The Mafate is the first pair of trail shoes I’ve owned from Hoka, and at first, I was primarily hesitant about how stable they would be, especially in more technical terrain, given the higher stack height. I am pleased to say so far, after a number of days in the Wasatch and the Uinta mountains, the shoe has proved to be a great jack-of-all-trades type of shoe. A plush and fairly deep heel collar, middle of the road width and volume, lends well to feeling locked in while ascending/descending. Also, for those who are on the narrower side, a relaxed enough toe box is pleasant enough for those longer mileage outings as well. What stands out to me the most is the midsole foam's pleasant balance. Light, supple, and forgiving enough for even those who might find themselves heel striking more, but also lively enough and precise when side hilling and nimble rock hopping is on the day's docket.
The Vibram mega grip outsole does excellent in a variety of technical terrain, but on occasions (mostly when I am tired), the burly lugs and wider foam platform loves to catch on any exposed rock or root. But hey, what can you do?
Perhaps my only complaint will be the potential durability of the foam material itself. So much exposed foam underfoot lends well to being light, but at 150 miles in, it’s already showing good wear.
Overall, I am excited to put many more miles in my current pair and also to use another new pair for longer running goals in the fall. I'd recommend going true size.
HOKA Mafate Speed 4 Shoe
Jim is going on a run in unknown terrain with the only beta being "anywhere between thirty and forty-five miles and 7-11k of gain"; what shoe should he choose? The HOKA Mafate Speed 4 satisfies the requirements for adventures as ludicrous as this. Jim would want a midsole with sufficient cushioning and responsiveness for long runs and an outsole that inspires confidence on unknown terrain in all conditions. Jim may desire an upper that holds the foot comfortably, breathes well, and dries quickly. Jim would also be wise to want a low drop, some margin of protection, and lighter weight for the long hours on foot. The Mafate Speed 4 ticks these boxes and grants all of Jim's wants and desires.
SkyRun Fit Tip - We find the Mafate Speed 4 to fit true to US sizes.
- Jacquard mesh upper breathes well and hugs the foot like a mother to her child.
- Vibram Megagrip with Litebase is the outsole 9 out of 10 dentists recommend.
- Rubber toe cap protects the piggies that went to the market and those who stayed home.
- Use of recycled materials throughout so Jim's grandchildren's children can also run on trails.
- Gusseted tongue construction provides comfort and keeps the shoes debris-free.
| Specifications | |
|
Weight |
316g [10.5] |
| Weight (pair) | 632g [10.5] |
|
Lug |
5mm |
| Drop | 4mm |
| Stack Height | 33mm |
| Specs Verified | Yes |
| Design | |
| Outsole | Vibram Megagrip with Litebase |
| Fit | Medium Volume |
| Last | Medium |
| Cushion | Medium / High |
| Protection | Medium + |
| Lacing System | Traditional |
| SkyRun Says | |
| Usage | Trail running, races |
| Notes | Recycled materials throughout |
| Bottom Line | Great for fast runs on technical trails |
| Compare to other Mountain Running Shoes | |
