I used to be excited to attempt the Hoka Mafate 5. There have been some large updates in terms of the Mafate. They aren’t a nasty factor, however it’s not going to really feel the identical as earlier variations. This newest model of HOKA’s authentic path mannequin brings extra foam, an up to date match, and a sturdy Vibram Megagrip outsole. Whether or not you’re coaching for an extremely, planning lengthy mountain runs, or just need dependable consolation on uneven floor, the Mafate 5 is a enjoyable choice.
The Mafate was HOKA’s first path shoe and helped set the tone for the model’s status as a pacesetter in max cushioning. Early variations have been designed to deal with steep, rocky, and unpredictable terrain with outsized midsoles and broad bases for stability. Through the years, the Mafate line has been tweaked to steadiness cushioning with responsiveness, introducing lighter foams, extra versatile uppers, and completely different outsole designs. With the modernization of trainers, it’s grow to be much less cumbersome and strayed from the unique design.
In comparison with the favored Mafate Velocity 4, the brand new mannequin provides extra quantity underfoot, the next heel-to-toe drop, and an total smoother experience on long-distance terrain. HOKA additionally dropped the “Velocity” label, signaling that this shoe leans extra towards sturdiness and luxury than nimbleness.
Earlier than attempting the Hoka Mafate 5, I had a couple of questions:
Is the HOKA Mafate 5 good for ultramarathons?
Sure. The Mafate 5 was constructed with long-distance path working in thoughts. Its dual-density midsole offers cushioning for hours of working, whereas the Vibram Megagrip outsole ensures traction on technical terrain. Many runners will discover it supreme for 50K, 100K, and even 100-mile occasions because of its safety and stability. (Full disclosure: I’m not doing ultramarathons, however I’ve spent hours on my toes on this shoe and been high-quality).
How does the HOKA Mafate 5 examine to the Mafate Velocity 4?
The Mafate 5 has extra cushioning, an elevated heel-to-toe drop (8 mm in comparison with 4 mm), and feels slightly bulkier underfoot. Whereas the Velocity 4 was lighter and extra nimble, the Mafate 5 leans into consolation and sturdiness for longer days. Followers of the Velocity 4 might discover it softer and fewer agile, however for these searching for extra safety, the replace is a welcome change.
Does the HOKA Mafate 5 run true to dimension?
Most runners will discover the Mafate 5 true to dimension. The warp-knit mesh higher locks the foot down securely with out creating strain factors. That mentioned, the midfoot and toe field are barely slender in comparison with another HOKA path fashions. When you have broad toes or choose a roomier match, you could need to attempt a half-size up or take a look at the shoe earlier than shopping for.
How does the Mafate 5 carry out on technical terrain?
The Mafate 5 is fairly good. The Vibram Megagrip outsole with 5 mm lugs grips effectively on moist rocks, unfastened grime, and steep descents. Mixed with its steady platform and protecting cushioning, the shoe evokes confidence on climbs, descents, and uneven surfaces. It might really feel slightly heavy on smoother trails, however in technical terrain, it’s at its finest.
Who ought to keep away from the HOKA Mafate 5?
Runners preferring light-weight, agile path sneakers might discover the Mafate 5 too cumbersome. If you happen to largely run on flat or well-groomed paths, you is perhaps higher served with a lighter path choice or perhaps a road-to-trail hybrid.
Now let’s get into an sincere Hoka Mafate 5 evaluate.
Fast Information:
Weight: 12.1 oz males’s / 10.2 oz girls’s
Stack Top: 49 mm heel, 41 mm forefoot for males
Heel-to-Toe Drop: 8 mm
Terrain: Path (technical and combined situations)
Stability: Impartial
Match: True to dimension
Hoka Mafate 5 Match
The higher makes use of a warp-knit mesh that hugs the foot whereas remaining breathable and versatile. It feels performance-oriented, which means your foot stays safe on steep ascents and descents with out pointless strain factors. The heel collar has ample padding, which helps lock the ankle in place and prevents slippage even on uneven surfaces.
That mentioned, one space that divides opinion is the tongue. It’s skinny and on the shorter aspect, which might trigger it to slide throughout lengthy runs. Some runners might have to cease and regulate mid-run, particularly in the event that they lace tightly. For many, it gained’t be a dealbreaker, however in a shoe constructed for hours on the path, it does really feel like an oversight. Earlier than working within the working business, I didn’t notice how opinionated folks have been about working shoe tongues. The tongue actually hasn’t bothered me a lot, however I can see the way it may very well be annoying.
