I’m a runner, and finding the right shoe is critical. It should help on roads or hard paths. Let’s look at the Hoka Kawana 2 and Hoka Clifton 9. These are top choices for those seeking cushioned running shoes. We will see what makes each model stand out. Then, you can pick the best one for your runs.
Key Takeaways
- The Hoka Kawana 2 is great for road or trail running. The Hoka Clifton 9 is best for running on roads and long distances.
- The Kawana 2 gives more cushion and stability than the Clifton 9. This is good for those needing lots of protection from impacts.
- The Clifton 9 is lighter and responds better. This gives a faster, more nimble feel for those running quickly on roads.
- They both use Hoka’s meta-rocker technology. This helps make your run feel smoother and more efficient.
- Deciding between the Kawana 2 and Clifton 9 means thinking about durability, comfort, and value. Each has its own strong points in these areas.
Hoka Kawana 2 VS Clifton 9: Easy Comparison Guide
| Feature | Hoka Kawana 2 | Hoka Clifton 9 |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Lifestyle and Training | Everyday Run and Walking |
| Meta-Rocker Tech | Yes | Yes |
| Cushioning | Soft, bouncy midsole | Soft, responsive midsole |
| Support | Firm upper, strong heel | Sturdy upper, supportive heel |
| Durability | Very durable | Very durable |
| Weight (Men’s) | 11.10 oz / 314.6 g | 8.70 oz / 246.6 g |
| Weight (Women’s) | 8.90 oz / 252.3 g | 7.30 oz / 206.9 g |
| Heel-Toe Drop | 5mm | 5mm |
| Waterproofing | Special membrane for wet conditions | Water-resistant materials |
| Grip | Deep lugs for trails | Suitable for roads; less effective on wet ground |
| Price | Approximately $140 | Approximately $145 |
| Customer Service | Excellent | Excellent |
| Return Policy | 30-day return policy | 30-day return policy |
| Warranty | 2-year warranty | 2-year warranty |
| Customer Reviews | Praised for max cushioning, good for long runs | Loved for lightness and durability |
| Style | Bright colors, mesh upper | Clean design, mesh upper |
Overview of Hoka Kawana 2 VS Clifton 9
Hoka One One is well-known for cushioned running shoes. The Kawana 2 and Clifton 9 are very popular. They are great for long runs. They offer good comfort, cushioning, and are light.
History and Technology: Hoka Kawana 2
The Kawana 2 is part of Hoka’s Kawana line. It’s great for both roads and trails. The Meta-Rocker technology makes your training smoother. Plus, these shoes have good cushioning and stability for a comfy ride. No matter if you run on roads or trails, you’ll find them great.
History and Technology: Hoka Clifton 9
The Clifton 9 is the newest in the Clifton series from Hoka. It’s loved for being soft and light. This shoe works well for any road running. Its upper part and Early Stage Meta-Rocker tech make your run smooth. You won’t feel as tired on longer runs.
Durability: Hoka Kawana 2 VS Clifton 9
The Hoka Kawana 2 and Clifton 9 shoes last a long time. They both have great durability features. This lets runners pick what they need most.
Durability features of Hoka Clifton 9
The Clifton 9 is known for being really durable. It has a strong rubber outsole for good grip and to resist wear. The midsole, with Hoka’s special foam, gives lasting cushioning and support. Even after hundreds of miles, the Clifton 9 keeps performing well.
Durability features of Hoka Kawana 2
The Kawana 2 is also very durable. It focuses on being light and giving a smooth ride. Its upper is made from tough, breathable materials. This helps it last through regular running. The outsole has rubber for grip and durability. The Kawana 2’s midsole, using Hoka’s tough foam, supports high-mileage runners well.
Weight Comparison
- Hoka Kawana 2
- Men’s: 11.10 oz / 314.6 g
- Women’s: 8.90 oz / 252.3 g
- Hoka Clifton 9
- Men’s: 8.70 oz / 246.6 g
- Women’s: 7.30 oz / 206.9 g
Comfort: Hoka Kawana 2 VS Clifton 9
Both the Hoka Kawana 2 and Hoka Clifton 9 are super comfy for runners. We will look closely at their cushioning, support, and how they fit.
Cushioning
The Hoka Kawana 2 has a soft cushioned midsole that makes your run bouncy and comfy. It’s got a high stack height to soak up the shock. You’ll feel like you’re running on fluffy clouds, perfect for long runs.
The Hoka Clifton 9 has a similar cushioned midsole for a neutral support. It gives a comfortable and responsive feel. The high stack height means it’s great at reducing impact during exercises.
Support
The Kawana 2 and Clifton 9 both give great support. The Kawana 2 has a firm upper and strong heel. It keeps your feet feeling tight and comfortable. The Clifton 9 also has a sturdy upper and heel, making your run feel safe and comfortable.
