Hoka Bondi 8 vs Clifton 8 : A Comprehensive Comparison

Hoka One One has become dominant and renowned in the shoe industry regarding running shoes. Runners have admired the additional ease and support of Hoka shoes; hence, they have become a famous choice among runners. The most praised and fan-favorite models of the Hoka shoes are the Bondi 8 and the Clifton 8. 

Snug fit and opulent padding are the main features that make the Hoka Bondi 8 shoes famous in the shoe market. Runners who require additional padding and support throughout the long distances can opt for this model at first glance. Conversely, runners who need to travel long runs or carry out acute workouts can choose Clifton 8 shoes because of their iconic and feathery shoes. 

Versatile attributes are available in both models of Hoka shoes, but the query remains: which one is better? The more profound study of both models will help the runners select the perfect and ideal option. To comprehend the explicit knowledge about the features of both Hoka models, the dissimilarities in performance, fit, and padding are investigated in this article. 

Comparison Table For Hoka Bondi 8 Vs Hoka Clifton 8

FeatureHoka Bondi 8Hoka Clifton 8
Midsole TechnologyFull-length EVA midsole for plush cushioningFull-length EVA midsole for responsive ride
High-stack midsole for exceptional paddingLower stack height for a lighter, more agile feel
Outsole DesignAggressive lug pattern for durability and tractionStrategic groove pattern for flexibility and grip
Durable rubber for longevityUpgraded rubber compound for improved durability
Upper ConstructionEngineered mesh upper for breathability and supportPorous mesh upper for airflow and comfort
Stretchable and flexible upper materialTPU overlays for structure and support
WeightHeavier due to high-stack midsoleLighter weight for a more agile feel
FitSnug fit with ample toe spaceComfortable fit with traditional lace-up closure
Suitable for neutral foot strikesSuitable for medium to high arches
Padding & CushioningExceptionally padded for long-distance runsModerate cushioning with a more responsive feel

Overview of Hoka Bondi 8

Runners needing extraordinary ease and cushioning should go for the Hoka Bondi 8 model, considered a neutral shoe. The Runners can enjoy wearing Bondi 8 shoes for longer distances as these shoes are amazingly padded and offer ease to your feet. Advancements have been made in the previous version of Bondi 7 of the Hoka Bondi series. As a result, Bondi 8 shoes have been introduced in the industry, and runners are admiring this model. 

Design

Runners can enjoy adequate padding and support because of the presence of a whole-length EVA midsole in the Bondi 8 shoes, considered one of the versatile attributes. To travel long distances comfortably, the midsole of the boots is structured in a particular way to keep them feathery and delicate. The runners can have an even transition throughout the toe box from the midfoot, and this is due to the rocker pattern inside the shoes; this design allows the users to enjoy a sturdy and smooth ride. 

The feet remain dry and cool because of the porous netting material used in forming Bondi 8 shoes, which offers proper airflow. An appropriate natural toe splay is available in these shoes, as Bondi 8 contains a broader toe box. The runners do not feel any irritation as the upper part of the shoes is stretchable and made up of engineered netting. 

Performance

Runners can enjoy long distances because of the significantly padded Bondi 8 shoes. Runners who require extraordinary support and padding can go for these Bondi 8 shoes, as they offer a snug and mushy ride. Users can use these shoes for extended hours because the Bondi 8 is considered to be amazingly hard-wearing. 

Individuals with neutral foot strikes will feel the Bondi 8 model and the right shoes are perfect. The runners can enjoy sturdy and even ride because of the rocker design in forming the Bondi 8 shoes, which allows smooth movement of feet inside the shoes. Furthermore, individuals with broader feet can enjoy a wider toe box as it offers a natural toe splay. 

Overall, runners searching for extraordinary ease and padding consider the Hoka Bondi 8 shoes a remarkable option. To travel long distances, runners can have a snug and mushy ride because of the Bondi 8 shoes, which are exceptionally long-lasting and durable.

