HOKA Mafate X Hike Hiking Boots Review
An in-depth review of a unique, super cushioned, lightweight hiking boot with RECCO technology
October 20th, 2025
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Our verdict
The HOKA Mafate X Hike is a new lightweight hiking boot aimed at style, comfort, agility, with high stack and a carbon plate chassis for propulsion. With the same midsole and outsole as the HOKA Mafate X trail running shoes, the Mafate X Hike leans into comfort and agility with high stack, plush cushioning–and is one of few lightweight hiking boots with a carbon plate.
We tested the HOKA Mafate X Hike in the Front Range of Colorado. We then took the shoes farther into the Rockies to test on more technical and varied terrain, which included hardpacked dirt, large rocks, and mud.
It’s immensely plush. You’d be hard pressed to find a hiking boot with this much cushion.
But this take on a hiking boot has us wavering between fascination and confusion. On one hand, we appreciate the comfort, maximum cushion, lightweight design, and bouncy stride of these boots. HOKA excels at all of those features in their running shoes, and these hiking boots fit right in their trail running shoe lineup (in fact, the Mafate X Hikes are light and springy enough, you could run in them if you really wanted to, but they aren’t as breathable as their trail runners). To top it off, we appreciate the incorporation of RECCO technology used by search and rescue for added safety in the backcountry.
HOKA Mafate X Hike Hiking Boots
However, this brings us to our biggest concern: it’s hard to imagine wearing these shoes in the backcountry. Since the outsole of the Mafate X Hike is the same as the Mafate X trail running shoes, we found they weren’t the grippiest, especially when compared to other lightweight hiking boots, like the Keen Targhee IV or the Merrell Moab 3 Mid hiking boots. While the outsole is made of Vibram Megagrip, they simply did not perform well on loose, steep terrain. We wish they’d use the Mafate 5 trail running shoes outsoles instead, as their bigger lugs and grippier outsole offer better traction.
These boots are also what you might expect from HOKA in terms of style–flashy, trendy, and colorful. Some people may love this, others may not. It’s certainly not a traditional hiking boot look, and leans more into trendy, chunky sneakers.
For the $250 price, we have a hard time recommending these over other lightweight hiking boots, like the Merrell Moab 3 Mid, which costs $140 and are more durable, protective, and sturdy. However, if you want to prioritize cushioning, agility, the RECCO safety feature, and this particular style, the HOKA Mafate X Hike may be worth checking out.
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HOKA Mafate X Hike Specifications
Price: $250
Weight (per shoe, men's and women's): 16.3 oz (M10)
Heel-to-toe drop: 8 mm
Stack height (heel/toe): 49/41 mm
Cushion level: Plush/Maximum
Support type: Neutral
Upper materials: 72% textile/28% synthetic
Midsole foam type: PEBA foam, carbon fiber plate, and supercritical EVA foam
Outsole material: Vibram Megagrip
Rock plate: No
Available sizes and widths: M4/W5 - M12/W13
Closure: Single-pull lace
Suitable for vegans: Yes
Best for
The high stack and super-plush midsole separate the HOKA Mafate X Hike from other hiking boots, and could be a comfortable option for folks who experience joint pain while hiking. Photo by Becca Downs
Hikes of any length
Hikes on non-technical or relatively flat terrain
Hikers who prefer lots of cushion, or a lightweight and agile ride
Backcountry hikers looking for a shoe with RECCO but don’t need the best traction
Trail-to-town fashion
Comparison table
| TRAIL RUNNING SHOE | MSRP* | MEN'S WEIGHT (PAIR) | WOMEN'S WEIGHT (PAIR) | OUTSOLE | MIDSOLE | UPPER | WATERPROOFING |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| HOKA Mafate X Hike Hiking Boots | $250 | 1 lb 0.3 oz (M 10) | Vibram Megagrip | PEBA foam, carbon fiber plate, and supercritical EVA foam | 72% textile/28% synthetic | None | |
| HOKA Kaha 3 Men's Women's |
$240 | 1 lb 4.9 oz | 1 lb. 0.88 oz | Vibram Megagrip | Dual density EVA (30% sugarcane-based) | Waterproof nubuck leather with GORE-TEX invisible fit | Leather Working Group Gold-rated waterproof nubuck leather with GORE-TEX Invisible Fit |
| HOKA Anacapa 2 Mid GTX Men's Women's |
$195 | 18 oz | 14.7 oz | Vibram Megagrip | EVA (30% sugarcane) | Waterproof nubuck leather | GORE-TEX |
| Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Men's Women's |
$170 | 2 lbs, 4 oz | 1 lbs 13 oz | Vibram TC5+ | Merrell Air Cushion | Pigskin leather/mesh | M Select Dry |
| Merrell Moab 3 Mid GTX Men's Women's |
$170 | 1 lb, 15.7 oz | 1 lb, 13 oz | Vibram TC5+ | Merrell Air Cushion | Leather, 100% recycled laces, webbing, and mesh | GORE-TEX® |
