Hoka Bondi vs. Hoka Clifton: Which Shoe Should You Buy?

Are you a runner looking to buy running shoes from Hoka but need to know if Bondi or Clifton will fulfill your needs? These shoes are known for their comfort and durability. But what sets them apart?

According to RunRepeat, a famous running shoes and athletic blog published that people who wear Bondi and Clifton love their footwear, with an average rating of 8.4 and 8.3 out of 10 for Bondi and Clifton, respectively.

The study further reviewed 1947 people from different locations, where 82.7% were positive, and the rest were negative.

To differentiate between these shoes, I will give you my opinion on whether Bondi or Clifton is the best option for you. So hold your horses, and let’s dive into the article.

Hoka Bondi vs Clifton

hoka bondi in yellow and grey color

Hoka Clifton in Blue color

Hoka One One’s Hoka Bondi and Hoka Clifton have favored running shoes but possess notable variations.

The Bondi is a stability shoe with a wider base and more substantial support, while the Clifton is a neutral shoe with a lightweight, minimal design.

The Bondi features a plush and cushioned midsole that provides additional support and shock absorption for those who need it. At the same time, the Clifton has a more lively and lighter feel, ideal for runners who value speed and agility.

Also, the Bondi has a more durable outsole and a more structured upper, while the Clifton has a simplified upper and a softer outsole.

Cushioning of Bondi and Clifton

Regarding cushioning, both the Hoka Bondi and Hoka Clifton offer plush and comfortable rides.

However, they use different materials to achieve this level of comfort.

The Bondi has a thick layer of Hoka’s signature foam, which provides a plush feel underfoot and helps to absorb impact during runs. This foam material is durable and long-lasting so the cushioning will hold up over time.

In contrast,

The Clifton has a lightermore responsive foam material that delivers a fast and energetic feel. This foam is less dense than the Bondi’s, making the Clifton a great choice for runners looking for a nimbler and more flexible ride.

Workers, especially nurses, can wear both shoes; check here for the nurse’s Hoka shoes.

Weight

The weight of Hoka One One Bondi shoes is around 10.7 oz (303 g) for a US men’s size 9 and 8.3 oz (236 g) for a US women’s size 7.

The Hoka One One Clifton shoes weigh approximately 8.1 ounces (229 grams) for a US men’s size 9 and 6.7 ounces (190 grams) for a US women’s size 7.

It’s important to note that weight can vary slightly based on the size and specific model of the shoe.

Bonus Tip: Properly size your Hoka Bondi or Clifton shoes for a comfortable and secure fit. Try them in-store or order multiple sizes to find the perfect fit for your feet.

Heel Drop of Hoka Clifton and Hoka Bondi

The heel drops of the Hoka Bondi and Hoka Clifton shoes are different.

The Hoka Clifton has a heel drop of 5mm, considered a neutral heel drop and suitable for most types of running.

The Hoka Bondi has a heel drop of 4mm, is considered a low heel drop, and is favored by runners who prefer a more minimalist shoe.

The heel drop is the difference in height between the heel and the forefoot of a shoe. The heel drop measurement can range from 0mm (zero drops) to over 12mm for some shoes.

A higher heel drop can provide more cushioning and stability, ideal for those needing extra heel support. Alternatively, a lower heel drop provides a more natural feel and can promote a midfoot or forefoot strike, which can be favored by those who prefer a more minimalist shoe.

The durability of Hoka Bondi and Clifton

The durability of Hoka Bondi and Hoka Clifton shoes varies depending on factors such as

  • The Frequency.
  •  The intensity of use.
  •  The type of terrain.
  •  The wearer’s weight.

However, Hoka shoes are generally renowned for their robustness and superior build. Many customers have attested to the longevity of Hoka shoes, stating that they can withstand hundreds of miles of use before exhibiting signs of wear. However, there are also some cons to Hoka shoes.

For optimal performance and injury prevention, Podiatrists should swap out your running shoes every 6-8 months or after covering 300-500 miles, whichever occurs first.

You may like,

Why Podiatrists Recommend Hoka Shoes

Do Hoka Shoes Run Big

How to Clean Hoka Shoes

Pros and Cons of Hoka Shoes

The 5 Best Hoka Shoes for Nursing

Best Hoka One One Running Shoes

Comparison chart of Hoka Bondi vs Hoka Clifton
Infographic

Side-by-Side Comparison

Hoka Clifton Hoka Bondi
Pain PointsThe Clifton series is best for daily training and exercise, I don’t recommend using this shoe for racing or tempo runs.Bondi is made for a soft feel, increases height, and provides better traction for heel strikers.
Pros1. This shoe provides a level of comfort that is truly unique and satisfying.
2. It makes riding smooth and easy, like gliding.
3. The upper material promotes airflow, resulting in cool and relaxed feet.
The Clifton series is best for daily training and exercise; I don’t recommend using this shoe for racing or tempo runs.
ConsDespite rapid signs of wear and tear, the fit was overly narrow or tight, making them uncomfortable.An excessively wide and flat design.

Features

DetailsHoka Clifton Hoka Bondi
TerrainRoadRoad
Pronation TypeNeutralNeutral
Heel Drop5mm4mm
Volume655.00 cm3842.00 cm3
Weight8.90 oz10.80 oz

Cushioning

DetailsHoka Clifton Hoka Bondi
Softness (1-5)3 – Soft4 – Very Soft
Bounce (1-5)4 – Good Bounce3 – Moderate

Which one is best, Hoka Bondi or Hoka Clifton

Finally, we know these shoes are best in their circle.

Hoka Bondi is best for:

  • Those who need extra support for their feet
  •  People who are into the cushioned ride

Hoka Clifton is best for:

  • Runners who need lightweight and balanced shoes.
  •  Both responsiveness and comfy feeling.

Both Bondi and Clifton are easy to clean. Before selecting your shoes, consider whether they tend to run larger or smaller in size. Let us know in the comments section which one you bought and what changes you get after using these shoes.

Related Posts:

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top