Hoka's popular trail sneaker from 2024, previously all the hype, now comes back with speed laces and see-through ripstop uppers.
The gorpcore sneaker market is heating up with Hoka's latest release, the Stealth/Tech Mafate Speed 4 Lite. This shoe, designed for both trail and urban adventures, is positioned as a direct challenger to the Salomon XT-6, a well-established gorpcore icon.
Key Features of Hoka Stealth/Tech Mafate Speed 4 Lite
Built on the 2022 Mafate Speed 4 platform, the Stealth/Tech version retains Hoka's ProFly+ EVA midsole technology, offering responsive cushioning. The shoe's Vibram Megagrip outsole, equipped with Litebase construction, delivers strong trail traction and a lighter weight.
The upper material of the Stealth/Tech Mafate Speed 4 Lite is made from translucent ripstop material, replacing traditional jacquard mesh. This change provides breathability while maintaining a tech-forward, visually distinctive look. The shoe also features a haptic dot-matrix print and iridescent logos on the heel and tongue, enhancing its stealth and tech aesthetics.
Urban-Trail Versatility
Designed to perform well in both natural terrain and city environments, the Stealth/Tech Mafate Speed 4 Lite is a versatile choice in gorpcore fashion. It evolved from a 2024 collaboration with French brand Satisfy, now in a mainline iteration without the speed laces but retaining all performance features.
Key Features of Salomon XT-6
While specific details about the XT-6's features are limited, it is known as a dominant gorpcore sneaker characterized by rugged trail performance combined with chunky, technical styling that has influenced the gorpcore look. The XT-6 typically features durable uppers, aggressive outsole tread for off-road grip, and protective overlays – staples in trail running and outdoor sneakers prized in gorpcore.
Differences and Market Position
| Feature/Aspect | Hoka Stealth/Tech Mafate Speed 4 Lite | Salomon XT-6 | |------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------| | Midsole Technology | ProFly+ EVA midsole providing cushioning and responsiveness | Salomon proprietary cushioning, generally robust and stable | | Outsole | Vibram Megagrip with Litebase construction for lightweight traction | Aggressive, chunky tread optimized for trail adhesion | | Upper Material | Translucent ripstop, breathable, tech aesthetic | Traditional mesh with protective overlays, rugged look | | Design Focus | Sleek, translucent, urban-friendly with trail capability | Chunky, rugged, trail-focused with streetwear appeal | | Status in Market | Positioned as a direct challenger to XT-6 in gorpcore market | Established gorpcore icon, widely popular among enthusiasts |
The Hoka Stealth/Tech Mafate Speed 4 Lite offers a slightly lighter, visually distinctive, and tech-savvy take on the gorpcore trail sneaker, while the Salomon XT-6 delivers a more traditional, rugged, and durable off-road silhouette that has dominated the segment.
Availability and Pricing
The Stealth/Tech Mafate Speed 4 Lite is currently available as part of the permanent collection on Hoka's website. It comes in two colorways: white over black and black over white. The shoe reintroduces speed laces, a feature missed in the catalog issue earlier this year. The Stealth/Tech Mafate Speed 4 Lite is priced at $180.
The Mafate Speed 4 Lite has become one of the most coveted sneakers in the trail-to-street space, offering a blend of performance and style that appeals to both trail runners and urban fashion enthusiasts. Whether you're hitting the trails or the city streets, the Hoka Stealth/Tech Mafate Speed 4 Lite is a versatile choice that's sure to turn heads.
The Hoka Stealth/Tech Mafate Speed 4 Lite, with its modern footwear design, presents a sleek and tech-forward style, ideal for sports enthusiasts who enjoy football as well as other activities that demand both trail and urban adventures. The Salomon XT-6, on the other hand, showcases a more traditional style that highlights rugged construction, fitting perfectly for those who prefer a sports sneaker with a chunky, trail-focused aesthetic.
