HOKA Mach 5 Review
Updates Highlight the Mach 5's Impressive Versatility
Likes
- Versatile performance
- Soft, responsive, protective midsole
- Lightweight, comfortable, secure upper
Dislikes
- Requires break-in period
- Tongue bunches at the toe
- Hard to find a home in shoe rotation
What's New
The HOKA Mach was crafted to be a lightweight trainer that excels during uptempo runs with the ability to double as a racing shoe for some, and although previous versions of the Mach have produced mixed results within the running community over its relatively brief history, version 5 is a promising and exciting step forward for the line.
With similar midsole tooling as the Mach Supersonic, the Mach 5 features a dual-density midsole with a top layer of PROFLY+ foam that sits atop a firmer rubberized EVA foam. Though similar, the Mach 5 feels much softer and more energetic than the Mach Supersonic and the Mach 4. This is mainly a result of the increased volume in the midsole combined with slight tweaks to the PROFLY+ top layer, which delivers a much different experience from the Supersonic, and builds off the success of the Mach 4.
The upper has also received slight updates and features a redesigned heel, which further optimizes the shoe's fit, while the jacquard mesh remains lightweight, breathable, and comfortable.
The Bottom Line
After the success of the Mach 4, runners were eagerly anticipating the release of the Mach Supersonic and the debut of HOKA's highly touted PROFLY+ foam compound. Sadly, the Supersonic did not quite live up to expectations, and many runners were left wanting more from HOKA's lightweight uptempo trainer.
Now, with the release of the Mach 5, runners will be able to enjoy a significant jump in performance and a much-improved implementation of the PROFLY+ foam compound. Although the midsole is conceptually the same as the Supersonic's, slight alterations to the midsole's volume, geometry, and composition have resulted in a significant improvement in performance.
Praised for its incredible versatility, the Mach 5 is more responsive and protective than previous versions of the trainer, making the 5 as good a companion for long easy runs as it is for tempo efforts, as well as anything in between. The midsole still doesn't pack the most explosive energy return, so the Mach 5 may not be the best race-day shoe for everyone. Though, if you are a beginner runner, then the Mach 5 is a highly competent and comfortable race-day option.
The Mach's upper remains comfortable with a secure lockdown and a lightweight on-foot feel, closely resembling that of its predecessor. The forefoot was surprisingly spacious for a HOKA, though those with wider, higher volume feet may still want a little more room in this traditionally narrow shoe.
The challenge some runners may face with the Mach 5 is finding a home for the shoe in their rotation. The category of lightweight speed trainers is highly competitive, and the Mach still does not quite deliver the same level of pure speed other shoes can offer. Furthermore, shoes designed more specifically for daily training typically provide better protection and durability. Regardless of its high-quality performance, the Mach lands between the speed and daily trainer categories. The Mach line still has some room for growth moving forward, but version 5 has more than lived up to the hype, and the future is looking promising for the shoe. Do not be surprised if you see the Mach ranked among 2022's best trainers.
Specifications & Fit
Shoe Specs
| Weight | Men's: 232 g (size EU 42 2/3) | Women's: 193 g (size EU 40) |
| Stack Height | 29 mm (Heel), 24mm (Forefoot) | 5mm Heel-Toe Offset |
| Terrain | Road |
| Stability | Neutral |
| Sizing | True to size |
Individual Thoughts
The HOKA Mach 5 is what I felt the Mach 4 could have been. The Mach now has a more cushioned ride in the forefoot that was lacking in the 4. While the Mach 4 felt great for the first few runs, the shoe firmed up quickly, limiting its level of protection and its overall versatility. I have used the Mach 5 for everything from tempo runs to long runs, and it feels just as good at the start as it does at the finish on any type of run.
Despite having no rubber on the bottom of the shoe, I have found the longevity of the Mach 5 to be outstanding. After some initial wear, the outsole seems to keep going, and I have no concerns that this shoe will last 500 miles. The Mach 5's midsole is now lively enough and lightweight enough to be used as the mythical quiver killer, and it can handle any run. I am impressed with how the inclusion of the PROFLY+ foam compound has transformed the Mach 5's underfoot characteristics. I hope the Mach 5 is the launching pad for HOKA including more exciting foams in their shoes.
Shoe Softness
FirmSoftRide/Energy Return
Less SpringyMore SpringyUnderfoot Protection
LowHighFlexibility
RigidElasticUpper Support
StructuredAdaptable
The Mach 5 is here, and I think HOKA has finally delivered an update that moves the line forward in a great direction. As a big fan of the Mach 4, I was very excited about the release of the Mach Supersonic and the new PROFLY+ midsole compound. Admittedly, I expected the new midsole foam to be a total game-changer, not only for the Mach line but for all of HOKA. But after testing the Supersonic, I felt as though the update was minimal and lacked the performance upgrade I had hoped for, especially given the premium price increase compared to v4.
Fast forward to the HOKA Mach 5, and I assumed the shoe would only feature minimal changes that wouldn't overly affect the performance, as the Supersonic tooling looked identical. But after putting the Mach 5 on my foot, I immediately noticed a softer and bouncier underfoot feel that already felt very different from the Supersonic. Honestly, it felt more like what I had expected the Mach Supersonic to feel like.
The more miles I put on the Mach 5, the more I enjoyed running in it, and soon I found myself using it for a decent amount of my daily training. I even had full confidence in wearing the 5 for steady long runs. It's light and fast, yet still has reliable protection and a smooth ride that excels at any pace. That said, I did not find myself using it for many speed sessions, as there are shoes in my arsenal with lighter and more responsive midsole compounds.
The Mach 5 is extremely versatile and does a lot of things very well, but I do find myself categorizing it almost as a tweener, and for this reason, it doesn't receive quite as much time on my feet on workout days as some of the faster shoes in my lineup. But for the runner who doesn't have 50+ shoes in their closet, I feel the Mach 5 is a great offering. If you're looking for an extremely versatile performance trainer or maybe seeking a faster option than your trusted Clifton, the Mach 5 is a great training shoe that may just be the best version to date.
