If you are a runner, then you know that there is no one “perfect” running shoe. Every runner has different needs, and therefore each person should have a different pair of shoes. That said, some shoes are better than others, and two of the most popular options available are the Hoka Bondi and the Clifton.
In this blog post, we will compare the Hoka Bondi vs. Clifton running shoes in detail. As a running platform dedicated to helping runners achieve their goals, we will help you decide which one is the best option for you based on specs, reviews, and more! This will prevent unnecessary spending on shoes and reduce your risk of injury when you’re feet are in the right shoe from the start.
At a Glance
- The Hoka Bondi is a maximum cushioning shoe that is best for runners who have trouble with impact and need extra protection. This is particularly great for runners that run ultra-distance or are at a higher risk of lower-body injuries.
- The Hoka Clifton is a lightweight shoe that is best for runners who are looking for speed and agility. This runner favorite is a great daily running shoe for everyone from beginners to experts.
Ultimately, the best choice for you will come down to your individual needs as a runner. Keep reading for a more in-depth comparison of the Hoka Bondi vs Hoka Clifton!
Hoka Bondi vs Clifton
Below is a quick side-by-side overview of the top specs and details of each shoe:
Overview
| Hoka Bondi | Hoka Clifton |
| The Hoka Bondi is a super cushioned running shoe that’s great for people who have trouble with impact and need more cushioning. However, the cushion in this shoe isn’t as robust as some others on the market for avid long-distance runners. | The Hoka One One Clifton 8 is a multi-purpose shoe for everyday training with a smooth and steady ride. Its rocker midsole reduces energy consumption over extended distances and helps you through transitions. |
| Support: 33 mm (forefoot) to 37 mm (heel) stack height for some major shock absorption. | Support: 28 mm to 33 mm stack height for maximal shock absorption with daily runs |
| Weight: 10.7 oz | Weight: 8.9 oz |
| Heel drop: 4 mm | Heel drop: 5 mm |
| Who is it for: If you’re a runner searching for a narrow-fitting trainer with lots of built-in stability, the Bondi 7 is your jam. The newest model isn’t as soft as past ones, making the Bondi 7 great for easy runs between under 15 miles. | Who is it for: The Clifton 8 is the shoe for you if you’re a runner looking for a highly cushioned and adaptable daily trainer, while also being okay with a slightly bulkier shoe. |
| Cushion type: Medium cushioned | Cushion type: Highly cushioned |
| Stability: Designed to be very stable for runners. A more prominent arch and firmer midsole make this shoe the more stable option. | Stability: Designed to be stable yet relatively lightweight for runners |
Similarities and Differences
There are a few key similarities and differences between the Hoka Bondi vs Clifton.
First, let’s start with the similarities
- Both shoes are designed for runners
- Both shoes have a medium to high level of cushioning
- Both shoes are relatively lightweight given their level of cushioning
- Both midsoles are designed with EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate) to provide maximal shock absorption
- Both offer early-stage Meta-Rocker technology to promote a natural transition from rearfoot to forefoot with each heel strike and stride
- Finally, both are built with TPU yarn to provide maximal stability without compromising on comfort or fabric strength
Now, let’s look at the primary key differences
- Built-in cushioning for each shoe varies. While both are built with comfort in mind, the Bondi is designed with maximum cushioning in mind for those that need more comfort and impact control.
- The Bondi offers additional upper ankle collar support to keep the foot and ankle neutral with each stride.
- Unlike the Clifton, the Bondi comes in two different size options to maximize heel support: standard to wide. This allows for better accommodation of heel and foot width in runners that want a more cushioned sohe.
- The Bondi is designed for longer distances while the Clifton is designed as a daily multi-use running shoe.
- Price: the Clifton is around $20 cheaper than the Bondi.
Hoka Clifton in Detail
Pushing the limits of the Clifton’s capabilities, the newest model of the Clifton Edge features a brand-new foam (the most resilient and lightweight to date) and optimally designed geometries.
This shoe offers an easy transition between the rearfoot and forefoot thanks to a comfortable heel strike- making for a smooth and lightweight run. Finally, the Clifton Edge is known for its uniquely flared outsole that provides extensive foot support.
Hoka One One’s catchphrase for this shoe is fitting: “Go ahead, live life on the edge.”
All the Features of the Clifton
- The built-in Meta-Rocker allows for a responsive ride. Hoka One One’s Meta-Rocker is a proprietary technology that integrates a low heel-toe drop with a standard rounded sole rocker. This combination is ideal for your natural stride and allows for a healthy running gait.
