HOKA Mach 6 Review
Version 6 Redefines the HOKA Mach Series
Likes
- Supercritical foam midsole delivers a responsive ride
- Lightweight and comfortable upper
- Stylish aesthetic with bold colours
Dislikes
- Could be more responsive with improved impact absorption
What's New
Redefine your running experience with the HOKA Mach 6, an energetically bouncy uptempo running shoe engineered to excel during all your uptempo, and even daily, runs. The heart of this awesome trainer lies in its upgraded midsole, which now features supercritical EVA foam formulated to deliver an incredible mix of speed and protection, helping transform each step into a dynamic and energetic movement. Not only does the Mach 6 deliver speed, but effortlessly smooth transitions as well, and if speedwork is not on the schedule, then the Mach 6 will still add fun to any daily run.
The HOKA Mach 6's bold and stylish creel jacquard mesh upper marks a new era for the Mach series. With the Mach's signature lightweight feel, version 6 receives changes to the tongue and collar, both designed to help deliver all the security and comfort runners need.
Better still is the shoe's updated outsole. While previous versions of the Mach were outfitted with an exposed EVA outsole, the new Mach 6 is reinforced with a strategic rubber outsole that is not only able to adapt to any surface but will be ready to perform for miles on end. So, if you are a runner searching for a shoe that effortlessly combines lightweight comfort, versatile performance, and a sleek design, look no further than the HOKA Mach 6.
The Bottom Line
HOKA has been making big changes to its performance lineup over the last few years; we have seen major releases and awesome updates that have dazzled our testing team. The Mach 6 update is no different, as this shoe is an all-new beast thanks to the supercritical EVA midsole, which our testers were raving about by the end of the testing period.
In versions past, the Mach series provided a lightweight on-foot feel with a firmer midsole that paired well with shorter, faster efforts but did not provide the protection that some runners needed for longer uptempo runs. The Mach 6's supercritical foam midsole had no issue with responsiveness or protection, and testers were able to enjoy a myriad of different training runs at a variety of paces. Yes, the Mach still is not the most protective or the speediest shoe in the uptempo category, but version 6 is much better suited to longer runs while also offering all-new levels of responsiveness. Our testers would happily recommend the Mach 6 for any run up to 12 miles.
Our Running Warehouse Europe testers also found a lot to love about the Mach's updated creel jacquard upper. It is not only lightweight, but it is highly breathable as well, providing a cool and dry feel that does not create any irritation. Furthermore, our team appreciated the gusseted tongue and updated heel collar, which provided a secure wrap that comfortably hugged their feet throughout testing. That said, the Mach 6 may not be the best shoe for our wider-footed friends, but given how comfortable the shoe felt, we definitely recommend trying a pair on for yourself.
As our testers describe below, runners cannot really go wrong with the new HOKA Mach 6. It is comfortable right out of the box, fun and bouncy on every run, and durable, which is yet another improvement over previous versions. Furthermore, the Mach 6 represents a huge leap forward for the Mach line, and version 6 is an excellent option for any runner looking for their next uptempo shoe or even high-performing daily trainer.
Specifications & Fit
Shoe Specs
| Weight | Men's: 210 g (size 9) | Women's: 190 g (size 8) |
| Stack Height | 37 mm (Heel), 32 mm (Forefoot) | 5 mm Heel-Toe Offset |
| Terrain | Road |
| Stability | Neutral |
| Sizing | True to size |
Individual Thoughts
When I am choosing a shoe to lace up on speed day, there are a few critical factors I consider. First, I need a lightweight shoe, and second, I need a comfortable fitting upper. When I am in a training cycle, the number-one priority is staying healthy, so I want an upper that is not going to cause irritation or blisters, any of which could result in a missed day of running. Last but not least, I need a midsole that is lightweight, responsive, and protective. I am happy to report that the Mach 6 checks all of those boxes! Sure, the midsole is not the most responsive or cushioned, but it fits the bill enough to make the Mach 6 a great option for anyone looking for a lightweight and fast uptempo shoe that will allow you to crush all your speedier training runs. Before finishing this review, I have to mention that HOKA's run of making some of the best-looking shoes continues with the Mach 6. The overall aesthetic and colour choices make it an easy shoe to gravitate toward.
Overall, I cannot tell you how impressed I was with this update. There are definitely things that can still be improved in future iterations of the Mach, but after the Mach 6, I am extremely excited to see where this shoe goes.
Personally, I thought everything was better about the Mach 6 compared to version 5. The upper was more accommodating, the midsole was more responsive and better at covering distance, and the shoe's durability increased dramatically without adding a bunch of weight. You really cannot ask for more in an update.
Sure, there are faster shoes and more protective ones as well, but every time I put this shoe on, I was excited to get out on the run, always looking forward to a comfortable and fun running experience. This is invaluable, in my opinion, and the key factor to why I think the Mach 6 is a great shoe.
If you can't tell, I am a big fan of the Mach 6. I had never worn a Mach before, and I was excited to test out the shoe, especially given that I have been increasing the pace of my speed workouts. Then again, I had heard that previous versions were firm underfoot, so I was a little apprehensive because I typically enjoy softer, bouncier midsoles. As I continue to train for a marathon, I will reach for the HOKA Mach 6 for my shorter runs up to 5 miles and on some easy days as well.
I enjoy the soft yet bouncy feel of the Mach 6's supercritical foam midsole, and this is one of the best-fitting running shoes I have tested, which is a big highlight of this shoe. There was not really anything I did not like about the Mach 6. Though moving forward, I hope HOKA makes the Mach a little more protective so that I can log some longer efforts in the shoe. However, this shoe is super lightweight, so it is a tradeoff that some other runners may not mind. No matter your specific preferences, the Mach 6 is a shoe I definitely recommend runners try out!
