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Hoka One One’s latest update to its marathon racer, the Carbon X 2, brings key improvements that make it more accessible and comfortable for a wider range of runners. Designed with heel strikers in mind, the second version of the Carbon X offers enhanced support without sacrificing the speed and responsiveness that made the original popular.

A Better Fit for All Gait Patterns

One of the most noticeable changes in the Carbon X 2 is its more inclusive design. While the original Carbon X was better suited for midfoot strikers, the X 2 has been adjusted to cater to all running styles, including heel strikers. A protruding heel, similar to the one found on Hoka’s TenNine, provides extra stability and shock absorption for those who land on their heels. The revised upper also ensures a more secure fit, with ample toe room and a snug midfoot that helps lock the foot in place, creating a more comfortable ride overall. Some testers did note that the shoe runs large, so going half a size down may be necessary for the best fit.

Enhanced Durability and Comfort for Long Distances

The Carbon X 2 stands out for its durability, especially for longer distances. With a carbon-fiber plate embedded in the midsole, the shoe delivers snappy transitions and maintains responsiveness throughout the race. Unlike its predecessor, which was favored for shorter races, the X 2 is a more versatile shoe that can serve as both a training and racing option. This makes it a great choice for marathoners who need a shoe that can handle both daily workouts and race day.

Compared to Hoka’s other racing shoe, the Rocket X, which is designed specifically for speed on race day, the Carbon X 2 is the more approachable option. While the Rocket X caters to elite runners and is focused on short-distance efficiency, the X 2 offers a softer, more accessible ride, making it ideal for those looking to perform well over longer distances while still feeling comfortable.

Real-World Testing and Performance

I had the chance to test the Carbon X 2 at a race in the Poconos. Due to an ongoing foot injury, I opted for a 10K instead of the marathon, but the shoe’s comfort and stiffness proved to be a great choice. The X 2 helped prevent further aggravation of my injury by providing a stable, supportive platform. In contrast, during a previous marathon, I struggled with discomfort from the Saucony Endorphin Pro’s narrow upper and tight lacing, which exacerbated my foot pain. The X 2, with its snug fit and secure upper, allowed me to finish in third place without further issues.

While the X 2 may not be as flexible as some other racing shoes, its stability and comfort made it the clear choice for me, especially with my injury. The shoe’s design prevented my metatarsals from flexing too much, allowing for a smoother, more controlled race experience.

Tester Feedback

Wear testers have praised the Carbon X 2 for its secure fit and performance. Larry S., a tester since 2014, appreciated the shoe’s firm feel, which he prefers over softer, cushier soles. He found the fit to be excellent, with the shoe holding his heel in place while providing plenty of room for his toes. Meanwhile, Tim O., another tester, noted that the shoe’s gusseted tongue and sturdy heel provided additional support, making it a solid choice for race day.

Conclusion

The Carbon X 2 is a more inclusive and comfortable update to Hoka’s marathon-racing shoe. With improved support for heel strikers and a more secure, streamlined fit, it’s a versatile option for both training and race day. The addition of a protruding heel for better shock absorption and a snappy carbon-fiber plate for quick transitions makes this shoe a great choice for runners of all gaits looking for a performance shoe that can handle the miles. Whether you’re racing a 10K or a marathon, the Carbon X 2 is built to help you achieve your goals with comfort and speed.

For many runners, foam rolling is seen as a necessary part of recovery, though not always a pleasant one. Some even find it somewhat torturous. However, elite distance runner Chelsea Reilly Sodaro views foam rolling as an essential mental and physical release after a tough training day. For her, it’s not just about muscle recovery; it’s a time to unwind.

“At the end of the day, I pull my foam roller out while I’m watching TV with my husband,” says Sodaro, who has a 10,000-meter personal best of 32:05. “It’s a nice way to relax, spend time together, and multitask, all while ending my training day on a positive note.”

Self-myofascial release (SMR) is a technique that includes foam rolling and using tools like massage sticks. Research has shown that these methods can improve range of motion, reduce muscle soreness, and aid in recovery. But what’s interesting is that many runners also report mental benefits from foam rolling, feeling a sense of control over their recovery process, which can enhance their overall performance.

How Foam Rolling Impacts Mental Well-being

When you feel better physically, it can translate into better performance. “When we feel good, we do better, and when we do better, we feel better,” says Nike running coach Robyn LaLonde. While foam rolling may not heal an injury, it can certainly help prevent one by maintaining muscle flexibility and reducing tightness. Plus, it fosters a sense of control over your training and recovery, which can be key to maintaining a positive mindset.

Foam rolling may also help reduce stress hormones like cortisol. By alleviating muscle tightness and pain, it gives runners a tool to manage physical discomfort, which can be mentally draining. For example, consider two runners feeling a new twinge during the taper before a race. One consistently uses a foam roller, while the other avoids it. The runner who regularly rolls is likely to stay calm, knowing how to address the issue with the right technique and pressure. In contrast, the second runner might panic or overdo it in an attempt to compensate.

The Emotional Benefits of Foam Rolling

Some experts believe that fascia, the connective tissue that covers muscles and internal organs, may carry sensory data and emotions, much like nerves. This theory suggests that when you release tight spots and knots during foam rolling, it could send positive signals to the brain, providing an emotional boost. Greg McMillan, an exercise physiologist and running coach, theorizes that this could lead to faster running due to the mental benefits of releasing physical tension.

However, not all research fully supports these psychological perks. A small study in 2014 found no significant difference in cortisol levels between women who foam rolled for 30 minutes and those who simply relaxed. Nevertheless, for runners like Sodaro, the confidence gained from her foam rolling routine is undeniable. She makes sure to bring her foam roller with her wherever she travels, even tying it to her carry-on bag with a stretching rope.

Foam Rolling and Consistency in Training

For Sodaro, foam rolling is as much a part of her training regimen as any physical workout. She incorporates it into her routine before every hard workout and race, keeping her focused and ready to perform at her best. “Just like with coaching philosophies, when an athlete truly believes in a training method, they’re more likely to succeed,” she explains. “The same goes for me and my foam rolling routine. If I believe it will help me stay healthy and ready, that mindset is just as important as the physical benefits.”

Conclusion

Foam rolling isn’t just a physical recovery tool; it can have powerful mental benefits too. By improving flexibility, easing discomfort, and boosting confidence, it offers a holistic approach to training. Whether you’re a professional athlete or just someone looking to improve your recovery process, foam rolling can be a simple but effective way to stay on top of your game—mentally and physically.