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

Are you a runner and looking to buy running shoes from Hoka but don’t 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 are loving 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. So in order to differentiate between these shoes I will give you my piece of 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

Bondi

Hoka Clifton in Blue color

Hoka Clifton

Hoka One One’s Hoka Bondi and Hoka Clifton have favored running shoes; however, they 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, aimed at providing 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

When it comes to 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, you can expect the cushioning to hold up over time.

In contrast,

The Clifton has a lighter, more responsive foam material that is designed to deliver a fast and energetic feel. This foam is not as dense as the Bondi’s, which makes the Clifton a great choice for runners who are looking for a nimbler and more flexible ride.

Both of these shoes can be worn by workers especially nurses in hospitals, check here what are the Best Hoka shoes that are perfect for nurses.

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: Make sure to properly size your Hoka Bondi or Clifton shoes for a comfortable and secure fit. Consider trying them in-store or ordering 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, which is considered a neutral heel drop and is suitable for most types of running.

The Hoka Bondi has a heel drop of 4mm, which 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 drop) to over 12mm for some shoes.

A higher heel drop can provide more cushioning and stability for the heel, which is ideal for those who need extra support in the heel. 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.

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, in general,

Hoka shoes are 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, it’s advisable to swap out your running shoes every 6-8 months or after covering 300-500 miles, whichever occurs first.

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.
1. Upper material provides sweat free experience so no smelly toes.
2. Material includes high-quality rubber to reduce your weight and give you a lightweight feel.
3. Wearing this feels like you’re running on clouds. 
4. It provides stability and control of the human body during normal walking and running.
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 both of these shoes are best in their own 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. Make sure to choose the shoes that best fit your running needs. Let us know in the comments section which one you bought and what changes you get after using these shoes.

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