Hoka's highly anticipated Rocket X Trail propels Fuzhao Xiang to the Western States podium - discover the key features and details of Hoka's upcoming trail running footwear.
In an exciting turn of events, Chinese ultra-runner Fuzhao Xiang made history by wearing Hoka's yet-to-be-released Rocket X Trail shoes during the 2025 Western States trail race. Despite the shoe being designed primarily for road running, Xiang's performance in the gruelling 100-mile race was nothing short of remarkable.
The Rocket X Trail shoe, which is set to be officially released in the fall of 2025, boasts several innovative features. The shoe's midsole, made of a new A-TPU superfoam, is on the firmer side, providing a responsive ride that proved beneficial on the trail. The shoe also features a carbon plate, a key component in delivering enhanced stability and energy return.
One of the standout features of the Rocket X Trail shoe is its higher stack height compared to other models, offering additional cushioning for the long haul. The shoe's outsole is equipped with 3 mm lugs, providing targeted traction for speed over various distances. However, it's worth noting that the Rocket X Trail shoe is not recommended for more technical terrain.
Fuzhao Xiang's performance in the 2025 Western States trail race was impressive, with a time of 16:47:09, placing her second overall and sixth fastest woman ever at the race. Her second-place finish also made her the leader of Hoka's team at the prestigious race.
Meanwhile, Caleb Olson and Abby Hall finished first in their respective categories, wearing Nike Ultrafly 2 and Adidas Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra shoes respectively. Mike McManus, Director of NA Sports Marketing at Hoka, expressed his pride in Xiang's performance, highlighting her resilience and determination.
While the Rocket X Trail shoe was the centre of attention during the race, it's important to note that the Hoka Rocket X 3, a road running shoe, was released on July 1, 2025. Key features of the Rocket X 3 include a dual-density PEBA foam midsole, an updated carbon fiber plate, and a sticky rubber outsole for grip in various conditions.
For those seeking an alternative to the Rocket X Trail shoe for long-haul efforts, the Hoka Mafate X might be a suitable option. As the Western States trail race comes to a close, the anticipation for the official release of the Hoka Rocket X Trail shoe continues to grow, with its ultralight design promising to revolutionise the world of trail running.
The Rocket X Trail shoe, set to be officially released in fall 2025, boasts an ultralight design aiming to revolutionize the world of sports, particularly trail running. Notably, Chinese ultra-runner Fuzhao Xiang wore this trail shoe during the 2025 Western States trail race, delivering a remarkable performance despite its design being primarily for road running.
