XLIM Puts Its Stamp on the HOKA Mafate Speed 2
Arriving April 18, the Seoul-based label’s first-ever collaboration with HOKA comes in a high-contrast duo.
Summary
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XLIM and HOKA are launching a Mafate Speed 2 collaboration on April 18, 2026 featuring an “Yves Klein” blue colorways
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The design blends tactical function—like Vibram Mega-Grip soles—with lifestyle aesthetics, incorporating hairy suede details and XLIM’s signature minimal branding.
South Korean label XLIM is doubling down on footwear, following up on a recent New Balance tie-up with a color-steeped duo of HOKA Mafate Speed 2s. The thick-soled model, made for optimal comfort in tactical conditions, gets subtle updates in XLIM’s minimal expression.
Coming in a cobalt blue, XLIM and HOKA’s inaugural collaboration caters to the sleek and discreet just as much as it does to those with an appetite for brights. The blue colorway is a particularly eye-catching variant, reminiscent of the hues of artist Yves Klein. HOKA’s Mafate Speed 2 has a tech-forward aesthetic with its intricate synthetic overlays and sculptural midsole. However, XLIM designer Dohee Kim gives the shoe hairy suede details for contrast and places a subtle XLIM imprint on the lateral toe.
The Mafate 2 is best described as a trail-to-lifestyle shoe, which addresses function and form equally. For example, the Vibram Mega-Grip outsoles offer 5mm-deep treads made to traverse challenging terrain. Additionally, within the body, a deep Active Foot frame offers physical support, and the tuned Meta-Rocker enhances the gait cycle.
In Hypebeast Magazine 35, Dohee Kim explained this aspect of XLIM’s approach: “Rather than simply following external trends or focusing on aesthetics, we wanted to design practical clothing that brings a new kind of joy and experience to those who wear it.” “This approach gives people a natural opportunity to blend function and style in their everyday lives. To support this vision, we develop our own fabrics, allowing us to create innovative designs from the ground up,” he added.
The XLIM x HOKA Mafate Speed 2 is set for release on April 18, 2026, at XLIM’s physical location and web store.
