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Hoka Mach and Hoka Arahi are good running shoes that provide excellent cushioning, good shock absorption, and good durability.
However, one is a stable running shoe and the other is a neutral running shoe.
To compare, we have used Hoka Mach 4 and Hoka Arahi 6 in this post.
These two running shoes are a lot different than each other. We have provided you with a full comparison of Hoka Mach Vs Hoka Arahi in the sections below. This should provide you with a clear idea of which one is suitable for your feet.
This is our favorite
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Hoka Arahi 6
Why did we pick this one?
- Good stability.
- Innovative EVA J-Frame.
- Flat waisted geometry for improved stability.
- Integrated pull tab.
- No heel-slip.
- Recycled content engineered mesh.
Differences between Hoka Mach Vs Hoka Arahi
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Hoka Arahi is a stability running shoe and Hoka Mach is a neutral running shoe.
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Hoka Arahi is heavier than Hoka Mach. For the women’s version, Hoka Arahi weighs around 7.6oz or 215.46g and Hoka Mach weighs around 6.8oz or 193g. For the men’s version, Hoka Arahi weighs around 9.3oz or 263.65g and Hoka Mach weighs around 8.6oz or 232.5g
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Hoka Arahi has one extra size available than Hoka Mach for both versions. For the women’s version the size range that is available in 5.0 to 11.0 for Hoka Mach and 5.0 to 12.0 for Hoka Arahi. For the men’s version, the sizes available are 7.0 to 14.0 for Hoka Mach and 7.0 to 15.0 for Hoka Arahi.
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The midsole of Hoka Mach is made from PROFLY+ whereas the midsole of Hoka Arahi is made from CMEVA and also has J-Frame for stability.
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The upper of Hoka Arahi is made from recycled content which is not the case for Hoka Mach.
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The current version of Hoka Mach is 5 and that of Hoka Arahi is 6.
Hoka Mach Vs Hoka Arahi – An Overview
Hoka Mach is a neutral running shoe and Hoka Arahi is a “stability” running shoe.
Both of these running shoes are great for cushioning and will provide you with excellent protection.
In the following sections, we have gone in-depth and compared Hoka Mach and Hoka Arahi in as much detail as possible.
So without further ado, let’s proceed…
Hoka Mach 5 Vs Arahi 6 – Features at a glance
| Hoka Mach 5 | Hoka Arahi 6 | |
|---|---|---|
 |
 |
|
| Type | Neutral | Stability |
| Heel-to-toe Drop | 5mm | 5mm |
| Weight | 6.8oz/193g (Women)
8.6oz/232.5g (Men) |
7.6oz/215.46g (Women)
9.3oz/263.65g (Men) |
| Arch Support | Medium | Medium |
| Midsole Type | PROFLY+ Cushioning | CMEVA Cushioning with J-Frame |
| Technology | SwallowTail Construction, New PROFLY+ Intelligent Cushioning, Early Stage Meta-Rocker, Creel Jacquard Engineered Mesh Upper, Rubberized EVA Outsole | EVA J-Frame, Early Stage Meta-Rocker Geometry, Hi-Abrasion Lightweight Rubber, Molded OrthoLite Sockliner, Recycled Content Engineered Mesh |
| Sizes | 5.0 – 11.0 (Women)
7.0 – 14.0 (Men) |
5.0 – 12.0 (Women)
7.0 – 15.0 (Men) |
| Width | Regular (B), Wide (D) (Women)
Regular (D), Wide (EE) (Men) |
Regular (B), Wide (D) (Women)
Regular (D), Wide 2E (Men) |
| Use | Long Distance, Treadmill, Road | Long Distance, Treadmill, Road |
| Editor’s Rating |  |
|
Hoka Arahi Vs. Hoka Mach – A head to head comparison
In the above sections, you will get an overview of some of the major differences between Hoka Mach and Hoka Arahi.
In the following sections, we have provided you with more details about these shoes to provide you with a more clear picture of these two running shoes.
