Hoka Bondi 8 Vs Clifton 9 – Check Which One Is Best & Why?

Shoe

Hoka Bondi 8 & Clifton 9 share many similarities, but there are also  some important differences, such as quality, performance, features & design. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the Hoka Bondi 8 rather than Clifton 9.

Why Do I Recommend The Hoka Bondi 8

  • The Hoka Bondi 8 is designed to deliver a balanced mix of comfort, support, and performance, making it a reliable choice for runners compared to the Clifton 9.
  • Hoka Bondi 8‘s  Mesh upper with 3D puff print overlays provides more breathability & a snug fit for air circulation, keeping your feet cool & dry during runs. The Clifton 9 mesh upper is less breathable.
  • It has a full-length EVA foam midsole that provides a soft, cushioned feel and an excellent ride, but the Clifton 9 uses CMEVA foam.
  • Bondi 8 has a higher stack height of 33 mm at the heel, which provides more cushioning & shock absorption. The Clifton 9 has a lower stack height of 32 mm.
  • The Hoka Bondi 8 promotes a more natural running gait with a 4mm lower drop, while The Clifton 9 has a 5mm lower drop.
  • It has a slightly wider toe box, which offers more space in the toe box and enhanced comfort for runners with wide feet. Conversely, Clifton 9 has a standard-width toe box.
  • Its durable construction is suitable for high-mileage runs with comfort feel compared to the Clifton 9.

Maybe the Clifton 9 price can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the Hoka Bondi 8. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.

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Side By Side Comparison

Feature Hoka Bondi 8 Hoka Clifton 9
Type Max Cushion Balanced Cushion
Weight 10.8 oz  8.7 oz 
Heel-to-Toe Drop 4 mm 5 mm
Stack Height 33 mm heel, 29 mm forefoot 32 mm heel, 27 mm forefoot
Outsole Durabrasion rubber High-abrasion rubber zones
Upper Material Engineered mesh with 3D puff print overlay Engineered mesh
Fit Roomy toe box Snugger fit
Intended Use Long-distance running Versatile running
Support Level High stability Neutral
Flexibility High Moderate
Durability High Moderate
Aesthetics Chunky, substantial look Sleeker, streamlined design
Comfort Level Extremely high cushioning Balance cushioning
Toe Protection Reinforced toe cap Minimal toe protection
Arch Support High Moderate
Traction Excellent on road surfaces Good on road surfaces
Shock Absorption Excellent Good
Heel Counter Firm Moderate
Price Check Bondi 8 Price Check Clifton 9 Price

What Common Both Can Do?

  • Brand: Both the Hoka Bondi 8 and Clifton 9 are produced by Hoka One One, a brand renowned for its innovative approach to running shoe design, particularly focusing on maximalist cushioning.
  • Category: Both shoes are categorized as road running shoes, indicating they are designed for use on paved surfaces and offer features that support road running activities.
  • Cushioning: Both models provide high levels of cushioning. This makes them suitable for long-distance running and provides comfort over extended periods.
  • Upper Material: The engineered mesh used in both models enhances breathability and comfort, ensuring that the shoes keep feet cool and comfortable during runs.
  • Heel Counter: A firm heel counter is present in both models, offering a secure fit and additional support for the heel, which can be beneficial for stability and preventing slippage.
  • Heel Pull Tab: Both the Bondi 8 and Clifton 9 feature a heel pull tab, making it easier to put on and take off the shoes, a convenient feature for runners.
  • Reflective Elements: Reflective elements are included in both models, which is crucial for visibility and safety during low-light conditions, such as early morning or evening runs.
  • Outsole Material: Both shoes utilize rubber outsoles, known for their durability and ability to provide good traction on various surfaces.
  • Midsole Technology: Both feature full-length foam midsoles, which offer cushioning and support throughout the length of the shoe, enhancing overall comfort and shock absorption.
  • Support Level: Both models are neutral shoes, designed for runners who do not have significant pronation issues, providing a balanced and natural running experience.
  • Lacing System: The traditional lacing system used in both shoes allows for a customizable and secure fit, which is important for stability and comfort.
  • Intended Audience: Both models are available in versions for men and women, ensuring that they cater to a wide range of runners.
  • Breathability: The engineered mesh uppers in both models provide high breathability, keeping feet cool and reducing the risk of overheating.
  • Aesthetic Design: Both have a modern design typical of Hoka shoes, with the Bondi 8 having a chunkier look and the Clifton 9 a more streamlined appearance, yet both are visually appealing.
  • Shock Absorption: Both shoes offer excellent shock absorption, which is beneficial for protecting joints and reducing the impact during runs.

