HOKA Mafate 5 - primer
Big changes.. many questions
Hoka’s revamped Mafate 5 will release on August 1. This is a big update for the model, with serious changes that are making many Mafate fans understandably nervous..
This is just a primer for my full video review, including the main questions and comments that I’ve seen about this highly anticipated update. Stay tuned for the Full Review on August 1.
If in ain’t broke don’t fix it? Hoka is doubling the drop from 4 to 8mm. Will this drastically change the ride from the flatter, more “natural” feeling 4mm?
The Mafate line is no stranger to stack height.. but V5 dramatically goes up 10mm in stack at the heel. Now 43/35mm (spec) compared to 33/29mm for V4.
But Hoka already has the Mafate X - what’s the point of another “SUPER” max trail shoe? How does this shoe slot into Hoka’s model lineup?
Flipping the script on the midsole - apparently? It was my understanding that the firmness layers were being reversed, with the firmer layer closer to the foot, and the softer layer closer to the ground..
But is that really the case? Is there a noticeable difference?
What about stability? Can this shoe possibly be stable at 43/35mm underfoot?
And the weight? 11.72 oz (332g) spec. That’s a lot more than V4 right?
One element not in question - deep and rugged Vibram Megagrip outsole with Traction Lug technology.
Mafate 5 will be available August 1 on hoka.com ($185).
HOKA Mafate 5 was provided at no cost for test and review by HOKA. Please see my support page for disclaimers regarding my testing and review process.