What we liked
We found the HOKA Mafate X Hike boots performed best on groomed, even terrain. Photo by Becca Downs
Plush cushion balanced with a propulsive carbon plate for all-day comfort
RECCO technology for added protection
Lightweight, bouncy feel
What could be better
Traction isn’t very grippy for a hiking boot
Single-pull lacing system can be trickier than traditional laces in terms of finding the right adjustment
Expensive compared to hiking boots with more protection, durability, and traction
How we tested
We tested the HOKA Mafate X Hike boots on trails in the Front Range of Colorado, including near Nederland and Morrison. Photo by Becca Downs
We tested this unisex hiking boot on hikes in the Colorado Front Range, including Green Mountain in Golden and trails near Nederland, in late summer and early fall. Hikes were all mixed terrain and included steep, loose rock and gravel, hardpacked dirt, mud, large rocky trails, and even pavement. All hikes were day hikes with light packs.
While testing the HOKA Mafate X Hike, we primarily assessed traction, comfort over long days, durability, foot protection, and breathability.
We tested these boots alongside the HOKA Mafate X and HOKA Mafate 5 trail running shoes for comparison, as well as alongside other hiking boots, hiking shoes, and trail running shoes.
Performance in the Field
The Vibram Megagrip outsole handles large rock surfaces and hardpacked dirt well, but doesn't provide the best traction on loose terrain or steep gravel trails. Photo by Becca Downs
Fit and feel
The author hiking in the HOKA Mafate X Hike boots alongside the HOKA product manager who worked on them.Photo credit: Stephen Martin @explorewithmedia; www.explorewithmedia.com
The HOKA Mafate X Hike boots fit true to size, with plenty of room in the toe box and around the midfoot for feet to swell over the course of a hike. This boot is unisex and does not come in wide sizing; our tester has narrow feet, but based on her experience with trail running shoes, she feels confident that wider feet would feel comfortable in this shoe. However, if you’re unsure, it may be worth trying them on first.
The fit at the heel is snug enough to feel secure, though we sometimes struggle to tighten the boot enough with the single-pull laces. It just requires a little more work than with traditional lacing. We also had no issues with hot spots.
The plush, sock-like fit around the ankle provides some protection from debris, though we did find them stuffy on hot hikes and still dealt with a small amount of debris when we didn’t tighten the laces enough. But in general, this is a comfortable feature, not so different from wearing crew socks.
Ride and responsiveness
With the same midsole as the HOKA Mafate X trail running shoes, the HOKA Mafate X Hike feels super plush and bouncy with the carbon plate. This carbon-plated midsole isn’t as springy as race-day carbon-plated trail running shoes, but more meant to add some stability within the dual-density midsole and a little propulsion.
Prior to testing these boots, we had reservations and questions about the use of a carbon plate in a hiking boot, but after testing them, we sort of get it. Without the carbon plate, these boots would be too plush, causing hikers to sink into the nearly 50 mm of stack and likely struggle more with forward motion. And in fact, even with the carbon plate, we found it still does feel too cushioned for a hiking boot (this coming from an arthritic trail runner who practically requires maximum cushion). We only tested the boots on day hikes, and while the ride started out feeling light, agile, and bouncy, even at the end of a 2-hour hike, we longed for a more firm, stable ride.
Due to the nearly 50 mm stack height and dual-density foam midsole, you’re not going to experience ground feel with the Mafate X Hike. You will, however, experience plenty of energy return with the carbon plate, and plenty of responsiveness and quick turnover. If you’re looking for lots of cushion, light weight, and a little bounce that feels trail-runneresque, but with some boot-like coverage and features, you may want to consider this boot.
Cushioning
The carbon plate in the midsole is the chassis between layers of cushioning to provide stability and a little propulsion. We were skeptical about the use of a carbon plate in a hiking boot, but found it did help keep our feet from sinking too much into the cushion. Photo by Becca Downs
The midsole of the Mafate X Hike is made of dual-density foam and Polyether Block Amide (PEBA) top layer, with a small carbon plate in the middle for the chassis. It’s immensely plush. You’d be hard pressed to find a hiking boot with this much cushion.
