Hoka Kawana vs Clifton 9: Which One? (2024 Comparison)
Many were skeptical when Hoka released the Kawana, an hybrid shoe for indoor training, and road and trail running. Presented as a Jack-of-all-trades, many feared it would be like the proverb: master of none. However, it quickly became a bestseller and won many accolades. On the other hand, the Hoka Clifton is a dedicated running shoe. Let’s take a look at their key differences.
Cushioning and Ride
The Hoka Clifton offers more stack overall, with 40 mm under the heel, compared to 30 mm for the Kawana. Both shoes have a low drop (5 mm). Both shoes feel balanced under the foot, hitting the right spot between softness and firmness. Nonetheless, the Clifton absorbs shocks better with its higher stack, which will suit longer runs up to the marathon.
The energy return is moderate for these models: just enough for a smooth ride but nothing stunning.
The key difference comes from the difference in weight. The Clifton is 1.3 oz/37 g lighter. It’s not huge, but it helps with the Clifton being more nimble, especially considering its thicker sole.
Foot Lockdown and Fit
Overall, the Kawana and Clifton offer a secure fit. In the case of the Kawana, there’s even some medial support (not for pronation but overall locking) to make it suitable for movement-intensive activities like cross-fit.
The shoes run true to size, but watch out with the Clifton if you have narrow feet, as its volume is quite ample, and it can be tricky to adjust.
Hoka Kawana vs Clifton: Which One Is Best for You?
For once, you can trust the recommendations of the brand. The Kawanas are multi-sport shoes to practice almost anything (except maybe some strength training exercises where you cannot have a heel-to-toe drop), while the Clifton is a pure running daily trainer. The latter is versatile but in terms of running practice.
In short, if you’re a beginner runner and unsure whether you’ll stick to it long-term, the Kawana is a great, affordable pick that can be used for anything (even trail running on easy dirt paths).
On the other hand, if you know that running is your thing and need dedicated running shoes to be as comfortable as possible, the Cliftons are your shoes.
Side-By-Side Comparison Table
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8.5  |
9.2  |
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|---|---|---|
| Overview | ||
| Description | Dynamic and versatile, this blend of Hoka's Hupana and Clifton can be your first foray into the brand's range of shoes. | The Hoka Clifton 9 is a lightweight running shoe combining comfort, versatility and cushion. |
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8.5
8
8
8
9
9
9
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9.5
9
9
9.5
9
9
9.5
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| Facts | ||
| Terrain | Road | Road |
| Support | Neutral | Neutral |
| Heel stack height | 30 mm | 40 mm |
| Forefoot stack height | 25 mm | 35 mm |
| Heel-to-toe drop | 5 mm | 5 mm |
| Weight (men) | 285 g | 248 g |
| Weight (women) | 269 g | 205 g |
| Features | Vegan, Recycled materials | Vegan, Recycled materials |
| Athletes | ||
| Release year | 2022 | 2023 |
| Technologies | ||
| Outsole | Durabrasion rubber | Durabrasion Rubber |
| Midsole | CMEVA Foam, SWALLOWTAIL Heel, Early Stage Meta-Rocker | Compression-molded EVA foam (CMEVA), Early Meta-Rocker Geometry |
| Upper | Engineered Jacquard Mesh, Anatomical Achilles, Extended Heel Pull | Breathable technical mesh, gusseted tongue |
| Cushioning | ||
| Cushioning | Balanced | Balanced |
| Responsiveness | Medium | Medium |
| Use | ||
| Distance | Short, 5K, Mid, 10K, Half marathon | Mid, 10K, Half marathon, Long, Marathon |
| Speed | Moderate | Slow, Moderate, Fast |
| Workouts | Daily running | Daily running |