Overview of Hoka Clifton 8

The Clifton 8 shoes are structured to offer a feathery feel to the feet, and the runners can enjoy a snug ride throughout the long hours. Versatile attributes such as reactive and padding rides make these shoes stand out in the shoe market as they are the latest edition of Hoka shoes. 

The runners can enjoy remarkable support and cushioning because of the presence of a full-length EVA midsole in the formation of the shoes. Runners can travel long distances because of the right design of the midsole, which is reactive and mushy. Meta-Rocker patterns forming Clifton 8 shoes allow users to have a natural and even stride cycle. 

Porous mesh material is used to manufacture the upper part of the Clifton 8 shoes, and because of this material, the feet remain cool and dry throughout the long runs. Runners can enjoy extraordinary support and ease because of a cushioned collar and tongue. The runners can get a personalized and safe fit because of the traditional lace-up closure inside the shoes. 

The upgraded outsole is considered one of the exceptional features of Clifton 8 shoes. The runners can avail finer longevity and grip because of the latest rubber compound used in the structure of these shoes. The stretchability of the outsole intensifies because it is designed with a strategic groove pattern, and the right transition is there from toe to heel properly. 

Overall, runners in dire need of remarkable support and padding should go for Hoka Clifton 8 shoes, which are amazingly feathery and snug. Runners with medium to high arches can opt for Clifton 8 shoes as the users can travel long distances easily. 

Design and Aesthetics

Upper Construction

The upper parts of Hoka Bondi 8 and Clifton 8 are designed in different ways to support runners with various inclinations. There is proper airflow as the upper part of the Bondi shoes is structured of an engineered netting material. 

The users can have a comfortable fit because of the amazing flexibility of the mesh used to manufacture the upper part. Conversely, more permeability and longevity are present in the traditional engineered netting upper of Clifton 8 compared to Bondi 8 shoes. There are TPU overlays in the upper part of the Clifton 8 shoes to have extraordinary structure and support. 

Colorways and Style

Several color shades have been launched in the Bondi 8 and Clifton 8 models to cater to the various tastes of different users. A dim color palette is available in the case of the Bondi 8 model; mainly grey, black, and white are the main colors present in Bondi 8 models. 

Moreover, different sparkling colors, such as red and blue, are also present in this model. On the other side, dazzling and bold color choices such as green and pink are accessible in the case of the Clifton 8 model, and it is considered a broader range of colors. 

The Bondi 8 model of Hoka offers an iconic and understated appearance; on the other hand, the users can get a slender and voguish look in the case of Clifton 8 shoes. Only some users can wear Bondi 8 shoes as a massive midsole and bulky silhouette are available, and this kind of midsole is only suitable for some. Runners who require a modest look should wear Clifton 8 shoes with a smooth pattern and a slender profile. 

People with different inclinations can opt for Bondi 8 or Clifton 8 shoes, as everyone requires particular attributes and versatile patterns. Runner can choose one specific model by following his unique attributes and personal taste. 

Technical Specifications

Midsole Technology

Runners can achieve finer support and padding in the case of both models because of the presence of Hoka’s signature midsole technology in both versions. Users searching for extraordinary support and ease can select the Bondi 8 model, which offers a greater stack height than the Clifton 8 model. On the other hand, Clifton 8 shoes are more reactive and feathery than the different models because of the lower stack height in Clifton 8. 

The runners can enjoy a snug and mushy ride by wearing both models of Hoka because of the presence of EVA foam in the midsole. Extraordinary support and padding are available in the case of Bondi 8 shoes, as they contain a full-length EVA midsole. A sturdy forefoot and mushier heel are available in the case of Clifton 8 shoes, as they comprise a distinct midsole pattern. Because of their different designs, runners can enjoy a reactive and even ride while wearing Clifton 8 shoes. 

Outsole Design

A shoe’s stability, grip, and durability are affected by its outsole, which is considered the main factor. The runners can travel on various terrains by wearing both models, as their outsoles are made of hard-wearing rubber. 

Runners can use Bondi 8 shoes on every kind of surface, including rough and bumpy terrains, because of the more aggressive lug design present in the Bondi 8 shoes. Users can use Clifton 8 shoes on smooth and even surfaces more frequently, as its outsole has a flat and slick design.

