…if only the speedgoat midsole didn’t degrade at 300 miles. Should I try the Nnormal Kjerag? Is there a frankenshoe out there for me? Redditors what say you TLDR: is there such a thing as a trail shoe that has a durable and grippy outsole, durable,stable, and cushioned midsole, and a lockdown for technical trails and steep descents?

Zegamas also get a lot heavier if wet, so if there is chance of that, another reason to look elsewhere. If you want spend some cash, the Tecton X 3 would be a great fit in this situation! Others similarly priced shoes to consider. North Face Enduris, only a bit lighter than the Zegama but more cushioned and doesn't feel as heavy. Breaths better. Topo Vista - also only a bit lighter than the Zegama and about equal cushion. I'm excited about it nonetheless. Finally, I replace a lot of my lower stacked shoes insoles with beaded tpu insoles which adds a bit of cushion and resiliency. Cheap way to make a shoe you like more cushioned, but you do have to be aware of volume of the shoe to make sure it doesn't cause issues.

No but had the v1 on the Tecton. Upper worked well for, but the midsole was a bit harsh. I forgot to mention that the vista doesn't come out until the summer, but Topo also has the Ultraventure which might also work.

The only sound advice I can give you is locate a store and try them on for a test run. I love speedgoats and the tecton x2. I tried the nike’s but they are too narrow overal for my liking, or Maybe they don’t fit to my feet. I found the saucony peregrine a little indirect and not stable enough for my liking. Asics were even worse.

I've found the Salomon Speedcross really super. Some folks find them slightly narrow. I have both the standard and Goretex edition and they gave been really super for mud, hills and all a trail can throw at you. My only note is if your route is trails and roads they are quite solid so the road section is not so nice but I suppose it's the flip side of why they are good on trails. I really feel that my foot is in the Speedcross where as my Hoka Tecton X2 are good but in comparison I almost feel like I'm running on them as opposed to feet in them and supported. You're going to get lots of different answers to your question. All the best

I have ▶️ Hoka Tecton X2 - Trail speed ▶️ Salomon Speedcross 6 Goretex - wet days trails ▶️ Salomon Speedcross 6 - Dry days ▶️ Asics Novablast - Track work ▶️ Asics Nimbus 25 - All road runs other than races ▶️ Nike Vaporfly 2 - Race day only (roads) ▶️ Adizero Pro 4 - New race day shoes (roads) I know I have too many but I really value the grip on the trails and how the road shoes work for me.

The problem is not overall volume but rather the shape - speedgoats are tapered toward the toes. Other models like Tecton x3 and Mafate speed are better in this regard.

Adidas will be too narrow for sure. Metafuji gets poor reviews, unstable. If Hoka works for you why not try the Tecton X3? It's supposed to be more relaxed in fit than the SG6.

Slab is way too narrow both are old. makes no sense to buy now. norda 005 is currently the best trail running shoe on the market, Hoka tecton x3 as a second.