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When it comes to running shoes, Hoka One One has quickly become a top choice for athletes and fitness enthusiasts worldwide. Known for their superior cushioning and comfort, the Hoka Clifton series has built a loyal following. In this article, we’ll be comparing the Hoka Clifton 8 vs 9, two of the most popular models in the Clifton series. We’ll dive into everything you need to know, from comfort and design to fit, durability, and customer reviews. Whether you’re an experienced runner or just starting, this detailed comparison will help you make an informed decision.
Comfort
When it comes to choosing a running shoe, comfort is often the top priority. Both the Hoka Clifton 8 vs 9 are known for their plush cushioning, which makes long runs feel less strenuous on the feet.
Hoka Clifton 8
The Hoka Clifton 8 features a soft EVA foam midsole that provides a smooth and cushioned feel. It’s designed to give a soft landing with each step, making it ideal for long-distance runs. The shoe also has a breathable mesh upper that adds to the overall comfort, keeping your feet cool and dry during runs.
Hoka Clifton 9
The Clifton 9 takes comfort to the next level with an improved midsole design. Hoka introduced a new, lighter foam in the Clifton 9, making it more responsive without compromising on cushioning. This gives runners a faster, more energetic feel with each stride. The upper has also been redesigned to offer more flexibility, which enhances the overall comfort and fit.
| Comfort Features | Clifton 8 | Clifton 9 |
|---|---|---|
| Cushioning | Soft EVA foam midsole | Lighter foam for improved responsiveness |
| Upper Design | Breathable mesh upper | Redesigned upper for more flexibility |
| Heel-to-Toe Drop | 5mm | 5mm |
Style and Design
The style and design of running shoes can often influence purchasing decisions, as both Hoka Clifton 8 vs 9 performance and aesthetics matter to many runners.
Hoka Clifton 8
The Clifton 8 maintains the signature Hoka design—bold, sleek, and colorful. It has a streamlined, modern look with a thick midsole that offers a lot of cushioning. The shoe’s upper is made of a lightweight mesh material that ensures breathability while offering a comfortable fit.
Hoka Clifton 9
The Clifton 9 features a similar sleek design, but with some updates that make it look even more contemporary. The shoe has a more refined and slightly sleeker profile, and the color palette has been expanded to include more neutral tones. The design improvements also contribute to a lighter overall feel, which can make the shoe appear less bulky compared to its predecessor.
| Design Features | Clifton 8 | Clifton 9 |
|---|---|---|
| Upper Material | Lightweight mesh | Redesigned flexible mesh material |
| Midsole Shape | Standard cushioning profile | Refined and lighter cushioning profile |
| Color Options | Bold and bright colors | Expanded neutral tones, sleeker design |
Key Differences Between Clifton 8 vs 9
While the Hoka Clifton 8 vs 9 shares a lot of similarities, there are key differences that might influence your decision:
- Midsole: The Clifton 9 has an updated midsole with lighter foam, offering a more responsive and energetic feel, whereas the Clifton 8 has a soft EVA foam midsole for a cushioned, softer ride.
- Upper Design: The upper of the Clifton 9 has been improved for more flexibility, while the Clifton 8’s upper provides reliable support with a breathable mesh.
- Weight: The Clifton 9 is slightly lighter than the Clifton 8 due to the updated foam and material design.
- Responsiveness: The Clifton 9 is more responsive, making it suitable for runners who want more energy return during their runs.
Sizing Consistency
Hoka shoes are generally true to size, but it’s important to note that sizing may vary slightly between models Hoka Clifton 8 vs 9.
Clifton 8
The Hoka Clifton 8 fits true to size for most runners. However, some users find the shoe slightly narrow in the toe box, so it’s best to try them on if possible before purchasing.
Clifton 9
The Clifton 9 offers a similar fit to the Clifton 8, but with a more flexible upper, it accommodates different foot shapes more comfortably. The slight increase in flexibility may make the Clifton 9 feel more true to size for those with wider feet.
| Sizing Aspect | Clifton 8 | Clifton 9 |
|---|---|---|
| Fit Type | Slightly narrow in the toe box | More flexible and accommodating |
| True to Size | Yes, for most runners | Yes, with improved flexibility for wider feet |
Brand Reputation
Hoka One One has established a strong reputation for creating high-performance running shoes that focus on comfort and cushioning. The Clifton series has been particularly popular for its ability to provide a plush ride without being too bulky.
Both the Hoka Clifton 8 vs 9 uphold Hoka’s reputation for quality and innovation. Hoka is known for listening to customer feedback, and both models showcase their commitment to improving comfort, performance, and style.
Breathability
Both the Hoka Clifton 8 vs 9 offer excellent breathability, but there are slight differences in their upper materials.
