Hoka Clifton 9 vs. Hoka Mach 5: Which One? (2024 comparison)
The Hoka Mach 4 was one of the biggest surprises of 2021, and it’s back in 2022 for a new version! On the other hand, the Hoka Clifton 9 (2023) is the most popular model in the Hoka collection. So let’s see which one comes out on top!
If the Mach 5 surprises runners so much, it is because it combines bounce and comfort, a rare feat for a daily trainer.
It’s lighter than the Clifton 9, and the upper offers a more structured foot lockdown. Both shoes have medium stacks with 40 mm heel height for Clifton 9 and 29 mm for Mach 5, but the Mach 5 has firmer cushioning. The bounce is equivalent, with perhaps a slight advantage for the Mach.
Overall, the Mach 5 has the edge, and we recommend it if you’re on the fence. However, athletes looking for soft cushioning and a flexible foot lockdown will prefer the Clifton 9.
Side-By-Side Comparison
|
9.2  |
9.4  |
|
|---|---|---|
| Overview | ||
| Description | The Hoka Clifton 9 is a lightweight running shoe combining comfort, versatility and cushion. | The Hoka Mach 5 is a brilliant road shoe to go faster and longer comfortably. One of the fastest trainers out there, it's a truly unique pick for daily workouts and races! |
|
9.5
9
9
9.5
9
9
9.5
|
10
9
9
9
9
9
10
| |
| Facts | ||
| Terrain | Road | Road |
| Support | Neutral | Neutral |
| Heel stack height | 40 mm | 29 mm |
| Forefoot stack height | 35 mm | 24 mm |
| Heel-to-toe drop | 5 mm | 5 mm |
| Weight (men) | 248 g | 212 g |
| Weight (women) | 205 g | 193 g |
| Features | Vegan, Recycled materials | Rocker |
| Athletes | ||
| Release year | 2023 | 2022 |
| Technologies | ||
| Outsole | Durabrasion Rubber | Rubberized EVA |
| Midsole | Compression-molded EVA foam (CMEVA), Early Meta-Rocker Geometry | EVA Sockliner, Profly+ |
| Upper | Breathable technical mesh, gusseted tongue | Jacquard Mesh, Articulated Heel Collar |
| Cushioning | ||
| Cushioning | Balanced | Firm |
| Responsiveness | Medium | High |
| Use | ||
| Distance | Mid, 10K, Half marathon, Long, Marathon | Mid, 10K, Half marathon, Long, Marathon |
| Speed | Slow, Moderate, Fast | Slow, Moderate, Fast |
| Workouts | Daily running | Daily running, Racing |
How is the toe box on the Mach 5s? I’m Keanu g toward them because of the firmness/responsiveness, but I need a wide toe box as I usually wear barefoot shoes.
*I’m leaning
The Toe box is awesome for wide feet/bunions, however I’m having problems with the firmness level on the outside of my foot between the toe box and the heal. Otherwise I love the Mach 5 version!