Hoka Mach Supersonic Review

Hoka are well known for experimental innovations in running shoe design and materials, and we love it when those innovations quickly arrive on the shop shelves to be tested by real runners like you!

This is why we think the Hoka Mach Supersonic has been created, with the main purpose of testing Hoka's new springy ProFly+ midsole material.  Developing the latest and greatest "Springy" midsole foams are the focus of most specialty running brands at the moment, and it makes sense for the testing platform to be a super popular shoe like the Hoka Mach 4.

The NEW Hoka Mach Supersonic is essentially just that, a performance pimped Mach 4. Mach Supersonic also has a couple of slight modifications that are worth a mention.

The upper material is made from a breathable Jacquard mesh that fits snug and has excellent foot hold, and the tongue is a plush, multi-layered padded design which differs considerably from the thinner dual layered tongue on the Mach 4.  

The NEW ProFly+ midsole is what makes the greatest change in feel from Mach Supersonic to Mach 4.  ProFly is used on the current Mach 4, ProFly+ on the new Mach Supersonic. Having these two Hoka models currently in-stock has given us a great opportunity to 'Geek-out' over what is different about Mach Supersonic Profly+. This process is always fun but made more complex in the case of ProFly+ as Hoka have provided us no info yet on what it's make up is.  We know EVA foam is involved but what else was added....

Firstly, ProFly+ looks different and doesn't have a matt finish like traditional EVA foam.  It is glossy and we are pretty sure that not achieved with a paint job.    

Secondly, driving our thumbs into the midsole over and again begins to confirm what the glossy, rubbery look was suggesting.  It's definitely more springy!

So why would Hoka modify a shoe as popular as the Hoka Mach 4? They already felt fast...

We see two benefits. Firstly, the Mach 4 has become a great training shoe option for runners who want a fast feeling, non-plated shoe to compliment their race day Carbon plated shoe.  Using a more responsive upper material over a more springy midsole has definitely made the Mach Supersonic better for that.

Secondly, medium to heavier weighted runners noticed the cushioning of the Hoka Mach 4 was not incredibly resilient and began to feel clapped-out a little sooner than expected.  The use of ProFly+ is going to change that and make these a higher mileage option for those athletes.

The end result is, just as they are described by Hoka. An up-tempo running shoe that takes what was great about the Hoka Mach 4 and makes it better, or should we say faster.