I lace up my running shoes, the pavement calling my name, and I’m torn. Do I grab the Hoka Mach 6 for its zippy, responsive ride, or the Clifton 9 for its plush, cloud-like cushioning?
As a runner who’s logged countless miles in both, I’m here to break down the Hoka Mach 6 and Clifton 9, comparing their features, feel, and performance to help you decide which shoe fits your running style.
From speed sessions to long runs, let’s explore what makes these neutral trainers shine and where they fall short.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Hoka Mach 6 | Hoka Clifton 9 |
| Weight | 8.2 oz (men’s 9) / 6.8 oz (women’s 8) | 9.2 oz (men’s 9) / 7.3 oz (women’s 8) |
| Heel-to-Toe Drop | 5 mm (37 mm heel / 32 mm forefoot) | 5 mm (40 mm heel / 35 mm forefoot) |
| Midsole | Supercritical EVA foam | Compression-molded EVA foam |
| Outsole | Durabrasion rubber | Blown rubber in high-wear areas |
| Upper | Creel jacquard mesh, gusseted tongue | Engineered mesh, padded tongue |
| Best Use | Tempo runs, intervals, short races | Long runs, daily training, recovery |
| Stability | Moderate, narrower base | High, wider platform, sidewalls |
| Cushioning | Responsive, firm | Plush, soft |
| Price | $140 | $145 |
My Journey With Hoka: Why These Shoes Matter?
I’ve been running for over a decade, from 5Ks to marathons, and Hoka has been a constant companion. Their maximalist approach—those chunky midsoles that scream comfort—drew me in when I first tried the Clifton 1 back in 2014.
Fast forward to today, and I’m still hooked, but the choice between the Mach 6 and Clifton 9 isn’t straightforward. Both are neutral daily trainers, yet they cater to different vibes on the road.
The Mach 6 feels like a sports car, built for speed and agility, while the Clifton 9 is the cozy SUV, perfect for cruising long distances. Let’s unpack what makes each tick.
Hoka Mach 6: The Need For Speed
The Mach 6 caught my eye when I needed a shoe to push the pace. I’d been using the Clifton for most of my runs, but I craved something lighter and snappier for tempo sessions and interval workouts.
Enter the Mach 6, Hoka’s lightweight trainer that’s evolved into a fan favorite for its versatility.
Key Features of The Mach 6
The Mach 6 is a lean machine at 8.2 ounces for men’s size 9, making it one of Hoka’s lightest road shoes.
Its supercritical EVA foam midsole is the star of the show, delivering a firm yet responsive ride that feels like it’s urging you to go faster.
The stack height—37 mm at the heel and 32 mm at the forefoot—gives a 5 mm drop, which encourages a midfoot strike and quick turnover.
The creel jacquard mesh upper is breathable and snug, with a gusseted tongue that locks your foot in place without feeling restrictive.
The outsole uses Durabrasion rubber for solid traction, and a subtle early-stage meta-rocker adds a gentle roll to your stride.
My Experience Running In The Mach 6
My first run in the Mach 6 was a 6-mile tempo at a 7:30 pace, and it felt like the shoe was egging me on. The supercritical foam has this springy energy return that makes each stride feel effortless, almost like the shoe is doing half the work.
I took them out for intervals on a track—4x800s at 6:45 pace—and the lightweight build made accelerations a breeze. The toe spring and mild rocker kept my transitions smooth, and I didn’t feel the clunkiness I sometimes get with thicker-soled shoes.
But it’s not all sunshine. The Mach 6’s narrower midsole (113.9 mm at its widest) and lack of sidewalls make it less stable than I’d like on sharp turns or uneven surfaces. I noticed this during a trail-adjacent run on a gravel path—my ankles wobbled a bit, reminding me this shoe is best for pavement.
The thin tongue (1.5 mm of padding) and snug midfoot also took some getting used to, especially since I have slightly wider feet. Still, after 80 miles, the Mach 6 has earned a spot in my rotation for speedwork and races up to 10K.
Pros of The Mach 6
- Lightweight design (8.2 oz for men’s 9) boosts agility and speed.
- Supercritical EVA foam provides excellent energy return for a responsive ride.
