The Hoka Tecton X3 is the latest model in the top-of-the-range Hoka trail shoe collection. New and improved foam, two carbon fibre plates, a Matryx® upper, an innovative design... The brand has not skimped on developments. So we asked Sylvain Cachard, recent winner of the Skyrhune, to test this version and compare it to previous versions.
What running/trail shoes have you already used?
I've had the opportunity to try out a number of Hoka shoes over the years. The ones I've used include the Zinal 1 and 2, the Mach 5 and 6, the Clifton 8, the Torrent 2 and 3, the EvoJaws and the Rehi. More recently, I've been able to try out both versions of the Tecton X, the first edition and the brand-new Tecton X 3.
Under what conditions did you use the product?
In the case of the Tecton X 1s, I've used them in a wide range of climatic conditions, from wet and muddy to dry and hot. These shoes accompanied me on relatively rolling routes, such as the trails around Mont Blanc, where they proved to be extremely versatile.
As for the Tecton X 3s, I tested them mainly in wet conditions, but always on rolling terrain. I still haven't clocked up as many kilometres as I did with the first version, but they're already performing very well in these environments.
Did you like the design of this product?
I find the design of the Tecton X 1 trail shoes quite old school, with a fairly massive last. I prefer the design of the Tecton X 3, which is much closer to the foot and has tones that I really like!
What little extras did you particularly like about this product?
The carbon plate adds real comfort and dynamism to the shoe.
And on the contrary: were there things you didn't like?
Tecton X 3: The integrated gaiter with the shape of my foot led to some overheating in my Achilles tendon. In my opinion, this model needs to be 'used' a bit before running in them, by wearing them in everyday life before running in them, for example.
For what type of runner / body type. Would you recommend this product?
In my opinion, the two versions of this model are better suited to longer distances (over 4 hours of effort), whatever the level of runner.
Is this the first time you've run with this brand? Have you ever raced with an equivalent on another brand?
For me, the Tecton X 3 is the most complete and competitive model, thanks to its balance between comfort and dynamism. The Tecton X 1 is more stable on technical terrain. I'd add a small note of caution about the integrated gaiter, which can lead to some overheating when the boot is new.
To sum up, what's your opinion on these shoes?
Both versions are excellent shoes for medium to very long distances. Version 3 is much more sought-after for its comfort and dynamism. Version 1 is a little more stable. That's why, for the OCC, which is a fairly short distance where stability takes precedence over comfort, I preferred to run in the Tecton X 1s.
