Hoka Bondi Vs Clifton: Which One To Buy?

Welcome to the debate between two of the most popular running shoes on the market: the Hoka Bondi and the Clifton. We know that choosing the right running shoe can be a challenge, so we’ve taken the time to compare and contrast the features of each model in order to help you make an informed decision. So, let’s take a closer look at the Hoka Bondi vs the Clifton.

Hoka Bondi vs Clifton: Which one is the best running shoe of the modern era? The debate continues to rage as both shoes have high-quality features. Hoka Bondi 8 comes with the thickest sole and can be your running partner for years, while Hoka Clifton 9 tends to run for the marathon as it has left behind all of its previous models with a newly formed sole and upper unit.

So, which one deserves to grasp your feet? Let’s find out:

Hoka Bondi 8 Vs Clifton 9: Everything At A Glance

The Hoka brand is renowned for its top two shoes: Bondi 8 and Clifton 9. To help you get an overview of these two models, we’ve created a comparison table. For further details, read on:

FeatureHoka Bondi 8Hoka Clifton 9
Height 39 mm/35 mm 29 mm/ 24 mm 
Weight 10.8 oz/ 307 g (men’s size) 8.9 oz/ 252 g (women’s size) 8.7 oz/ 248 g (men’s size) 7.2 0z/ 205 g (women’s size) 
Drop4 mm 5 mm 
Size True to size True to size 
Type Neutral Road, neutral 
Sole type Foam Meta-rocker midsole 
Cushioning Highly balanced soft cushioned. Highly balanced/plush cushioned. 
Price $165 $145 
Recommended for Daily training, long-distance racing. Daily training, long-distance racing.  

Sole Unit

The Hoka Bondi 8 is the latest model with an engineered mesh upper in the sole unit, which is durable. It comes with an oversized EVA compression midsole. The ride quality of it evolves into much leaning with the bouncy cushioning.

It is because the sole is much thicker, with a heel stack height of 39mm and a forefoot height of 35mm. This shoe will provide less road feeling, reliable foot protection, and massive shock absorption.

On the other hand, the Hoka Clifton 9 also comes with the same EVA compression midsole. Apart from this Jambo midsole, it also consists of meta-rocker geometry. This gives runners a faster transition and makes long runs efficient and energy-saving. The heel-to-toe transition feels soft with this shoe and doesn’t feel mushy at all.

Winner: Hoka Bondi 8 (considering its sole height).

Upper Unit

The engineered mesh upper that the Hoka Bondi 8 has provides a premium look and smoothened feel. It has an imposing build. The shoe locks the foot comfortably with its thick and cushioned upper unit, especially around the heel collar.

There’s also a partial gusseted tongue that helps prevent the laces from squeezing the foot unpleasantly. The toe box is also wide enough to consume any wider feet it gets.

The Hoka Clifton 9 also has an engineered mesh upper with improved ventilation. The toe box also has a broad space suitable for most feet. It features a semi-gusseted padded tongue that comforts your ride with this shoe.

Winner: Both

Durability

Both shoes are durable because of their robust cushioning.

The Hoka Bondi 8 has the same level of durability as the previous models and Clifton. Its midsole is very resistant to flattening.

So, it provides long-lasting performance on normal road surfaces. Talking specifically, it lasts around 400 to 500 miles in general if other factors don’t interfere.

The brand has made major changes in Hoka Clifton  9 that make this shoe very reliable. There’s an example of a user having 1000 miles with this shoe. However, this is a certain 500+ miles shoe in general. The side walls it has nicely fit your inside the shoe and thus prevent any unwanted ripping and tearing.

Winner: Both

Running Performance

Hoka Bondi 8 is the most efficient version in providing all-new lighter, resilient glide+ foam. With an extended heel area, this shoe offers a much more fluent running experience.

It’s also springier thanks to its extra broadness that takes care of your steps no matter where you land. Its heel to toa transition is smooth and has less propulsion as it lacks the carbon plate. And most importantly, it grips nicely to your feet, allowing you a longer, speedy run.

The Hoka Clifton 9 has a new midsole that gives a more energizing ride than any of its predecessors. The upper part is comfortable and the meta-rocker sole of the lower part provides comfort while running, while still keeping your speed up.

The shoe has a huge stack height that doesn’t let you feel the rough surface and doesn’t become a burden by grasping you on the road.

Winner: Hoka Clifton 9

Overall Opinion 

Both shoes have quality features and are the best in their way. However, if you’re a daily runner and want a smooth, cushioned ride, Hoka Bondi 8 is for you. Its comfy secured mesh upper and wide midsole will last alongside your daily activities.

If you’re looking for a shoe that provides comfort and stability for long-distance rides, or a recovery trainer, the Hoka Clifton 9 is a great option. It has a newly formed cushion that offers plenty of protection, and it is lighter and less expensive than the Bondi 8.

Reading everything above, you must now have a clear idea that both these shoes are best in their own way. So, choose your pair wisely, considering your preferences.

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