- With a premium finish, the TPU yarn (built to be flexible and wear-resistant) has been embossed to provide targeted cushioning in the forefoot.
- The cushioned collar adds more comfort to your ankles when you run.
- Easy to pull on on the foot with an intuitive design
- Lightweight, highest-resiliency foam
- The extended heel provides a softer landing and a smoother heel-to-toe transition.
- New, rubberized EVA (designed for shock absorption) midsole outsole provides wrap-around midsole support with a lively feel.
Overall, this shoe provides neutral stability to the foot and ankle with each stride while providing balance cushioning that runners love!
Hoka Bondi in Detail
The Hoka Bondi is the cushiest road shoe in the HOKA line. This awesome shoe provides a smooth and comfortable ride for any length of training or race.
The newest model, the Hoka Bondi 7, has been upgraded with an extra-plush collar. Plus, it still offers all of the features that HOKA users love, like a shock-absorbing EVA midsole, breathability, and signature Meta-Rocker technology. The light and soft memory foam can accommodate a narrower heel, or you can opt for our wide version to accommodate any other foot.
Ultimately, this shoe is designed for optimal comfort and ankle support no matter where or how far you are running.
All the Features of the Bondi
- Breathable comfort is provided by the open-cell mesh construction.
- Collar padding is made of luxurious softness. The ankle is cradled in plush comfort by the memory foam collar.
- TPU fabric offers additional support to the midfoot while reducing the risk of wear.
- The internal heel counter adds stability and a locked-in fit to the shoe to promote a neutral foot while running.
- Midsole composed of the entire length of compression-molded EVA Comfort Foam.
- Early-stage Meta-Rocker improves the ride by removing any excess impact.
- Beveled heel design: Meaning the rear of the heel is rounded or slanted to reduce impact and make it easier to land.
- The lightweight rubber outsole reduces weight while increasing durability.
Overall, this shoe offers neutral stability to the foot and ankle while maximizing the plush factor for optimal comfort.
Hoka Bondi vs Clifton: The Winner Is…
Which shoe is best overall? For its versatility, the Clifton is definitely our top pick. This allows you to feel your best whether you’re running on a treadmill, asphalt, or even dirt. Plus, unless you truly need the extra support, there are benefits to allowing your foot and ankle (plus, the entire body) to self-regulate a neutral position.
However, there are a lot of factors to consider that we discussed above that will influence which choice is right for your individual needs.
Which Shoe is Right for You?
If you’re looking for a running shoe that is relatively supported and comfortable, either option will most likely suit your need.
The Hoka Clifton is a running shoe designed for people who want an everyday trainer with a smooth, easy, and comfortable ride. The latest model, the Clifton, has a comfortable midsole that offers a maximal amount of stability while still being a relatively lightweight shoe.
If you’re a runner searching for a long-distance or recovery trainer with a really smooth ride, look no further., the Hoka Bondi is for you. The Bondi 7 is one of the top cushioned shoes on the market, providing excellent protection and stability.
Overall, the Clifton Edge is lighter than the Bondi 7 and is lighter on foot than it looks. The Clifton 8 is a premium max-cushioned shoe with greater cushioning and lesser outsole durability than the Bondi 7, which costs around $20 more..
FAQ: Hoka Bondi vs Clifton
Which Hoka One One shoe, Bondi or Clifton, is better for long-distance running?
The Hoka One One Bondi is ideal for long-distance running, offering maximum cushioning and support. Its plush midsole and enhanced stability make it a great choice for those looking to cover substantial mileage comfortably.
Are there any notable differences in cushioning between the Hoka One One Bondi and Clifton?
Yes, the Bondi provides a higher level of cushioning compared to the Clifton. The Bondi’s thicker midsole offers superior shock absorption, making it preferable for runners seeking extra protection during extended runs.
For speed and agility, should I go for the Hoka One One Clifton or Bondi?
If speed and agility are your focus, the Hoka One One Clifton is a better option. It’s lighter and more responsive than the Bondi, making it suitable for tempo runs and quicker workouts while still delivering Hoka’s signature comfort.
Hoka Bondi vs Clifton – Purchasing the Best Shoe for You
When it comes to purchasing the best shoe for you, the most important thing is to know your needs. If you need a lot of support or are suffering from injuries, you might want to seek out a stability or motion control shoe.
If you have wider feet, look for shoes that come in wide sizes or have an adjustable fit like the Bondi.
Once you know what you need, you can make an informed decision. If you’re ready to purchase the Hoka Bondi or Hoka Clifton, just click on the appropriate link to order your shoes and feel your best while running!