Fit and Sizing Comparison
The Kawana 2 and Clifton 9 are both comfy and fit well. They have enough padding and support for all foot types. But, there are differences too.
The Kawana 2 has more space in the toe area. The Clifton 9 fits your whole foot tight and secure. The Hoka Kawana 2 is available in US men’s sizes ranging from 7 to 15 and US women’s sizes from 5 to 11. The Hoka Clifton 9 is available in US men’s sizes ranging from 7 to 16 and US women’s sizes from 5 to 12.
“The Hoka Kawana 2 and Clifton 9 are top choices for comfort and support. The right one for you might depend on their fit and sizing.”
Style and Design
Running shoes must look good and work well. Let’s see how the Hoka Kawana 2 and Hoka Clifton 9 stand out. We’ll check their style, use of light materials, and cool look.
Hoka Kawana 2
The Hoka Kawana 2 has a cool style that mixes best functionality with design. It’s made with a special mesh upper for great air and a lightweight feel. The midsole has big cushioning, which makes them look different from other shoes.
The Kawana 2 shines with its many bright colors. Runners can pick their favorite from these colors. This lets them show their own style on any road or path they run on.
Hoka Clifton 9
The Hoka Clifton 9 is designed for great use and looks. Its upper is a smooth mesh for light and comfy use. The midsole keeps up Hoka’s soft cushioning, which is awesome for smooth running.
Even though the Clifton 9 doesn’t come in many bright colors like the Kawana 2, its simple and clean style stands out. It’s made in calm, easy-to-match colors. This makes it great for anyone who likes a simple look for their runs.
| Feature | Hoka Kawana 2 | Hoka Clifton 9 |
|---|---|---|
| Style | Sleek and modern with bold color options | Sleek and streamlined with neutral color options |
| Upper Material | Breathable mesh | Lightweight mesh |
| Midsole Cushioning | Hoka’s signature oversized cushioning | Hoka’s signature cushioning |
| Lightweight Design | Contributes to the overall lightweight feel | Contributes to the overall lightweight feel |
Waterproofing and Non-Slip Grip
Running in changing weather needs a shoe that grips well and keeps you dry. Let’s compare the Hoka Kawana 2 and Hoka Clifton 9 for these features.
Waterproofing
The Hoka Kawana 2 keeps feet dry with a special membrane. It’s perfect for trails and rainy days. The Hoka Clifton 9 doesn’t have this membrane but uses strong, water-resistant materials.
If you run in the rain or on wet trails, the Kawana 2 is your best bet. It helps keep feet dry and comfy. The Clifton 9 is great for everyday running, not needing as much waterproofing.
Non-Slip Grip
Both shoes have sturdy outsoles for good traction. The Kawana 2 is best for trails with its deep lugs. It grips well on slippery or bumpy surfaces.
The Clifton 9 is more for roads. Its outsole gives decent grip but not as much on wet ground. If you love rough trails, the Kawana 2 is a top pick.
| Feature | Hoka Kawana 2 | Hoka Clifton 9 |
|---|---|---|
| Waterproofing | Waterproof and breathable membrane | Water-resistant upper materials |
| Non-Slip Grip | Aggressive lug pattern for trail running | Suitable for road running |
To sum up, the Kawana 2 is great for wet and slippery conditions on any surface. The Clifton 9 works well for drier road runs.
Price Point and Value
Looking at running shoes, price plays a big role in the choice. The Hoka Kawana 2 and Hoka Clifton 9 models are under review. We want to see which gives the best value for money.
Price Range
The Hoka Kawana 2 costs about $140. The Hoka Clifton 9 is a bit more, around $145. Even though the Clifton 9 is a little pricier, both sit in a close price range. This makes them good for many runners.
Customer Service
Hoka is the brand for both the Kawana 2 and Clifton 9. It’s known for excellent customer service. No matter if it’s about size, returns, or just questions, you’ll get quick and useful help. This commitment to happy customers is a big plus for the shoes’ overall value.
Return Policy and Warranty
- Hoka offers a 30-day return policy, allowing customers to try out the shoes and get a full refund if they’re not satisfied.
- Both the Kawana 2 and Clifton 9 have a 2-year warranty. It covers any issues from the making or the materials during normal wear.
These extra policies make Hoka’s running shoes even more attractive. They offer peace of mind to customers. It lets them find the perfect shoe for their needs.
| Feature | Hoka Kawana 2 | Hoka Clifton 9 |
|---|---|---|
| Price Range | $140 | $145 |
| Customer Service | Responsive and helpful | Responsive and helpful |
| Return Policy | 30-day | 30-day |
| Warranty | 2-year | 2-year |
Both the Hoka Kawana 2 and Clifton 9 are a great deal. With good prices, excellent service, and strong return and warranty policies. The small price difference might matter to some. But, they both are a wise buy for better running and comfort.
