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Hoka Clifton 9 and Brooks Ghost 15 are two popular shoes for comfort, cushioning, and durability. The Hoka Clifton 9 is the newer, lighter, and more cushioned option, aimed at runners who prioritize soft landings and a high stack height for long miles. Brooks Ghost 15 is known for its reliable comfort, balanced cushioning, and traditional running shoe. This comparison will help you quickly understand the differences and decide which one is the better fit for your lifestyle.
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Lightweight:- Hoka Clifton 9 has a lighter build at about 8.7 oz that helps reduce fatigue during long runs.
- Brooks Ghost 15 weighs around 10.1 oz, making it slightly heavier.
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Cushioning:- Hoka Clifton 9 features CMEVA foam that provides a softer underfoot feel for long-distance comfort.
- Brooks Ghost 15 uses DNA Loft v2 foam, which feels firmer.
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Smooth Transitions:- Hoka Clifton 9 includes a Meta-Rocker design that promotes a rolling motion for smoother heel-to-toe transitions.
- Brooks Ghost 15 uses a segmented crash pad for balanced transitions.
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High Stack:- Hoka Clifton 9 has a higher stack height that delivers more cushioning for impact protection.
- Brooks Ghost 15 has a lower stack, offering a closer-to-ground feel.
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Breathable:- Hoka Clifton 9 features a lightweight engineered mesh upper that increases airflow during warm-weather runs.
- Brooks Ghost 15 upper is also breathable but slightly thicker.
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Rocker Sole:- Hoka Clifton 9 comes with a rocker-bottom sole that helps maintain forward momentum with less effort.
- Brooks Ghost 15 has a flatter sole profile.
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Versatile:- Hoka Clifton 9 has a balanced design that works for daily training, long runs, and recovery runs.
- Brooks Ghost 15 is versatile but more suited to steady-paced runs.
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Shock Absorption:- Hoka Clifton 9 features thick CMEVA foam that absorbs more impact on long runs.
- Brooks Ghost 15 provides good shock absorption but with a firmer feel.
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Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Hoka Clifton 9 | Brooks Ghost 15 |
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| Weight (Men’s US 9) | Approx. 8.7 oz | Approx. 10.1 oz |
| Midsole Material | CMEVA foam | DNA Loft v2 foam |
| Stack Height | 32 mm heel / 27 mm forefoot | 35 mm heel / 23 mm forefoot |
| Drop | 5 mm | 12 mm |
| Outsole | Durabrasion rubber | Blown rubber |
| Upper | Engineered mesh | Engineered mesh |
| Fit | Narrow-to-regular | Regular-to-wide |
Who Should Buy What?Buy the Hoka Clifton 9 if you:- Want a lighter running shoe for reducing fatigue on long runs.
- Prefer a softer, more cushioned ride for joint comfort.
- Like a rocker sole for smoother transitions and efficient movement.
- Run mainly on roads and want a high stack for better shock absorption.
- Enjoy modern, bold running shoe designs.
Check Hoka Clifton 9 Best Price Buy the Brooks Ghost 15 if you:- Prefer a traditional running shoe feel with a higher drop.
- Need a roomier fit for wider feet.
- Want more durability from increased outsole rubber coverage.
- Run in mixed or wet road conditions and need better traction.
- Value added stability for steady-paced daily training.
Check Brooks Ghost 15 Best Price |
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
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| Lightweight | Hoka Clifton 9 |
| Cushioning | Hoka Clifton 9 |
| Smooth Transitions | Hoka Clifton 9 |
| High Stack | Hoka Clifton 9 |
| Breathable | Hoka Clifton 9 |
| Rocker Sole | Hoka Clifton 9 |
| Versatile | Hoka Clifton 9 |
| Shock Absorption | Hoka Clifton 9 |
What They Have in Common
- Cushioning Technology: Both Brooks and Hoka shoes prioritize plush cushioning, helping to reduce impact and protect joints during long runs or walks.
- Supportive Midsoles: Each brand integrates midsoles that offer excellent arch and heel support, which improves stability and comfort over various distances.
- Breathable Uppers: Both use engineered mesh uppers that promote airflow, keeping feet cool and reducing sweat buildup during activity.
- Durable Outsoles: Both brands design outsoles with high-abrasion rubber for enhanced traction and long-lasting wear on roads and light trails.
- Wide Model Range: Each company offers multiple models for neutral runners, overpronators, and trail enthusiasts, allowing users to find a perfect match for their running style.
FAQ (Quick Answers)
Is the Hoka Clifton 9 lighter than the Brooks Ghost 15?
Yes, the Hoka Clifton 9 is lighter at about 8.7 oz compared to the Brooks Ghost 15 which weighs around 10.1 oz, making it easier for longer runs.
Which shoe has softer cushioning?
The Hoka Clifton 9 has softer CMEVA foam cushioning, while the Brooks Ghost 15 uses DNA Loft v2 foam that feels firmer underfoot.
Which shoe is better for smooth transitions?
The Hoka Clifton 9 uses a Meta-Rocker design for smoother heel-to-toe transitions, while the Brooks Ghost 15 has a segmented crash pad that provides a more traditional feel.
Does the Hoka Clifton 9 have a higher stack height?
Yes, the Hoka Clifton 9 has a higher stack height, offering more cushioning and impact protection compared to the Brooks Ghost 15.
Which shoe is more breathable?
The Hoka Clifton 9 has a lighter engineered mesh upper for better airflow, while the Brooks Ghost 15 is also breathable but uses a slightly thicker upper.
Does either shoe have a rocker sole?
The Hoka Clifton 9 has a rocker-bottom sole to help maintain forward momentum, whereas the Brooks Ghost 15 uses a flatter sole design.
Which shoe is more versatile for different types of runs?
The Hoka Clifton 9 works well for daily training, long runs, and recovery runs, while the Brooks Ghost 15 is versatile but best for steady-paced runs.
Which shoe has better shock absorption?
The Hoka Clifton 9 provides better shock absorption due to its thick CMEVA foam, while the Brooks Ghost 15 absorbs impact well but feels firmer.
Which shoe offers a more adaptive fit?
The Hoka Clifton 9 has a snug fit that suits narrower feet, while the Brooks Ghost 15 offers a roomier fit for wider foot shapes.
Which shoe is better for stability?
The Brooks Ghost 15 provides slightly better inherent stability due to its traditional geometry, while the Hoka Clifton 9 is stable for its high stack but remains focused on cushioning.