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Hoka’s Flagship Trail Shoe Flips the Script on Modern Midsole Tech

Hoka’s original running shoe, the Mafate charts a new course as the brand’s go-to trail shoe for your longest days.

Hoka Mafate 5Hoka

By Jack Seemer

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Founded in 2009, Hoka launched with a weird name and even weirder shoe.

The Mafate, named after the Cirque de Mafate caldera on Réunion Island, broke all manner of convention with its thick, chunky midsole and unmatched levels of comfort.

Years later, Hoka has become into one of the biggest brands in sport, both in reputation and offerings. Today its catalog encompasses all flavors of running shoes, including the plate-enhanced Mafate X — a superfied version of the Mafate designed for traveling not just far but fast.

Now, Hoka’s original running shoe will return to its roots with its first significant update since the 2022 Mafate 4.

Hoka Mafate 5
The Mafate 5 is a follow-up to the Mafate 4 released in 2022.
Hoka

Bottoms up

Like the original Mafate, the Mafate 5 is all about a fat midsole, but Hoka isn’t content to rest on millimeters alone.

The brand flipped the script on dual-density construction — literally — by putting the softer of the two foams on the bottom.

Hoka Mafate 5
Unlike the rest of the pack, the Mafate 5’s dual-density midsole places the softer foam on the bottom to act as a impact guard against the trail.
Hoka
Hoka Mafate 5
The upper part of the midsole is supercritical foam, meaning it’s pumped up with gas that makes it more responsive.
Hoka

As a result, the shoe deforms around the trail to dampen the impact of roots, rocks and whatever else a runner might find along the way.

But as forgiving as the ride might be, the shoe isn’t designed for meek efforts.

A Vibram Megagrip outsole with 5mm lugs all but ensure it can stand up to it all, while gaiter attachment points give wearers the option for a little extra protection during extra-gnarly segments.

Hoka Mafate 5
Vibram Megagrip and 5mm lugs combine for ample traction and protection.
Hoka

Finally, a TPU cage and anti-fray treatment on the the warp knit upper both add a little extra structure and protection, ensuring the shoe can get back to the trailhead in one piece.

Hoka Mafate 5
The warp knit upper has gaiter attachment points for gnarly segments.
Hoka
Hoka Mafate 5
The upper’s TPU cage brings both stability and durability.
Hoka

Availability and pricing

First revealed at The Running Event in late 2024, the Mafate 5 is finally ready for release.

The shoe, available in a single Skyward Blue launch colorway, just popped up on Hoka’s official website with a price tag of $185.

About the Author:

Jack Seemer is the executive editor at Gear Patrol, with over a decade of experience in product journalism. He currently reports on a wide range of topics, including footwear, watches, EDC, cookware and more.

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