Related: Brooks Vs Saucony Vs Hoka: Which Brand Is Right For You?
Outsole
The outsole of Hoka Arahi comes with a Hi-Abrasion Lightweight Rubber. This is strategically placed on the high wear and tear areas and provides you with increased durability.
It also improves the grip of this running shoe and provides you with a stable running experience.
If you observe, the lug pattern that is present on the Arahi is in the form of a criss-cross. This improves the flexibility of the midsole along with its grip.
On the other hand, the outsole of Hoka Mach is made from rubberized foam. This provides you with an excellent energy return.
With this kind of outsole, you will also get additional cushioning and excellent traction.
The outsole of Hoka Mach has horizontal and vertical flex grooves to improve flexibility. There is no definite lug pattern on the out of this shoe.
Also, there have been many small changes with Hoka Mach 5. However, the outsole of Mach has not changed with this new version.
The grip of both of these running shoes is good, however, Arahi’s outsole has been enhanced with durable rubber and this is the main difference between Hoka Arahi and Hoka Mach.
Midsole
The midsole of Hoka Arahi comes with CMEVA and J-Frame. It provides you with lightweight dynamic stability. This is achieved by placing a firmer EVA Foam along the medial side of the shoe.
It is also present around the heel. This guides the foot naturally without using any standard medial post.
It also has the Early-Stage Meta-Rocker Geometry. This is a rockered midsole design that is made in such a way that it will provide you with a smooth heel-to-toe transition. This also helps in increased propulsion.
The cushioning that Hoka Arahi provides is balanced. This means it is not too plush and not too snappy. It is good for long-distance running and you will not end up with tired feet.
Hoka Mach comes with PROFLY+ cushioning and provides you with an impact-absorbing landing and an explosive take-off. PROFLY+ is actually the topsole. This kind of material provides that added bounce to your step.
This is a new enhancement with Mach 5 and was not present in the previous version. Also, this PROFLY+ was adopted from Supersonic which received excellent feedback from the runners.
Also, it comes with the same early-stage meta-rocker geometry for a smoother heel-to-toe transition and increased propulsion.
Under the topsole, you have CMEVA foam which is the main cushioning material of Hoka Mach. This provides you with that added cushioning that is expected from Hoka shoes. This cushioning has also been enhanced slightly in this new version of Mach 5 and as a result, you get a more peppy and responsive midsole.
However, these midsoles are not good for long-distance running and are best suited for distances shorter than 10K.
Upper
The upper of Hoka Arahi is made from recycled content engineered mesh. This is a lightweight mesh that allows you to have excellent airflow and makes this running shoe very breathable.
Since it is made from recycled content, it reduces the carbon footprint of this shoe and strives toward a cleaner and healthier environment.
It has a padded tongue that will enhance the step-in comfort. It will provide you with that luxurious feel that we have come to expect out of Hoka shoes.
Along with the padded tongue and collar, this running shoe provides you with excellent ankle stability.
It has transitioned to that extended pull-tab design for easy wearing and added Achilles support.
It comes with molded OrthoLite sockliner that helps you with odor management and serves as an additional cushioning for these running shoes.
Hoka Mach on the other hand comes with Creel Jacquard engineered mesh which is very breathable.
The look and feel of Mach 5‘s upper are slightly similar to that of Arahi. It has alternating lines of mesh…one is densely woven, whereas the next one is more open…
This improves the ventilation and breathability of the shoe and also adds to its style statement of it.
Also, it has an improved midfoot lockdown and provides you with a more stable running experience. However, the toe-box has enough space to accommodate the toe-splay.
It also has a lay-flat gusseted tongue that stays in place while you run…and the collar is padded and articulated. This helps you with a luxurious feeling and keeps your ankle very stable.
The extended pull tab facility of Hoka Mach helps you with the easy wearing of the shoe.
Both of these shoes have flat laces made of polyester and they remain tied throughout your running session.
