Gear Review: HOKA Tecton X3

Publication date: 29 Nov 2024

GearHiking shoesShoes

The HOKA Tecton X3 is the latest evolution in HOKA’s trail-running lineup, offering an exciting blend of cutting-edge technology and performance. Known for its dual carbon-fiber plate construction—a standout feature in the Tecton series—the X3 refines this innovation with updated materials and a streamlined design.

Built to tackle rugged terrain with confidence, it features a lightweight yet durable upper, an energetic midsole, and Vibram® Megagrip Litebase outsole for optimal traction. Whether you’re a competitive trail runner or an adventurous weekend warrior, the Tecton X3 promises speed, comfort, and control in a sleek new package.

Chris König

Chris works as an outdoor photographer and can regularly be found in nature with his camera and tent: the higher the mountain, the better. He is always on the lookout for the balance between real emotion, atmosphere, and lively action. Next to his passion for photography, he organizes workshops in countries such as Iceland, Kyrgyzstan and Greenland.

Chris is also active as a travel and photojournalist for various media, including Columbus Magazine, NatGeo Traveler, Lonely Planet NL and the NKBV.

You can find more of Chris’ work on his website and Instagram!

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Testing the HOKA Tecton X3

The HOKA Tecton X3 is a shoe built for speed, responsiveness, and stability on technical trails, making it the ideal companion for mountain adventures. I tested these shoes on the forest paths of Slovenia’s Julian Alps, where the steep climbs and rocky terrain put their performance to the test. With a lightweight construction and reliable grip, the Tecton X3 handled the conditions easily.

The Julian Alps were the perfect place to test the Tecton X3s. The shoe’s lightweight feel and traction were immediately obvious, which meant that I felt confident in my movements in the alpine. This definitely helped prove its potential for high-performance mountain adventures. The use of carbon plates in the base of the shoe was an interesting design choice that brings some advantages to the responsiveness of the shoe, but it also makes it a bit stiffer.

About HOKA

HOKA is a brand well-known in the trail-running and hiking communities for its innovative, maximalist designs that emphasize cushioning and lightweight stability. Originally designed to enhance endurance for ultrarunners, HOKA shoes are now popular across lots of outdoor activities. Known for pushing the limits of comfort and durability, HOKA creates shoes that cater to adventurers on all types of demanding landscapes.

About the Tecton X3

The HOKA Tecton X3 is the first in what I guess will be a wide range of shoes in a new direction for HOKA. With it, they focused on speed, agility, and responsiveness for technical trails. Named after tectonic plates, the Tecton series is designed to “shift the landscape” of trail running, with carbon fiber plates for added propulsion and control. The Tecton X3 combines HOKA’s signature cushioning with the carbon-fiber plate technology, making it a great choice for runners who want performance on rugged mountain trails.

Specifications

HOKA Tecton X3
Upper	Lightweight, breathable mesh with protective overlays
Midsole	Dual-layer PEBA foam with embedded carbon fiber plates for added propulsion
Outsole	Vibram Megagrip Litebase for enhanced grip and reduced weight
Weight	Approx. 280 g (men’s size 42)
Stack Height	Moderate stack with a balance of cushioning and ground feel

pro's

Smooth ride: Carbon fiber plates add responsiveness for faster-paced trail running.

Excellent grip: The Vibram Megagrip Litebase outsole means strong traction on steep, rocky trails.

Lightweight design: I found it to be ideal for speed-focused runners who need stability without added bulk.

Breathable upper: Kept my feet cool during strenuous climbs, suitable for warmer weather.

Versatile cushioning: They were comfortable for both short, intense runs and long-distance adventures.

Collar: I liked that the attached collar kept dirt out of the inside of the shoe.

con's

Carbon plates may feel stiff: Not ideal for runners preferring a more flexible feel.

Less insulation: Because they’re so breathable, they may require extra layering in colder conditions.

Limited durability for technical use: The lightweight materials may show wear faster on rough terrain.

Conclusion

I found the HOKA Tecton X3 to be an exciting choice, especially for trail runners who want speed, responsiveness, and lightweight agility on technical paths. In the Julian Alps, the shoe’s traction and propulsion stood out, which I thought made it my ideal companion for challenging climbs and fast descents. While the Tecton X3 may not suit you if you’re seeking a soft, flexible ride, the carbon fiber plates and lightweight construction make it perfect for runners who want a competitive edge in mountainous terrain.

Gear Review: HOKA Tecton X3

About HOKA

About the Tecton X3

Specifications

Conclusion

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