Hoka Clifton 9 vs Bondi 8 (2023 Comparison): Which One?
The Hoka Clifton 9 is much lighter than the Hoka Bondi 8, with a difference of over 1.8 oz/50 g. Moreover, with its 2023 version, the Hoka Clifton 9 is more cushioned than the Bondi, with 1 mm more stack height (40 mm in the heel vs. 39 mm for the Bondi 8 in the men’s version).
The heel-to-toe drop of both shoes is low, at 5 mm for the Clifton and 4 mm for the Bondi.
However, the cushioning/weight ratio clearly favors the Clifton. While the Bondi X version (2021) makes it better, the weight difference remains significant.
Cushioning and Ride
The Clifton 9’s cushioning is more responsive, providing a smoother ride for uptempo sessions.
However, the Bondi 8 offers softer cushioning, which is more comfortable for running workouts at slow or moderate paces. They are also ideal running shoes for recovery sessions.
The Clifton 9, on the other hand, is at ease in all scenarios with its pleasantly balanced and responsive cushioning.
Lockdown
Both shoes offer a comfortable, roomy fit (maybe even too roomy with the Clifton if you have narrow feet). However, the Bondi’s fit can be tricky for some runners, making it less accessible than the Clifton.
Clifton or Bondi: Which One Is Best for You?
We clearly recommend going for the Hoka Clifton 9 for its greater versatility, enabling you to enjoy any type of run.
Nevertheless, the Bondi may still be an interesting choice if you want very soft cushioning for your long runs and recovery jogs.
Side-By-Side Comparison
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9.2  |
8.8  |
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|---|---|---|
| Overview | ||
| Description | The Hoka Clifton 9 is a lightweight running shoe combining comfort, versatility and cushion. | The Hoka Bondi 8 is a shoe with soft XL cushioning ideal for everyday running and recovery. |
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9.5
9
9
9.5
9
9
9.5
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9
8
9
9
9
8.5
8
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| Facts | ||
| Terrain | Road | Road |
| Support | Neutral | Neutral |
| Heel stack height | 40 mm | 39 mm |
| Forefoot stack height | 35 mm | 35 mm |
| Heel-to-toe drop | 5 mm | 4 mm |
| Weight (men) | 248 g | 307 g |
| Weight (women) | 205 g | 252 g |
| Features | Vegan, Recycled materials | Vegan, Wide feet, Heavy runner, Recycled materials |
| Athletes | ||
| Release year | 2023 | 2022 |
| Technologies | ||
| Outsole | Durabrasion Rubber | Durabrasion Rubber |
| Midsole | Compression-molded EVA foam (CMEVA), Early Meta-Rocker Geometry | EVA foam, Ortholite Hybrid |
| Upper | Breathable technical mesh, gusseted tongue | Engineered Mesh |
| Cushioning | ||
| Cushioning | Balanced | Soft |
| Responsiveness | Medium | Low |
| Use | ||
| Distance | Mid, 10K, Half marathon, Long, Marathon | Mid, 10K, Half marathon, Long, Marathon |
| Speed | Slow, Moderate, Fast | Slow, Moderate |
| Workouts | Daily running | Daily running, Recovery |
