Lace up, running enthusiasts! We’re about to dive into an epic showdown between two of HOKA’s most popular models: the Clifton 9 and the Challenger 7.
Whether you’re hitting the pavement or tackling trails, these shoes promise to deliver comfort and performance. But which one reigns supreme? Let’s break down the specs, put them to the test, and find out which shoe will have you flying over any terrain!
key takeaways:
- The Clifton 9 excels in road running with its plush cushioning and lightweight design, while the Challenger 7 shines in versatility, handling both road and trail with its balanced cushioning and lugged outsole.
- Both shoes offer neutral stability and use similar midsole materials, but the Clifton 9 provides a softer, more cushioned feel compared to the Challenger 7’s firmer, more responsive ride.
- For walking and all-day comfort, the Clifton 9 edges ahead on paved surfaces, while the Challenger 7 is better suited for varied terrain and those who prefer a slightly firmer feel.
- The Challenger 7’s durability may be superior for mixed-terrain use, thanks to its more robust construction and trail-ready features.
- At the same price point of $145, both shoes offer excellent value, with the choice ultimately depending on your primary running environment and personal preferences.
Comparison Table between Clifton 9 And Challenger 7:
| Feature | Clifton 9 | Challenger 7 |
|---|---|---|
| Launched In | 2024 | 2024 |
| Stability | Neutral | Neutral |
| Flexibility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Sizing | True to size | True to size |
| Weight | 8.70 oz | 8.90 oz |
| Cushion | Balanced to Plush | Balanced |
| Outsole | Durabrasion rubber | Durabrasion rubber with 4mm lugs |
| Midsole | Compression molded EVA foam | Compression molded EVA foam |
| Upper | Engineered knit | Engineered mesh |
| Retail Price | $145 | $145 |
Clifton 9 VS Challenger 7: FEATURES COMPARISON
1) Materials
When it comes to materials, both shoes showcase HOKA’s commitment to quality. The Clifton 9 features a breathable engineered knit upper, providing a snug, sock-like fit that adapts to your foot. Its Durabrasion rubber outsole offers excellent traction on road surfaces.
The Challenger 7, designed for versatility, sports an engineered mesh upper that balances breathability with durability for off-road adventures. Its standout feature is the Durabrasion rubber outsole with 4mm lugs, providing superior grip on varied terrains. Both models utilize compression molded EVA foam in their midsoles, but the Clifton 9 seems to have a slight edge in plushness.
2) Durability
In terms of longevity, both shoes are built to last, but their durability shines in different environments. The Clifton 9’s Durabrasion rubber outsole is engineered to extend rubber longevity, making it ideal for high-mileage road runners. Its knit upper, while comfortable, may be less resistant to abrasions compared to the Challenger 7’s mesh.
The Challenger 7, with its more robust construction and lugged outsole, is better equipped to handle the wear and tear of trail running. Its engineered mesh upper offers improved resistance to snags and tears from trail debris. For mixed-terrain runners, the Challenger 7 might edge out in overall durability.
3) Fit
Both shoes aim to provide a comfortable fit, but their approaches differ slightly. The Clifton 9 uses a gusseted tongue to mitigate tongue migration, ensuring a secure fit throughout your run. Its knit upper hugs the foot, adapting to various foot shapes.
The Challenger 7, while also offering a comfortable fit, includes an extended heel pull for easy entry, a feature that many runners will appreciate. Both shoes come in regular and wide widths, accommodating a range of foot sizes. However, the Clifton 9’s knit upper might offer a more personalized fit for some runners.
4) Cushioning
Cushioning is where HOKA truly shines, and both models deliver in this department. The Clifton 9 boasts increased stack height compared to its predecessor, offering plush cushioning for long road runs. It’s designed to provide protective cushion while maintaining a responsive toe-off.
The Challenger 7, while also well-cushioned, is tuned for a more balanced feel to handle both road and trail. Its cushioning is described as protective yet responsive, allowing for faster transitions when needed. For pure cushioning, especially on roads, the Clifton 9 might have a slight advantage.
5) Stability
Both the Clifton 9 and Challenger 7 are classified as neutral shoes, meaning they don’t have additional stability features for overpronators. They both feature a symmetrical bed of cushion without additional prescriptive technologies. This design philosophy aims to provide support without forcing the foot into a specific position.
