American footwear brand Hoka, a division of listed company Deckers Brands, has unveiled the Tecton X 4. According to the brand, it is the lightest version to date of this technical trail shoe, developed for competition on demanding terrain.
The shoe was built around the new PROFLY X platform, which combines carbon fibre plates, foam and a midsole geometry specifically adapted for competition. According to Hoka, these components together guarantee cushioned and stable landing, followed by powerful takeoff.
The midsole comprises two layers of PEBA foam, which Hoka describes as the lightest foam with the greatest responsiveness in its range. Two carbon fibre plates arranged in parallel were modified to offer greater reactivity, and in combination with the MetaRocker sole shape, aim to facilitate more efficient transition and more powerful takeoff.
The upper is made of Matryx Micro, a lightweight woven material that is abrasion-resistant and water-repellent. An extended knit collar is designed to keep dirt and stones out of the shoe, while the modified lacing system aims to ensure a firmer fit. For marathon distances, an additional lacing option was added.
The outsole is equipped with Vibram Megagrip Litebase. According to Hoka, this makes the sole approximately 40 to 50 per cent thinner and the tread 25 to 30 per cent lighter than in previous versions, without sacrificing performance. The four-millimetre Traction Lugs are designed to increase ground contact surface and provide greater grip on the trail.
