HOKA Unleashes the Rocket X 3: A Race Day Innovation Engineered for Peak Performance
HOKA®, a performance footwear brand under Deckers Brands (NYSE: DECK), has officially launched its latest racing innovation — the Rocket X 3. Crafted to support athletes striving for new personal bests, this elite race-day shoe combines cutting-edge design with advanced engineering to deliver unparalleled speed, stability, and long-distance comfort. The Rocket X 3 is now available globally through HOKA.com and authorized retail partners.
Built for the Fastest Version of You
The Rocket X 3 is specifically designed for competitive runners and serious athletes aiming to push their performance boundaries. Central to the shoe’s design is a dual-density PEBA foam midsole, known for its lightweight construction and ultra-responsive energy return. This midsole works in tandem with HOKA’s proprietary Active Foot Frame™, which cradles the foot securely within the midsole for a more controlled and stable ride, especially at high speeds.
A standout feature of the Rocket X 3 is its newly updated carbon fiber plate, designed with a lateral winglet to enhance both propulsion and stability. This plate maximizes energy return with every stride, making it easier for runners to maintain momentum during race-day efforts. For added grip and confidence on varied road conditions, the outsole features sticky rubber that enhances traction without compromising speed.
The upper has also been reimagined with a focus on weight reduction and breathability. Constructed from a single-layer engineered warp knit jacquard, the upper is lightweight, flexible, and breathable — ideal for keeping feet cool and supported through even the most grueling miles.
Engineered for Every Second That Counts
According to Colin Ingram, Vice President of Global Product at HOKA, every detail of the Rocket X 3 was created with race-day excellence in mind. “The Rocket X 3 is the newest edition of an icon in our racing lineup,” Ingram said. “It’s the perfect shoe to help runners reach their next personal record. We’ve meticulously refined every aspect — from the upper and midsole to the outsole — to deliver the speed, stability, and traction that elite racing demands. With all the effort that goes into preparing for race day, our goal was to ensure every second counts.”
Weighing just 6.5 oz (185g) for a women’s size 8 and 8.2 oz (226g) for a men’s size 10, the Rocket X 3 also features a 7mm heel-to-toe drop, making it both lightweight and performance-optimized for long-distance efforts.
Experience Innovation Firsthand
To celebrate the launch, HOKA will host the Rocket X Flylab — an interactive, behind-the-scenes experience showcasing the advanced technology behind the Rocket X 3. This immersive event will be available at major marathons this fall, including the Berlin and New York City Marathons, giving runners and enthusiasts an inside look at the performance-driven engineering behind HOKA’s flagship racing shoe.
The Rocket X 3 is available starting July 1, 2025, at a suggested retail price of $250.
