Hoka Clifton 8 vs 9: What Are the Key Differences?

The Hoka Clifton line has been a famous option among runners for its extra padding and comfort. With the launch of the Hoka Clifton 9, many athletes are curious how it contrasts with its predecessor, the Hoka Clifton 8.

One of the key dissimilarities between the two designs is the re-manufactured midsole geometry of the Clifton 9. It pairs a greater stack height with sturdy foam for a balance of steadiness and softness. Furthermore, the Clifton 9 provides the latest midsole foam that is more delicate than the previous editions, creating the shoe feathery overall.

On the other hand, the Clifton 8 may be a finer option for those who prioritize a softer, more padded ride, and the Clifton 9 may be a superior choice for those who require more firmness and support. Eventually, both shoes provide additional ease and cushioning, making them excellent regular trainers’ choices.

Hoka Clifton 8 Vs 9

Feature Table: Hoka Clifton 9 Vs Clifton 8

FeatureHoka Clifton 9Hoka Clifton 8
Midsole GeometryRe-designed for stability and softnessMaximum cushioning and support
Stack Height3mm higher than Clifton 8Standard stack height
WeightLighter than Clifton 8Moderately heavier than Clifton 9
Heel-to-Toe Drop5mm5mm
Upper MaterialImproved breathable engineered meshPerforated constructed mesh
Fit and ComfortMore accommodating toe boxComfortable fit, true to size
PerformanceDaily trainer with cushioned, bouncy rideExcellent cushioning and support
Suitable ForRunners seeking additional cushioningMaximum cushioning and support
PriceTypically higher cost than Clifton 8More budget-friendly option
Overall VerdictAn upgrade with enhanced comfort and stabilityReliable cushioning and support

Overview of Hoka Clifton 8

hoka clifton 8

Design and Construction

The Hoka Clifton 8 running shoe contains a delicate and porous upper made from constructed netting with a fortified eye stay for durability. It offers a whole-compression EVA midsole that gives remarkable cushioning and steadiness; on the other side, the early-stage Meta-Rocker technique verifies a smooth ride.

The outsole is designed from hard-wearing rubber and has a strategic high-erosion zone offering intensified durability and grip.

Performance

The Hoka Clifton 8 is a moderate running shoe engineered for runners who desire a snug and padded ride. It is adaptable for long-distance running, regular training, and recovery runs.

The shoe is not as reactive as several other shoes in the Hoka lineup, but it gives outstanding cushioning and aid for athletes who need it.

Comfort and Fit

The Hoka Clifton 8 contains a cozy, snug fit true to size. The upper is absorbent and flexible, allowing innate foot movement. The shoe comprises an average arch support, ideal for athletes with a neutral foot kind. The shoe is delicate and does not feel massive, making it an excellent choice for runners needing a snug and padded shoe without extraordinary weight.

The Hoka Clifton 8 is a dependable, snug running shoe with remarkable padding and support for elongated-distance running and routine training. Its feathery and absorbent pattern creates it an excellent choice for runners who need a comfortable and padded ride without additional weight. However, there may be better choices for runners who require a more reactive shoe.

Overview of Hoka Clifton 9

hoka clifton 9

The Hoka Clifton 9 is a running shoe that has attained a lot of focus in the running community. It is the newest iteration of the famous Clifton series from Hoka One One, a brand popular for its maximalist shoes. The Clifton 9 contains some significant dissimilarities from its predecessor, the Clifton 8, and it is efficient to comprehend these changes before hitting the jackpot decision.

Design and Construction

The Hoka Clifton 9 offers a re-constructed midsole geometry, which pairs a greater stack height with rugged foam to stabilize firmness and softness.

The shoe also contains the latest midsole foam that is more delicate than the previous editions, so even though it contains three more millimeters of stack height, the shoe is typically lighter, coming in approximately 9 oz. The outsole of the Clifton 9 is designed of hard-wearing rubber and has a reformed tread design for enhanced grip.

Performance

The Clifton 9 is structured to be a daily trainer, particularly for those seeking extraordinary padding and comfort. The shoe provides a moderately bouncy ride, primed for comfy and marathon base-building extended runs.

It is also a fantastic shoe for road athletes, walkers, or those searching for snug shoes for regular activities. The Clifton 9 is a moderate shoe, meaning it is structured for athletes who do not overpronate or under pronate.

