The HOKA Rocket X 3 is a carbon-plated racing shoe built for road races from the 5K to the marathon. Lightweight, responsive, and stable underfoot, it blends race-day propulsion with thoughtful updates for comfort and control.
Best use
Surface
Cushioning
Stability
Product Highlights
Staying true to the performance profile of its predecessor, the Rocket X 3 retains HOKA's high-rebound superfoam, keeping the ride light, snappy, and responsive across all distances. But this version brings meaningful upgrades where it matters most.
A revised carbon fiber plate now features winglets that enhance stability and control without dulling the propulsion you expect from a super shoe. Paired with the same energetic midsole foam, this new geometry keeps you fluid and confident at top speeds. While its Cielo X1 sibling is made for pure racing speed, this updated Rocket X offers a steadier and more approachable option for an even greater variety of runners.
Up top, a single-layer engineered mesh keeps things light and extra breathable, while a stitch-and-turn collar construction helps reduce the risk of blisters. HOKA also removed the gusseted tongue, making step-in easier while still delivering a secure midfoot wrap. Finishing up, a revised outsole with sticky rubber improves traction across varied conditions.
Whether you're toeing the line at a local 5K or lining up to PR a marathon, the HOKA Rocket X 3 is a carbon-plated running shoe built to go fast, feel smooth, and inspire confidence from the first stride to the finish.
What You'll Love:
- Made to be a more stable and user-friendly super shoe for racing
- Carbon fiber plate with added winglets for extra control
- Lightweight upper designed for breathability and blister reduction
- High-performance superfoam delivers a responsive, race-day ride
Model Number: 1168724-ARFR
Specs & Fit
Shoe Specs
| Weight: | 7.4 oz 210 g |
| Heel Stack: | 40 mm |
| Forefoot Stack: | 33 mm |
| Heel-Toe Offset: | 7 mm |
How It Fits (based on D width)
| Sizing: | True to size |
| Heel Width: | Medium |
| Midfoot Volume: | Medium |
| Toe Box Fit: | Medium |
| Arch Height: | Medium |
Technologies
MIDSOLE
- Carbon fiber plate with winglets for race-day propulsion with added stability for better control at high speeds.
- High-rebound PEBA superfoam carries over from the Rocket X 2, offering the same energetic, cushioned feel. The two supercritical layers create a dual-density combination of responsiveness and comfort.
- Active Foot Frame incorporates foam sidewalls to help cradle your foot securely and comfortably, like a sports car bucket seat.
OUTSOLE
- Sticky rubber compound helps deliver improved grip across a variety of surfaces and conditions.
UPPER
- Single-layer engineered mesh creates a race-ready fit that's more breathable than before.