The midsole of Hoka Mach is extended backward to provide added heel cushioning to the heel strikers. This is not the case with Hoka Arahi which takes a more traditional approach.
Weight
In terms of weight, Hoka Arahi is heavier than Hoka Mach. This may be due to the presence of the EVA J-Frame and also added outsole rubber.
Hoka Mach weighs around 6.8oz or 193g for women and 8.8oz or 232.5g for men.
Hoka Arahi weighs around 7.6oz or 215.46g for women and 9.3oz or 263.65g for men.
Price
The price of both of these two running shoes is the same as their recent versions. However, if you can get it on sale, you will get it around 10-15% cheaper.
Also, one more way to get these running shoes cheaper is to grab them just before the launch of the next version.
However, the price may not be a huge concern for you and the choice will be automatically based on your pronation. If you have overpronation, you will go with Hoka Arahi. If you have neutral pronation, you will choose Hoka Mach.
In the above sections, you will find a lot of similarities and dissimilarities between Hoka Mach and Hoka Arahi in this comprehensive comparison of the two.
However, there are a few other running shoes that can serve as a good alternative to these two.
Below we have provided some of our such selections. You may also include them in your research.
Similar Shoes
Running Shoes Similar To Hoka Mach 5
Hoka Mach is a well-cushioned running shoe that is lightweight and provides you with good protection.
Here is one running shoe that will provide you with a similar experience to that of Hoka Mach.
- THIS MEN'S SHOE IS FOR: The Glycerin 19 is perfect for runners who think there is no such thing as too much cushioning. The plush internal fit and soft transitions keep runners surrounded by softness.
- NEUTRAL SUPPORT: Provides neutral support while offering the maximum amount of cushioning. Ideal for road running, cross training, the gym or wherever you might want to take them! Predecessor: Glycerin 18. Look for the Brooks Glycerin GTS 19 for the same style with added Support.
- SUPER-SOFT CUSHIONING: The ultimate in softness and supreme comfort, designed for runners who want pillowy soft cushioning. The Glycerin 19 with DNA LOFT offers our most plush underfoot experience yet — so runners enjoy comfort that goes the distance.
Last update on 2024-04-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Running Shoes Similar To Hoka Arahi 6
Hoka Arahi is well-cushioned stability running shoe. It will provide you with excellent ride and comfort and will help you to run longer distances comfortably.
One running shoe which will provide you with a similar level of comfort is mentioned below. You may also include this one in your research.
- THIS MEN'S SHOE IS FOR: The Glycerin GTS 19 is perfect for runners who think there is no such thing as too much cushioning and want trusted GuideRails support. The plush internal fit and soft transitions keep runners surrounded by softness. Predecessor: Brooks Transcend 7
- GREAT SUPPORT: The Glycerin GTS 19 is the more supportive version of the Glycerin 19. The integrated GuideRails holistic support system keeps excess movement in check to keep you moving comfortably and providing support beyond just the feet, to the most injury-prone part of a runner’s body: the knees.
- MAXIMUM CUSHION AND SUPPORT: Provides maximum support while offering the maximum amount of cushioning. Ideal for road running, cross training, the gym or wherever you might want to take them!
Last update on 2024-04-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Conclusion
In the above sections, we have tried to cover every aspect while comparing Hoka Arahi Vs Hoka Mach. This should help you with your research process.
However, while comparing we found a couple of things that made us choose Hoka Arahi as our favorite.
The first thing is, Hoka Arahi’s midsole is a bit more flexible. Also, it is available in an extra toe-box size. Since I’m a huge fan of flexibility, it made this one an instantaneous choice for me.
However, Hoka Mach may be a suitable choice for you if you want more energy returns. So, let us know in the comment section below, what is your choice?
Madhusree Basu
Author, Admin
Blogger and a fitness enthusiast. She loves running and Yoga and everything in between. She started running to manage her weight and to eat to her heart’s content. A true foodie at heart she shares whatever knowledge she has gained throughout the years about weight management and fitness.
