Hoka Mach 6 Review (2024): Ideal Tempo Trainer?
The Mach series is emblematic of the brand, just like the Clifton. This sixth version faces strong competition in the fast trainer category, with the Saucony Endorphin Speed, Nike Zoom Fly, and Asics Novablast.
The v5 was a massive hit among runners, so let’s see if this new Mach 6 proves worthy of this legacy with this in-depth review based on my field tests.
Why trust me?
With a personal best of 2h38 in the marathon and a significant weekly training volume, I have the opportunity to test many shoe models to aid my practice.
I conducted my test of the Hoka Mach 6 on different types of sessions to evaluate their comfort and performance. I also consulted the reviews of other runners to validate my verdict and ensure that my recommendations will be relevant to as many people as possible.
Our Verdict
Very good lightweight, comfortable, and fast trainers.
- Very light: 7.7 oz/219 g (size 42)
- PROFLY+ foam, firm underfoot feel
- Height: 29 mm (heel), 24 mm (forefoot)
- Drop: 5 mm
- Training
The Hoka Mach 6 is a fast, lightweight training shoe with a new single-density supercritical EVA foam.
The underfoot feel is quite firm with a very good energy return. The aggressive rocker gives a tipping sensation that pushes forward. Shock absorption is very good for long distances.
The upper uses a new jacquard mesh that’s very thin and breathable, with a double internal gusset, an anatomical tongue, and a heel counter. All these elements give a very good fit. However, be careful: it’s quite narrow for wide feet. Fortunately, a wide version is available.
The outsole features new strategic rubber reinforcements for very good traction and better durability.
Better than the previous version, the Mach 6 strikes hard to claim the title of best fast trainer. It’s also a very good competition pick for runners who do not want the rigidity of a carbon plate.
Pros
- Versatile for training
- Very good traction and better durability
- Very good foot lockdown for secure ride
- Comfortable mesh with good ventilation
- Responsive with good cushioning
Cons
- The standard version may not be suitable for wide feed
Cushioning
Hoka makes a safe choice for the midsole and returns to a more classic configuration with PROFLY+, a single-density supercritical EVA foam.
This change in configuration gives a rather firm feel without being too hard. The feeling should satisfy Hoka fans but also appeal to a wide audience seeking performance.
With unchanged dimensions of 29 mm under the heel and 24 mm under the forefoot, the cushioning is satisfying and should suit many runners looking to extend the distance.
However, some testers note that they don’t see themselves taking it on a marathon. I somewhat agree with this. I think the ideal use is more up to mid-distances.
A small point of caution for the 5 mm drop. This is common for the brand and should not surprise regulars. But it may require an adaptation period for runners using higher drops (> 8 mm).
Energy Return
The brand announces the lightest Mach shoe in the series on its page. However, the weight is quite stable (219 g for the v6 compared to 212 g for the v5 in 42). In any case, it is light. The change in foam allows for a more dynamic run.
The rather aggressive rocker induces a strong forward tipping, similar to what can be found on some competition models. The heel-to-toe transitions are thus smooth and quick for effective forward propulsion.
Thus, the Hoka Mach 6 are a very good option for runners looking for speed, but who prefer a model without a carbon plate for less rigidity.
Support and Stability
No real surprises with reviews for this point. A wide platform with the bucket seat construction is retained. Coupled with a 29 mm thickness quite close to the ground and very good fit, we validate a good stability. This model is for neutral stride.
Foot Lockdown
Quite a few changes at this level. There is a very thin and very ventilated jacquard mesh with zonal breathable knitting. The upper fits the foot perfectly thanks to the double internal gusset.
As often with these very thin uppers, care should be taken not to encounter obstacles like brambles, because it’s not the most sturdy.
Moreover, while the breathability is optimal, it may, on the other hand, lack protection for winter.
The various paddings ensure good comfort, a characteristic of Hoka. The new anatomically gusseted tongue hugs the foot well. Some users found it sometimes didn’t stay in place, but I found it well secured. The rigid heel counter is appreciable and completes a very good foot lock. The fit is comfortable.
The Mach 6 fits true to size in length, but I found it tight at the instep and other runners have made the same comment. However, I’m not the best example as I often struggle with Hoka sizing. If you have wide feet, it may be wise to opt for the Wide (wide) version, available at the same price.
Traction
The main point of contention of the previous version, not so much on the quality, but rather on the durability, Hoka has revised its design. We go from a rubberized EVA outsole on the v5 to strategic inserts of Durabrasion Rubber on the v6.
Needless to say, it bears no resemblance now. The traction is very good, hard to fault. Even on wet surfaces, grip is good.
Additionally, the longitudinal flex groove mitigates the rigidity of the shoe by adding a little suppleness.
Concerning terrain, the road is naturally the preferred surface, but you can also use it without problems on non-technical trails.
Use Scenarios
The name of the shoe is quite explicit. While we won’t break the sound barrier (Mach 1), the Hoka Mach 6 is made to speed up the pace. Their lightness and reactivity make them a top choice for speedwork training sessions that require a good effort (e.g., intervals, tempo sessions).
We can also note the rather aggressive rocker that allows for a strong forward tip, a sensation sought by the performance-seeking runner. With satisfactory shock absorption, these shoes can also be used at slower paces, making them a very good versatile training option.
However, the rather firm side may be a hindrance for some in terms of increasing mileage. That’s why the Hoka Mach 6 will be more recommended up to mid-distances.
Whether in training or competition, some runners will surely prefer this kind of running shoe in their rotation, less rigid than a carbon model.
Quality and Durability
The outsole is more durable than on the previous version. The foam is dense and will retain its properties over time. Only the upper will need to be watched, as it is very thin.
Therefore, the lifespan is classic, and this results in a good price-quality ratio.
The Hoka Mach 6 contains recycled materials, although the brand does not specify the percentage, and is vegan (no animal material).
Alternative Picks
Hoka Mach 5
Several new features stand out:
- A redesigned, more efficient midsole as described above
- More efficient and durable rubber
- A redesigned upper for better ventilation
- Reduced heel height and refined collar
These changes make the version 6 better. Despite this, the products are quite close, and nothing prevents you from buying the Hoka Mach 5 if you see it on sale.
Other comparisons
Conclusion
The Hoka Mach 6 further improves an already very popular series. We find the energy return, lightness, and versatility that make it an incredible trainer for fast workouts. And yet, it can do so much more thanks to its versatility — you can run with the Mach 6 at any pace.
For racing, there are higher-performance models available, but it’s a great option if you want non-plated shoes for your event. The ideal distance will be more towards 10k or half-marathon, but some runners will undoubtedly be happy to push beyond!
Field Test Video (French)
Facts
Technical Specs
| Terrain | Road |
| Pronation type | Neutral |
| Drop | 5 mm |
| Heel height | 29 mm |
| Forefoot height | 24 mm |
| Weight (men) | 219 g/7.7 oz |
| Weight (women) | 189 g/6.7 oz |
| Features | Vegan, Rocker |
| Athletes | |
| Release year | 2024 |
| Price | Check prices |
Cushioning
| Softness | Firm |
| Responsiveness | Medium |
Technologies
| Outsole | Durabrasion Rubber |
| Midsole | PROFLY+, Early Stage Meta-Rocker Geometry |
| Upper | Jacquard Engineered Mesh |
Use
| Speed | Slow, Moderate, Fast |
| Distance | Short, 5K, Mid, 10K, Half marathon |
| Workout | Daily running, Racing |