Choosing the right running shoes can feel overwhelming, especially with so many brands and models available. If you’re exploring Hoka running shoes, you’ve likely encountered the Clifton and Bondi – two of their most popular and well-loved options. For years, as a dedicated runner and Hoka enthusiast, I’ve been asked countless questions about these shoes: “What’s the difference between the Hoka Bondi and Clifton?”, “Are Hokas right for me?”, and “Which model should I choose?”. Having logged miles in numerous Hoka models since 2012, I’m here to provide an in-depth comparison to help you decide which shoe will best fit your running needs.
Each year, I make it a point to test Hoka’s latest releases, putting in significant mileage to thoroughly evaluate their feel, fit, and overall performance. This hands-on experience allows me to offer genuine feedback and help fellow runners navigate the world of Hoka.
Initially, my focus was solely on the Hoka Clifton, as it was the flagship model. However, as Hoka’s lineup expanded, so did my testing and understanding of their range. Now, I aim to break down the key differences between various models, with a particular emphasis on the Hoka Clifton vs Bondi. These two shoes represent distinct approaches to cushioning and are popular choices for different types of runs and runners. Let’s dive into a detailed comparison of their fit, feel, and function to guide you toward the ideal Hoka running shoe for you.
Understanding Hoka Running Shoes: Key Features
Switching to a new running shoe brand can be a leap of faith. For me, the need for change arose from persistent knee pain. My chiropractor pointed out excessive pronation in my old shoes, leading me to consider options with enhanced midfoot cushioning and support. Hoka, with its maximalist design, piqued my interest.
The initial impression of Hoka shoes can be striking – they often appear bulky and significantly different from traditional running shoes.
Maximal running shoes vs minimalist shoes is a topic worth exploring separately to understand if maximalist shoes align with your running style and preferences. Hoka is known for its maximalist approach, characterized by a high stack height, which refers to the amount of cushioning between your foot and the ground. It’s important to note that maximal cushioning is not the same as a high heel-to-toe drop; Hoka shoes often maintain a relatively low drop despite their substantial cushioning.
To help you navigate the Hoka lineup, let’s explore some of the common features that define the brand and then delve into specific model comparisons. What are the best Hoka running shoes? The answer is subjective and depends on your individual needs and preferences. This comparison will help you narrow down your choices.
👉 For a comprehensive overview of the entire Hoka running shoe family, I’ve created a detailed guide on HOKA Running shoe models, offering in-depth information on each to aid your selection. Here’s a quick snapshot of some popular models:
For more detailed reviews, follow the links provided:
- Hoka Clifton (neutral, balanced cushion)
- Hoka Bondi (neutral, plush cushion)
- Hoka Mach (neutral, responsive cushion – a personal favorite for road running)
- Hoka Speedgoat (neutral trail)
- Hoka Challenger ATR (responsive trail shoe)
- Hoka Arahi (stability shoe)
- Hoka Gaviota (most cushioned stability shoe)
- Hoka Cielo X1 (top-tier carbon plate race shoe)
- Hoka Rocket X2 (neutral carbon fiber racing shoe)
- Hoka Skyward X (carbon plate shoe designed for everyday runners)
👉 Bonus: If you’re looking for Hokas for everyday wear or work, I’ve also written a separate post on the Best Hoka Shoes for Walking and Standing at Work >>
Several core features are consistent across many Hoka shoe models. Understanding these commonalities will help you appreciate the brand’s design philosophy.
Stability Features in Hoka Shoes
While I generally advise against traditional stability shoes for most runners, Hoka incorporates inherent stability into many of their neutral shoes. This is achieved through the wider platform of the midsole, a design element present across their range. This wider base provides a stable foundation without aggressively altering your natural stride, offering subtle support without the drawbacks of conventional stability shoes designed to correct overpronation. For runners seeking mild support, this design is often preferable to standard stability shoe for overpronation.
Maximal Cushioning: The Hoka Hallmark
Stack height, the measurement of cushioning underfoot, defines maximalist shoes, typically ranging from 30mm to 50mm. Hoka embraces this maximalist philosophy wholeheartedly.
For a deeper understanding of the maximalist versus minimalist shoe debate, refer to my detailed comparison: maximal and minimal shoes. Hoka’s official stance on their cushioning is clear: “maximum cushioning material is designed for excellent shock absorption and an inherently stable ride.” This cushioning is intended to protect your joints and enhance comfort, especially during longer runs.
