Hoka Bondi 9 vs Clifton 9 | Which Is Better In 2025?
After logging over 200 miles between both the Bondi 9 and Clifton 9, I can definitively say these two Hoka shoes serve completely different purposes despite sharing the same brand DNA. The Bondi 9 delivers maximum cushioning for recovery runs and all day wear, while the Clifton 9 excels as a versatile trainer for daily training.
I’ll be comparing these cushioned shoes head-to-head across categories like comfort, weight, fit, stability, durability and breathability. Then I’ll share which running shoes offer the best value and provide my recommendation for which you should choose.
I will also directly compare these shoes to the Hoka Transport, Brooks Ghost Max 3, Altra Experience Flow 2, and Clifton 10.
Also check out our individual reviews of the Clifton 9 and Bondi 9.
Our Verdict
Choose Bondi 9 if you want
✔ Maximum cushioning with 43mm heel stack height
✔ Wider fit that accommodates all foot types comfortably
✔ Pure comfort for long periods of standing or walking
✔ Superior shock absorption for plantar fasciitis relief
✔ Plush supercritical foam for the softest ride possible
The Bondi 9 excels as the most cushioned walking shoes in Hoka’s lineup. The active foot frame and tall stack height make it perfect for recovery days, long walks, and anyone requiring maximum underfoot protection. Healthcare workers and runners dealing with foot pain consistently praise its comfort during extended wear.
Choose Clifton 9 if you want
✔ Responsive cushioning that works at faster paces
✔ Lightweight “feel” for effortless daily miles
✔ Narrow fit with secure heel collar lockdown
✔ Versatile performance from easy runs to tempo runs
✔ Better energy return for more engaging daily training
The Clifton 9 remains one of the best daily trainer options available. Its balanced approach to cushioning and sensitivity makes it suitable for many runners seeking a shoe that performs well across different types of runs without the bulk of maximum cushioning models.
Hoka Bondi 9 vs Clifton 9 Price Comparison
The Clifton 9 currently costs significantly less than the Bondi 9, making it an attractive value proposition for runners.
Hoka Bondi 9 Price: $175
Hoka Clifton 9 Price: $115-130
| Comparision | Product | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
Most Comfortable Walking Shoe  |
| 8.6 | Check LOWEST PriceRead Review |
 |
| 8.3 | Check LOWEST PriceRead Review |
Comfort
Both shoes deliver exceptional cushioning, but the experience feels completely different underfoot during actual testing.
| Feature | Bondi 9 | Clifton 9 |
|---|---|---|
| Heel Stack Height | 43mm | 32mm |
| Forefoot Stack | 38mm | 27mm |
| Heel-to-Toe Drop | 5mm | 5mm |
| Foam Type | Supercritical EVA | Standard EVA |
| Cushioning Feel | Ultra-plush, soft | Responsive, balanced |
During my testing, the Bondi 9’s 11mm additional heel stack creates a noticeably different ride experience. The SuperCritical Foam compresses more dramatically under heel strike, providing what feels like running on marshmallows during easy walks. This makes the Bondi ideal for recovery runs and longer runs when pure comfort takes priority over ground feel.
Hoka really nailed it with the SuperCritical Foam as it is quite stiff on the outside of the outsole. However, the insole provides a nice plush comfort. The impact absorption of the Bondi 9 is exceptional. After 10-mile walks during my testing in the summer my feet still felt fresh.
The Clifton 9’s standard EVA midsole offers a firmer ride that maintains excellent cushioning while providing more energy return. During tempo runs and daily miles, I preferred the Clifton’s more connected feel to the ground. The Meta-Rocker design works more efficiently in the Clifton due to its lower profile.
The Clifton 9 is definitely no slouch when it comes to comfort, but it’s not as plush as the Bondi 9.
Both the Bondi 9 and Clifton 9 models feature identical 5 mm drops, but the transition experience differs significantly.
The Bondi’s maximalist outsole creates a more dramatic heel strike experience. During my testing, heel strike runners appreciated the substantial cushioning, though the higher stack occasionally felt unstable on uneven surfaces. The supercritical foam provides excellent Achilles comfort during longer runs.
The Clifton 9’s lower-profile design creates smoother transitions from heel to toe. The meta-rocker design feels more efficient at the Clifton’s stack height, promoting natural forward roll during daily runs. Midfoot strikers particularly benefit from the Clifton’s more grounded feel.
Both shoes feature similar heel collar padding, though the Bondi’s heel counter feels more substantial due to its maximum cushioning design, similar to the Brooks Ghost Max 3. The lacing systems work effectively on both models without requiring special techniques.
After testing both shoes on various surfaces, the Bondi’s exposed foam areas showed more sensitivity to sharp objects, while the Clifton’s balanced construction proved more durable on mixed terrain.
Bondi 9 Cushioning: 5 out of 5
Clifton 9 Cushioning: 4 out of 5
Winner: Bondi 9
Stability and Support
Despite its maximum cushioning design, the Bondi 9 provides excellent stability through its wide platform and RearFocused-Active Foot Frame design.
