Embarking on a running journey requires the right shoes, and the Hoka Clifton line stands as a reliable choice for runners. Designed for versatility, the Hoka Clifton series caters to runners seeking a balanced fusion of comfort and speed. Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or a casual jogger, the Clifton lineup ensures a supportive and enjoyable running experience.
In this guide, we’ll dive into a comparison of the Hoka Clifton 9 and the Clifton 8, exploring the unique features of each model to help you decide which is the best fit for your running goals.
Hoka Clifton 9: Designed for Cushioning and Breathability
The Hoka Clifton 9 is designed for runners who prioritize comfort and cushioning, particularly on longer or slower-paced runs. Featuring an upgraded CMEVA midsole, the Clifton 9 offers a softer, more cushioned feel that effectively absorbs impact and reduces stress on the feet. With an additional 3mm of midsole stack height, it adds extra cushioning depth, ensuring a plush experience over extended distances. This model also enhances the heel-to-toe transition, promoting a smoother and more natural gait cycle, which makes it an excellent choice for those who enjoy long-distance training or recovery runs.
The Clifton 9’s upper has been redesigned with a lighter, thinner mesh, significantly improving breathability and airflow to keep feet cooler during runs, particularly in warmer weather. This updated mesh is also more flexible, conforming comfortably to the foot’s shape while still providing ample support. Additionally, the one-sided tongue attachment allows for more roominess in the midfoot, reducing pressure points and accommodating runners who prefer a less restrictive fit or have slightly wider feet. Overall, the Clifton 9 delivers a balanced blend of cushioning, flexibility, and comfort for longer, more relaxed runs.
Hoka Clifton 8: Stability and Comfort for Everyday Runs
The Hoka Clifton 8, on the other hand, is tailored for runners who seek a balance between comfort and responsiveness. It uses the same CMEVA midsole material but offers a firmer forefoot feel, making it ideal for shorter, faster runs. The Clifton 8’s slightly lower stack height provides a more stable platform, emphasizing control and a quicker push-off, which suits speed workouts, interval training, or daily runs where a more responsive shoe is desired. Its design focuses on delivering a stable yet cushioned ride, which benefits runners looking for a versatile shoe that performs well across different paces.
In terms of the upper, the Clifton 8 features an engineered mesh that is slightly thicker, offering a more structured fit while maintaining good breathability. The semi-gusseted tongue creates a snug, secure wrap around the midfoot, preventing slippage and enhancing stability during dynamic movements or sudden changes in direction. This secure fit helps build confidence, especially when running on uneven surfaces or making sharp turns. Ultimately, the Clifton 8 provides reliable comfort and stability for runners who prefer a firmer, more responsive ride in a variety of running conditions.
Comparing the Hoka Clifton 9 Vs Clifton 8
| Features/Model | Hoka Clifton 9 | Hoka Clifton 8 |
|---|---|---|
|
Cushioning |
Enhanced cushioning with new foam technology |
Plush cushioning with classic Hoka midsole foam
|
|
Midsole |
Upgraded midsole for improved shock absorption |
Original midsole with soft, responsive foam
|
|
Fit |
Snug yet flexible fit for enhanced support |
Comfortable fit with breathable materials |
|
Ideal For |
Long-distance runs, daily training, versatile use |
Long runs, daily jogging, consistent comfort
|
|
Arch Support |
Neutral arch support, suitable for runners with normal pronation; enhanced by the updated design for better support during long runs. |
Neutral arch support; standard cushioning is ideal for neutral runners, but offers less advanced arch support compared to the Clifton 9.
|
|
Ride Quality |
More responsive, with improved energy return for a faster, springier ride; smooth transition due to updated foam and rocker design. |
Soft and cushioned, ideal for longer, slower runs; smooth and consistent, but less responsive due to traditional EVA foam. |
|
Breathability
|
Increased breathability with the new engineered knit upper that allows for better airflow, keeping feet cooler and drier. |
Good breathability with engineered mesh, but less effective in extreme conditions compared to the Clifton 9's knit upper. |
|
Weight |
Lighter, approximately 8.7 oz |
Slightly heavier, approximately 8.9 oz
|
Elevate Your Running Experience with the Right Clifton Shoe
To sum up, choosing between the Hoka Clifton 9 and Clifton 8 ultimately comes down to your running preferences. If you’re drawn to shorter, higher intensity runs, the Clifton 8 with its firmer, more responsive midsole will be your ideal choice. Otherwise, if you prioritize long, steady runs and crave superior cushioning and comfort, the Clifton 9 is your go-to. Both models cater to neutral runners, each providing the stability and support needed through Hoka’s rocker-shaped midsoles.
Ready to enhance your running experience? Head over to Novelship now to find and purchase your pair, and elevate your runs with the exceptional comfort and performance of Hoka Clifton shoes today.
FAQs
The Clifton 9 offers a softer, more cushioned feel with additional midsole stack height, making it ideal for long-distance and slower runs. The Clifton 8 has a firmer forefoot and lower stack height, providing a more responsive feel suited for shorter, faster runs.
The Hoka Clifton 9 is better for long-distance running due to its increased cushioning and softer midsole, which enhances comfort over extended distances.
Both the Clifton 9 and Clifton 8 are designed for neutral runners with normal arches. They provide balanced support and cushioning without specific enhancements for high or low arches.
The Clifton 9 is designed more for comfort and long runs, but it can handle faster paces. However, the Clifton 8’s firmer forefoot makes it more suitable for speed work.
Yes, the Clifton 8 remains a solid option if you value a firmer feel and a lower price point, even with the newer Clifton 9 available.
The Clifton 9 provides a more cushioned and smoother ride due to its additional midsole cushioning, while the Clifton 8 offers a firmer, more responsive feel.
Yes, the Clifton 8 is suitable for daily training due to its balanced cushioning and stability, though the Clifton 9 offers more cushioning for those who need extra comfort.
The Clifton 8 is better suited for speed work and interval training due to its firmer forefoot and more responsive feel.
The Clifton 9 is slightly lighter, which can contribute to a faster and more agile feel, while the Clifton 8’s marginally heavier weight provides a more stable and cushioned ride.
The Clifton 9 is better suited for recovery runs due to its softer cushioning and enhanced comfort, which helps ease the impact on the legs after intense workouts.
The Hoka Clifton 9 is generally better for flat feet due to its increased cushioning and softer midsole, which provides added comfort and helps distribute pressure more evenly.
The Clifton 9 features a softer midsole with an additional 3mm of stack height, providing enhanced cushioning and comfort compared to the Clifton 8.
Yes, the Clifton 9 is designed for neutral runners and offers a balanced combination of cushioning and support, making it suitable for a variety of running styles.