HOKA Mafate X Review: Max Cushion Meets Carbon Speed for Trail Runners ?

Designed for long-distance trail running on smoother terrain, this ultra-cushioned carbon-plated shoe balances comfort and speed—just not on technical trails

Looking for a trail shoe that blends long-distance comfort with race-day speed? Enter the HOKA Mafate X, a bold new addition to HOKA’s trail lineup, designed to go the distance on less technical terrain.

With max cushioning and a carbon plate built into the midsole, this shoe is engineered for ultrarunners and endurance athletes seeking a plush ride without compromising performance. But does it deliver on the trails?

We put the Mafate X to the test—here’s our take.

Key Specs at a Glance

Weight: ~312g (Men’s US 9) Stack Height: 49mm

Drop: 4mm

Cushioning: Max cushion with responsive foam

Plate: Carbon fibre propulsion plate

Terrain: Best for groomed trails, gravel, and less technical terrain

Pros: Why the Mafate X Shines

✅ Ultra Plush Comfort

HOKA is known for its marshmallow-soft midsoles, and the Mafate X turns that dial all the way up. With deep cushioning that soaks up impact, it’s a dream on long runs and ultra distances. The shoe feels incredibly forgiving underfoot, especially during long descents or pounding on firmer trails.

✅ Fast and Responsive

Despite its bulky appearance, the carbon plate adds a surprising pop to each stride. Whether you're climbing hills or cruising flats, there's a noticeable propulsion effect that keeps the legs feeling fresher over time. It's a rare combination of comfort and speed in the trail world.

✅ Built for Distance

Designed with ultramarathoners in mind, the Mafate X thrives on trails like MacRitchie Reservoir in Singapore—wide, runnable, and relatively smooth. If you're training for long trail races or back-to-back high-mileage days, this shoe delivers in spades.

Cons: A Few Things to Consider

❌ Heavier Than It Looks

All that cushioning comes at a cost—this is not a lightweight trail shoe. At over 300g, the Mafate X may feel clunky for shorter, faster efforts or for runners who prefer a more nimble feel underfoot.

❌ Short Tongue, Lace Pressure Issues

A notable design flaw is the short, minimal tongue, which may cause lace bite or rubbing, especially during longer runs. We recommend wearing higher socks to protect the front of your ankle and mitigate discomfort.

❌ Not Ideal for Technical Terrain

While the outsole grip is solid, this shoe lacks the ground feel and agility needed for technical mountain trails or rocky switchbacks. Stick to moderately groomed routes like MacRitchie Reservoir, gravel, and non-technical loops for the best experience.

Is the HOKA Mafate X Worth It?

If you’re a distance trail runner looking for a max-cushioned, speed-ready shoe that eats up miles on non-technical terrain, the HOKA Mafate X should be on your radar.

It’s a high-performance option for events like 50Ks, 100Ks, and training runs on rolling trails like MacRitchie. Just be prepared for the extra weight, and consider higher socks to avoid tongue-related discomfort.

Best For: Long-distance trail runners, ultramarathoners, and those who prioritize comfort over agility.

Avoid If: You run mostly on technical terrain or prefer lightweight, minimalist trail shoes.

Where to Buy: Available now at leading running retailers and HOKA’s official website.

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