Weight and Cushioning

The performance and overall ease of the shoes are influenced by the cushioning and weight of the boots, and users consider this to be a chief factor. Runners requiring extraordinary support and padding can opt for Bondi 8 shoes as they are massive in weight compared to the Clifton 8 shoes. 

Runners can avail more support and padding in the case of Bondi 8 shoes as it comprises a higher stack height than the Clifton 8. Runners searching for feathery weight plus finer padding in shoes can choose the Clifton 8 shoes at first, as they are lighter than the Bondi 8 shoes. Runners will depend on their personal inclinations and particular requirements to select one model between the two, as both can offer remarkable support and padding. 

Performance

Running Efficiency

Runners who prefer their comfort over every other factor throughout the running can go for both models of Hoka. For extended hours, the runners can feel more padding in the Bondi 8 shoes, as its midsole is massive compared to the Clifton 8 shoes. 

Users who need shoes for shorter periods or acute training sessions can select the Clifton 8 model, as it is feathery and delicate and is considered a finer option among other available choices. 

Stability and Support

The Hoka Bondi 8 offers a stabilized fit and broader base, so users can enjoy a sturdy ride while running. Runners with heavy feet require additional support to travel on various terrains, and runners consider Bondi 8 a perfect option. 

Users with medium to low-volume feet can opt for the Clifton 8 shoes because of the adequate support they offer, and its midsole is considered to be stretchable, which makes running or walking very easy. 

Durability

Hoka Bondi 8 and Hoka Clifton 8 are structured in a way that lasts longer as they are manufactured using top-quality materials. Runners require shoes that can resist wear and tear, and such an attribute is present in the Bondi 8 shoes as they contain a broader base and their midsole is massive, making these shoes hard-wearing and durable with time. 

In summary, runners prioritizing performance and ease over other features can go for any model, such as Bondi 8 or Clifton 8. Runners who require additional support and travel long hours should go for the Bondi 8 model, as it can bear acute training sessions. 

Comfort and Fit

Toe Box Space

A similar toe box pattern is available in both models, Hoka Bondi 8 and Clifton 8. The user can move his toe easily as both shoes offer enough space. However, a moderately broader toe box is present in the Bondi 8 model, and runners with wider feet can consider it a perfect choice among others. Conversely, the more comprehensive feet of runners can not accommodate inside the Clifton 8 shoes as its toe box fits slightly snugly. 

Heel Fit

A safe and secure heel fit is present in both Hoka models. To avert slipping during running, the hell collar embraces the heel perfectly as it is designed in this way. Runners requiring more stability and support can choose Bondi 8 shoes, as the heel collar of this model is moderately massive. Runners searching for feathery and delicate shoes should go for Clifton 8 shoes as they offer an innate and stretchable feel, and the heel collar of this model is narrow.

Breathability

During long-distance runs, the dryness and coolness of the feet stay because of the presence of porous materials in the formation of the Hoka Bondi 8 and Clifton 8. The airflow is perfect because of the upper mesh material, as it helps a lot in averting the formation of moisture and heat inside the shoes. 

Due to the massive upper material, more warmth is produced in the case of Bondi 8 shoes than in the Clifton 8. Overall, runners preferring porous and feathery shoes can opt for the Clifton 8 shoes, although users can find permeability in both models of Hoka shoes. 

In summary, runners can attain a safe and snug fit in the Bondi 8 and Clifton 8 shoes. People with broader feet can opt for Bondi 8 shoes. On the other hand, runners prioritizing porous and delicate shoes can choose Clifton 8 shoes, among other choices. 

Use Cases

It is necessary to contemplate your particular use cases regarding selecting the Hoka Clifton 8 and Bondi 8 shoes. Several customary use cases of these famous running shoes are given below.

Road Running

The Clifton 8 and Bondi 8 shoes are perfect for better road running. The whole running experience and the impact on your joints can be improved and minimized as remarkable support and padding are offered in both models of Hoka shoes. Lavish padding makes Bondi shoes very famous. Stabilized cushioning is available in the case of Clifton 8 shoes.

