Summary:
- HOKA releases the Mafate X Hike in a Vintage Yellow and Black colorway for trail hikers
- The shoe includes a carbon fiber midsole plate, Vibram Megagrip outsole, and RECCO safety reflectors
- Priced at 40,700 yen (approximately $257 USD) and available now through HOKA
HOKA has added a Vintage Yellow and Black colorway to its Mafate X Hike collection. The trail shoe targets hikers who need visibility and traction on uneven ground. The color combination pairs bright yellow with black accents across the upper and sole.
The Mafate X Hike uses a construction method that combines neoprene with synthetic overlays. This material choice provides structure while allowing the foot to move through its natural range of motion. The quarters of the shoe receive extra reinforcement to prevent rolling on unstable surfaces. HOKA designed the tongue to integrate directly with the upper, which reduces pressure points during extended wear.
The lacing system uses speed hooks rather than traditional eyelets. This setup lets hikers tighten or loosen the fit without stopping to retie. The laces themselves measure thicker than standard athletic shoe laces to withstand repeated adjustments and contact with brush or rock.
HOKA built the midsole around a carbon fiber plate. This component runs through the center of the shoe to reduce flex and increase forward momentum with each step. The plate works with the surrounding foam to distribute impact across a wider surface area. This design reduces fatigue on multi-hour treks.
The outsole uses Vibram Megagrip rubber compound. Vibram developed this rubber to maintain grip on both wet and dry surfaces. The tread pattern includes zones with different lug depths. Areas under the ball of the foot and heel feature deeper lugs to handle the highest wear. Zones along the midfoot use shallower lugs to reduce weight while maintaining contact with the ground.
HOKA added RECCO reflectors to the shoe's exterior. These reflectors emit a signal when search and rescue teams use RECCO detectors. The technology does not require batteries or activation. The reflectors work in all weather conditions and remain functional throughout the shoe's lifespan.
The entry system uses a ramped design at the heel. This feature angles the back of the shoe to make insertion easier when wearing the shoe with gloves or in cold conditions. The system pairs with a heel counter that cups the back of the foot without creating pressure points.
The Vintage Yellow and Black colorway increases visibility in low-light conditions. Hikers who start before dawn or finish after sunset benefit from the bright yellow panels. The black sections reduce the appearance of dirt and scuff marks from trail contact.
HOKA set the retail price at 40,700 Japanese yen, which converts to approximately $257 USD. The shoe went on sale through HOKA's official channels without a pre-order period. The company assigned the style number 1174230-VWB to this specific colorway.
The Mafate X Hike sits within HOKA's trail running and hiking category. The brand launched the Mafate line to serve hikers who cover long distances on technical terrain. Previous colorways focused on earth tones and subdued colors. This release marks a shift toward high-visibility options in the collection.
The shoe weighs less than traditional hiking boots while providing comparable support. This weight reduction comes from the material selection and the elimination of unnecessary reinforcements. HOKA tested the design on trails in different climates to verify performance across temperature ranges and elevation changes.