All that midsole cushion amounts to 49/41 mm (heel/toe) stack height, which is among the highest of boots we’ve tested. If you prefer lots of cushion, especially to help ease the impact of hiking on your joints, you may find this comfortable over long hikes. However, because it’s so much more plush than other hiking boots, you may need to spend some time breaking them in, as the ride will feel different than that in sturdier boots.
We expect these midsoles to last as long as its trail running shoe cousin–about 300-500 miles. This is lower than hardier hiking boots, which typically last us for years of backpacking trips, making it a lower value considering its $250 price tag. For example, the Merrell Moab 3s, which won Best Affordable in our Best Lightweight Hiking Boots guide, have held up for our testers for years of backpacking trips, hikes, and working outside, and only cost $140.
Traction and grip
We tested the HOKA Mafate X Hike boots alongside the HOKA Mafate X trail running shoes, since both have the same midsole and outsole. Photo by Becca Downs
The traction of the HOKA Mafate X Hike disappointed us most. These boots have the same Vibram Megagrip outsole as the Mafate X trail running shoes, which is less grippy than the line’s burlier HOKA Mafate 5, which also has bigger lugs (3.5 mm vs 5 mm). We wish the Mafate X Hike used that outsole instead.
While these boots will do fine on flat, dry, and stable surfaces, we found they slipped a lot on steep, loose gravel trails and in the mud. We also wouldn’t trust them on slick, wet rock. It’s hard to recommend these unless you will be hiking on less technical, more solid terrain.
One fun feature, though, is the taco design on the lugs–a cute reminder that we’re really just out here having fun.
Breathability and upper
The upper is composed of 72% textile/28% synthetic material, with a neoprene mid collar that comes up sock-like over the ankle. The material itself is fairly breathable. In testing, we found the sock-like ankle covering to feel stuffy when wearing in the heat, but not unbearably or unreasonably so. It also seems quite durable.
These are not waterproof boots, but like trail runners, would drain water fast. If you’ll be hiking often in rain and wet conditions, we’d opt for a waterproof hiking boot. But if your climate is mostly dry, these will work well.
Stability and support
While cushion is the Mafate X Hike’s shining feature, stability takes a back seat. The carbon plate, which acts as the chassis in the midsole, certainly helps, but over long hikes we could feel the lack of stability features fatigue our feet a little. Even those of us who prefer backpacking in trail running shoes found ourselves longing for the more rigid midsole of a traditional hiking shoe.
In particular, our toes suffered occasionally when we hit a root or rock on the trail because these boots don’t have as much protective support around the toe box as traditional hiking boots.
However, it’s not all bad–the heel cup fits comfortably, and the neutral, cushioned midsole caters to a lot of people. And even with such a high stack height, the footbed is wide enough that we never worried about lateral instability causing us to twist an ankle or anything. Anyone who suffers from joint pain while hiking may be willing to sacrifice some stability for so much cushion.
While we had no issues with lateral stability, we did find the highly cushioned midsole felt less sturdy underfoot than traditional hiking boots. Photo by Becca Downs
Weight and efficiency
Weighing about a pound per shoe, the Mafate X Hike boots are super lightweight. This helps prevent fatigue over long days and allows for efficient, agile movement.
Typically, we’d say a carbon plate’s propulsive properties would encourage quick turnover and a faster pace–and in this case, it still might–but since its role is primarily as a chassis for stability between so much cushion, we’d describe its effect more as keeping your legs fresh and bouncy.
Durability and longevity
Because the midsole and outsole of the Mafate X Hike are the same as the Mafate X trail running shoe, we expect about the same lifespan–roughly 300-500 miles, depending on trail conditions, pack weight, and care. Either the midsole cushion or the tread on the outsole will wear down first, while the upper should hold up through typical wear. This lifespan is not as long as most hiking boots we’ve tested, and with the hefty $250 price tag, we don’t love the value.
Sustainability
While we appreciate HOKA’s general sustainability efforts, like using recycled materials, less petrol-based plastic and carbon emissions, and movement toward zero-waste facilities, the Mafate X Hike boots aren’t winning any sustainability awards from us. These boots aren’t made of recycled materials, and since we’re worried about the longevity of these boots compared to more durable boots, you’d likely have to purchase a new pair more frequently, creating more waste.
Additionally, shoes with carbon plates can be trickier to recycle. Learn more about where to recycle old running shoes–since the HOKA Mafate X Hike is essentially constructed like a running shoe–in this Fleet Feet guide to recycling old running shoes. You can also check in with your local running store, as many will facilitate shoe recycling.
Features
In addition to seeking a high level of cushioning, you’ll want to really like the style of these boots. Photo by Becca Downs
Style
The HOKA Mafate X Hike boots have a unique style you don’t often see in hiking boots–they’re loud, bright, playful, and trendy. They come in one colorway called “Hoka Citrus/Alabaster,” which is basically highlighter/neon yellow, and light blue with white reinforcements. The RECCO reflector is red and runs up under the lacing of the right boot.
The boots are chunky, the reinforcements stick out in 80s/90s-esque patterns, and there are raised dots along the sides. The lugs have smiley-face taco designs.
After polling friends on Instagram, here are some of the descriptions people came up with to describe the general vibe of these shoes:
“90s meets 80s meets kindergartner with highlighters”
“Stompers”
“Back to the Future hoverboard boots”
and simply, “beefy”
The style of the HOKA Mafate X Hike is an important feature of the boots because you simply will not blend in on the trail. People will notice them, so you’ll want to be ok with that.
Drop measurement and impact
The Mafate X Hike boots have 8 mm of offset, which is about average for a boot and doesn’t feel noticeable while hiking.
Stack height
The 49/41 heel/toe stack height of these boots is high. Between the high stack height and midsole technology/cushion, you will not experience ground feel with these shoes.
RECCO
One of the coolest features of the Mafate X Hike is the integration of RECCO technology, which assists search and rescue in the backcountry. A basic overview of how this works is that the Mafate X Hike has a RECCO reflector embedded in the upper under the lacing of the right shoe (it’s the red strip). If you are lost in the backcountry, SAR can use RECCO receivers to scan the area and locate you (or anyone with a RECCO reflector in their clothing) in a fraction of the time of traditional SAR efforts. If you’re interested in learning more about how this works, check out RECCO’s website.
We think the integration of RECCO into outdoor clothing and gear is awesome and love to see more brands partnering with RECCO in this way. Anything we can do, or wear, to keep us safer while recreating outdoors is a good idea.
Search and Rescue teams can use RECCO receivers to quickly locate folks who are lost and wearing a RECCO reflector. The author uses a RECCO receiver to locate the HOKA Mafate X Hike boot. Photo credit: Stephen Martin @explorewithmedia; www.explorewithmedia.com
Lacing system
While the single-pull lacing system can take some work to adjust, the boots stayed securely on while we were hiking. Photo by Becca Downs
These boots utilize a single-pull lacing system rather than traditional laces. You simply pull the cord to tighten or pull the tab to loosen. It’s simple and intuitive, though we found it more difficult to achieve the perfect tightness compared to traditional lacing.
Heel tab design
The heel has a loop you can use to help you pull your boots on, which is handy because the neoprene collar can be tricky to slip on and off.
Reflective elements
Other than the RECCO reflector, the Mafate X Hike does not sport reflective elements, though it is primarily a hi-vis yellow-green color. If you plan to run in the dark, we recommend checking out our Best Reflective Gear for Running in the Dark guide.
Colorway options
The Mafate X Hike comes in one colorway–predominantly neon green with some blue and white, and a red RECCO strip.
Similar products
HOKA Kaha 3 GTX
MSRP: $240
Weight (per boot): 16.8 oz (women’s), 20.9 oz (men’s)
Heel-to-toe drop: 7 mm (women’s); 8 mm (men’s)
Midsole: Dual density EVA (30% sugarcane-based)
Upper: Waterproof nubuck leather with GORE-TEX invisible fit
Outsole: Vibram Megagrip
Waterproofing: Leather Working Group Gold-rated waterproof nubuck leather with GORE-TEX Invisible Fit
The HOKA Kaha 3s are another lightweight boot option from HOKA, though these are more of a workhorse with better traction than the Mafate X Hikes. The Kaha 3 GTX boots have carried our testers through sand, over rocks, and through late-season snow and mud with ease. They’re waterproof and generally hardier than the Mafate X, but won’t offer quite as much cushion (or RECCO technology).
The HOKA Kaha 3 GTX boots are our Best Overall winners in our Best Lightweight Hiking Boots guide. Learn more in our in-depth review of the HOKA Kaha 3 GTX hiking boots.
