Hoka Mafate 5 Men's Trail Running Shoes

HOKA Mafate 5 Men's Trail Running Shoes

The HOKA Mafate 5 Men's Trail Running Shoes are designed for runners tackling technical trails, challenging terrain and long distances. Combining a dual-density cushioned midsole, Rocker Integrity Technology and Vibram® Megagrip traction, the Mafate 5 provides the protection, stability and grip needed for demanding off-road running.

Finished in Black / HOKA Citrus, the Mafate 5 is built for trail runners who prioritise underfoot protection, dependable traction and comfort over extended distances.

Dual-Density Cushioning for Long-Distance Comfort

The Mafate 5 features a dual-density midsole, combining a soft, responsive supercritical foam top layer with an impact-absorbing foam layer closer to the outsole.

The upper layer provides a cushioned, springy feel directly beneath the foot, while the lower layer helps absorb repeated impacts on uneven terrain.

This construction is particularly beneficial during longer trail runs, where sustained cushioning and protection can help reduce the harsh feel of rocky tracks and repeated downhill impacts.

Rocker Integrity Technology for Technical Terrain

HOKA's Rocker Integrity Technology is designed to help maintain the shoe's rocker geometry and provide a more consistent rolling motion across uneven surfaces.

On technical trails, where foot placement constantly changes, this technology helps support a controlled transition through each stride.

Combined with the Mafate 5's substantial cushioning, it provides a stable platform for runners navigating steep climbs, rocky descents and changing trail conditions.

Vibram Megagrip with 5 mm Traction Lugs

The Mafate 5 uses a Vibram® Megagrip outsole with Traction Lug technology, providing aggressive grip for technical off-road running.

The 5 mm lugs are designed to bite into loose surfaces and provide traction across varied trail conditions, including dirt, gravel and rocky terrain.

Vibram's Megagrip rubber compound is developed for grip on both wet and dry surfaces, making the Mafate 5 a practical choice for New Zealand trails where conditions can change throughout a run.

The Traction Lug design provides additional gripping edges to support traction during climbs, descents and changes of direction.

Who is the HOKA Mafate 5 best for?

The HOKA Mafate 5 is best suited to experienced trail runners and long-distance athletes who regularly tackle technical, uneven terrain.

Its combination of substantial cushioning, protective upper construction and aggressive Vibram traction makes it particularly suitable for:

• Long-distance trail running and endurance training.

• Technical trails with rocks, roots and uneven surfaces.

• Steep climbs and descents requiring dependable grip.

• Runners who prioritise cushioning and underfoot protection over a minimal trail feel.

The Mafate 5 is also worth considering for runners who want a protective shoe for extended time on their feet in challenging off-road conditions.

Key features

• Dual-density midsole combines responsive supercritical foam with impact-absorbing cushioning for long-distance comfort.

• Rocker Integrity Technology helps maintain a consistent rolling transition over uneven terrain.

• Vibram® Megagrip outsole provides dependable traction across wet and dry trail surfaces.

• Traction Lug technology with 5 mm lugs supports grip on loose ground, climbs and descents.

• Warp knit upper with anti-fray treatment provides comfort and durability for technical trails.

• Patent-pending Dynamic Vamp allows flexibility and natural foot movement.

• TPU cage adds structure and support during uneven foot placements.

• Gaiter attachment points, premium sockliner and reflective details provide practical features for demanding trail runs.

Why buy HOKA trail running shoes from Players Sports?

Players Sports offers a specialist range of trail running footwear, helping runners compare cushioning, grip, protection and fit for different terrain and distances.

Choosing the right trail shoe matters, particularly when running on New Zealand's varied tracks and technical terrain. Our team can help you understand the differences between trail running models and find footwear suited to your training and running goals.

Visit Players Sports Greenlane at 1–7 Marewa Road, Auckland, for footwear advice, or shop online with delivery throughout New Zealand.

Frequently asked questions

What type of running is the HOKA Mafate 5 designed for?

The HOKA Mafate 5 is designed for technical trail running and long-distance off-road efforts. Its dual-density cushioning, Rocker Integrity Technology and Vibram Megagrip outsole provide the protection and traction needed for uneven trails, rocky terrain and challenging climbs and descents.

Is the HOKA Mafate 5 suitable for wet and muddy trails?

The HOKA Mafate 5 features Vibram Megagrip rubber and 5 mm Traction Lugs designed for grip across varied trail conditions. The outsole is suited to wet and dry surfaces, including loose dirt and rocky tracks. Traction will still depend on the depth of mud, surface conditions and individual foot placement.

How cushioned is the HOKA Mafate 5?

The HOKA Mafate 5 features a dual-density midsole designed to provide substantial cushioning and impact protection. A soft, responsive supercritical foam layer sits closer to the foot, while an impact-absorbing foam layer beneath helps manage repeated contact with uneven ground during longer runs.