Long Distance

Runners can find Bondi 8 shoes a finer option if they need to travel long distances. The feet remain snug and easy during long hours because additional padding minimizes fatigue. However, runners needing feathery shoes can go for Clifton 8 shoes, which are an ideal option. 

Daily Training

The Clifton 8 and Bondi 8 shoes are remarkable options for regular training. Throughout the long distances, the runners can stay sung and unharmed because of the presence of support and padding offered by both models. The Clifton 8 shoes are considered a finer option if the runners need to travel on different terrains. Runners can use these shoes for cross-training, simple running, and more, as they contain more stabilised padding. 

Considering your particular use cases, you can opt for a single model with various advantages between Clifton 8 and Bondi 8 shoes. Both models of Hoka are ideal for the users, whether they are learners or skilful and expert runners. 

Price Comparison

Compared to other choices of running shoes, Clifton 8 and Bondi 8 shoes are in the greater range regarding price comparison. However, both Hoka models contain visible differences in the case of price. 

The Hoka Bondi 8 shoes’ retail price is approximately $150, which makes them more expensive than the other Hoka models. On the other hand, the retail price of Hoka Clifton 8 shoes is around $130, which is cheaper than the retail price of Bondi 8 shoes. Location and retailer are the main factors on which the prices of both Hoka models may differ. 

Runners with a tight budget should contemplate the price of both models, although it is optional for others. Before selecting a particular model of the shoes, try to consider the advantages and attributes of every model, as the extraordinary benefits of different models of the boots justify the price difference of the shoes. 

Overall, it is worth buying the Bondi 8 shoes as they offer remarkable support and padding for the runners. Conversely, runners can attain the Clifton 8 shoes at a lesser cost if they need shoes that provide speed and delicacy.

Weight Comparison

Both models of Hoka contain remarkable differences in the matter of weight. Men’s version of Bondi 8 shoes is around 10.9 ounces regarding weight; on the other side, the weight of the women’s version of Bondi 8 is approximately 9.1 ounces. The models of Hoka shoes are heavier in weight than other models available in the market. Considering Clifton 8 shoes, the weight of the women’s version is around 7.7 ounces, and it is approximately 9.4 ounces regarding the weight of the men’s version. 

Men’s version of Bondi 8 shoes weigh around 10.9 ounces, and women’s version weigh approximately 9.1 ounces. On the other side, the women’s version of Clifton 8 shoes weigh about 7.7 ounces and about 9.4 ounces in the case of the men’s version.

Runners searching for lightweight and feathery shoes can consider the Clifton 8 shoes an ideal choice. These shoes help greatly minimize fatigue because of the lower weight of Clifton 8 shoes. However, the Bondi 8 shoes are considered flimsy and delicate compared to the max-cushioned shoe. Furthermore, the additional weight of the boots is due to the exceptional padding and support.

The overall performance of the Bondi 8 shoes can be affected by the stack height and the heel-to-toe drop. Around the heel, the stack height is around 38mm; the stack height around the forefoot is calculated to be 33mm. On the other side, the stack height around the forefoot is approximately 24mm and around the heel, it is around 29mm. A natural running gait can be promoted efficiently because of the low heel-to-toe drop of roughly 4mm in both shoes. 

To select the perfect shoes, consider the weight comparison between the  Hoka Bondi 8 and Clifton 8 shoes, which is an obligatory factor in choosing the perfect shoe. Moreover, runners with a faster pace can opt for Clifton 8 shoes as they are feathery shoes; on the other hand, extraordinary support and padding are the main reasons for the additional weight of the Bondi 8 shoes, and the runners can travel long distances remarkably by wearing these shoes. 

Which is more suitable for long-distance running, the Bondi 8 or the Clifton 8?

