Welcome back to Race to Healthy! After the tremendous response to our comparison of the Hoka Clifton 8 and Clifton 9, we're excited to dive into another showdown featuring Hoka’s latest models. Today, we’ll be comparing the Hoka Mach 6 and the Hoka Clifton 9. I’ve put both of these models through their paces to see how they stack up. Whether you're an avid runner looking for your next pair or just curious about the latest releases, join me as we explore the key differences, performance features, and overall impressions of the Hoka Mach 6 and Clifton 9. Let’s lace up and get started!

My first run with the Hoka Mach 6's

As a long-time user of the Hoka Clifton series, I was intrigued to try out the Hoka Mach 6, a shoe that promises to deliver a different running experience. My first run with the Mach 6 felt drastically different than the Cliftons. From the moment I took my first stride, it was clear that the Mach 6's were designed to keep you in motion and help you go faster, easier.

The responsive cushioning and lighter weight design made each step feel effortless, propelling me forward with less effort compared to the Cliftons. The Mach 6's provide a snappier ride, and the transition felt smoother, making it an exciting option for those looking to pick up the pace. If you don't want to use them for a daily trainer, they would be an excellent choice for speed workouts or races. They have the responsive, propelling feeling of a carbon plated shoe, but at a fraction of the cost.

Although the Mach 6 offers a different experience, it's important to note that it still provides the comfort Hoka is known for. However, if you're used to the plush cushioning of the Cliftons, you might find the Mach 6's feel firmer. If having a stability shoe is something that you're concerned about, these may not be for you. They're stable enough to be used everyday, but no where near as stable as the Cliftons. They are both a neutral shoe.

I found that I was able to easily transition running shoes from the cliftons to the Mach 6 with little adaptation period. The Hoka Mach 6's have impressed me with their ability to enhance speed and efficiency, making them a strong contender for my go-to daily trainer. One thing that has been obvious to me in the first few runs is that the Mach 6 is a true running shoe; meaning that I wouldn't use it to go walking around town at all like I tend to use my retired clifton's.

What's different about the Mach 6 vs clifton 9?

The Hoka Mach 6 and Hoka Clifton 9 are both popular models and a good shoe in the Hoka lineup, but they cater to different running needs and preferences. The Mach 6 is designed with speed and responsiveness in mind, featuring a supercritical EVA midsole foam that provides a firmer, more energetic ride compared to the Clifton 9’s softer, more cushioned feel. The Mach 6’s early stage meta rocker and lightweight build make it ideal for tempo runs, intervals, and faster paces, whereas the Clifton 9, with its plush cushioning and comfort, is better suited for daily training and long-distance runs​.

In terms of the upper shoe, the Mach 6 uses a creel jacquard knit that offers a snug, breathable fit, while the Clifton 9 features an engineered mesh upper that balances support and ventilation. The outsole coverage of the Mach 6 includes Durabrasion rubber for improved traction and durability, making it versatile across various terrains. In contrast, the Clifton 9 focuses more on providing a smooth, cushioned ride with less emphasis on aggressive traction.

Another key difference is the tongue of the shoes. The clifton has that classic running shoe cushioned tongue that I personally love. The Mach 6 has that thin laser cut tongue that you find in modern and light running shoes. Ultimately, there's not a difference for me to care either way as they are a both gusseted tongue.

A lot of people find that Clifton has a wider toe box vs mach, which I find to be somewhat true. I wear a size 9, wide in both shoes as I have wide feet. While I visually see that the mach is more narrow than the clifton, I don't personally feel that it has a more narrow fit.

Overall, the Mach 6 is an excellent choice for runners looking to enhance their speed and performance, while the Clifton 9 remains a reliable option for those prioritizing comfort and cushioning for their daily miles. With them both being a hoka shoe, they both ultimately have that cushioned and bouncy comfortable ride that feels great when your foot hits the ground.

Pros of the Hoka Mach 6

The Hoka Mach 6 has some great benefits that make it a fantastic choice for runners aiming to go faster. One major advantage is its lightweight design, which makes each step feel easier and helps reduce fatigue during longer runs. The shoe’s special foam midsole provides a springy and responsive feel, giving you an extra boost with each stride. This makes it perfect for speed workouts and tempo runs​.

The breathable knit upper keeps your feet cool and comfortable, while the updated rubber outsole offers good grip and durability across different surfaces​. I find that for a speed focused shoe, they have pretty decent stability. Overall, the Mach 6 is ideal for runners who want a speedy, lightweight running shoes that performs well in various running conditions.

Cons of the Hoka Mach 6

While the Hoka Mach 6 has many benefits, there are a few downsides to consider. One major drawback is that they feel a bit specialized, making them less versatile for different activities. Once the shoes wear out from running, they aren’t as comfortable for walking like the Cliftons are.​

Additionally, the firmer and more responsive design might not be as suitable for runners who prefer a softer, more cushioned feel for long, easy runs​. The tighter fit around the midfoot can also take some getting used to and might not be ideal for those with wider feet. However, as a person with wider feet, I didn't have an issue with the narrow fit. Overall, while the Mach 6 excels in speed and performance, it might not be the best all-around shoe for everyone.

My Hoka Mach 6 Review

Overall, I’ve really enjoyed using the Hoka Mach 6 for my daily runs and marathon training. The lightweight design and responsive feel have made my runs more enjoyable and helped me maintain faster paces with less effort. However, I did find that the Mach 6 is a bit less stable than I would like, which might not make it the best choice for those needing extra support. Additionally, once they wear out from running, they aren’t as comfortable for walking or casual use. Despite these drawbacks, the Mach 6 has been a valuable addition to my running gear, particularly for speed workouts and tempo runs. Infact, they have become my go-to shoe and I have found myself reaching for them more than my Cliftons. If you're looking for a shoe that excels in performance and helps you pick up the pace, the Hoka Mach 6 is definitely worth considering.