Hoka Mach 5 Vs. Clifton 9: A Runner’s Take On Two Hoka Heavyweights

I’m a runner who’s logged countless miles, from city streets to winding trails, and I’ve got a soft spot for Hoka’s cushioned, cloud-like kicks. The Hoka Mach 5 and Clifton 9 are two of their most popular neutral daily trainers, each with its own vibe.

In this article, I’ll break down their key features, share my firsthand experiences, and weigh their pros and cons to help you decide which shoe fits your running style.

 Whether you’re chasing speed or craving comfort, I’ve got you covered with insights to guide your choice.

A Brief Comparison Table

My Journey With Hoka: Why These Shoes Matter?

I’ve been running for over a decade, and Hoka’s maximalist approach to cushioning caught my attention early on. The brand’s thick midsoles and rocker geometry promised a smoother, kinder ride for my joints, and I was hooked after my first pair.

The Mach 5 and Clifton 9 represent two sides of Hoka’s philosophy: speed and agility versus comfort and endurance. I’ve tested both extensively—racking up miles on roads, tracks, and even light gravel paths—to understand what makes each shine.

Let’s explore their designs, how they feel underfoot, and which might suit your running goals.

Hoka Mach 5: The Speedy Contender

The Mach 5 feels like a racecar in Hoka’s lineup—sleek, lightweight, and built for speed.

At 8.2 ounces for a men’s size 9, it’s noticeably lighter than many daily trainers, which I appreciated during tempo runs and interval sessions.

The dual-layer ProFly+ midsole, combining supercritical EVA foam on top with standard EVA below, delivers a snappy, responsive ride.

It’s not as bouncy as a carbon-plated shoe, but it’s got enough pop to make you feel quick on your feet.

The early-stage Meta-Rocker geometry, with its rocker point under the ball of the foot, encourages fast transitions.

I found this especially helpful during 5K and 10K races, where the shoe’s design pushed me forward without feeling forced.

The engineered mesh upper is thin and breathable, keeping my feet cool during summer runs in Texas heat. However, the rubberized EVA outsole, while lightweight, showed wear after about 200 miles, which was a bit disappointing for a daily trainer.

The Mach 5’s fit is snug, especially in the midfoot, which locked my feet in place during sprints. The toebox, though, felt a tad narrow for my medium-width feet, and I noticed some pressure on longer runs.

If you’ve got wider feet, you might want to size up or try them on first. Overall, the Mach 5 feels like a versatile performer, excelling at faster paces but still capable of handling moderate daily miles.

Pros of The Hoka Mach 5

• Lightweight and Agile: At just 8.2 ounces, the Mach 5 feels featherlight compared to most daily trainers, making it a joy for speedwork. During my track sessions, I noticed how effortlessly I could pick up the pace without feeling weighed down, especially during 400-meter repeats.
• Responsive ProFly+ Midsole: The dual-layer foam, with its supercritical EVA top layer, delivers a lively, springy feel that’s perfect for tempo runs and intervals. I felt a noticeable energy return when pushing off, which helped me maintain faster paces without fatigue setting in early.
• Breathable Upper: The engineered mesh is thin and airy, keeping my feet cool even during 80°F summer runs. This was a game-changer in humid conditions, where other shoes often left my feet sweaty and uncomfortable.
• Early-Stage Meta-Rocker: The rocker geometry promotes quick, efficient strides, making transitions feel seamless. I found this particularly helpful in races, where the shoe’s forward-leaning design kept my momentum going without extra effort.
• Versatile for Mixed Paces: While it shines for speed, the Mach 5 handles moderate daily miles well, too. I used it for 6-8 mile runs at a conversational pace, and it still felt responsive without being overly firm.