The Extended Heel Design
Many Hoka shoes feature a distinctively extended heel. The degree of extension varies between models, from pronounced to subtle. Having tested models with both extremes, I’ve found that while the very pronounced heels aren’t my personal favorite aesthetically, they serve a functional purpose.
Hoka’s research indicates that this heel extension facilitates a quicker forward roll of the foot, promoting a smoother transition from heel strike to toe-off. This design element, often termed an early-stage meta-rocker, can be beneficial in reducing the impact of heel striking and encouraging a more efficient stride.
Shoe Replacement and Durability
The generally accepted guideline for running shoe replacement is every replace your shoes every 500 miles, and Hoka shoes align with this benchmark. In my experience with numerous Hoka pairs, durability has been consistently impressive. I haven’t encountered premature wear or breakdown issues.
Your individual shoe lifespan may vary based on factors like running style, body weight, and terrain. Heavier runners or those who run on more abrasive surfaces may need to replace shoes sooner. Conversely, predominantly treadmill running might extend shoe life beyond 500 miles.
Hoka Clifton Review: Balanced Cushioning and Versatility
My initial impression of the Clifton, like many runners, was that its size would translate to heaviness. However, I was immediately surprised by how incredibly lightweight they were. Returning to my previous shoes after trying the Clifton felt like running in clunky, rigid footwear. I’ve since run in Clifton models 1, 2, 5, 7, 8, and 9, experiencing the evolution of this popular shoe.
The Clifton Edge, with its more exaggerated heel, didn’t resonate with me personally, feeling less cushioned than other Clifton iterations. While model 2 and 7 were less favored updates, versions 5, 8, and 9 stand out as excellent performers.
I consider the Clifton to be Hoka’s quintessential neutral running shoe, offering a balanced level of cushioning, a comfortably padded collar, and a well-cushioned tongue.
While not the softest shoe in the Hoka lineup (that title belongs to the Bondi), the Clifton is undeniably cushioned, utilizing Hoka’s signature EVA foam midsole. Notably, with each new iteration, the Clifton has become increasingly cushioned, blurring the lines between it and the Bondi. It’s now often categorized as one of Hoka’s most cushioned shoes. This enhanced cushioning can be particularly beneficial as we age and naturally lose some of the fat pads in our feet.
Explore the latest Clifton model >>
Performance and Usage
I’ve used various Clifton models for a wide range of runs, from speed workouts to half marathons. While not specifically designed for speed, they perform admirably even at faster paces, providing a comfortable and protected feel.
Fit Considerations
Fit was an initial concern in earlier Clifton models, particularly for runners with narrower feet like myself. There was a sensation of slightly excessive room within the shoe. However, many reviews suggest a more average fit profile, so personal experience is key. Newer Clifton models have addressed this, offering a more refined and secure fit. I appreciate the ample toebox space, allowing for natural foot movement.
- I consistently wear the same size 11 in Clifton as in other running shoe brands.
- The Clifton accommodates a wider foot comfortably, and even with my narrower foot, slippage is minimal.
- The toebox, while not as generously wide as Altra shoes, is wider than many other brands.
The Clifton 8, with its enhanced cushioning around the tongue and memory foam collar, provides a more snug and less voluminous feel compared to earlier versions.
Clifton 9 Specifications
Clifton 9
- Weight: 8.7 oz for men’s size, 7.3 oz for women’s size
- Heel drop: 5mm
- Color Options: 8 diverse colors
- Width Availability: Select models available in wide widths
- Price: Available on Hoka.com for $145
If you’re transitioning from shoes with a higher heel drop, you might initially notice a difference in the muscles engaged in your ankles and feet. Personally, I prefer a lower heel drop, as it promotes better foot alignment and mimics the benefits of minimalist shoes while retaining maximal cushioning.
Hoka Bondi Review: Supreme Plush Cushioning for Maximum Comfort
I had previously tried the Bondi without strong positive impressions, but my experience changed dramatically with a more recent model. From the very first run, I knew it was a shoe I’d want to keep in my rotation long-term. This highlights how shoe updates can significantly improve a model.
Explore the current Bondi model >>
Perhaps influenced by revisiting their original 2011 design (similar to how the original Clifton was a personal favorite), recent Bondi models have consistently impressed me.
The Bondi is defined by its PLUSH cushioning, offering an incredibly soft and luxurious underfoot feel. This characteristic brings both advantages and disadvantages for runners.
Despite its substantial cushioning, the Bondi is surprisingly lightweight. This is another instance where appearances can be deceiving.
