Hoka Clifton 9 and Hoka Bondi 8 are two popular shoes for comfort, cushioning, and durability. Hoka Clifton 9 is the newer iteration in Hoka’s renowned Clifton line, known for its plush cushioning, smooth ride and lightweight design. Hoka Bondi 8 is built for maximum cushioning, comfort and recovery runs. This comparison will help you quickly understand the differences and decide which one is the better fit for your lifestyle.
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Lightweight:
- Hoka Clifton 9 has a trimmed-down upper and midsole design that lowers the weight to approximately 8.7 oz for faster turnover and less drag during runs.
- Hoka Bondi 8 is heavier due to its thicker midsole foam and full outsole coverage.
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Breathability:
- Hoka Clifton 9 features a single-layer engineered mesh upper that improves airflow and moisture control to keep feet cooler in warm weather.
- Hoka Bondi 8 uses a denser, padded mesh that is warmer and less ventilated.
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Responsive Midsole:
- Hoka Clifton 9 has a CMEVA foam midsole tuned for balanced cushioning and rebound to maintain pace changes and quicker push-offs.
- Hoka Bondi 8 focuses on softer foam for maximum shock absorption over responsiveness.
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Reduced Fatigue:
- Hoka Clifton 9 has a lighter midsole and streamlined build that reduces muscle strain to maintain form late in runs.
- Hoka Bondi 8’s extra weight can lead to earlier fatigue.
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Balanced Drop:
- Hoka Clifton 9 features a 5 mm heel-to-toe drop that supports a natural stride while easing calf and Achilles stress.
- Hoka Bondi 8 has a 4 mm drop for a slightly flatter ride profile.
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Easier Toe-Off:
- Hoka Clifton 9’s Meta-Rocker and lighter forefoot allow smoother toe-off.
- Hoka Bondi 8 offers a softer push-off but less snap.
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Faster Ride Feel:
- Hoka Clifton 9’s lighter weight and Meta-Rocker make it more suited for faster runs.
- Hoka Bondi 8 is best for steady, slower paces.
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Design:
- Hoka Clifton 9 has a sleeker silhouette with more performance-oriented shaping and a variety of colorways.
- Hoka Bondi 8 has a bulkier look that emphasizes its high-cushioning profile.
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Specs at a Glance
| Feature |
Hoka Clifton 9 |
Hoka Bondi 8 |
| Weight (Men’s US 9) |
Approx. 8.7 oz |
Approx. 10.8 oz |
| Midsole Stack Height |
32 mm heel / 27 mm forefoot |
33 mm heel / 29 mm forefoot |
| Drop |
5 mm |
4 mm |
| Cushioning Type |
CMEVA foam with early-stage Meta-Rocker |
CMEVA foam |
| Outsole |
Durable rubber coverage in high-wear zones |
Full rubber coverage |
| Upper |
Engineered mesh, lightweight overlays |
Engineered mesh, plush padded tongue and collar |
| Intended Use |
Daily training, tempo runs, long runs |
Recovery, walking, all-day wear |
Who Should Buy What?
Buy the Hoka Clifton 9 if you:
- Want a lighter shoe for varied paces and workouts.
- Prefer a more responsive ride with quicker transitions.
- Need a versatile trainer for daily runs and long sessions.
- Value better breathability and reduced weight fatigue.
- Like a sleeker design with multiple style options.
Check Hoka Clifton 9 Best Price
Buy the Hoka Bondi 8 if you:
- Want maximum cushioning for impact protection.
- Run or walk long distances at steady paces.
- Prefer extra heel support and plush comfort.
- Need a more stable platform for recovery days or all-day wear.
- Prioritize durability over lightness.
Check Hoka Bondi 8 Best Price |
Winner by Category
| Category |
Winner |
| Lightweight |
Hoka Clifton 9 |
| Breathability |
Hoka Clifton 9 |
| Responsive Midsole |
Hoka Clifton 9 |
| Faster Ride Feel |
Hoka Clifton 9 |
| Better Versatility |
Hoka Clifton 9 |
| Improved Agility |
Hoka Clifton 9 |
| Lower Weight Fatigue |
Hoka Clifton 9 |
| Easier Toe-Off |
Hoka Clifton 9 |
| More Pace Range |
Hoka Clifton 9 |
| Quicker Transitions |
Hoka Clifton 9 |
| Design |
Hoka Clifton 9 |
What They Have in Common
- Max-Cushion Midsole: Both shoes feature Hoka’s signature thick cushioning, delivering plush comfort and impact absorption that reduces stress on joints during long runs.
- Meta-Rocker Geometry: Each model uses early-stage Meta-Rocker technology, promoting a smooth heel-to-toe transition and a more efficient running stride.
- Lightweight Build: Both the Bondi 8 and Clifton 9 are designed with lightweight materials, keeping the shoes comfortable for all-day wear without feeling bulky.
- Breathable Upper: Each shoe includes a breathable engineered mesh upper, allowing for proper ventilation and helping keep feet cool and dry.
- Durable Outsole: Both models feature rubber outsoles with strategically placed high-abrasion zones, offering grip and durability for road running.
FAQ (Quick Answers)
Which shoe is lighter between the Hoka Clifton 9 and Hoka Bondi 8?
The Hoka Clifton 9 is lighter at about 8.7 oz for men’s size 9, while the Hoka Bondi 8 is around 10.8 oz, making the Clifton 9 better for speed and reducing fatigue.
Which shoe offers more cushioning for long runs?
The Hoka Bondi 8 provides the most cushioning in Hoka’s lineup, using a thicker CMEVA foam midsole that absorbs more impact for long-distance comfort.
Is the Hoka Clifton 9 good for everyday training?
Yes, the Hoka Clifton 9 is designed for daily training, offering a balance of cushioning, responsiveness, and lightweight feel for varied workouts.
Which shoe has better breathability?
The Hoka Clifton 9 has a more breathable engineered mesh upper that improves airflow, while the Hoka Bondi 8’s plusher materials run slightly warmer.
Which shoe is more stable?
The Hoka Bondi 8 is more stable due to its wider base and full outsole coverage, making it a good choice for steady-paced runs or walking.
Which shoe is more responsive?
The Hoka Clifton 9 has a more responsive midsole that delivers better energy return, making it suitable for runs that include faster pace segments.
Which shoe lasts longer in terms of outsole wear?
The Hoka Bondi 8 has a full rubber outsole that tends to last longer, especially for runners who put in high mileage on road surfaces.
Which shoe is better for reducing fatigue?
The Hoka Clifton 9 helps reduce fatigue thanks to its lighter build, which puts less strain on the legs during long or faster runs.
Which shoe has a more natural drop for running form?
The Hoka Clifton 9 has a 5 mm drop that promotes a natural gait while maintaining comfort, compared to the Bondi 8’s slightly flatter 4 mm drop.
Which shoe should I choose for versatility?
The Hoka Clifton 9 is more versatile, handling daily training, long runs, and moderate-speed efforts, while the Hoka Bondi 8 is best for steady, cushioned runs and walking.