- Breathable creel jacquard upper keeps feet cool during intense runs.
- Durable outsole with strategic rubber placement enhances traction.
- Versatile for tempo runs, intervals, and short races.
Cons of The Mach 6
- Narrower fit may not suit wide-footed runners; consider sizing up or going wide.
- Less stable due to a slimmer base and minimal sidewalls, not ideal for technical terrain.
- Firmer cushioning might feel too stiff for runners craving plush comfort.
- Thin tongue and snug midfoot can feel restrictive initially.
- Not as versatile for casual walking or all-day wear compared to the Clifton 9.
Hoka Clifton 9: The Comfort King
The Clifton 9 is Hoka’s flagship, the shoe that put them on the map back in 2014. It’s been my go-to for long runs and recovery days, offering a plush, forgiving ride that makes high mileage feel like a walk in the park.
Now in its ninth iteration, it’s cushier than ever, but it’s not just about softness—it’s a workhorse built for durability and comfort.
Key Features of The Clifton 9
Weighing in at 9.2 ounces for men’s size 9, the Clifton 9 is slightly heavier than the Mach 6 but still feels light for a max-cushion shoe.
Its compression-molded EVA (CMEVA) foam midsole is softer and plusher, with a 40 mm heel and 35 mm forefoot stack for a 5 mm drop.
The Meta-Rocker geometry—a hallmark of Hoka’s design—creates a smooth, rolling transition that’s perfect for heel strikers like me.
The engineered mesh upper is breathable and roomy, with a padded tongue and collar for extra comfort.
The outsole features blown rubber in high-wear areas for durability, and raised sidewalls add stability.
My Experience Running In The Clifton 9
I wore the Clifton 9 for a 15-mile long run at a relaxed 9:00 pace, and it was like running on pillows. The CMEVA foam absorbs impact beautifully, making each step feel soft without being mushy. The Meta-Rocker kept my stride efficient, rolling me from heel to toe with ease.
I’ve also used them for recovery runs after tough workouts, and the extra cushioning was a godsend for my tired legs. The wider platform (116.9 mm) and sidewalls gave me confidence on uneven roads, and the roomy toebox was a blessing for my wider feet.
However, the Clifton 9 isn’t perfect for every scenario. Its softer foam lacks the snap of the Mach 6, so when I tried pushing the pace for a 5K, it felt like I was sinking into the midsole.
The extra weight (9.2 oz vs. 8.2 oz) was noticeable during faster efforts, and the thicker stack height dulled my ground feel compared to the Mach 6. Still, for long runs, daily training, and even walking around town, the Clifton 9 is hard to beat.
Pros of The Clifton 9
- Plush CMEVA foam offers exceptional comfort for long runs and recovery.
- Wide platform and sidewalls provide excellent stability for daily training.
- Roomy toebox accommodates wider feet; available in wide sizes.
- Durable outsole with blown rubber ensures longevity.
- Versatile for running, walking, and all-day wear.
Cons of The Clifton 9
- Heavier than the Mach 6 (9.2 oz), less ideal for speedwork.
- Softer cushioning can feel too plush for faster paces, reducing responsiveness.
- Less breathable upper compared to the Mach 6’s creel jacquard mesh.
- Higher price ($145 vs. $140) for marginal feature differences.
- Not as agile on technical terrain due to thicker stack height.
Head-to-Head Comparison of Mach 6 And Clifton 9
Now that I’ve run hundreds of miles in both, let’s compare them across key metrics to see how they stack up for different runners.
- Cushioning and Ride
The Mach 6’s supercritical EVA foam is firmer and more responsive, giving it a lively, energetic feel.
It’s like a springboard, propelling you forward during tempo runs or intervals.
The Clifton 9, with its CMEVA foam, prioritizes comfort over speed, offering a softer, more forgiving ride that’s ideal for long, easy runs.
If you’re chasing PRs in a 10K, the Mach 6’s bounce is your friend. For a marathon or recovery day, the Clifton 9’s plushness wins.
- Weight and Agility
At 8.2 ounces, the Mach 6 feels noticeably lighter than the 9.2-ounce Clifton 9. This weight difference shines during faster workouts, where the Mach 6’s nimble design lets you accelerate without dragging.