The super-cushioned nature of the Bondi feels fantastic, especially for easy runs and recovery days. However, runners should be aware that on very long runs, excessively plush shoes can sometimes contribute to lower back pain while running. . This can occur because the foot tends to sink into the cushioning, potentially affecting posture and muscle engagement over extended periods.
The Bondi excels as a recovery run shoe, providing exceptional impact absorption and comfort for tired legs.
Fit and Feel
The Bondi’s fit is characterized by its exceptional cushioning and comfortable upper. Despite being a neutral shoe, I noticed minimal inward rolling of my foot upon initial wear, a common issue with some neutral shoes. This again illustrates Hoka’s inherent stability design, stemming from the wider platform.
- The Bondi’s fit is slightly narrower than the Clifton, but it is available in wide and extra-wide widths.
- Fit is generally similar to the Clifton, with the primary difference being enhanced cushioning.
- Toebox room is ample, similar to the Clifton.
Bondi 9 Specifications
The Bondi line includes various iterations, but they share core specifications, with the exception of the Bondi X, which incorporates a carbon fiber plate (discussed later).
Bondi 9
- Weight: 10.5 oz for men’s size, 9.3 oz for women’s size
- Heel Drop: 5 mm
- Intended Use: Maximum cushion daily trainer
- Color Options: 6 colors available
- Width Availability: Wide and extra-wide widths available (in select colors)
- Price: Available on Hoka.com for $170
The Bondi is slightly heavier than the Clifton, but the weight difference is negligible for easy-paced runs.
The Bondi’s lifespan is comparable to the Clifton. However, if the plush cushioning begins to degrade, it might become more noticeable in your running form compared to a firmer shoe.
Hoka Clifton vs Bondi: Key Differences and Choosing the Right Shoe
Deciding between the Clifton and Bondi comes down to understanding their core differences and aligning them with your running preferences and needs. Both are excellent neutral running shoes, but they cater to different priorities.
Hopefully, the preceding details have provided a good foundation for comparing these road shoes. Here’s a direct side-by-side comparison of the Bondi vs Clifton based on my extensive testing:
- Neutral Shoe Classification: Both are categorized as neutral running shoes.
- Stack Height Variation: Men’s models of both shoes typically have a slightly higher stack height than women’s models.
- Stack Height Comparison: Bondi boasts a higher stack height than the Clifton, translating to more cushioning.
- Weight Difference: Clifton is lighter than the Bondi by a couple of ounces, which can be a factor for longer distances or runners prioritizing lightweight shoes.
- Personal Preference: For both speed work and daily training, I lean towards the Hoka Mach over the Clifton due to its slightly more responsive and less firm cushioning.
- Cushioning Feel: The Bondi offers a significantly plusher feel. There’s no mistaking its high level of cushioning.
- Versatility: I enjoy running in both models, but I utilize them for different purposes.
- Ideal Use Cases: Bondi excels for recovery runs or for runners new to running or returning from injury who need maximum joint protection.
- Clifton’s Strengths: Clifton is versatile for long runs and easy runs, offering a bit more flexibility and ground feel than the Bondi.
- Long Race Option: Skyward X (the successor to the Bondi X) is an outstanding choice for long-distance races, blending cushioning and responsiveness.
Hoka Bondi X: Carbon-Plated Cushioning (Model Discontinued – Potentially Replaced by Skyward X)
***Note: The Bondi X model appears to be temporarily discontinued. The Skyward X is a newer carbon-plated cushioned Hoka shoe that may serve a similar purpose and is mentioned as a replacement above.***
A cushioned shoe combined with a carbon fiber plate might seem counterintuitive, but the Bondi X (and now Skyward X) aimed to bridge this gap. My experience with the Bondi X was surprisingly positive, as was the feedback from many runners who aren’t elite racers.
With a 9.00 oz weight and 5mm drop, the Bondi X wasn’t Hoka’s lightest shoe, yet it delivered a surprisingly fast and efficient feel.
- The meta-rocker sensation is less pronounced compared to some Hoka models, but its effect on pace is noticeable.
- For races with slight downhill sections, the Bondi X (or Skyward X) could be a strong contender for a personal best.
- This type of shoe aims to bring carbon-plated technology to everyday runners, not just elites.
- Carbon fiber plated shoes generally have a shorter lifespan than standard trainers, and this applies to the Bondi X as well.