Clifton 8
The breathable mesh upper in the Clifton 8 allows air to circulate, keeping your feet cool and dry during runs. However, the shoe’s overall structure can feel a bit warmer during long runs in hot weather.
Clifton 9
The Clifton 9 features an updated, more flexible upper design that improves airflow. This ensures that your feet stay cooler and drier during intense runs or warmer weather conditions.
| Breathability | Clifton 8 | Clifton 9 |
|---|---|---|
| Upper Design | Breathable mesh, but feels warmer | Flexible mesh for improved airflow |
| Comfort in Hot Weather | Suitable for cooler climates | Better airflow for warmer conditions |
Durability
Durability is an essential factor when investing in running shoes. Both the Hoka Clifton 8 vs 9 are built to last, but there are differences in the materials used.
Clifton 8
The Clifton 8 uses durable rubber on the outsole, offering good traction and wear resistance. The midsole also maintains its cushioning properties over time, although, like all shoes, it may begin to lose some responsiveness after extensive use.
Clifton 9
The Clifton 9 builds on the Clifton 8’s durable construction, but with enhanced materials that provide longer-lasting cushioning and support. The outsole rubber has been improved for better traction and durability, especially for long-distance runners.
| Durability Feature | Clifton 8 | Clifton 9 |
|---|---|---|
| Outsole Material | Durable rubber for good traction | Improved rubber for enhanced traction |
| Midsole Durability | Retains cushioning for a long time | Longer-lasting cushioning with lighter foam |
Fit and Support
The fit and support of a running shoe can greatly affect your performance and comfort. Must read before making the right decision between brands Hoka Clifton 8 vs 9.
Clifton 8
The Clifton 8 offers good support for a wide range of foot types. The shoe features a wide base for stability, and the cushioned midsole provides added support without sacrificing comfort.
Clifton 9
The Clifton 9 improves on the fit by offering a more flexible upper that adapts to the shape of your foot better. The enhanced midsole provides a more responsive feel while maintaining the level of support necessary for long-distance running.
| Support Features | Clifton 8 | Clifton 9 |
|---|---|---|
| Midsole Support | Soft and stable for most runners | Responsive, with improved energy return |
| Upper Fit | Good for standard foot shapes | More flexible for various foot types |
Pricing between Hoka Clifton 8 vs 9
Pricing can be a deciding factor when choosing between two similar products Hoka Clifton 8 vs 9.
Clifton 8
The Hoka Clifton 8 typically falls in the mid-range price category for high-performance running shoes. Given its popularity and cushioning features, it offers good value for the cost.
Clifton 9
The Clifton 9 is slightly more expensive, due to the updated technology and materials. However, the improved design and enhanced responsiveness justify the price increase for many runners.
| Pricing | Clifton 8 | Clifton 9 |
|---|---|---|
| Retail Price | Mid-range pricing | Slightly higher due to updated features |
Customer Reviews
Customer reviews often give the best insight into how a shoe performs over time. Here’s what users have to say about the two models Hoka Clifton 8 vs 9:
Clifton 8
Many users praise the Clifton 8 for its plush comfort and lightweight feel. Runners who appreciate a cushioned ride love the soft EVA foam. However, some noted that the toe box could be a bit narrow, making it less ideal for wider feet.
Clifton 9
The Clifton 9 receives high marks for its improved responsiveness and updated upper design. Many runners feel that the Clifton 9 is even more comfortable than the Clifton 8, thanks to the enhanced fit and lighter foam. However, a few users mentioned that the shoe feels slightly firmer compared to the Clifton 8.
Conclusion
Both the Hoka Clifton 8 vs 9 are excellent choices for runners seeking comfort, cushioning, and durability. The Clifton 8 is known for its plush ride, while the Clifton 9 builds on that foundation with improved responsiveness and a more flexible fit. If you’re looking for a more energetic feel during your runs, the Clifton 9 may be the better choice. However, if you prefer a softer, cushioned experience, the Clifton 8 remains a fantastic option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for long-distance running, Clifton 8 or Clifton 9?
Both shoes are designed for long-distance running, but the Clifton 9’s improved responsiveness may be better for runners who want a more energized feel.
Are the Hoka Clifton 8 and 9 true to size?
Yes, both shoes fit true to size, but the Clifton 9 offers a slightly better fit for wider feet due to its more flexible upper.
Do the Hoka Clifton shoes work for people with flat feet?
Yes, both the Clifton 8 and Clifton 9 provide good arch support, making them suitable for runners with flat feet.
Can I use the Clifton 8 or 9 for daily running?
Both models are great for daily running, offering comfort, durability, and support for various running distances.