Customer Reviews and Feedback
Customer reviews and feedback are key for choosing running shoes. Let’s see what people say about the Hoka Kawana 2 and Hoka Clifton 9. These are both very popular models.
The Hoka Kawana 2 stands out for its top-notch max cushioning. Many runners love it for long distance running and marathons. One runner said, “The Kawana 2 has changed my recovery runs. The cushion keeps my legs feeling great, run after run.”
The Hoka Clifton 9 also gets a lot of love. It’s praised for being both light and durable. This makes the shoe great for all kinds of runs. A customer mentioned, “The Clifton 9 is perfect for all my runs. It has just the right cushion and support.”
Some runners even switch between the Kawana 2 and Clifton 9 based on their run. One said, “I use the Kawana 2 for slow runs and marathons. The Clifton 9 is best for quick or tempo runs.”
In the end, both the Hoka Kawana 2 and Clifton 9 are solid choices for runners. They work well for many types of runs, from short to long distance. Because of their max cushioning and quality, they’re hits with runners everywhere.
Pros and Cons
Comparing the Hoka Kawana 2 and Hoka Clifton 9 running shoes is key. Consider their pros and cons to find what suits you. This approach lets you choose the right cushioned neutral or maximalist trainers for your runs.
Hoka Kawana 2
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Its meta-rocker technology and neutral cushioning create exceptional comfort | This model might be too cushioned and large for some who like lighter shoes |
| It’s light, responsive, and provides a smooth, stable running experience | Its bulky design might not be visually appealing to all runners |
| The shoes are durable even for high mileage | This model is a bit pricier than similar cushioned trainers |
| These shoes work well on many surfaces and for different activities |
Hoka Clifton 9
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| This model is extremely comfortable and well-cushioned for a soft ride | This shoe may not offer enough support for some foot types or needs |
| Thanks to the meta-rocker technology, it is also light and responsive | Its high-level cushioning can feel too soft for some runners |
| It’s good for everyday runs, long runs, and recovery days | It’s not as durable as the Kawana 2, lasting less for those who run a lot |
| Comes at a more affordable price compared to other top running shoes |
Conclusion
After a deep look at the Hoka Kawana 2 and the Hoka Clifton 9, both are great choices. They are perfect for long-distance runners and those who love a soft run.
The Kawana 2 is a bit stronger, lasting longer than the Clifton 9. But the Clifton 9 is more light and can react faster.
Your choice between the Hoka Kawana 2 and Clifton 9 depends on what you like and how you run. Choose the Kawana 2 for endurance and support. Go with the Clifton 9 if you want something lighter and quicker.
Don’t worry, picking either the Hoka Kawana 2 or Clifton 9 will be a good move. Both shoes bring top comfort and keep you safe during your runs. Hoka always tries its best to give us great tech and shoes. So, you’re in safe hands with these cushioned running shoes.
FAQ
What are the key differences between the Hoka Kawana 2 and Hoka Clifton 9 running shoes?
The Hoka Kawana 2 and Clifton 9 run shoes are different but great. The Kawana 2 is for hard trails with a tough outsole. It’s higher off the ground, too. The Clifton 9 is perfect for the street. It has a light top and smaller heel-toe drop.
How do the cushioning and support systems compare between the Hoka Kawana 2 and Clifton 9?
The Kawana 2 by Hoka has super thick cushioning. Its midsole keeps your feet comfy and safe. The Clifton 9 has soft cushioning, too. It feels lighter and helps you move faster. Both give good support when you run.
Which shoe is better for high-mileage training and long-distance running?
The Clifton 9 is better for lots of miles and long runs. It’s light and helps your feet move well on roads. The Kawana 2 works great for going off-road. It’s high and sturdy, ready for any trail.
How do the Hoka Kawana 2 and Clifton 9 compare in terms of durability and weight?
The Kawana 2 stays strong, perfect for rough trails. It’s heavier but built to last. On the other hand, the Clifton 9 is lighter. It’s for quick runs on smooth roads. Both are tough but made for different types of running.
Are there any significant differences in the fit and sizing between the Hoka Kawana 2 and Clifton 9?
Both shoes fit well but offer slightly different feels. The Kawana 2 has more room for your toes to swell on runs. The Clifton 9 fits snug to help you go fast. Try them both to see which fits you better.
How do the Hoka Kawana 2 and Clifton 9 compare in terms of price and value?
The Kawana 2 and Clifton 9 cost about the same. The Kawana 2 might be a bit pricier. They both are great buys with awesome tech and made to last. Think about what you need from a shoe. This helps choose the better deal for you.