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Hoka Clifton 9 and On Cloud 5 are two popular shoes for comfort, cushioning, and durability. Hoka Clifton 9 is the newer iteration in Hoka’s renowned Clifton line, known for its plush cushioning and smooth ride. The Cloud 5 from On offers a lightweight, responsive feel with a focus on casual wear versatility. This comparison will help you quickly understand the differences and decide which one is the better fit for your lifestyle.
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Cushioning:- Hoka Clifton 9 features a high-cushion CMEVA midsole that provides a plush underfoot feel to reduce joint stress during long runs.
- On Cloud 5 uses Zero-Gravity foam with moderate cushioning for a firmer ride.
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Shock Absorption:- Hoka Clifton 9 has thicker foam layers that absorb impact to deliver smoother landings and protect against repetitive strain.
- On Cloud 5’s CloudTec pods absorb impact but feel firmer under heavier load.
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Stability:- Hoka Clifton 9 includes a wide base and balanced midsole geometry to improve stability on varied terrain.
- On Cloud 5 has a narrower profile that prioritizes agility over stability.
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Meta-Rocker:- Hoka Clifton 9 features an early stage Meta-Rocker that promotes a smooth heel-to-toe transition.
- On Cloud 5 uses a Speedboard plate to create a snappier push-off.
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Outsole Durability:- Hoka Clifton 9 has Durabrasion rubber in high-wear zones to extend grip life for higher mileage use.
- On Cloud 5 uses rubber pads that can wear faster under frequent road running.
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Traction:- Hoka Clifton 9 includes strategically placed rubber zones that maintain grip on dry and lightly wet roads.
- On Cloud 5 provides dependable traction on city pavements but is less effective on slick surfaces.
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Heel Support:- Hoka Clifton 9 has a padded heel collar and structured heel counter to lock the foot securely in place.
- On Cloud 5’s heel design is softer and more flexible for comfort-focused fit.
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Long-distance Comfort:- Hoka Clifton 9 features cushioning and geometry that maintain support over extended mileage to prevent discomfort.
- On Cloud 5 feels lighter but offers less sustained comfort for long runs.
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Balanced Drop:- Hoka Clifton 9 supports a 5 mm drop that encourages a natural stride and reduces pressure on the knees.
- On Cloud 5 has an 8 mm drop for quicker forward transitions.
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Reduced Fatigue:- Hoka Clifton 9 has a rocker shape and high cushioning that reduce muscle strain during repetitive motion.
- On Cloud 5’s lightweight build helps with agility but provides less impact protection.
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Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Hoka Clifton 9 | On Cloud 5 |
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| Weight | Approx. 8.7 oz (men), 7.3 oz (women) | Approx. 8.8 oz (men), 7.0 oz (women) |
| Midsole Material | CMEVA foam | Zero-Gravity foam |
| Cushioning Level | High cushioning | Moderate cushioning |
| Drop | 5 mm | 8 mm |
| Stack Height | 32 mm heel / 27 mm forefoot | 30 mm heel / 22 mm forefoot |
| Outsole | Durabrasion rubber | CloudTec pods with rubber reinforcements |
| Meta-Rocker | Early Stage Meta-Rocker | Speedboard-assisted transition |
| Upper | Engineered mesh | Recycled engineered mesh |
| Price Range | Mid to high | Mid to high |
| Best For | Long-distance running, all-day comfort | Casual wear, light training |
Who Should Buy What?Buy the Hoka Clifton 9 if you:- Want maximum cushioning for long-distance running.
- Prefer a shoe that reduces fatigue and joint stress.
- Need stability for varied road surfaces.
- Run higher weekly mileage and want lasting durability.
- Like a lower 5 mm drop for a more natural stride.
Check Hoka Clifton 9 Best Price Buy the On Cloud 5 if you:- Prefer a lightweight, agile feel for short runs or gym use.
- Want a shoe that doubles as casual wear.
- Like the convenience of a speed-lacing system.
- Value a stylish, urban design for everyday versatility.
- Don’t need maximum cushioning for your runs.
Check On Cloud 5 Best Price |
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
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| Cushioning | Hoka Clifton 9 |
| Shock Absorption | Hoka Clifton 9 |
| Stability | Hoka Clifton 9 |
| Outsole Durability | Hoka Clifton 9 |
| Heel Support | Hoka Clifton 9 |
| Long-distance Comfort | Hoka Clifton 9 |
| Reduced Fatigue | Hoka Clifton 9 |
| Balanced Drop | Hoka Clifton 9 |
What They Have in Common
- Cushioning Technology: Both Hoka and On Cloud shoes feature advanced midsole cushioning that absorbs impact and reduces stress on the joints, making them ideal for long-distance runners and walkers.
- Lightweight Design: Each brand prioritizes lightweight materials, ensuring that the shoes feel responsive and do not weigh down the user during activity.
- Breathable Uppers: Both offer engineered mesh or similar breathable uppers that promote airflow, keeping feet cool and dry throughout workouts.
- Supportive Fit: Each brand designs shoes with supportive heel counters and secure lacing systems that help stabilize the foot and prevent unnecessary movement.
- Versatile Use: Both Hoka and On Cloud shoes are suitable for multiple activities, including running, walking, and casual wear, giving users flexibility with one pair of shoes.
FAQ (Quick Answers)
Which shoe is better for long-distance running?
The Hoka Clifton 9 is better suited for long-distance running due to its high cushioning, early stage Meta-Rocker, and stability features that help reduce fatigue over extended mileage.
Is the Hoka Clifton 9 lighter than the On Cloud 5?
Both shoes are similar in weight, but the Clifton 9 focuses more on cushioning, while the Cloud 5 prioritizes a lighter, agile feel for short runs and casual wear.
Which shoe provides better cushioning?
The Hoka Clifton 9 provides better cushioning with its CMEVA midsole, making it more comfortable for long and recovery runs compared to the firmer ride of the On Cloud 5.
Does the On Cloud 5 have a speed-lacing system?
Yes, the On Cloud 5 features a speed-lacing system for quick on-and-off use, making it convenient for casual wear and short training sessions.
Which shoe is better for stability?
The Hoka Clifton 9 is better for stability with its wide base and balanced midsole geometry, while the On Cloud 5 has a narrower design that focuses on agility.
Is the Hoka Clifton 9 more durable than the On Cloud 5?
Yes, the Hoka Clifton 9 is generally more durable due to its Durabrasion rubber outsole, which holds up better under higher mileage compared to the CloudTec pads on the On Cloud 5.
Which shoe is better for city running?
The On Cloud 5 is better suited for city running and everyday wear due to its sleek design, lighter feel, and firm, responsive ride on pavement.
What is the drop difference between the two shoes?
The Hoka Clifton 9 has a 5 mm drop for a more natural running stride, while the On Cloud 5 has an 8 mm drop that promotes faster forward transitions.
Which shoe offers better heel support?
The Hoka Clifton 9 offers better heel support with its padded collar and structured heel counter, while the On Cloud 5 has a softer, more flexible heel fit.
Are both shoes good for casual wear?
Yes, both can be used for casual wear, but the On Cloud 5’s versatile styling and speed-lacing system make it more suitable for lifestyle use alongside light running.