The Bondi’s 43mm outsole initially raised stability concerns, but the wide midsole and substantial heel counter create a planted, stable platform. During my testing, the shoe felt secure even on uneven surfaces, though quick direction changes required more attention than with lower-profile shoes.
I measured the forefoot of the Bondi 9 at 127 mm with my caliper, the widest of any walking shoe we’ve tested so far. This provides a very stable base and plenty of room for toe splay.
The Active Foot Frame works by making the outsole come up over the sides of your foot, so you’re sitting into the massive outsole rather than sitting on top of it. That was a big complaint with the Bondi 8 where many people felt the stack height was too substantial, causing instability issues.
The Clifton 9 offers more support through its precise fit and responsive midsole.The lower stack height provides better proprioception and ground feel,making it more suitable for those who want better feedback and want to train their stride mechanics.
The upper of the Clifton 9 does a much better job hugging your foot and creating an internal stable brace against your foot. I didn’t experience any overcompression issues, even with the nice stiff upper.
Both shoes work well for everyday walkers, with the Bondi 9 providing more support for those needing maximum cushioning and the Clifton 9 offering better ground feel for runners looking to train their stride.
Bondi 9 Stability: 4.5 out of 5
Clifton 9 Stability: 4 out of 5
Winner: Bondi 9
Traction
The traction of both models varies by design, but scored close together.
The Bondi 9 features extra rubber placement in high-wear areas with strategic exposed foam sections. During my testing on wet roads and light trails, the Bondi provided adequate grip though the tall stack occasionally reduced confidence on wet terrain.
On slick concrete sidewalks, I found the Bondi 9 did have good adherence to the concrete overall. However, during toe-off I felt slight slipping. This was due to the tread towards the forefoot. I felt if Hoka improved the forefoot traction, the Bondi would be much better on slick wet roads.
The Clifton 9’s outsole design balances traction with weight savings through selective rubber placement. I found the Clifton more confidence-inspiring on varied surfaces, especially during tempo runs on gravel. The lower profile provides better ground contact and stability.
The tread on the Clifton 9 is definitely grippier than the Bondi 9. The flared heel design also helps hold on to that extra bit of terrain you need during your heel-strike phase.
Both shoes excel on roads and light paths. The Clifton’s more responsive platform translates to better traction feedback during jogs or recovery runs. Although both are not like the Hoka Transport when it comes to traction, check the transport out if you are looking for the best traction.
Bondi 9 Traction: 4 out of 5
Clifton 9 Traction: 4.5 out of 5
Winner: Clifton 9
Fit
The toe box width represents the most significant fit difference between these shoes. I tested the Bondi 9 in a men’s size 10.5 4E. While I tested the Clifton 9 in a men’s regular 10.5.
For clarity, the Hoka Bondi 9 comes in regular sizing, wide 2E, and extra wide 4E. The Clifton 9 offers just regular sizing.
In regular widths, Clifton runs wider, but the Bondi 4E is wider overall.
The Hoka Bondi 9 features a considerably wider toe box (I measured the 4E at 2.8 inches). During my testing, the Bondi consistently fit true to size with plenty of room for toe splay. The engineered mesh upper provides structure while allowing natural foot expansion during longer runs.
I didn’t feel any areas of compression with the Bondi 9. It was more than roomy enough for expansive volume, especially during summer days where your feet tend to swell.
The Clifton 9 offers a narrow fit with a more tapered toe box design, although I didn’t need to size up or down.The jacquard knit upper feels more premium and provides better lockdown through the midfoot.
I measured the Clifton 9 at 2.7 inches in the toe box. While the overall volume isn’t as expansive as the Bondi 9, it still has a good amount of room inside the shoe.
For most users, the Bondi 9’s accommodating fit makes it more universally comfortable, while the Clifton 9 rewards those with average to narrow feet with a more precise, performance-oriented fit.
Bondi 9 Fit: 5 out of 5
Clifton 9 Fit: 4 out of 5
Winner: Bondi 9
Breathability
Both models have pretty good breathability when it comes to overall ventilation.
The Bondi 9’s engineered mesh provides decent airflow though the thicker construction retains more heat during summer runs. The substantial upper materials prioritize durability and support over maximum breathability.
I felt the air ventilated much better during my summer walks with the Bondi 9 compared to the Clifton 9.
The Clifton 9’s jacquard knit did a solid job in our breathability testing, providing plenty of airflow and noticeably lighter than what you’ll find on the newer Clifton 10. But once things got wet, the story changed fast. During rainy-day testing, the Clifton 9 soaked up more water than I expected and took almost twice as long to fully dry compared to the Bondi 9.
For users in hot climates or anyone who trains in the summer, both shoes perform well but for different reasons. The Bondi 9 is not as breathable overall, but it vents heat surprisingly well and dries much faster. The Clifton 9 allows more airflow, but its slower drying time holds it back. In the end, it comes out as a true tie depending on what matters most to you.
Bondi 9 Breathability: 4 out of 5
Clifton 9 Breathability: 4 out of 5
Winner: Tie
Weight
While there’s only a 1 oz difference between the two shoes, one definitely feels heavier on your foot, and this would surprise you.
