If you’re considering either the Hoka Clifton 10 or the Bondi 9, you’re choosing between two of the most cushioned shoes in Hoka’s lineup—but they serve very different purposes. Whether you’re looking for all-day comfort, a reliable walking shoe, or a workhorse for your daily runs, understanding the differences between these models will help you make the right decision.
1. Stack Height and Heel Drop
The Clifton 10 received a significant update in cushioning. It now features 42 mm in the heel and 34 mm in the forefoot, giving it an 8 mm drop. That’s 10 mm more heel stack than the Clifton 9 had, and the first time we’ve seen this level of drop in a Clifton.
Meanwhile, the Bondi 9 offers 43 mm in the heel and 38 mm in the forefoot, giving it a more traditional 5 mm drop. While heel stack is nearly identical between the two, the forefoot difference makes the Bondi 9 feel firmer under the toes and reduces forefoot flex.
2. Midsole Cushioning Type
Underfoot, these two shoes feel completely different. The Bondi 9 uses supercritical foam, the same type found in the responsive Hoka Mach 6, but tuned here for softness and plushness. It’s ideal for those who want a cloud-like ride.
In contrast, the Clifton 10 sticks with Hoka’s CMEVA foam, a firmer, more responsive compound. Even with its added stack, the Clifton feels snappier underfoot and transitions more quickly, especially for midfoot and forefoot strikers.
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3. Heel Bevel and Ride Experience
To compensate for the new higher drop in the Clifton 10, Hoka added a more aggressive heel bevel. This design change means the shoe rolls you forward more quickly, helping heel strikers transition into midfoot. It’s noticeable underfoot—whereas the Bondi 9’s heel bevel is more subtle.
Both shoes still feature Hoka’s signature meta-rocker geometry, but the ride differs. The Bondi 9 feels slower and more cushioned, perfect for long and steady efforts. The Clifton 10, despite its new stack and weight, still maintains that efficient roll-through feel.
4. Weight and Responsiveness
Despite the added cushioning, the Clifton 10 comes in at 278 grams (Men’s US 9), making it 19 grams lighter than the Bondi 9, which weighs 297 grams.
The difference is felt during runs. The Clifton 10 remains a daily trainer suitable for easy runs, long runs, and even recovery days. It’s not quite as nimble as the Clifton 9, but more responsive than the Bondi 9. The Bondi 9, on the other hand, is very much built for steady paces and maximum comfort, not uptempo efforts.
5. Fit and Upper Design
The uppers are where these two also diverge. The Bondi 9 has a wider platform, and the standard fit is generous. It also comes in a wide option, making it a solid choice for broader feet or anyone looking for a roomy toe box.
The Clifton 10 is wider than the Clifton 9, addressing previous complaints about its narrow toe box. It’s still not as wide as the Bondi, but now comes in wide and extra-wide versions.
You’ll also notice a difference in the tongues: the Clifton 10 features a non-gusseted padded tongue, while the Bondi 9 keeps things simple and plush. Around the heel, both have solid padding, but the Clifton 10 has a more flexible heel counter, which some may prefer for Achilles comfort. The Bondi 9’s heel counter is stiffer, providing more rearfoot stability.
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Which One Should You Choose?
If you’re after more responsiveness, a slightly lighter feel, and a classic all-rounder, the Clifton 10 is a great choice. It’s still a Clifton at heart but with added comfort and a few tweaks that make it even more versatile.
On the other hand, if you prioritise ultimate softness, a wider fit, and don’t mind extra weight, the Bondi 9 delivers premium comfort for long walks, long runs, or days on your feet.
If you’re also considering other options, the Asics Gel-Nimbus 27 might appeal to those wanting a cloud-like feel, and the New Balance More v5 offers similar max cushion comfort with slightly more softness than the Bondi. We also recently compared the Brooks Glycerin Max, which is another great high-stack daily trainer with an energetic feel underfoot.
