Hoka One One Mach 2

This Mach 2 from Hoka One One test is particularly interesting because we must compare this product to the old one: the Mach, which we tested.

What could the brand (belonging to the American group Deckers) do to improve this model? Because as our test proved, these shoes were already well-designed. The Mach 2 is almost identical but an experienced runner will notice the perceptible differences.

Let’s start with the differences. The Mach 2 is still the shoes with a remarkable combi of lightness/responsiveness (and to a lesser extent the “cushioning”). The shoes have lost weight again: a stunning 227g instead of 250g in the old version (the two pairs weighed size 42 2/3).

Curiously, the shoe length differs, the Mach 2 is longer, a “detail” to take into account at the time of purchase, especially if it is bought online.
Still, in terms of shape and volume, Hoka One One has refined the Mach 2 on the forefoot, it is more “adjusted” and has a narrower forefoot. If wider feet could still slip into the Mach, with the Evo 2 model, this is no longer possible.

We can also see the manufacturing differences with the materials and finishes of (a very) high standard. The shoe’s design has become even more fluid. A very effective and very beautiful new thin tongue is on the Mach 2. The laces are too long, they require a double knot. Be careful, if you just do a simple knot the lacing comes undone.
The loop at the back of the heel is supposed to help you putting your shoes on, but you need a pianist’s fingers to use it, we preferred the old version, the small strap was probably less aesthetic but much more effective.

Around the ankle, the foam padding thickness has been reduced and yet the comfort remains the same! You can feel the shoe’s structure but there’s no rubbing or heat-points over the kilometers because the volume and materials are very well-designed. It should be noted that this Mach 2 is especially recommended for triathlon because they don’t soak up water (due to the absence of foam padding).

The sole has been modified compared to the old one, the sensations remain however very similar. Despite a thick sole, the cushioning is not oversized, they are direct in ground contact and so you can go fast because your energy isn’t absorbed by too much cushioning. So you keep contact with the road but you have limited cushioning at the front and steadier in the heel.

Compared to the previous model, filtration seems less and foot stability more noticeable: the sole has a little more lateral stability, but only slightly. We love the Mach 2 for its spring and desire for speed and acceleration. Their 5mm drop is unchanged. Their light weight give wings. Over long distances, heel cushioning is welcome when the foot strike deteriorates.
It is also a durable product (for road use).

The breathable mesh gives a little volume to the forefoot thanks to slight stretchiness. They are breathable without sand and small stones entering the shoes.

The evolution of these Mach 2 is relevant, even if the efficiency gain compared to the old model is not necessarily that blatant. They remain very fast, direct shoes but with sufficient cushioning to tackle long distances on the road. For those who want even lighter shoes with the same sort of sensations, Hoka One One offers the Cavu 2.

In the photos: the old model in blue, the Mach 2 in red.

"The evolution of these Mach 2 is relevant, even if the efficiency gain compared to the old model is not necessarily that blatant. They remain very fast, direct shoes but with sufficient cushioning to tackle long distances on the road. For those who want even lighter shoes with the same sort of sensations, Hoka One One offers the Cavu 2."

Rating

• 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
• Foothold
  8
• Cushioning
  7
• Foot strike
  8
• Stride
  8
• Comfort
  7