Sizing runs true within the Hoka Mafate 5, however the midfoot and toe field lean barely slender in comparison with another HOKA path fashions. Runners with wider toes or those that expertise swelling throughout extremely distances might need to attempt them on earlier than committing. For these with narrower to standard-width toes, the match is safe and confidence-inspiring on technical floor.
Hoka Mafate 5 Journey
The midsole is the place the magic occurs, and the Mafate 5 makes use of a dual-density midsole, which blends foams to create a steadiness between softness and responsiveness. The heel incorporates a supercritical foam that absorbs shock throughout descents, whereas the forefoot incorporates a firmer layer for stability and management on toe-off.
In comparison with the Mafate Velocity 4, the Mafate 5 feels barely softer and extra forgiving. The added cushioning helps cut back fatigue on lengthy runs and retains legs feeling brisker deep into the miles. The experience isn’t overly plush—it nonetheless offers sufficient suggestions to really feel related to the path—however it’s positively extra cushioned than its predecessor.
HOKA additionally elevated the heel-to-toe drop from 4 mm to eight mm. This small however noticeable change makes the shoe really feel extra pure for heel strikers and might relieve calf pressure on lengthy climbs. Nonetheless, runners who liked the lower-profile geometry of the Velocity 4 might discover the brand new setup much less nimble.
The place does the Hoka Mafate 5 match into my rotation? It’s positively a simple run/future path shoe. A number of of the earlier variations made it simpler to choose up the tempo, however the Hoka Mafate 5 doesn’t really feel that method. It’s again to offering ample cushion to go the space.
Outsole and Traction
Underfoot, the Mafate 5 is supplied with a Vibram Megagrip outsole that includes 5 mm lugs. This setup grips extraordinarily effectively on moist rocks, unfastened grime, and steep descents. The outsole sample is aggressive sufficient for technical trails however not so sticky that it feels clunky on packed grime or brief highway sections. I’ve discovered it’s in a position to deal with climbing up and down unfastened rock on sand dunes with no points.
Sturdiness is great. Even after prolonged mileage on rocky trails, the outsole reveals minimal put on. I’ve now used the Hoka Mafate 5 for over 100 miles with no indicators of it slowing down. I anticipate it to final at the least 400 miles if not longer. I’ve at all times appreciated how sturdy the Hoka Mafate is.
Who Ought to Purchase the HOKA Mafate 5
Runners coaching for ultras or lengthy mountain races who want cushioning and safety
Path runners who worth sturdiness and grip over lightness
Those that run on technical, rocky, or unpredictable terrain
Anybody searching for a safe, steady experience for lengthy hours on the path
Who Ought to Skip the Hoka Mafate 5
Runners who liked the lighter, extra agile really feel of the Mafate Velocity 4
Minimalist runners who need floor really feel and low stack heights
Path runners who largely persist with clean, flat paths
Hoka Mafate 5 Conclusion
The HOKA Mafate 5 is a extremely cushioned, protecting path shoe that reconnects with the model’s maximalist roots. It’s not the lightest or quickest choice available on the market, however it excels for runners tackling technical terrain and massive mileage. In case your focus is large mountain days, ultras, or lengthy coaching blocks on rugged trails, the HOKA Mafate 5 is an effective choice.
My Present Shoe Rotation:
Straightforward/Every day Runs: Salomon Aero Glide 3, Mizuno Neo Zen, Topo Magnifly 5, Antepes Muscle Runners, adidas Adizero Evo SL, Newton Gravity 12, ASICS Superblast 2
Lengthy Runs: Topo Specter 2, 361 Levels Eleos Shoe Overview
Path Operating/Climbing: 361 Futura, Speedland SL: PDX, Hoka Tecton X 3
Races/Speedwork: Adidas adizero adios professional 4, 361 Levels Livid Future 2.0, ASICS Metaspeed Edge Paris, Puma Quick-R Elite 3, Nike Streakfly 2, Nike Vaporfly 4
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Seeking to be taught extra about trainers? In my book, I discuss why you want a superb working shoe, a shoe’s anatomy, impartial vs. steady, and even myths of trainers.
Questions for you:
What’s your favourite path shoe?
Have you ever tried the Hoka Mafate 5?
