Hoka Mafate X.
Carbon-plated 49mm stack, dual-density PEBA foam, Vibram Megagrip — Hoka's most ambitious trail shoe, purpose-built for the back half of an ultra.
The Verdict.
Gavler Meta-Score
“Hoka's first true trail super-shoe. The carbon plate plus 49mm stack genuinely works for 50K-plus races on runnable terrain — but the 12 oz weight and tippy ride on technical descents make it a single-purpose tool, not a daily trainer.”
The Gavler Verdict
Precision Engineering
Forked Carbon-Fiber Plate
Hoka's first carbon-plated trail shoe — the forked geometry preserves lateral flex so the shoe doesn't feel locked-out on technical terrain while delivering propulsion on runnable sections.
49mm Maximum Stack
The thickest cushion on this list. Designed specifically to preserve leg integrity past mile 30 in 50K-plus races on runnable terrain.
Vibram Megagrip Outsole
Pod-style outsole geometry sheds debris between lugs while providing the wet-rock and loose-gravel confidence that defines Megagrip across the Hoka and Salomon lineups.
Technical Specifications
The Scoreboard
Ultra-distance runners rate the cushion-to-weight-to-propulsion ratio exceptionally — the Mafate X works for its narrow intended use. Reviewers consistently flag that for sub-marathon distances or technical mountain courses, it's overbuilt and heavy compared to alternatives in the top 10.
Cast Your Vote
Do you think Hoka Mafate X deserves the #9 spot in Best Trail Running Shoes?
Best Price Availability.
Prices checked April 2026
Global Critique
“The Mafate X is Hoka's most ambitious trail shoe yet — the carbon plate works on runnable courses and the 49mm stack absorbs the kind of punishment that wrecks legs in firmer shoes.”
“Heavy at 12 oz, but every gram earns its place when you're past mile 30. The PEBA top layer keeps the cushion responsive instead of dead.”
“Hoka's carbon-plate experiment translates to trail better than expected, but this is a 50K-and-up tool, not a daily trainer.”
“The Mafate X delivers on its ultra-distance promise — but the tippy ride on technical descents reminds you why most trail shoes don't go this tall.”
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