Comfort and Fit

The upper of the Clifton 9 has been upgraded with the latest structured mesh that gives a more safe fit and enhanced permeability. The shoe also contains a cushioned tongue and collar for additional comfort. The Clifton 9 contains a graded width and length, but it is necessary to mention that some athletes have mentioned that the shoe runs moderately narrow in the midfoot. It is testing the shoe before buying is suggested to verify an appropriate fit.

Overall, the Hoka Clifton 9 is a dependable and snug running shoe with extra padding and a moderately springier ride contrasted to its predecessor, the Clifton 8. The shoe contains significant improvements in pattern, formation, and upper for enhanced ease and fit.

Critical Differences Between Hoka Clifton 8 and 9

clifton 8 Vs 9

Concerning running shoes, every little description counts. The Hoka Clifton array has been a famous option among athletes for years, and the newest editions, Clifton 8 and Clifton 9 have been discussed. The following are several significant dissimilarities between Hoka Clifton 8 and 9.

Design Variations

The design is one of the most remarkable dissimilarities between Clifton 8 and Clifton 9. The Clifton 9 contains a more sleek look, and the upper is designed of the latest engineered netting material that gives better permeability. The Clifton 8, on the other side, has a more customary design.

Another pattern difference is the cushioned and toe protector on the Clifton Edge. This attribute is not present in Clifton 8 and 9. The Clifton Edge contains a more hostile pattern to help athletes handle the terrain.

Performance Differences

The Clifton 9 has a re-manufactured midsole geometry, which pairs a greater stack height with sturdy foam to stabilize firmness and softness. This attribute is not present in the Clifton 8. The Clifton 8 contains a mushier midsole, which several athletes may prioritize for a more padded feel.

The Clifton Edge contains a versatile heel geometry that gives an even transition from heel to toe. This characteristic is not present in Clifton 8 and 9.

Comfort and Fit Differences

The Clifton 9 has a moderately broader toe box than the Clifton 8, which can offer more comfort for athletes with extensive feet. The Clifton 9 also has a more cushioned tongue for additional comfort.

Both the Clifton 8 and 9 contain a similar fit, but several runners have mentioned that the Clifton 9 feels moderately comfier in the midfoot area.

In summary, the Hoka Clifton 8 and 9 differ remarkably in pattern, performance, and ease. Runners should contemplate these dissimilarities when selecting between the two designs.

Pros and Cons of Hoka Clifton 8

Pros and Cons of clifton 8

The Hoka Clifton 8 is a moderate running shoe with excellent padding and comfort. The following are some advantages and disadvantages of this shoe:

Pros

  • Comfortable upper with secure lockdown: The upper part of the Hoka Clifton 8 is designed of a permeable netting material that gives a snug and safe fit. The shoe also offers a cushioned tongue and collar that maintain to avert irritation and chafing.
  • More versatile than the previous version: The Hoka Clifton 8 contains a more iconic pattern than its predecessor, making it adaptable for more activities. It can be utilized for running, walking, or even as a regular shoe.
  • High cushioning: The shoe offers a massive membrane of EVA foam in the midsole that gives a high standard of cushioning and impact absorption. This makes it perfect for runners requiring additional aid and protection throughout their workouts.
  • More snappy forefoot: The Hoka Clifton 8 contains a more reactive forefoot than the previous edition, which aids in upgrading the whole performance of the shoe.

Cons

  • Slight increase in weight over the previous version: The Hoka Clifton 8 is moderately more massive than its predecessor, which may be an issue for several runners searching for a feathery shoe.
  • Only a little energy returns from the midsole foam: While the shoe gives a significant level of padding, it only provides a little energy backup from the midsole foam. This shows that athletes may not feel as much bounce or reactiveness as they would with other shoes.
  • EVA midsole feels dated: The utilization of EVA foam in the midsole of the Hoka Clifton 8 may feel old-fashioned to several runners who prioritize the latest, more advanced materials.

The Hoka Clifton 8 is a snug, iconic running shoe with more significant padding and support. While it may not be the most upgraded shoe in the industry, it is a firm option for athletes who prefer ease and durability.