The Clifton 9, while still light for a max-cushion shoe, feels a tad clunky when I try to pick up the pace. If agility is your goal, the Mach 6 takes the lead.
- Stability and Support
The Clifton 9 is the clear winner for stability. Its wider platform, raised sidewalls, and bucket-seat design cradle your foot, making it a reliable choice for runners who need extra support or tackle varied terrain.
The Mach 6, with its narrower base and minimal sidewalls, sacrifices some stability for speed. If you’re prone to ankle wobbles or run on uneven surfaces, the Clifton 9 is safer.
- Fit and Comfort
Both shoes fit true to size, but their uppers tell different stories. The Mach 6’s creel jacquard mesh is thin and breathable, ideal for hot summer runs, but its snug midfoot and tapered toebox (70.1 mm) can feel restrictive for wider feet.
The Clifton 9’s engineered mesh upper is roomier, with a wider toebox (95.5 mm) and plush padding that feels like a hug. For all-day comfort or wider feet, the Clifton 9 is the better pick.
- Durability and Traction
Both shoes use rubber in high-wear areas, but the Clifton 9’s thicker blown rubber outsole feels more durable, especially after 200 miles of testing. The Mach 6’s Durabrasion rubber is lighter but wears faster in the forefoot, a trade-off for its reduced weight.
Traction is solid on both, though the Mach 6’s grippy outsole performs better on wet pavement, while the Clifton 9’s broader coverage handles varied surfaces well.
- Price and Value
At $140, the Mach 6 is a steal for its performance, offering a versatile trainer that rivals pricier options. The Clifton 9, at $145, feels slightly less cost-effective given its softer, less responsive ride.
However, its durability and versatility for walking and casual wear add value for runners who want a do-it-all shoe.
Who Should Choose The Mach 6?
The Mach 6 is my go-to when I’m feeling fast. Its lightweight build and responsive foam make it perfect for runners who prioritize speed and agility. If you’re training for a 5K or 10K, love tempo runs, or want a shoe that can handle both workouts and races, the Mach 6 is your match.
It’s best for runners with neutral gaits who don’t need extra stability and prefer a firmer, more connected feel. Narrow-footed runners will love the snug fit, but wide-footed folks might need the wide version or a half-size up.
Who Should Choose The Clifton 9?
The Clifton 9 is my pick for long runs and recovery days.
Its plush cushioning and stable platform make it ideal for runners logging high mileage, tackling marathons, or seeking a shoe for both running and walking.
If you have wider feet, need extra stability, or prefer a softer ride, the Clifton 9 delivers.
It’s also a great choice for beginners or runners with joint issues who want maximum impact protection.
After testing both shoes extensively, I lean toward the Mach 6 for its versatility and fun factor.
Its snappy ride makes my speed days more enjoyable, and I love the lightweight feel.
However, I reach for the Clifton 9 when my legs are beat or I’m tackling a long run, as its cushioning saves my joints. Your choice depends on your running goals: speed and responsiveness (Mach 6) or comfort and stability (Clifton 9). Try them on if you can, as fit and feel are personal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
It depends on your needs. The Mach 6 excels for speed and tempo runs, while the Clifton 9 is better for long runs and comfort.
Neither is universally better. Choose the Mach 6 for faster workouts, the Clifton 9 for cushioned, stable long runs.
The Mach 6 is ideal for tempo runs, intervals, and short races up to 10K, offering a lightweight, responsive ride.
The Clifton 9 shines for long runs, daily training, recovery runs, and walking, with plush cushioning and stability.
Conclusion: Your Run, Your Choice
You’re standing at the crossroads of speed and comfort, and the Hoka Mach 6 and Clifton 9 are waiting to carry you forward. I’ve loved running in both, each bringing something unique to my training.
The Mach 6 fuels my need for speed, while the Clifton 9 cradles my feet through long miles. Consider your running style, goals, and fit preferences to pick the right shoe. Whether you’re chasing a PR or logging easy miles, Hoka has you covered.
Now lace up, hit the road, and let your feet decide.
