Hoka Mach 4 vs Mach 5: Which One Deserves Your Money?

Introduction

The Hoka Mach lineup went from a challenging shoe in the Mach 3 to a genuine leap forward with the Mach 4, and then again with the Mach 5. The 2021 Mach 4 scored extremely high when it launched, largely because it felt ahead of its time: smooth, peppy underfoot, with outstanding upper lockdown. The 2022 Mach 5 refines almost everything, though scores across the lineup have come back to earth a bit as other brands catch up to the innovation Hoka introduced here.

This comparison looks at both shoes across weight, upper, midsole, outsole, fit, comfort, durability, and price, so you can decide whether to grab the discounted Mach 4 or pay a little more for the newer ride.

Weight: A Half-Ounce Drop

The Mach 4 comes in at 7.5 oz, and the Mach 5 drops to 7.1 oz. Almost half an ounce shaved off between iterations is an impressive move, and it gives the newer shoe the edge here. Combined with the Mach 5’s rocker feel through the Hoka midsole, the lighter build contributes to a ride that feels quick and eager rather than plodding.

Upper: Lockdown Gets Even Better

Both shoes earn a tie on overall upper score, but the lockdown itself gets even better in the Mach 5. It feels more secure and easier to lace up, building on what was already an exceptional fit in the Mach 4. The toe box also gains more breathability in the Mach 5, with added ventilation built directly into the upper, and the heel flare on both is genuinely impressive.

Midsole: Softer and Bouncier in the Mach 5

The Mach 4 uses ProFly foam, while the Mach 5 steps up to ProFly+. The newer foam is both softer and bouncier, with better energy return. Durometer readings tell the story: the Mach 5’s midsole measures in the low 30s, around 33, while the older ProFly in the Mach 4 sits in the mid-40s. That difference is exactly what you feel underfoot, a gentler step with more pep in the Mach 5.

If you picked up the Mach 4 and liked that ride, you are likely to like the Mach 5’s ride even more. The overall midsole score goes to the Mach 5, narrowly.

Outsole and Durability

Both shoes use a rubberized EVA outsole. When the Mach 4 launched, that approach was cutting edge, but other companies have since adopted it, partly to reduce weight by not plastering rubber across the entire bottom. The trade-off is durability, and visible wear on the outsole backs that up.

Durability predictions land close: around 400 miles for the Mach 4 and 350 for the Mach 5. Neither is expected to last forever, so if the Mach 5 becomes a favorite, buying a second pair to keep in the closet is not a crazy idea in case it disappears once the next version arrives.

Fit and Comfort

Both shoes run true to size, and both fit well. On comfort, the Mach 5 takes it, simply because the midsole is softer and the lockdown across the top of the foot feels slightly better. One caveat worth knowing: even though both are tweener shoes, the Mach 5 is not the best choice for easy days. It makes you want to pick up the pace, which is a nice problem to have but not always what you want from a recovery run.

Price and Use Case: A Tweener for Both

Both shoes sit firmly in the tweener category, suited to faster training and tempo work rather than pure easy-day duty. On price, the Mach 4 wins: it launched lower and is frequently available on sale, though sizes may be limited as stock sells through. The Mach 5 comes in at $140, a modest step up from its predecessor.

Conclusion

The overall winner of this matchup is the Hoka Mach 5. It has a better ride, improved lockdown, a more breathable toe box and midfoot, and a lighter weight. That said, if you can find your size in the Mach 4 at a good sale price, both shoes are worth buying again. The simplest way to decide: pay full price for the Mach 5 if you want the best version of this ride, or hunt down a discounted Mach 4 if value is the priority.