Hoka's trail sneaker, the highly anticipated model of 2024, makes a comeback, featuring speed lacing systems and translucent ripstop uppers.
The Hoka Stealth/Tech Mafate Speed 4 Lite is a new addition to the gorpcore sneaker market, offering a blend of trail-grade grip, cushioning comfort, and urban-oriented style.
Priced at $180, this technical sneaker boasts a translucent ripstop upper with a haptic dot-matrix print, providing both visual appeal and breathability. The upper also features speed laces with reflective detailing, ensuring convenience and safety during low-light outings.
The Stealth/Tech Mafate Speed 4 Lite retains Hoka's ProFly+ EVA midsole technology and a Vibram Megagrip Litebase outsole, elements crucial to the performance of the original Mafate Speed 4 Lite. The midsole offers soft cushioning and a propulsive toe-off, while the outsole ensures excellent grip.
In comparison to the popular Salomon XT-6, the Mafate Speed 4 Lite focuses more on cushioning comfort and a lightweight, breathable upper with a modern aesthetic. While the XT-6 is known for its rugged design, protective overlays, and aggressive grip, the Mafate Speed 4 Lite offers a sleeker, lighter alternative.
The Mafate Speed 4 Lite's speed lace system is reminiscent of Salomon's quick-lacing, highlighting some functional parallels between the two. However, the Mafate Speed 4 Lite does not include the signature speed laces found in its earlier version, a change that sets it apart from its predecessor.
The Stealth/Tech version of the Mafate Speed 4 Lite is part of Hoka's expanded Stealth/Tech collection and is available in two colorways: white over black and black over white. It is a permanent collection item, meaning it will be available for purchase for the foreseeable future.
The iridescent heel and tongue logos of the Stealth/Tech version subtly catch the eye, adding a touch of futuristic style to this hybrid sneaker. The Stealth/Tech Mafate Speed 4 Lite is currently available for purchase from Hoka's website.
In summary, the Hoka Stealth/Tech Mafate Speed 4 Lite is a compelling option for those seeking technical performance with a lighter, more urban-oriented aesthetic. It challenges the Salomon XT-6's dominance in the gorpcore sneaker market by offering a hybrid design that combines trail-grade grip and cushioning technology with streetwear style and comfort.
[1] Hoka One One Stealth/Tech Mafate Speed 4 Lite Product Page. (2023). Retrieved from https://www.hokaoneone.com/en-gb/men/running/trail-running/mafate-speed-4-lt-stealth-tech [2] The Verge. (2023). Hoka's Mafate Speed 4 Lite is a trail runner that looks like it belongs on the street. Retrieved from https://www.theverge.com/23665904/hoka-mafate-speed-4-lte-review-trail-running-shoe [4] Runner's World. (2023). Hoka One One Mafate Speed 4 Lite Stealth/Tech Review. Retrieved from https://www.runnersworld.com/gear/a35164500/hoka-one-one-mafate-speed-4-lt-stealth-tech-review/
- The Hoka Stealth/Tech Mafate Speed 4 Lite, priced at $180, is an appealing choice for those looking for a blend of trail-grade grip, cushioning comfort, and urban-oriented style.
- This hybrid sneaker boasts a modern aesthetic, with features like a translucent ripstop upper and iridescent heel and tongue logos, making it a suitable footwear option for both fashion-and-beauty enthusiasts and sports enthusiasts, particularly football or lifestyle activities.
- Compared to the Salomon XT-6, the Mafate Speed 4 Lite focuses on cushioning comfort and a lightweight, breathable aesthetic, offering a sleeker, lighter alternative for those who prefer a more urban style in their sports footwear.
