Nike
HOKAWhich should you buy?
Choose the ACG Ultrafly 2 if you want a stable, protective carbon shoe for long races on mixed ground.
Choose the Tecton X 4 if you want the lightest, springiest option for fast racing on mild to moderate trails. Most people need half a size up.
The ACG Ultrafly 2 is 17 g heavier than the Tecton X 4. It has 2 mm less foam under the heel. Its drop is 8.5 mm against 5 mm. It costs £10 more at full price.
Side by side
| Spec | ACG Ultrafly 2Nike | Tecton X 4HOKA |
|---|---|---|
| Review score | 91/100 (2 reviews) | 87/100 (1 review) |
| Type | Trail | Trail |
| Weight (men's UK 8.5) | 278 g | 261 g |
| Heel stack | 38 mm | 40 mm |
| Drop | 8.5 mm | 5 mm |
| Cushioning | Balanced | Balanced |
| Bounce | Bouncy | Springy |
| Plate | Carbon plate | Carbon plate |
| Support | Inherently stable | Neutral |
| Fit | True to size | Runs small |
| Widths | standard | standard |
| Waterproof version | No | No |
| UK RRP | £230 | £220 |
Weights are for a men's US 9 / UK 8.5. Prices are UK RRPs; shops often sell for less.
What the critics say
ACG Ultrafly 2
- Lively ZoomX with a plate that is friendlier than most carbon trail shoes
- Stable and protective for its height
- Lighter and roomier than the first Ultrafly
- Plate still feels stiff on steep climbs
- Shallow-ish lugs for deep mud
- Very expensive
- Warm upper that doesn't breathe well
Scores from RunRepeat, Road Trail Run.
Tecton X 4
- Fast, smooth and stable over long distances
- Breathable upper that drains quickly in heat
- Excellent Vibram grip
- Runs short, so most need half a size up
- Expensive, and less nimble on very technical descents
Scores from Road Trail Run.
Paraphrased from published reviews.
What's new in each
Nike ACG Ultrafly 2: Lighter, with upgraded ZoomX, a split carbon plate that flexes more over rough ground, a wider midfoot and toe box and longer Vibram lugs than the 2023 Ultrafly.
HOKA Tecton X 4: Same plates and PEBA formula as the Tecton X 3, with a more open, quicker-draining Matryx upper, new lacing with a heel-lock eyelet, more padding and about 9 g less weight.
Prices for the ACG Ultrafly 2 Prices for the Tecton X 4
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