With the recent launch of the Hoka Bondi 8 and Clifton 9, runners now have two excellent options for highly cushioned running shoes from Hoka One One. But which is better for you – the Bondi 8 or the Clifton 9?
Read on as we compare the key features and performance of the Hoka Bondi 8 and Clifton 9 to help you decide which is the better shoe for you.
Similarities And Differences Between Hoka Bondi 8 and Clifton 9:
| Features | Hoka Bondi 8 | Hoka Clifton 9 |
|---|---|---|
| Launched In | 2022 | 2023 |
| Stability | Neutral | Neutral |
| Flexibility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Sizing | Men’s 7-15, Women’s 5-12 | Men’s 7-15, Women’s 5-12 |
| Weight | 11.2 oz (M), 9.6 oz (W) | 8.8 oz (M), 7.8 oz (W) |
| Cushion | High | Medium-High |
| Outsole | Durabrasion Rubber | Durabrasion Rubber |
| Midsole | CMEVA Foam | CMEVA Foam |
| Upper | Engineered Mesh | Engineered Mesh |
| Retail Price | $165 | $145 |
Features Comparison:
Here we will see what two of the top Hoka runners brings on the table. This will help you make an informed decision. So, let’s begin.
Materials
The Hoka Bondi 8 uses a durable Durabrasion rubber in the outsole, a plush CMEVA foam midsole, and an engineered mesh upper. The materials provide a stable and cushioned ride.
The Hoka Clifton 9 also utilizes Durabrasion rubber on the outsole for durability and traction. The midsole incorporates soft CMEVA foam while the upper is engineered mesh for breathability. Overall, both shoes use quality materials for cushioning and support.
Durability
The Bondi 8 is built with maximum durability in mind. The sturdy rubber outsole, CMEVA foam midsole, and mesh upper enable the Bondi 8 to go the distance, mile after mile. Many runners get well over 500 miles out of their Bondi’s before considering replacement.
The Clifton 9 is moderately durable but not quite as rugged as the Bondi series. The CMEVA foam may compress slightly over time and the upper mesh is vulnerable to wear and tear. Runners typically get 300-500 miles out of the Clifton before replacement.
Fit
The Bondi 8 has a wider, more spacious toe box and offers a comfortable secure fit even for runners with wider feet. The engineered mesh upper provides a sock-like fit.
The Clifton 9 has a narrower, more precise anatomical fit. The upper hugs the foot well but those with wide feet may feel too snug in the forefoot. Overall, the Bondi 8 accommodates more foot shapes and sizes.
Stability
With its wide platform and high cushioning, the Bondi 8 provides excellent stability for neutral runners. It helps guide foot motion forward while absorbing shock effectively.
The low-drop Clifton 9 also provides a stable ride for neutral runners. The lower stack height allows for a better ground feel and proprioception compared to the Bondi.
Cushioning
The Bondi 8 shines when it comes to luxurious cushioning. The extra thick EVA midsole absorbs impact smoothly mile after mile. The plushness helps reduce muscle fatigue for high-mileage training.
The Clifton 9 offers slightly less cushioning than the Bondi but still provides ample softness underfoot. The responsive foam protects joints while offering more road-feel feedback.
Value
The Bondi 8 comes with a high price tag of $165 but runners get first-class cushioning and high durability to justify the cost. The value becomes clearer as the miles rack up over time.
The Clifton 9 gives runners excellent cushioning and responsiveness at a more affordable $145 price point. The overall value is strong for this well-rounded daily trainer model.
Performance Comparison:
And here we are at the most important segment of our post where we will compare the performance of Bondi 8 and Clifton 9 to see which one you should buy.
Walking
The Hoka Bondi 8’s plush cushioning absorbs shock extremely well during walking. The wide platform and stability work well for low-impact walking.
The Clifton 9 also performs admirably as a walking shoe thanks to its responsive cushioning. The lower drop encourages a more natural gait during longer walks.
Running
The Bondi 8 shines as an easy day, long-run recovery shoe. The pillowy cushioning reduces fatigue over long distances. The rockered sole helps smooth out the heel-to-toe transition.
The Clifton 9 is a daily training shoe for medium to high mileage. The foam provides a responsive, energetic toe-off while retaining comfortable cushioning.
Plantar Fasciitis
The Bondi 8 helps significantly reduce Plantar Fasciitis pain thanks to its effective shock absorption. The soft forefoot cushioning relieves pressure on the Plantar Fascia tissue.
The Clifton 9 also alleviates Plantar Fasciitis well with its ample midsole cushioning. The smooth heel-to-toe transition minimizes strain on the Plantar Fascia ligament.
All Day Standing
The well-cushioned Bondi 8 maintains comfort during prolonged standing with little midsole compression. The roomy toe box avoids pinching and discomfort.
The Clifton 9 also makes an excellent standing shoe. The responsive midsole and comfortable upper provide cushioning and support during long hours on your feet.
Final Verdict:
For runners seeking the ultimate in luxurious pillow-like cushioning, the Hoka Bondi 8 is hard to beat. This high-mileage cruising shoe offers the softest, most plush ride that helps reduce muscle fatigue over long distances.
The durability, support, and Plantar Fasciitis relief add to its versatility. However, the hefty weight and higher price point may deter some runners.
The Hoka Clifton 9 hits a nice sweet spot as a well-rounded daily trainer who can pick up the pace when needed. The soft cushioning absorbs shock without feeling too mushy, and the lower heel-toe drop promotes natural foot motion.
While not as plush as the Bondi series, the Clifton offers better ground-feel feedback and responsiveness for dynamic training runs. The Clifton is also lighter weight and has a lower price point of around $145.
In summary, the Bondi leans towards recovery and slow easy running while the Clifton excels as a daily trainer but can handle faster paces. Depending on your training needs and preferences, both shoes have merit. With these two stellar models, Hoka One One continues to dominate the maximally cushioned shoe category.