Cons of The Hoka Mach 5

• Less Durable Outsole: The rubberized EVA outsole, while light, wears down faster than traditional rubber. After about 200 miles, I noticed significant tread loss on the heel and forefoot, which could be a dealbreaker for runners expecting 400+ miles from a trainer.
• Narrow Toebox: The snug toebox felt restrictive for my medium-width feet, especially on runs over 10 miles. Runners with wider feet might find it uncomfortable, and I had to size up half a size to avoid pressure points.
• Moderate Stability: The Mach 5 lacks the robust stability features of shoes like the Clifton 9. On uneven surfaces, I felt less secure, and runners with overpronation or stability needs might find it insufficient.
• Firmer Ride: The responsive cushioning, while great for speed, feels firmer than plush alternatives. For long runs over 12 miles, I noticed some foot fatigue, making it less ideal for marathon training.
• Limited Non-Running Use: The Mach 5’s sporty, snug fit and firm ride aren’t great for casual walking or all-day wear. I tried wearing them for a day of errands, and they felt less comfortable than more versatile shoes.

Hoka Clifton 9: The Comfort King

The Clifton 9 is Hoka’s flagship, a shoe that’s been winning hearts since its debut in 2014.

At 8.7 ounces, it’s slightly heavier than the Mach 5 but feels like a cloud underfoot.

Its compression-molded EVA (CMEVA) midsole delivers a plush, forgiving ride, perfect for long runs and recovery days.

The 40mm heel stack height—11mm more than the Mach 5—provides ample cushioning, absorbing impact during my 15-mile weekend jaunts.

The Clifton 9’s pronounced Meta-Rocker, with the rocker point closer to the toe, creates a smooth, rolling sensation that’s a godsend for heel strikers like me.

It’s like the shoe does half the work, guiding my foot through each stride.

The engineered mesh upper, complete with a padded tongue and collar, wraps my foot in comfort, and the gusseted tongue stays put no matter how many miles I log. The outsole, with thicker rubber in high-wear areas, held up well past 300 miles, outlasting the Mach 5’s durability.

Stability is a standout feature here. The Clifton 9’s raised midsole sidewalls and heel cup kept my feet secure, even on uneven surfaces. The toebox is roomier than the Mach 5’s, accommodating my medium-width feet without issue.

However, the plush cushioning can feel a bit too soft for faster paces, making it less ideal for speedwork. If comfort and endurance are your priorities, the Clifton 9 is tough to beat.

Pros of The Hoka Clifton 9

• Plush CMEVA Midsole: The compression-molded EVA foam feels like running on pillows, absorbing impact beautifully. On 15-mile runs, my knees and ankles felt fresh, even on concrete, making it a go-to for high-mileage weeks.
• Exceptional Durability: The thicker rubber outsole in high-wear zones held up beyond 300 miles with minimal wear. I ran on mixed surfaces—pavement, gravel, and sidewalks—and the tread stayed intact, offering great value for the price.
• Roomy, Inclusive Fit: The wider toebox and available wide sizes accommodate various foot shapes. My medium-width feet had plenty of wiggle room, and I’ve heard from runners with wider feet who found it equally comfortable.
• High Stability Features: Raised midsole sidewalls and a supportive heel cup provide excellent stability. I felt confident on uneven trails and cambered roads, making it a solid choice for runners needing mild support.
• Versatile for Multiple Uses: Beyond running, the Clifton 9 doubles as a fantastic walking shoe. I wore it for a 12-hour travel day and felt no discomfort, thanks to its cushioned, supportive design.

Cons of The Hoka Clifton 9

• Slightly Heavier Build: At 8.7 ounces, it’s not as nimble as the Mach 5. During tempo runs, I noticed the extra weight, which made it harder to hit top speeds compared to lighter shoes.
• Less Responsive Cushioning: The plush CMEVA foam prioritizes comfort over energy return. When I tried speedwork, the shoe felt a bit mushy, lacking the snappy response needed for faster paces.
• Moderate Breathability: The thicker upper, while comfortable, traps heat in warmer conditions. During summer runs, my feet felt warmer than in the Mach 5, which could be an issue for hot climates.
• Slightly Higher Price: At $145, it’s $5 more than the Mach 5. While the durability justifies the cost, budget-conscious runners might hesitate, especially if they don’t need the extra cushioning.
• Rocker Can Feel Clunky: The pronounced Meta-Rocker, while great for running, feels less natural for casual walking or standing. I noticed a slight wobble when standing still, which might bother some users.

