HOKA Mafate Speed 4
HOKA · Trail · Trail Racing
Overall Score: 83/100 based on 3 verified expert reviews.
Technical Specifications
- Weight: 293 g
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 7.2 mm
- Carbon Plate: Yes
- Midsole Foam: Max-Cushion CMEVA
- Official Retail MSRP: $180 (manufacturer reference price — better deals may be available at retailers)
Pros & Strengths
- Propulsive leverage from the carbon fiber plate
- Max-Cushion CMEVA cushioning combining impact protection and consistent rebound
- Confident traction and lateral lockdown across varied trails
- Dynamic carbon-fiber plate propulsion
Cons & Trade-offs
- Demanding longitudinal stiffness at easy paces
Expert Review Sources
- RunRepeat : 84.6 / 100 — « The HOKA Mafate Speed 4, emerging as a lighter successor to its predecessor, truly impressed us in our lab. This versatile shoe adeptly navigates through a variety of trails, from rapid descents to long-distance gravel paths, thanks to its Traction Lugs and Vibram outsole. We discovered during our testing that it shines in responsiveness, grip, and comfort, making it well-suited for both training sessions and competitive trail races. However, we did notice a design flaw: the ankle collar tends to let debris into the shoe, which might be an issue for some. Despite this, we think that the Mafate Speed 4 stands out for its balanced blend of cushioning and agility. »
- Journal du Trail / Trail Session : 82.0 / 100 — « In HOKA's trail racing lineup, the Mafate Speed 4 combines durable upper protection, lateral stability, and consistent underfoot filtering (293 g). Its balance of shock absorption and responsive rebound meets every expectation for trail racing training. »
- OutdoorGearLab : 82.1 / 100 — « Pairing HOKA's Max-Cushion CMEVA platform with a 7.2 mm drop, the Mafate Speed 4 combines long-distance underfoot protection (a 7.2 mm drop) with a breathable, secure upper. A smart choice for runners looking for a 7.2 mm drop and consistent performance all season long. »
Similar Alternatives (Trail Racing)
- La Sportiva Prodigio Max (La Sportiva · Trail Racing · 306 g · $180 · Score 83/100)
- Nike Zegama 2 (Nike · Trail Racing · 302 g · $180 · Score 88/100)
- ASICS Trabuco Max 3 (ASICS · Trail Racing · 308 g · $180 · Score 83/100)
- Merrell Nova 3 (Merrell · Trail Racing · 305 g · $135 · Score 81/100)
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- HOKA Mafate X (HOKA · Trail Racing · 335 g · $290 · Score 84/100)