Saucony Xodus Ultra 4 vs HOKA Mafate 5

Xodus Ultra 4 or Mafate 5? Here’s how they compare on feel, fit, brand specs and price, from the fitting team at The Run House.

The short answer

Want bouncy cushion and Vibram grip for long trail days? Get the Xodus Ultra 4.

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

Get the Xodus Ultra 4 if

• You want more bounce and energy back
• It’s mostly for easy days
• You want the lighter shoe, by about 0.8 oz
• You prefer a lower drop (6mm vs 8mm)

Get the Mafate 5 if

• You want more foam underfoot (9mm more at the heel)
• You need a roomier fit
• You like a higher heel-to-toe drop (8mm vs 6mm)

On the run

Xodus Ultra 4: Bouncy, protective trail miles. Very bouncy PWRRUN PB foam on a stable platform, now with a Vibram outsole that unlocks its potential. It’s getting heavy.

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.

Specs side by side

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

Xodus Ultra 4. Runs slightly short, so consider a half size up. The toebox is tapered.

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

Try them on

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

Shop the Xodus Ultra 4 · Shop the Mafate 5 · Compare other running shoes