Pros and Cons of Hoka Clifton 9

The Hoka Clifton 9 is a moderate running shoe with extra padding and comfort. The following are several pros and cons of the shoe:

Pros

  • Lightweight: The latest midsole foam utilized in the Clifton 9 is feathery than the previous editions, creating the shoe delicate overall, despite containing a 3mm greater stack height.
  • More cushioning: The Clifton 9 contains more padding than its predecessor, creating it an outstanding option for runners seeking a mushier ride.
  • Softer ride: The shoe contains a moderately bouncier ride that is perfect for snug and marathon base-building extended runs.
  • Reliable: The Clifton series has been a famous option for athletes for years, and the Clifton 9 continues to provide a similar dependable performance as its predecessors.
  • Breathable: The upper part of the Clifton 9 is a porous material that aids in maintaining the feet excellent, fresh, and dry during elongated runs.

Cons

  • Narrow fit: The Clifton 9 contains a more accommodating toe box than previous editions, but the ordinary width is still too tight for several runners.
  • Price increase: The Clifton 9 is more costly than its predecessor, which may be a flick-off for several runners.
  • Limited energy return: While the Clifton 9 provides a mushier ride, it may give less energy backup than other running shoes in the industry.
  • Durability concerns: Some athletes have mentioned that the outsole of the Clifton 9 deteriorates swiftly, which may be an issue for those who put a lot of miles on their running boots.

The Hoka Clifton 9 is an outstanding option for runners seeking a dependable, padded running shoes. While there may be better options for runners with broader feet or those who prefer energy backup, a feathery pattern, and mushy ride make it a popular option among many athletes.

Which is better, Hoka Clifton 8 or 9?

Several significant differences exist regarding selecting between the Hoka Clifton 8 and 9. Both shoes are famous among athletes and provide a snug ride with remarkable cushioning. However, several changes in the Clifton 9 may create it a finer choice for several runners.

One of the most efficient dissimilarities between the two shoes is the midsole. The Clifton 9 offers a re-manufactured midsole geometry, which pairs a greater stack height with sturdy foam. This amalgamation stabilizes firmness and softness, making it an ideal option for runners who require additional support. Conversely, the Clifton 8 has a smaller stack height and mushier foam, which may be ideal for runners who prefer an opulent ride.

Another dissimilarity between the two shoes is the weight. Despite containing a greater stack height, the Clifton 9 is feathery than the Clifton 8, thanks to the utilization of delicate midsole foam. This may be a determining factor for athletes who prioritize feathery shoes.

The price is also a factor to examine. The Clifton 9 is typically more costly than the Clifton 8, which may be a problem for athletes on a budget. However, the additional attributes and improvements in the Clifton 9 may be worth the additional price for some runners.

Both shoes provide remarkable padding and comfort. However, the Clifton 9’s re-manufactured midsole geometry and delicate weight may make it a finer option for runners who require extra aid and prioritize a lightweight shoe.

Are there any significant updates in Hoka Clifton 9 compared to 8?

The Hoka Clifton 9 contains some remarkable updates contrasted to its predecessor, the Hoka Clifton 8. The following are several critical updates:

  • Midsole foam: The Hoka Clifton 9 offers a re-constructed midsole geometry, which pairs a greater stack height with sturdy foam to stabilize firmness and mushiness. The latest midsole foam is more delicate than the previous edition, creating the shoe feathery overall, despite containing three more millimeters of stack height.
  • Toe box: The toe box has notably broadened over the last three editions. The Clifton 6 was considered tight, the 7 was about average, and the 8 was extensive. It endures to be seen what guidance the Clifton 9 takes in the case of the toe box.
  • Weight: With the latest iteration, Hoka has minimized Clifton’s weight by 15%, thanks to the lighter midsole foam. Despite the lessening in weight, there is no remarkable reduction in padding.
  • Breathability: The Hoka Clifton 9 provides the latest manufactured netting upper, which gives better permeability and a more safe fit than the Clifton 8.
  • Outsole: The outsole of the Clifton 9 has been updated with an up-to-the-minute rubber compound, which offers finer longevity and traction contrasted to the Clifton 8.

Overall, the Hoka Clifton 9 is a remarkable option for a daily trainer, particularly for those seeking exceptional padding and comfort. The noteworthy updates in the midsole foam, weight, permeability, and outsole create it a remarkable successor to the Clifton 8.

