Hoka One One Mafate Speed 2 – Performance

We found the Mafate Speed 2 instantly more comfortable than its predecessor thanks to that additional ankle cuff cushioning and, to a lesser extent, the conventional lacing, which is great news on longer runs.

What hasn’t changed is the beguiling, super-cushioned ride. It’s not quite the marshmallow-soft dreamscape of earlier Hokas with 100% EVA mid-soles, but there’s loads of underfoot protection with a little bit more ‘damping’ than before.

That really pays off on harder surfaces in particular and on longer runs – 20km plus in our experience – where it markedly reduces both foot and leg impact fatigue.

What’s neat is that despite the 1970s platform sole look, you don’t feel unstable. Some of that is because the foot is slightly recessed into the sole, some because the soft cushioning conforms to the surface you’re running on.  Speaking of which, the new Vibram outsole gives impressive grip all round with real bite on everything from rock and rubble through to softer surfaces.

There is a downside to all this cush and carry luxuriousness. You lose some sense of feel and connection to the trail and while the shoes aren’t exactly heavy, they’re very definitely not nimble.

It’s particularly noticeable if you’re used to bombing down technical-descents in lighter, fell-type shoes, where the squidgy feel makes for a disconcertingly vague vibe.

Mafate Speed 2 – Verdict

A marked improvement on the original version, the new autumn 2016 Mafate Speed 2 takes the original’s underfoot cushioning and adds improved comfort and grip to the equation making it a cracking shoe for long, long outings on harder surfaces in particular.

It really does seem to reduce impact fatigue on both feet and legs, which is why Hoka is such a popular choice for ultra-runners these days.

There is a pay-off in reduced trail-feel and all-round agility, which means it won’t suit those who like to move fast on more technical ground, but if you just want to keep rolling along at a steady pace and you can live with the eccentric looks, these may be the shoe you’ve been looking for.

If you want a very cushioned shoe but with more sensitivity, check our our reviews of the  new Hoka One One Speed Instinct and the Saucony Xodus ISO shoes.

More Information

See www.hokaoneone.eu