HOKA Mafate 5 vs Stinson 8

Mafate 5 or Stinson 8? Here’s how they compare on feel, fit, brand specs and price, from the fitting team at The Run House.

The short answer

Want plush, protective cushion for long trail days? Get the Mafate 5.

Want maximum protection and stability on easy trails? Get the Stinson 8.

Get the Mafate 5 if

You want more bounce and energy back
Long runs are your thing
You like a less rigid forefoot
You like a higher heel-to-toe drop (8mm vs 5mm)

Get the Stinson 8 if

You’re on your feet all day or walk a lot
It’s mostly for easy days
You need a roomier fit
You like a stiffer, rocker-style forefoot that rolls you forward

On the run

Mafate 5: Plush, grippy ultra cushion. Very plush and surprisingly energetic, built for long ultras. Outstanding Vibram Megagrip traction. It’s heavy, and the stiff ride won’t suit everyone.

Stinson 8: The tank-like max-cushion cruiser. Huge, protective and very stable, with a progressive rocker. Great on gravel and easy trails, but the EVA foam feels muted and it’s very heavy.

Specs side by side

	Mafate 5	Stinson 8
Price	$185	$180
Stack height (heel / forefoot)	45 / 37mm*	Not listed by HOKA
Drop	8mm	5mm
Weight, men’s	11.7 oz	11.3 oz
Weight, women’s	8.1 oz	9.6 oz
Support	Neutral	Neutral
Plate	None	None
Widths	Standard	Standard
Built for	Trails, Long runs	Trails, Walking & all-day wear, Easy days
Expected life	450–550 miles	400–500 miles

Stack, drop and weight come from each brand’s own website. Numbers marked * aren’t published by the brand and come from other published specs. Weights are for the size each brand quotes. Expected life is our estimate.

Fit

Mafate 5. Runs about a half size short, so go up a half. Roomier than most HOKAs, with a durable, breathable knit upper.

Stinson 8. True to size and surprisingly roomy for a HOKA. Wide available.

Try them on

Come try on both at The Run House in Walpole, Needham or Falmouth. Gait analysis is always free.