Hoka Mafate X Hike Review: High-Tech Hiking is Back

Introduction to the Hoka Mafate X Hike

RENEE: Perception is reality. If you glance at the Mafate X Hike and see a “gorpcore” fashion statement, you aren’t wrong. If you’re planning a Halloween costume as Rainbow Bright or the Transformer Bubblebee, you could wear the Mafate X Hike.

So, is the Mafate X Hike a functional masterpiece and a fashion statement? Or neither? The hiker is more than meets the eye (see what I did there?), as it features a plethora of shoe technology. Whether or not that technology lends function to the fashion will greatly depend on a hiker’s terrain and fit preferences.

What we like about the Hoka Mafate X Hike

RENEE: Aesthetics aside, the Mafate X Hike features technology that warrants its $250 price tag, at least in comparison to its gravel shoe counterpart. The boot has the same carbon fiber plate, PEBA core, and supercritical EVA midsole as the Mafate X.

I wasn’t thrilled about the Mafate X due to its weight and price, and while I would almost always opt for the Mafate 5 instead, the Mafate X does run well over thick gravel as long as the surface is otherwise smooth. On uneven terrain, the Mafate X is unstable due to its carbon plate and high stack height. The neoprene mid collar of the Mafate X Hike seeks to remedy that stability issue.

The boot uses unisex sizing, so I was pleasantly surprised that the neoprene collar fit snug around my relatively small ankles. The neoprene material is a booty fit that wraps the foot and includes a gusset. For as massive as the shoe is, the upper fits as good as could be expected. Along with the mid-collar, the plastic overlays on the heel cup and sides provide additional stability.

The Mafate X Hike is Hoka’s first shoe to integrate RECCO reflector technology on the upper. Between the reflectors and the bright colors, don’t plan on hiding.

The Vibram Megagrip outsole has the same taco and pizza lugs as the Mafate X, so the grip and traction are what we expect from Vibram. The pizza/taco lugs are hardy rubber, and the rest of the outsole coverage is soft and forgiving — a pro on uneven surfaces and perhaps a con if hiking over sharp rocks. The midsole is protective (you will feel nothing underfoot), but the soft and exposed sections are apt to wear down if hiking on sharp rocks.

If wearing a bright hiking boot that leaves taco and pizza imprints along the trails gives you joy, then here’s your chance to be absolutely elated.

What we don’t like about the Hoka Mafate X Hike

RENEE: Hoka lists the Mafate X Hike as having a “featherweight feel,” but at 14.02 ounces/402 grams in a US M6.5/W7.5, the Mafate X Hike is not lightweight. Unlike a trail shoe, weight might matter less in a true hiking boot, but I’m not sold on wearing a hiking boot that has a “snappy” ride.

Sizing and fit will determine whether or not the mid collar provides true ankle stability. The boot is unisex-sized, and while I was surprised at the comfort and fit of the booty-like neoprene collar, it provides only superficial stability, which is not enough to counteract the stack and carbon plate. The cord lacing system does not allow for a tight lockdown across the midfoot, at least on my low-volume foot. Plus, the plastic overlay on the heel cup and around both sides does not provide any additional stability, but it does affect the ability to pull the lacing tight around the ankle.

In terms of ride, the boot is not meant for running, obviously. Even then, much like the Mafate X, the boot is not stable on uneven terrain. The stack and midsole are protective, and the boot rolls well over smooth and buffed surfaces. However, on buffed terrain, why wear a boot?

Final thoughts on the Hoka Mafate X Hike

RENEE: I have the Mafate 5 and Mafate X, and in most instances (ok, all instances) I will elect to use one of those shoes instead of the X Hike. The mid collar does not have the stability I would prefer on a carbon-plated, high-stack boot. Even with trail shoes, I prefer to have a full range of motion for my ankles on uneven landings, and I don’t have that with the Mafate X Hike. Everything about the boot that is added from the Mafate X seems more aesthetic than functional, aside from the RECCO technology.

But hey, there’s nothing wrong with buying a hiking boot because it looks cool. I suppose the Mafate line is like Pokémon. Maybe some people need to collect them all?

I can’t recommend the Mafate X Hike for anything aside from buffed surfaces. For loose, rocky terrain or single-track trail with constant switchbacks, the shoe is not nimble or stable enough for my preference, even as a hiking boot (full disclosure: on technical terrain, my running is hiking). If you need a mid-collar boot and you hike terrain where you want a carbon-plated, high-stack midsole, the Mafate X Hike is your option.

You can pick up the Hoka Mafate X Hike for $250 from Hoka by using the button below.