HOKA Kaha 3 GTX
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HOKA Anacapa 2 Mid GTX
MSRP: $195
Weight (per boot): 14.7 oz (women’s), 18 oz (men’s)
Heel-to-toe drop: 7 mm
Upper material: Waterproof nubuck leather
Midsole: EVA (30% sugarcane)
Outsole: Vibram Megagrip
Waterproofing: GORE-TEX
The HOKA Anacapa 2 Mid GTX is a comfortable, waterproof hiker that’s even lighter than the HOKA Mafate X Hike. These boots are durable, cushioned, and sturdy enough to handle backpacking in addition to being light enough to throw on for a short day hike, making them a versatile option. This boot has even earned the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance.
The HOKA Anacapa 2 Mid GTX won Most Versatile in our Best Lightweight Hiking Boots guide. You can learn more in our in-depth review of the HOKA Anacapa 2 Mid GTX hiking boots.
HOKA Anacapa 2 Mid GTX
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Women's
Merrell Moab 3 Mid
MSRP: $140
Weight (per boot): 14.5 oz (women’s), 17 oz (men’s)
Heel-to-Toe Drop (mm): 11.5 mm
Upper: Suede and mesh, pigskin leather and mesh (vegan versions available)
Midsole: Merrell Air Cushion
Outsole: Vibram TC5+
Waterproofing: None (waterproof versions available)
The Merrell Moab 3 Mid hiking boots are designed for rough, uneven terrain and trails, while being a comfortable, stable boot for long or strenuous walks. While not as flashy or cushioned as the HOKA Mafate X Hike, they’re durable, reliable, and only cost $140. For $20, you can upgrade to the waterproof model.
The Merrell Moab 3 is the best budget winner in our Best Hiking Boots guide and our Best Lightweight Hiking Boots guide. The low-top version is a winner in our guide to the Best Hiking Shoes. Learn more in our in-depth review of the Merrell Moab 3 Hiking Boots.
Merrell Moab 3 Mid
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Who should buy the HOKA Mafate X Hike
Buy if you want a lot of cushion and the ride and comfort of a trail running shoe with some of the features of a hiking boot, like ankle protection and RECCO technology. Buy if you’re willing to sacrifice some stability for cushion and are willing to spend the $250 price. You really need to like the style of these boots, and it’s a bonus if you like the idea of telling people your boots have a carbon plate.
Skip if you want the traction and stability/protection of traditional hiking boots, don’t like the style, hike often in wet conditions, or want more longevity for the $250 price.
Where to buy
The HOKA Mafate X Hike lightweight hiking boot are relatively new and exclusive. Here are some of the pros of the retailers where you can find it.
REI
Pros: 100% satisfaction policy for 1 year; 10% dividend for members.
Hoka
If you purchase from HOKA you have a Fly for 30 Guarantee so you can try a pair of shoes & even wear them, and you’re not satisfied, you can return them within 30 days for a full refund.
Advice on where to buy
In general for shoes, we recommend purchasing from a place with easy or free returns like REI. Trying on shoes is an important way to get the sizing right. With both those retailers, if your funds allow, you can buy two sizes and easily return one. Additionally, check reviews to see whether other users recommend sizing up or down.
Why you should trust us / About the Author
After hip dysplasia and arthritis sidelined Becca’s competitive running days, she leaned into the sport in other ways, like geeking out on running shoes and hiking more. After testing and reviewing a lot of HOKA running shoes, she had the opportunity to test the hiking boot version of the Mafate X. Carbon plates in hiking boots?? She was too curious to let it go. She met HOKA’s product manager for this shoe and asked him her questions, and tested them on the same trails she still runs (when she can).
Becca Downs ran D1 cross country and track for Indiana University—Purdue University of Indianapolis (IUPUI) and continued racing everything from elite miles to an ultramarathon in her post-collegiate years. She earned a USATF Level 1 certification and coached boys and girls high school cross country and track in Indianapolis for four years. Becca then joined the IUPUI women’s distance coaching staff as a volunteer assistant coach in 2020-2021.
She geeks out on trail running, track and field, and cries every time she watches a marathon (they’re just so beautiful!).
After notching a few small FKTs under her belt, she was diagnosed with hip arthritis and now channels her passion for running into coaching, crewing, writing, creating training plans for her friends, hiking, snowshoeing, and running as much as her hip allows. She earned her MFA in Creative Writing from the Mile-High MFA Program at Regis University. Becca is based in Denver, Colorado.
You can find her at her website, Instagram, Substack, and her Treeline Review author page.
