Refreshed Hoka Mafate Trail Running Shoe: Significant Technological Overhaul Unveiled for Spring
Revved-Up Hoka Mafate Hits the Trails
Hoka's original game-changer, the Mafate, gets a tech boost, making it a formidable contender for long, smooth runs.
Back in 2010, the Mafate's thick midsole and rocker geometry turned heads in the trail-running scene. Now, a decade later, super-stacked midsoles are the norm, and the Hoka Mafate X is upping the ante.
The title's "X" indication is a clue that this newest Mafate will sport a forked carbon plate, similar to the Tecton X 3. Sandwiched between foam midsoles made of PEBA (Polyether Block Amide) and super-light EVA carriers, this setup gives a mammoth 41.5mm of heel foam, a considerable upgrade from the Mafate Speed 4's 33.2mm.
The MetaRocker design from previous models is still intact, aiding in effortless forward motion. The drop has increased from 4mm to 8mm, preparing you for smoother strides.
Speaking of strides, the Mafate X's upper story has undergone some renovation. Gone are the single-layer jacquard mesh uppers of the 4. Replacing them are patent-pending dynamic ultralight woven textile uppers, known for their quick drainage properties, making these shoes an attractive choice for wet and water-crossing trail routes.
Navigating trail terrains, the Mafate X continues to rely on Vibram Megagrip outsoles for unrivaled traction. This year, Hoka swapped the chevron-shaped lugs for playful pizza and taco shapes founded on variable terrain. These fresh 3.5mm lugs hold their ground for reliable traction on various trail types.
The Mafate X shows off its new technical attire confidently, adding a modest 2 ounces per shoe, but it's clear Hoka envisions the latest edition as a durable, long-distance companion. Time will tell if this faith is justified.
The Hoka Mafate X trail-running shoes hit the market on April 15, retailing at $225. You can pre-order men's sizing in the Zest/Mountain Fog on REI, with shoes arriving by Easter.
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The Technical Lowdown:
With a towering 49mm heel and 41mm forefoot thanks to the three-layer midsole, the Mafate X offers impressive cushioning for long runs. The PEBA foam top layer ensures a soft, responsive ride, while the carbon fiber plate delivers stiffness and propulsion for smooth transitions. The supercritical EVA foundation guarantees a stable base, ensuring a balanced ride overall.
The durable Vibram Megagrip outsole provides exceptional grip on slick, wet surfaces. Additionally, the woven upper materials allow for quick drainage, ideal for watery trails.
Compared to earlier models, the carbon plate and dual-density midsole elevate the Mafate X's performance and efficiency, transforming it into an efficient long-distance trail runner. While still comfortable and cushioned, it excels on smoother trails and offers broader versatility than its predecessors.
Technology has been integrated into the Hoka Mafate X, as it now features a forked carbon plate and a three-layer midsole, making it a competent choice for sports enthusiasts seeking efficient long-distance trailrunning, especially on smoother terrains. The shoes' quick drainage properties, owing to its woven upper materials, also prove beneficial for those navigating wet and water-crossing trails.
