Hoka Bondi Vs Clifton – The Battle For Better Running Shoe
Introduction
When it comes to comfort running shoes for triathlon athletes, the two best brand products are Hoka Clifton and Bondi. These two are in the top list among the other best running shoes in the market. These are unique shoes that provide a higher level of comfort and look amazing too. Here is a detailed comparison between Hoka Boka vs Clifton which will help you make a choice while buying them.Comparison Of Hoka Clifton Vs Bondi
Hoka Bondi
This model of Hoka is considered to be an absolute gem for runners, especially those prone to injuries. The shoes are extremely light like other Hoka brand shoes and provide a thicker cushioned sole that absorbs the impact during running. They provide better support and protection and are best suitable for trail and road runners.
Hoka Clifton
The Hoka Clifton comes in different colors and is popular for its solid build. The sole is comparatively thick that provides reliable shock absorption capacity while running.
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Features:
Sole Unit
Hoka Clifton
- The midsole of the shoe is made up of slightly softer full compression EVA foam in the upgraded version.
- The shoe maintains the rockered geometry for promoting efficiency in transition from foot strike to toe-off.
- It has hi-abrasion lightweight rubber that is placed outsole for points to contact.
- It maintains a soft and smooth ride providing no road feel when running.
- Additionally the foam gives adequate bounce so it is easier to run in quicksand as well.
- In terms of durability, the outsole holds up well and has a little less rubber but has no abnormal signs of wear or tear.
Hoka Bondi
- The outsole is rearranged with more high abrasion rubber that is replaced along the entire length of the lateral side of the shoe unlike Clifton which has it at the midsole.
- The EVA foam has been modified in the latest version of the Bondi 6.
- The cushion is softer but don’t expect a different ride and feel as it gives a light feel on roads but not similar to the one provided by Clifton.
- The rockered geometry works well here giving a pillowy feel that provides a soft and less bouncy cushioning effect.
- The added feature is that the shoe is very stable due to its wide base and thus positions your feet in the cushioning.
- The durability of both midsole and outsole is high.
Upper Unit
Hoka Bondi
- The redesign of the shoe brings has added many new features.
- It has come up with all-new engineered mesh material that is designed for breathability and durability.
- The other feature is the heel area which has been constructed of lycra.
- The mesh is soft and has placed cutouts strategically to enhance the breathability.
Hoka Clifton
- The outsole is rearranged with more high abrasion rubber that is replaced along the entire length of the lateral side of the shoe unlike Clifton which has it at the midsole.
- The EVA foam has been modified in the latest version of the Bondi 6.
- The cushion is softer but don’t expect a different ride and feel as it gives a light feel on roads but not similar to the one provided by Clifton.
- The rockered geometry works well here giving a pillowy feel that provides a soft and less bouncy cushioning effect.
- The added feature is that the shoe is very stable due to its wide base and thus positions your feet in the cushioning.
- The durability of both midsole and outsole is high.
Upper Unit
Hoka Bondi
- The mesh quality is low in its previous version and it has a thinner and silkier feel for allowing the user to breathe very well while running.
- The new upgraded version feels slightly less breathable and is more absorbent.
- In addition to all the above features, the redesigned heel area of the upper with the use of Lycra makes it top notch.
- The shoes fit with enhanced comfort in the heel part and loosely grips the midfoot and slightly in the toe box area to provide a wide space.
Hoka Clifton
- While the engineered mesh is soft, durable and lets your feet breathe better than that of Bondi.
- Clifton uses a better mesh material and the company has been concentrating on improving the quality of the mesh for many years which they have achieved this year.
- The embroidery technology has reinforced the medial and lateral sides of the upper.
- The stitching removes the need for overlays.
- In Clifton, they have expanded the toe box and provided a space around the toe area like Bondi.
- The mesh is soft and breathable.
- It has a fit and feel compared to that of Bondi.
- Overall the upper portion of the Clifton is very comfortable for triathlon races.
Price
Hoka Bondi and Hoka Clifton are similarly priced.
Conclusion
We hope this detailed Hoka Bondi vs Clifton comparison has helped you make up your mind about which one to buy.
Despite conflictions in opinion about the upper part of the shoe in Bondi, as a whole it provides great comfort. Bondi is preferred by many as it is breathable and made of a less absorbent mesh material. It is a good choice for daily usage for low-intensity training, long slow distance runners and also for recovery runs.
Coming to Clifton, the shoe provides a silky smooth ride with a nice soft cushion and provides an impressive feel in the updated version, in the upper part of the shoe. It has a larger toe box area which gives a comfortable feel for triathlon runners. This is considered to be the best for daily trainers and an excellent option for one looking for a lightweight and expected high cushioned option.
Topics Covered
The women’s s Bondi DOES not have enough choose in colors for wide feet and I am extremely DISAPPOINTED 😔. I am thinking about getting the cotton because of the Outer space shoe 👟 that comes in navy, purple and aqua and is attractive. My only choice in bondi is the eggshell torquise as you are not providing options. I am ready to look for a new bondi six because I do not like black or real logout colors!!!