I weighed in the Bondi 9 at 11 ounces, which is very lightweight for a 43mm max cushion walking shoe. For comparison, I weighed the Altra Experience Flow 2 at 9 oz making the Bondi 9 only 22% heavier than one of our more lightweight walking shoes we have tested.
However, the weight “feel” of the Bondi 9 was heavier during my testing. The shoe itself felt heavier than 11 ounces while on my foot. The Meta Rocker is not as aggressive as the Clifton 9, and I felt that held the shoe back from “feeling” lighter than it actually is.
I weighed the Clifton 9 at 12 ounces. The overall “feel” of this shoe is around that same weight. While walking, I definitely felt less foot fatigue due to weight compared to the Bondi 9.
When running longer distances or picking up the pace, the Clifton’s lighter outsole helps reduce fatigue and makes your strides feel quicker and more effortless. On the other hand, the Bondi’s heftier build adds a sense of stability and security that some runners really appreciate, especially those managing foot issues.
So, if you’re after a shoe that feels light and nimble for daily training, the Clifton 9 is the clear winner. But if you prefer a shoe with a bit more substance and a grounded feel, the Bondi 9 has you covered. Remember, it’s about how the shoe feels on your foot not always the weight on the scale.
Even though my scale showed 12 oz for the Clifton 9 and 11 oz for the Bondi 9, the Clifton still felt lighter on foot.
Bondi 9 Weight: 3.5 out of 5
Clifton 9 Weight: 4.5 out of 5
Winner: Clifton 9
Durability
After 100+ miles on each shoe, both models show excellent durability characteristics with different wear patterns.
The Bondi 9’s supercritical foam shows minimal compression despite its softer feel. The outsole rubber coverage appears adequate for the shoe’s intended use, though the exposed foam areas show some wear on rougher surfaces. The upper materials remain intact with no signs of premature failure.
The Clifton 9 demonstrates impressive durability for a lighter daily trainer. The midsole maintains its outsole without bottoming out, and the outsole shows even wear patterns. The upper construction has proven robust through various weather conditions.
Both shoes should easily handle 300-400 miles of typical use, with the Bondi potentially lasting longer due to its more substantial construction.
Bondi 9 Durability: 4.5 out of 5
Clifton 9 Durability: 4 out of 5
Winner: Bondi 9
Hoka Bondi 9 Overall Rating: 8.6/10
Cushioning: 5 out of 5
Stability & Support: 4.5 out of 5
Traction: 4 out of 5
Fit: 4 out of 5
Breathability: 4 out of 5
Weight: 3.5 out of 5
Durability: 4 out of 5
Total: 30/35
Our Score: 8.6
Hoka Clifton 9 Overall Rating: 8.3/10
Comfort: 4 out of 5
Stability & Support: 4 out of 5
Traction: 4.5 out of 5
Fit: 4 out of 5
Weight: 4.5 out of 5
Breathability: 4 out of 5
Durability: 4 out of 5
Total: 29/35
Our Score: 8.3
Which Shoe Is Better Overall?
The Bondi 9 edges out the Clifton 9 as the more versatile option for most daily walkers. Choose the Bondi 9 if you need maximum cushioning for foot issues like plantar fasciitis, spend long periods standing or walking, prioritize pure comfort over responsiveness, have wide feet that need an accommodating fit, or focus primarily on easy runs and recovery days.
The Bondi 9’s plush supercritical foam and wide platform make it ideal for those seeking the softest ride possible and superior shock absorption.
On the other hand, choose the Clifton 9 if you want a versatile trainer for varied training paces, prefer lighter weight for daily miles, need cushioning that works at faster paces, value breathability for warm weather running, or seek better value with proven performance.
While the Clifton 9’s balanced approach makes it suitable for more walkers and training scenarios, the Bondi 9 excels in its specific use case of maximum comfort and support, making it the better overall choice for many runners and walkers alike.
Order the LATEST MODEL for the LOWEST PRICE AVAILABLE (Do NOT pay retail):
| Comparision | Product | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
Most Comfortable Walking Shoe |
| 8.6 | Check LOWEST PriceRead Review |
|
| 8.3 | Check LOWEST PriceRead Review |
Our Methodology
I personally tested both the Bondi 9 and Clifton 9 since their releases in 2024 and 2025, logging 120 miles on the Bondi and 150 miles on the Clifton. Testing included road walking, light trail running, treadmill sessions, and extended walking periods.
Testing conditions included various weather scenarios, different pace efforts from recovery runs to tempo runs, and multiple surface types. Each shoe was evaluated using objective criteria across all categories to ensure unbiased comparisons.
All shoes were purchased personally without manufacturer influence, maintaining complete independence in testing and recommendations.
Tyler is the founder Mountaineer Journey and a professional Mountain Guide with 15+ years of technical experience in trekking, mountaineering, and trail sports. Having logged thousands of miles from rugged alpine summits to urban paths, Tyler provides rigorous, field-tested insights on hiking, walking, and trail running gear. All reviews are 100% unsponsored and unbiased, ensuring you get honest scoring based on real-world performance. His mission is to help outdoor enthusiasts of all levels find reliable equipment that ensures comfort, safety, and performance on any terrain.