Hoka’s rationale behind the Bondi X was to democratize carbon plate technology: “We asked ourselves why every carbon-plated shoe on the market had to be created with an eye on only the elite runner. Everyone deserves to fly and everyone can level up. What better way to pose the idea than on a super plush HOKA platform with forgiving geometry plus a carbon plate? The Bondi X was born!”
Check availability of BondiX (or explore Skyward X) here >>
Bondi X Fit
The Bondi X’s fit is consistent with the standard Bondi. The primary difference is a firmer underfoot feel due to the carbon fiber plate, while still maintaining a cushioned experience.
Hoka Rocket X vs Skyward X: Carbon Fiber Racers Compared
If you’re seeking a carbon fiber plated Hoka running shoe, the choice narrows to the Rocket X2 and the Skyward X.
Neither of these models feels like a Clifton or Bondi in terms of plushness. The Rocket X2 prioritizes bounce and responsiveness, key elements for speed-oriented carbon-plated shoes. However, this firmer, bouncier ride can be problematic for runners with Achilles issues or lower leg sensitivities.
- Rocket X2 offers a bouncy cushion, not a plush cushion.
- Skyward X is less focused on pure speed and more on providing a comfortable and supportive ride for longer races, while still incorporating a carbon plate and bounciness (and is a larger overall shoe).
- Both are neutral running shoes.
- Skyward X retains the expected Bondi-like cushioning (effectively replacing the Bondi X as a more refined option).
- Rocket X2 weighs 8.3 oz, while Skyward X is slightly heavier at 9.2oz.
- Both shoes have a 5mm heel drop.
- Skyward X incorporates more heel padding; the Rocket X2’s minimal heel padding caused blister issues for some runners.
Rocket X2 Fit Issues
I encountered fit problems with the Rocket X2. While the shoe felt light and fast, the lack of adequate heel padding led to significant rubbing and blister formation.
Generally, for Hoka carbon plate shoes, I’d recommend considering the Cielo X1 for a truly fast racing option or exploring the Skyward X (or potentially finding remaining Bondi X stock) for longer marathon distances where cushioning and some responsiveness are desired.
Having covered Hoka’s popular road shoes, let’s briefly touch on their trail offerings.
If you appreciate the Clifton or Bondi, the Speedgoat is a natural transition for trail running.
Hoka Speedgoat Review: Trail-Ready Cushioning and Grip
Think of the Speedgoat as the trail running equivalent of the Clifton. If you desire even softer cushioning for trails, the Challenger might be a better fit.
When researching the best trail running shoe, the Speedgoat consistently emerged as a top recommendation. I’ve since run in the last four Speedgoat models and understand the widespread acclaim.
The consensus is accurate – I’m a Speedgoat enthusiast.
The Speedgoat delivers the signature Hoka cushioning I value in my Cliftons, combined with the necessary grip and lug pattern for reliable traction on varied trail surfaces.
My Speedgoats, visibly marked with trail dirt, are a testament to their frequent use. Many ultra-runners rely on them across diverse terrains. For highly technical trails demanding maximum grip, I might opt for a shoe with a more aggressive outsole, but for most trail running, the Speedgoat excels.
Speedgoat Specifications
- Neutral trail shoe
- Weight: 10.3 oz for men’s size, 8.5 oz for women’s size
- Heel drop: 4mm
- Width Availability: Available in Wide widths
- Price: $155
Trail Performance
I’ve tested the Speedgoat on easy trails, technical trails, and distances up to 18 miles.
I appreciate the neutral feel and the slightly wider toebox, which prevents blisters during downhill running.
Explore current Speedgoat colors and pricing here >>
Hoka Casual Shoes: Solimar Slip-On
My partner David tested Hoka’s casual slip-on shoe, the Solimar, and it was an instant favorite!
David also acquired a pair, and we now both wear them – a testament to their comfort and versatility.
For a more detailed look at Hoka’s casual and walking shoe options, refer to my guide: Best Hoka Walking and All Day Shoes
The Solimar is stylish enough for everyday wear and comfortable enough for extended walks, yet also capable of handling short runs – making it a versatile and practical choice.
Curious how Hoka compares to traditional running shoe brands?
Explore these brand comparisons: (Links to brand comparison articles would be inserted here if available in the original website)
More Running Gear Reviews
For more reviews and recommendations to enhance your running experience, explore my comprehensive page of must have running gear reviews and guides. Save time and money by learning from my experiences and those of fellow runners, discovering what works and what isn’t worth the investment.
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Note: This is an independent review. Hoka shoes have been provided for testing over the years.