How Hoka Mach 5 And Clifton 9 Stack Up?

Putting the Mach 5 and Clifton 9 side by side, their differences become clear. I tested both on a mix of easy runs, tempo sessions, and long weekend miles to see how they performed.

The Mach 5’s lightweight build and responsive midsole made it my go-to for 5K and 10K races, where I could push the pace without feeling weighed down.

Its snappy feel and quick transitions were perfect for interval workouts on the track, but I noticed the outsole wearing thin after a few months of mixed use.

The Clifton 9, on the other hand, was my trusted companion for long runs.

Its plush cushioning and stable platform made 15-mile outings feel less punishing, and I even wore it for casual walks around town.

The thicker outsole held up better on varied surfaces, from pavement to light gravel.

However, when I tried picking up the pace for tempo runs, the Clifton 9 felt a bit sluggish compared to the Mach 5’s lively bounce.

Fit-wise, the Clifton 9’s roomier toebox was a relief after the Mach 5’s snugger fit. I have medium-width feet, but I know runners with wider feet who found the Mach 5 too constrictive.

Both shoes are true to size, but the Clifton 9 also comes in wide widths, giving it an edge for inclusivity. Breathability leaned in favor of the Mach 5, which kept my feet cooler during humid runs, while the Clifton 9 felt a bit stuffy in warmer weather.

Who Should Choose The Mach 5?

The Mach 5 is for runners who crave speed and versatility. If you’re training for a 5K, 10K, or even a half marathon and love tempo runs or intervals, this shoe’s lightweight design and responsive midsole will keep you flying.

It’s also a solid pick for runners who don’t need excessive cushioning—lighter runners (like the 61kg redditor I read about) might find it perfect for medium-distance runs with some pace variation. However, if you need stability or plan to log marathon-distance runs, you might find it lacking.

I loved the Mach 5 for my weekly track sessions. The early-stage Meta-Rocker and firm cushioning made 400-meter repeats feel effortless, and the breathable upper was a lifesaver in the heat.

But for my long Sunday runs, the firmer ride and less durable outsole left me wanting more support and longevity. If you’re a speed-focused runner with a neutral gait, the Mach 5 could be your dream shoe.

Who Should Choose The Clifton 9?

The Clifton 9 is for runners who prioritize comfort and durability over speed.

It’s a workhorse for daily training, long runs, and even walking, making it ideal for beginners or high-mileage runners.

Its plush cushioning and stable design suit heel strikers and those needing extra support, especially on long distances.

If you’re tackling a marathon or just want a shoe that doubles as a comfy walker, the Clifton 9 delivers.

I reached for the Clifton 9 on recovery days and long runs, where its soft midsole and stable platform made every step feel cushioned and secure. It’s also great for casual use—I wore mine on a 12-hour travel day and felt no foot fatigue.

However, if you’re chasing PRs or doing speedwork, the softer cushioning might slow you down. For runners who value endurance and versatility, the Clifton 9 is a no-brainer.

Which Shoe Wins?

After running in both, I lean toward the Clifton 9 for its all-around versatility. Its plush ride and durability make it a reliable choice for most of my runs, from easy jogs to long-distance efforts.

The Mach 5, while fantastic for speed, felt too specialized for my varied routine.

That said, your choice depends on your running style. If speed and responsiveness are your jam, the Mach 5 will keep you zooming. If comfort and longevity are key, the Clifton 9 is your trusty sidekick.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Conclusion: Your Run, Your Choice

You’re ready to pick your next Hoka, and I hope my experiences with the Mach 5 and Clifton 9 have given you clarity. If you’re chasing speed and love pushing the pace, the Mach 5’s lightweight, responsive design will have you flying through tempo runs.

If you’re logging long miles or want a shoe that doubles as a comfy walker, the Clifton 9’s plush cushioning and durability are hard to beat.

Try them on, feel the difference, and choose the one that matches your stride. Happy running!