Originally Posted by
simgreen78
Morgan
I bought a pair of Hoka Mafates earlier this year, mainly as an experiment having read so much about them via Meltzer etc.
Couple of training runs of 7-8 miles went well, then I put them through their paces in a 27 mile trail race in the Peak District after about a week of owning them. I absolutely sailed round the course in fairly wet and muddy conditions. Leg fatigue was massively reduced, absolutely no cramp whatsoever, the whole thing was a breeze. I ran hard and at a consistent pace throughout on a tough course. Although they look weird they feel no different to a more conventionally built shoe, apart from when descending when they really come into their own. I don't think I've ever run downhill on trails as quickly and with as much comfort and confidence as I did that day. Despite the huge wedge underfoot, they are actually a fairly 'minimal' shoe in terms of heel toe drop, which I think is about 4mm. Also, the wedge of foam is deceptive, it is not all underfoot, rather the foot is cradled within it so it is not quite like 'running in platforms' as it appears to be. They are not noticeably heavier than the more conventional shoes I own.
I have never enjoyed a race more than that day. And I don't think I've ever run better or harder. Afterwards, my legs felt absolutely fantastic. I would have gone out and done another run the very next day were it not for the one massive drawback of the Hoka range (you just knew there would be a 'but' coming...).
The toebox is ridiculous. It tapers off to almost a point! When I took the shoes off I had blisters on blisters, bloodied and bruised toes. I had felt them nipping at about 20 miles, but didn't think it was too bad. I was wrong! This wasn't a sizing issue either, I was very careful when buying. Once the adrenaline had settled down it was fairly painful, and I couldn't run again for a few days.
All in all, a frustrating shoe. So much zip and comfort, and the reduced stress on the legs is VERY noticeable. But no good for anybody with anything but the narrowest of feet in my opinion, if you are looking at doing some big mileage in them. I ended up sending mine to Oxfam, as most of my racing these days is 15 miles plus and I don't think my toes would take it!!
Give them a good going over in the shop first.
Hope this helps.
Simon