The Hoka Clifton 9 and Asics Gel-Nimbus 27 are two of the most popular max cushion neutral shoes, but they serve different purposes. The Clifton 9 is a versatile daily trainer, while the Nimbus 27 is designed for soft, plush comfort. In this comparison, we’ll break down their key differences, how they feel underfoot, and how they compare to other max-stack shoes.
Upper & Fit
Both shoes have engineered mesh uppers, but the fit and lockdown differ significantly:
- Hoka Clifton 9
- Snug, tapered toe box—not ideal for wider feet (does come in a wide version)
- Padded gusseted tongue for added comfort
- Moderate heel padding with a flexible heel counter
- Asics Gel-Nimbus 27
- Wider toe box than previous models—better for toe splay (available in wide versions)
- Thinner, gusseted cloth tongue
- Plush heel padding & external pull-on tab for a more secure fit
Check the price on Amazon
Midsole & Cushioning
The biggest difference between the two shoes is how they feel underfoot:
- Hoka Clifton 9
- CMEVA foam midsole—firm but responsive
- 5mm drop with 32mm heel / 27mm forefoot stack
- 249g weight (Men’s US 9)
- Durable, stable, and versatile for both slow and uptempo runs
- Asics Gel-Nimbus 27
- FF Blast+ Eco midsole—plush, softer feel
- 8mm drop with 41.5mm heel / 33.5mm forefoot stack
- 307g weight (Men’s US 9)
- More cushioned and bouncier than previous versions
The Clifton 9 has a firmer, more responsive feel, making it ideal for those who want a workhorse trainer. The Nimbus 27 offers a softer, plush ride, perfect for long, comfortable miles.
Stability & Rocker Geometry
Both shoes offer stable neutral rides, but their rocker geometries and stability elements differ:
- Hoka Clifton 9
- Early-stage rocker for smooth transitions
- Sidewalls and sole flare provide added stability
- More durable midsole—holds up well past 300km
- Asics Gel-Nimbus 27
- Broader base & enhanced sidewalls for extra support
- Later-stage rocker for a smoother transition from heel to toe
- Softer foam makes it slightly less stable than the Clifton 9
If you need more stability, the Nimbus 27’s broader base and sidewalls help keep your foot centred. However, if you prefer a firmer ride with a bit more control, the Clifton 9 is the better choice.
Comparison Table: How Do They Stack Up?
| Feature | Hoka Clifton 9 | Asics Gel-Nimbus 27 |
|---|---|---|
| Toe Box Width | Snug | Wide |
| Weight (Men’s US 9) | 249g | 307g |
| Heel Drop | 5mm | 8mm |
| Cushioning Type | CMEVA | FF Blast+ Eco |
| Ride Feel | Firm, responsive | Plush, soft |
| Stability | Stable neutral | Stable neutral |
| Best For | All-purpose trainer, uptempo | Easy runs, recovery runs |
Check the price on Amazon
Which Max Cushion Shoe Is Right for You?
Both the Hoka Clifton 9 and Asics Gel-Nimbus 27 are excellent options, but they cater to different preferences:
- Choose the Hoka Clifton 9 if you want a versatile, firmer daily trainer that can handle both slow and fast runs.
- Choose the Asics Gel-Nimbus 27 if you want a plush, comfortable ride for long, steady runs or all-day wear.
