The Arahi 6 is a stability shoe designed to prevent overpronation, while the Clifton 9 is a neutral shoe. The Arahi 6 has a stiffer foam on the inside sole, while the Clifton 9 does not.
Hoka Clifton 9 (Best for walking & standing all day)
Hoka Arahi 6 (Best for overpronation)
In this article, we’ll examine the Hoka Arahi 6 and the Clifton 9. We’ll compare their design, performance, and overall value to help you make an informed decision.
The Ultimate Comparison
The Hoka Arahi 6 and Clifton 9 are both exceptional running shoes, but they differ in a few key areas. But you can’t just buy a shoe based on that. So, we have compared them based on their upper unit, sole unit, flexibility, comfort, and many more.
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Hoka Clifton 9
The Clifton 9 is designed to provide runners with exceptional support, comfort, and speed. With its innovative J-Frame technology, responsive cushioning, and durable construction, the Arahi 6 is an excellent choice for runners who want to take their training to the next level.
Upper Unit
The upper unit of this shoe is constructed with a synthetic knit mesh. It’s narrower than other engineered meshes. Thus, provides a better and more comfortable space for the foot to breathe. However, the knit mesh lacks flexibility.
The Clifton 9 features the ‘elf ear’ heel tab for enhanced support while running. The tongue doesn’t slide sideways, as it includes a gusseted design. The lower border area features reflective materials, which is a big plus if you’re a night runner.
Sole Unit
The midsole of the Clifton 9 offers Hoka’s latest CMEVA foam. It is lightweight, squishy, highly stable, and very comfortable while running at a slower pace. The only downside remains it’s not very good at energy returning. But this foam sure reduces the overall weight of the shoe.
The outsole comes with the Diagonal Flex Groovers and has a stiffer forefoot. This helps the midsole function properly while running. The outsole rubber is quite durable and doesn’t face wear & tear too quickly.
Clifton 9 Specs at a Glance
| Type | Neutral trainer |
| Heel Tab | Elf-ear |
| Midsole | CMEVA foam |
| Weight | 8.7 oz (247 g) |
| Heel Drop | 5 mm |
| Stability | Highly Stable |
| Price | $145.00 |
Hoka Arahi 6
The Hoka Arahi 6 is a trainer with modest stability. Its unconventional stability system and substantial padding distinguish this stability trainer. Regrettably, the Arahi is a middle-of-the-road trainer due to its inconsistent ride and lack of major improvements.
Here’s a detailed overview-
Upper Unit
The Hoka Arahi 6, like the Clifton 9, offers an engineered mesh upper that provides enhanced breathability. It also features welded overlays and a larger toe box.
The tongue is very plushy with foam padding that throws out an extra sense of comfort. For a secure fit to the foot, it offers an ‘elf ear’ heel tab which looks cool.
Plus, the flexible outsole has reflective material embedded in its body to help it run in low-light conditions.
Sole Unit
Arahis’s midsole is constructed with CMEVA foam. It’s firm, provides super stability, and has a slight bounciness. The dual-density technology and Hoka’s trademark J-Frame technology in the midsole offers a highly balanced and supportive running experience.
The outsole, on the other hand, features a thin layer of high-abrasion rubber. It’s lightweight and superbly resistant to wear & tear. No matter the weather condition, dry or wet, it’ll ensure a safe runtime.
Arahi 6 Specs at a Glance
| Type | Stability trainer |
| Heel Tab | Elf-ear |
| Midsole | CMEVA foam |
| Weight | 9.30 oz. (264 gr.) |
| Heel Drop | 5 mm |
| Stability | Highly Stable |
| Price | $139.00 |
Overall Comparision
Frankly, these two shoes are difficult to differentiate based on their features and performance. However, we’ve gone through these two trainers and were able to separate them on some grounds.
If you want your running shoes to be more responsive, lightweight, and soft, Clifton 9 is your Ideal partner. However, if you lean towards stability, then Arahi 6 got your back. In a moderate price pool, Arahi 6 doesn’t disappoint.
Hope you can make a better decision for yourself now. Glad we were of some help.