The Clifton 9’s wider base and increased stack height might offer a bit more inherent stability on roads. The Challenger 7, with its lugged outsole, provides better stability on uneven terrain. Ultimately, the stability differences come down to the intended use – road vs. trail.
6) Value for Money
Priced identically at $145, both shoes offer excellent value for their intended purposes. The Clifton 9 provides premium cushioning and comfort for road runners, making it a solid investment for daily training and long runs.
The Challenger 7’s versatility as a road-to-trail shoe gives it an edge for runners who frequently switch between surfaces. Both shoes incorporate recycled materials in their laces, appealing to environmentally conscious runners.
The choice ultimately depends on your primary running environment, but either way, you’re getting a high-quality shoe packed with HOKA’s latest technologies.
Clifton 9 VS Challenger 7: Performance Testing
1) For Walking
When it comes to walking, both shoes offer comfort, but in different ways. The Clifton 9, with its plush cushioning and early stage Meta-Rocker, provides a smooth, comfortable experience for long walks on paved surfaces. The Meta-Rocker technology promotes a natural gait cycle, potentially reducing fatigue during extended periods of walking.
The Challenger 7, while also comfortable, shines when your walks take you off the beaten path. Its lugged outsole provides better traction on varied surfaces, making it ideal for nature walks or urban explorations that might include both pavement and light trails. For pure road walking, the Clifton 9 edges ahead, but for versatile, all-terrain walking, the Challenger 7 takes the lead.
2) For Running
In the running department, these shoes cater to different needs. The Clifton 9, designed primarily for road running, offers a soft, cushioned ride that’s perfect for daily training and long runs on pavement.
Its lightweight design (8.70 oz) and responsive cushioning make it suitable for tempo runs as well. The early stage Meta-Rocker helps with smooth transitions, potentially improving running efficiency.
The Challenger 7, weighing slightly more at 8.90 oz, is the go-to for runners who mix road and trail. Its balanced cushioning and lugged outsole provide the versatility to tackle both surfaces confidently.
For pure road running, especially longer distances, the Clifton 9 is the winner. But for runners who frequently transition between road and trail, the Challenger 7 is the more versatile choice.
3) For Standing All Day
For those who spend long hours on their feet, both shoes offer supportive options. The Clifton 9’s plush cushioning and compression molded EVA foam midsole provide excellent shock absorption, potentially reducing fatigue during long periods of standing. Its breathable knit upper also helps keep feet cool and comfortable.
The Challenger 7, while also comfortable for standing, has a slightly firmer feel that some may prefer for all-day wear. Its engineered mesh upper offers good breathability as well.
The choice here largely comes down to personal preference – those who prefer a softer, more cushioned feel might lean towards the Clifton 9, while those who like a firmer, more responsive base might prefer the Challenger 7.
4) For Plantar Fasciitis
For runners dealing with plantar fasciitis, both shoes offer features that can help alleviate discomfort. The Clifton 9’s plush cushioning and early stage Meta-Rocker can help reduce stress on the plantar fascia by promoting a smoother heel-to-toe transition. Its soft, adaptable upper also allows for a comfortable fit that doesn’t put undue pressure on sensitive areas.
The Challenger 7, while not as plush, still offers good cushioning and support. Its slightly firmer ride might be preferred by some plantar fasciitis sufferers who find too much softness destabilizing. Both shoes’ neutral support helps maintain proper foot alignment.
Ultimately, the best choice may depend on individual foot shape and the severity of the condition, but the Clifton 9’s softer cushioning might give it a slight edge for many plantar fasciitis sufferers.
Conclusion: Which Is Better For You
Choosing between the Clifton 9 and Challenger 7 ultimately comes down to your running preferences and environment. If you’re a dedicated road runner seeking plush cushioning for long miles on pavement, the Clifton 9 is your go-to shoe. Its lighter weight and road-specific features make it ideal for urban runners.
However, if your runs frequently take you from roads to light trails, or if you prioritize versatility, the Challenger 7 is the clear winner. Its lugged outsole and balanced cushioning make it a true all-terrain warrior.
Both shoes offer excellent value, incorporating HOKA’s latest technologies. Your perfect match depends on where your running journey takes you!