Common Features

Feature Hoka Bondi 8 Hoka Clifton 9
Brand Hoka One One Hoka One One
Category Road Running Shoes Road Running Shoes
Cushioning High High
Upper Material Engineered Mesh Engineered Mesh
Heel Counter Firm Firm
Heel Pull Tab Yes Yes
Reflective Elements Present Present
Outsole Material Rubber Rubber
Midsole Technology Full-length foam Full-length foam
Support Level Neutral Neutral
Lacing System Traditional Lacing Traditional Lacing
Intended Audience Men and Women Men and Women
Breathability High High
Aesthetic Design Modern, Chunky Look Modern, Streamlined Look
Shock Absorption Excellent Excellent
Suitable for Long Runs Yes Yes
Price Check Bondi 8 Price Check Clifton 9 Price

FAQ

Q: Are the Hoka Bondi 8 and Clifton 9 designed for the same type of running?

A: Both the Hoka Bondi 8 and Clifton 9 are primarily designed for road running. They are suitable for long-distance running due to their high cushioning, though the Bondi 8 is more focused on maximum comfort and stability, while the Clifton 9 provides a balance of cushioning and responsiveness.

Q: What is the difference in cushioning between the Bondi 8 and Clifton 9?

A: The Bondi 8 offers maximum cushioning with its full-length EVA foam midsole, providing a plush and soft feel ideal for long runs and recovery sessions. The Clifton 9, on the other hand, uses CMEVA foam, which balances cushioning with responsiveness, making it more versatile for various types of runs, including daily training.

Q: How do the weights of the Bondi 8 and Clifton 9 compare?

A: The Bondi 8 is heavier, weighing 10.8 oz for men and 8.9 oz for women. The Clifton 9 is lighter, weighing 8.7 oz for men and 7.6 oz for women. This weight difference makes the Clifton 9 more suitable for faster runs and those who prefer a lighter shoe.

Q: What are the upper materials used in these shoes?

A: Both the Bondi 8 and Clifton 9 use engineered mesh for their uppers, which provides breathability and comfort. The Bondi 8 features additional 3D puff print overlays for added structure and support, while the Clifton 9 focuses on a lighter and more breathable design.

Q: Do both shoes have a similar heel-to-toe drop?

A: Yes, both shoes have a low heel-to-toe drop, with the Bondi 8 having a 4 mm drop and the Clifton 9 having a 5 mm drop. This low drop promotes a more natural running gait and can help improve running form.

Q: Are the outsoles of these shoes made from the same material?

A: Both shoes have rubber outsoles. The Bondi 8 uses Durabrasion rubber, known for its durability, while the Clifton 9 features high-abrasion rubber zones that balance durability with weight reduction.

Q: How do the fit and toe box of the Bondi 8 and Clifton 9 compare?

A: Both shoes offer a roomy toe box for enhanced comfort, particularly on longer runs. However, the Bondi 8 provides a slightly roomier fit overall, while the Clifton 9 has a snugger fit, which some runners may find more secure.

Q: Are both shoes suitable for runners with neutral support needs?

A: Yes, both the Bondi 8 and Clifton 9 are neutral running shoes designed for runners without significant pronation issues. They provide a balanced and natural running experience.

Q: What reflective elements do these shoes have for safety?

A: Both the Bondi 8 and Clifton 9 include reflective elements to enhance visibility in low-light conditions, making them safer for early morning or evening runs.

Q: Can both shoes handle high mileage?

A: Yes, both the Bondi 8 and Clifton 9 are built to be durable and handle high mileage. They are designed to last through long-distance running and regular use, providing lasting comfort and support.

Q: Do both shoes offer good breathability?

A: Yes, both shoes offer high breathability due to their engineered mesh uppers. This helps keep feet cool and comfortable during runs, reducing the risk of overheating.

Q: Are these shoes available for both men and women?

A: Yes, both the Hoka Bondi 8 and Clifton 9 are available in versions for men and women, ensuring a wide range of options to fit different preferences and needs.

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