Do the Hoka Clifton 8 and 9 have the exact fit?

Do clifton 8 and 9 have the same fit

Concerning the fit of the Hoka Clifton 8 and 9, there are several similarities and differences to examine. Both shoes contain a standard fit, which shows they are structured to fit true to size for most individuals. However, several dissimilarities in the toe box and upper may influence the fit for some people.

The Hoka Clifton 9 has a moderately broader toe box contrasted to the Clifton 8, which can offer more space for the toes to splay. This can be advantageous for those with extensive feet or those who prioritize a more roomy fit. Conversely, some people may discover that the Clifton 9’s broader toe box leads their foot to slide inside the shoe, which can be intolerable.

In the case of the upper, the Clifton 9 provides the latest manufactured netting upper structured to offer a more safe and snug fit. The mesh is mushier and more absorbent than the Clifton 8’s upper, which can be advantageous for those who prefer breathability in their shoes. However, the Clifton 9’s upper may be easier-wearing than the Clifton 8’s upper, designed with a more robust element.

While the Hoka Clifton 8 and 9 have several dissimilarities, they both contain a graded fit that should work for several people. However, people with broader feet or those who prefer permeability may prioritize the Clifton 9, while those who go for durability may prioritize the Clifton 8.

Should I upgrade from Hoka Clifton 8 to 9?

The Hoka Clifton 8 was a famous running shoe, and many athletes are wondering if they should upgrade to the Hoka Clifton 9. The following are several factors to contemplate before creating a decision.

Key Differences

The Hoka Clifton 9 has a re-manufactured midsole geometry, which pairs a greater stack height with sturdy foam to stabilize steadiness and softness.

As a result, the Hoka Clifton 9 has a moderately distinct feel than the Clifton 8. Furthermore, the upper of the Clifton 9 has been updated with the latest permeable mesh material, giving a more snug fit.

Pros of Upgrading

The enhanced midsole is one of the chief advantages of upgrading to the Hoka Clifton 9. The latest foam technology gives a more stable ride while adjusting the padding Hoka is famous for.

Furthermore, the updated upper element offers a more snug fit, which can be advantageous for longer runs.

Cons of Upgrading

The key downside of upgrading to the Hoka Clifton 9 is the price. The Clifton 9 costs more than the Clifton 8, which may be a hurdle for some runners. Furthermore, several athletes may prioritize the feel of the Clifton 8 and may prefer to keep the updated design.

Verdict

If a runner is searching for a more steady ride and a more snug upper, the Clifton 9 may be worth the investment. However, an upgrade is optional if an athlete is satisfied with the Clifton 8 and wants to refrain from investing the additional money.

The following is a short comparison table to aid in summarizing the dissimilarities between the two shoes:

FeatureHoka Clifton 9Hoka Clifton 8
WeightLighterModerately heavier
Midsole GeometryRe-manufactured for stabilization of firmness and softnessMaximum padding and great support
Stack Height33mm to 27mm for Men’s(3mm stack height added on midfoot sole compared to Clifton 8)
29mm to 24mm for Women’s
29mm(Heel)
Heel-to-Toe Drop5mm5 millimeters
Adaptable ForRegular trainer, exceptional padding, and comfortExtra cushioning and fantastic support

Conclusion

The Hoka Clifton 9 is an upgrade from the Clifton 8, with a re-structured midsole geometry that stabilizes firmness and softness. The shoe is more feathery than its predecessor, despite containing 3 more millimeters of stack height. The Clifton 9 is an outstanding option for a regular trainer, particularly for those seeking extraordinary padding and comfort.

Conversely, the Clifton 8 is dependable, with maximum padding and excellent aid. It is broader and more firm than the Clifton 9 but moderately massive. With only a 5-millimeter heel-to-toe drop, the shoe is still delicate and quick, even with the sturdy foam and significant cushioning.

The Clifton 9 is a fantastic option for those seeking a feathery shoe with additional cushioning and ease. At the same time, the Clifton 8 is a dependable shoe that gives maximum padding and great support.

The Clifton 8 and Clifton 9 are amazing shoes with remarkable cushioning and aid. The Clifton 9 is an improvement from the Clifton 8, but the dissimilarities between the two shoes need to be more efficient to create one shoe an obvious winner over the other.

Read more on: