Carbon plates have well-researched benefits and a seemingly endless list of race wins and world records.
They create the firmer feel that fast racers are looking for and help to guide the foot through your stride, providing a touch of extra support. They can also help create a rocker feel, with the stiffness allowing the shoe to pivot – as the toe goes down, the heel must come up, easing you into your next stride.
Although stiff, they do flex, providing an energised pop of forward momentum as the plate fights to retain its shape.
Each brand, and almost every shoe, uses a plate differently. Different shapes, thicknesses, and designs are used to prioritise a different aspect of performance. Some aim exclusively to guide the stride, while others focus solely on propulsion.
The Mafate, the original HOKA gets an ultra-distance update
Welcome to the brand new HOKA Mafate X, a plush long distance trail shoe ready for your next 100-mile race or for plush runs with an extra pop of speed whenever you need it.
Hoka Mafate X
The HOKA Mafate X in Zest/Mountain Fog updates the very first HOKA shoe, the Mafate from a cushioned daily trail shoe to a plush ultra distance race shoe with carbon plate speed.
The all-important grip in the HOKA Mafate X is created by zonal Vibram megagrip and 3.5mm lugs that give excellent traction across gravel, and hard technical surfaces.In the midsole a dual density cushioning system uses peba foam on the top layer, and a super critical formed EVA carrier foam below. Throw a forked carbon plate into the mix, and you get deep, propulsive cushioning ready to ease the burden of long miles across the trail.A smooth curving shape to the forefoot (metarocker), helps ease through each stride, and a rearfoot focused Active Foot Frame, places your foot within, rather than upon the shoe for improved comfort, fit and control.The quick draining, ultralight woven upper features a dynamic vamp, gusseted tongue, protective toe cap, moulded TPU heel counter and reflective details, ensuring comfort, fit, durability and visibility.
Carbon Plate
Extra Cushioning
Featuring extra-deep stacks of midsole foam, extra-cushioned shoes offer improved impact absorption, comfort, and even performance. With modern foams providing energy return through your stride, the more foam under your foot, the bigger the spring forward. The trade-off of extra foam is additional weight and reduced ground feel. It can also be expensive to create and stabilise so much foam.
Neutral
Neutral running shoes are designed to provide a smooth sensation without correcting your gait. They allow your natural motion to flow, while still offering a snug fit and a cushioned feel underfoot. As such, they’re ideal for runners who don’t overpronate.
HOKA
Where others follow, HOKA lead. Originally intending to improve downhill traction and stability, HOKA discovered a formula for success across any terrain that has been replicated across many other brands. It also made this relative newcomer a big hitter in the running shoe market.
Start with a supremely cushioned midsole, offering marshmallow softness, shock absorption, comfort, and support at varying levels across the range. Then apply the Meta-Rocker. Designed to drive runners forward, this shaped underfoot geometry complements the natural gait cycle – by curving the shoe at the toe and heel, it ensures a smooth transition from impact to toe off. Lastly, the Active Foot Frame functions like a bucket seat in a car, cradling the heel and offering a secure feel across the foot.
The first thing you notice picking up a HOKA is how light they feel: despite the deep cushioned midsole, they have an almost weightless build. Combine that featherlight feel with the propulsive foam and forward geometry, and you get a sensation of pure speed. As HOKA would say, “Time to Fly”.
Perfect Partner
At Pro:Direct Running we currently offer discounts when buying multiple pairs of running shoes, making it easier and more affordable for you to build your dream shoe rotation. Whether you're looking for a comfy everyday mileage runner, a propulsive tempo running shoe or a super speedy race day rocket, we've got you covered!
At Pro:Direct Running we currently offer discounts when buying multiple pairs of running shoes, making it easier and more affordable for you to build your dream shoe rotation. Whether you're looking for a comfy everyday mileage runner, a propulsive tempo running shoe or a super speedy race day rocket, we've got you covered!
Buy any 2 pairs of running shoes and get 10% off with code 2SHOES25
Buy any 3 pairs of running shoes and get 15% off with code 3SHOES25
*Offer valid on full priced shoes only.
Why Should You Have a Shoe Rotation?
Rotating running shoes can extend the life of each pair by allowing them to fully dry out and have foam rebound between runs, reducing wear and tear, and potentially lowering the risk of injury by changing the stress your body goes through when running in different models.
Rotating running shoes can extend the life of each pair by allowing them to fully dry out and have foam rebound between runs, reducing wear and tear, and potentially lowering the risk of injury by changing the stress your body goes through when running in different models.
Features
• Vibram megagrip zonal outsole with 3.5mm lugs
• Smooth metarocker
• Rearfoot focused Active Foot Frame
• Forked carbon fibre plate
• PEBA core with super critical EVA carrier
• Woven textile upper for easy drainage
• Dynamic vamp and gusseted tongue
• Protective toe cap, moulded TPU heel counter and reflective details
Additional Information
- Quick Ref: 1025942
- Man. Ref: 1161990-ZTM
Off-Road Running
Take to the trails and leave the urban landscape behind in our off-road shoes.
Designed to offer traction across all kinds of terrain, from rocks and roots to mud and grass, they often feature small blunt spikes called “lugs” to dig into softer ground.
Many also feature improved protection in the upper, keeping loose rocks and branches at bay.
Best for Severe Trail
Trail shoes can come with many levels of protection, lightness, and cushioning, but the main thing that differentiates between severe and light trail is the outsole traction. Severe trail shoes tend to have deep lugs to offer improved grip in wet mud and loose gravel, letting you sprint over the most technical of terrain with total confidence.
Worldwide Shipping Available*
Welcome to Pro:Direct Sport! We are delighted to offer worldwide* delivery services tailored to your preferences and budget. Whether you need your order quickly or want to select a specific day for delivery, we've got you covered.
For lightning-fast service, simply place your order before 8pm, and we'll ensure it reaches your doorstep the very next day. Alternatively, you can choose a nominated day for delivery, ensuring you'll be home to receive your package.
Pro:Direct are working in partnership with our carriers to reduce the impact on our environment with low, or zero carbon emissions in the last mile delivery to your door.
When your order is dispatched you will receive an email. You can track your order through your online order history
*Please note that certain restrictions may apply to specific regions.
Hassle Free Online UK Returns (within 28 days)
Returning a product to Pro:Direct is simple and easy using our Online Returns Portal.
Click here for detailed information on Returns.
If you are returning an item from outside the UK you can still use our Online Returns Portal but for further details please see our Returns FAQ's