Runners recommend both models of Hoka as Bondi 8 and Clifton 8 are considered perfect for longer distances. However, the following are the main differences that set apart both models:

Cushioning

The cushioning level is the main reason for differentiating the Bondi 8 from Clifton 8 shoes. The heavy padding inside the Bondi 8 shoes helps the runners efficiently travel longer hours on foot, offering remarkable support and comfort. On the other hand, the satisfactory cushioning level of Clifton 8 shoes provides a reactive and perfect ride to the users.

Durability

Runners opt for Bondi 8 shoes to travel longer distances as this model contains more hard-wearing and durable outsole. Moreover, runners can avail remarkable grip on various surfaces because durable rubber outsoles are used to form both models of Hoka.

Weight

Bondi 8 offers extraordinary weight because of the massive midsole, and as a result, adequate padding and support are provided by these shoes. Many runners go for the Bondi 8 shoes because of their heaviness compared to the Clifton 8 shoes. To travel long distances, the runners consider the weight of the boots while selecting a particular model. 

In summary, Bondi 8 shoes can offer remarkable padding and durability compared to the other options. On the other hand, Clifton 8 shoes provide sufficient cushioning and are lighter in weight. Runners can select a particular model based on their preferences and inclinations. Runners recommend both models of Hoka as they offer ease and support throughout the longer distances.

Can either the Bondi 8 or Clifton 8 help alleviate plantar fasciitis discomfort?

People suffering from a degenerative condition can go for both models of Hoka as they provide remarkable padding throughout the running. Plantar Fasciitis causes discomfort, which can be diminished by wearing ideal shoes offering adequate support and padding. 

An even heel-to-toe transition is available for both boots as they are manufactured with Meta-Rocker technology. Runners can enjoy reactive and mushy padding in the case of Bondi 8 shoes because of the presence of a whole-length EVA midsole in the formation of these shoes. People suffering from plantar fascia can feel a reduction in stress. Furthermore, the pressure on the foot can be reduced, and the weight can be dispersed smoothly because of the presence of a broad base in the formation of the shoes.

The discomfort from plantar fasciitis can be minimized in the case of Clifton 8 shoes, as they offer reactive and opulent padding inside the midsole. The stress on the foot can be underestimated as it provides an even transition throughout the toe from the heel because of a beveled heel. Similarly, Meta-Rocker technology forms the Clifton 8 shoes and a full-length EVA midsole.

Runners can use orthotics, stretching, and physical therapy to treat plantar fasciitis. Both models of Hoka shoes can not properly cure the plantar fasciitis discomfort but play an important role in minimizing the pain. Furthermore, runners should opt for a particular shoe after attaining a recommendation from a doctor to treat the plantar fasciitis.

The discomfort of plantar fasciitis can be minimized by consulting a doctor or utilizing several treatment choices. In summary, runners suffering from plantar fasciitis can enjoy remarkable support and padding by wearing both models of Hoka: Clifton 8 and Bondi 8 shoes.

Final Verdict

Hoka Bondi 8 and Clifton 8 contain various advantages and drawbacks. The runners require additional padding and support to make the long distances easy and comfortable. If the runners prefer agility and speed, remarkable cushioning is available in the case of Clifton 8 shoes.

The weight of the Bondi 8 shoes is greater than the Clifton 8 shoes and is considered a major drawback for several runners. The Bondi 8 shoes are extraordinarily heavy because of additional padding and support, as runners think weight is a major attribute in differentiating both models of Hoka. 

The main reason for differentiating both models of Hoka is the purpose of the manufacturing. Bondi 8 shoes are efficiently manufactured for runners who must travel on foot. Moreover, runners opt for the Clifton 8 shoes for acute exercise and racing. 

The greater toe box of the Bondi 8 shoes fits well for individuals with wider feet. Runners should choose a perfectly snug shoe that is safe in case of fit. Clifton 8 shoes provide a cozy and secure fit; therefore, runners preferring streamlined shoes can opt for these shoes.

In conclusion, selecting a particular shoe model depends on personal preferences and inclinations. Runners requiring additional padding and support can opt for the Bondi 8 shoes. On the other hand, if speed and agility are the requirements, then the runner should go for the Clifton 8 shoes.