HOKA Gaviota vs. Arahi vs. Clifton vs. Bondi: Differences and Reviews 2024

HOKA Gaviota 5 Review

The Gaviota is the max cushion max stability version in the Hoka stability line up.It is great for somebody who might have a bigger frame or somebody who wants a shoe that’s going to go for longer miles.

Version 5 breaks tradition for the first time by removing Hoka's signature J-Frame in favor of a new H-Frame system that provides a more universal-oriented form of stability.The H-Frame sits on the top layer, forming an figure-8/letter H-ish shape through the shoe to create stability through both sides. The midsole features a softer CMEVA midsole than past models to create a highly comfortable cruising ride thanks to Hoka's signature early rocker design.Along with the introduction of the stabilising H-Frame technology and the use of the softest foam to date in this model, overpronator runners will be delighted with this significant change in the shoe.

The Gaviota 5 is lighter than the previous version and features a slightly higher heel-to-toe drop (one millimeter, to be exact). A higher heel-to-toe drop can help reduce pressure on your calves and achilles while lower heel-to-toe drops tend to reduce the load on your knees and hips.The shoe will have reinforcements in the heel area to offer extra protection and comfort while running, although it won't feature the characteristic high heel seen in some of the brand's prominent models, which is designed to protect the Achilles tendon. The HOKA Gaviota 5 includes a pull tab on the back of the shoe to facilitate the process of putting it on.The Gaviota 5 fits wider than previous versions of the shoe, which is something to keep in mind if you have narrow or low-volume feet.

The Gaviota 5 Pros and Cons

Where to Buy HOKA Gaviota 5?

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HOKA Arahi 6 Review

Known for the J Frame technology, the HOKA Arahi series returns with its 6th iteration.With only a few minor tweaks from its predecessor, the Arahi 6 continues its legacy as a trustworthy daily trainer that gives overpronators a pleasantly supportive ride without feeling overbearing. 

The shoe appears to be mostly an upper update but does seem to provide some improved upper lockdown throughout the shoe.Boasting a seemingly contradictory combination of maximal cushioning and minimal weight, it’s been refined with a pull tab and mesh upper with zones of breathability. The rest of the midsole consists of a softer CMEVA foam that offers a comfortable underfoot experience at any pace. While the Arahi does not have a high level of energy return, which is typical of stability shoes, it offers a smooth ride that helps make the miles feel easier. What’s more, it’s lightweight, especially compared to its chunky aesthetic.

The Hoka Arahi 6 is a moderate stability trainer. Its blend of unorthodox stability system along with ample cushioning make this a unique stability trainer. Unfortunately, its inconsistent ride along with lack of major updates make the Arahi a middle of the road trainer.The overall performance of this shoe compares well to that of its neutral sister, the Hoka Clifton 8。

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The Arahi 6 Pros and Cons

Where to Buy HOKA Arahi 6?

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HOKA Clifton 9 Review

The Hoka Clifton series has always been the neutral workhorse for the brand. One of the best-selling shoes in the marketplace, it's become a legacy series not only for runners, but also everyday people who are on their feet for much of the day due to its consistent comfort. The new Clifton 9 continues its lineage with a few updates, including a change to the midsole foam, stack height, and a new upper that is more accommodating. 

Revitalized with a new CMEVA foam midsole, the Clifton 9 is designed to deliver a bouncy energy return with HOKA's quintessential smooth transitions. Stacking 3mm of additional foam in the midsole, the updated Clifton also promises new levels of protection perfectly crafted to keep you comfortable on your daily training runs. The outsole received minor alterations as well, and the Durabrasion rubber has been crafted to deliver high-quality traction with workhorse durability.HOKA has stripped down the Clifton's engineered mesh upper, removing overlays to eliminate as much unnecessary weight as possible, all while maintaining the Clifton's cozy fit and feel. The upper provides a well-balanced, Clifton-y fit with a secure hold through the midfoot and a touch of extra space for toe splay in the forefoot. 

Overall, the Clifton 9 is a solid upgrade but not a redefining one for the model. If you are thinking about investing in a pair of Hokas, the Clifton 9 is a great place to start.

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The HOKA Clifton 9 Pros and Cons

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HOKA Bondi 8 Review

The HOKA Bondi series has been a long time favorite for those that like high stack rockered shoes. The eighth iteration of the Hoka Bondi remains as runners' beloved plush and cushy daily trainer that excels on easy days and recovery sessions. Bondi 8 takes a bold step forward this season reworked with softer, lighter foams and a brand-new extended heel geometry. Taking on a billowed effect, the rear crash pad affords an incredibly soft and balanced ride from heel strike to forefoot transaction.

While the new Hoka One One Bondi 8 is bigger and better than ever, it remains loyal to its roots and keeps its classic high cushioned profile and meta-rocker platform.Bondi 8 incorporates an even softer EVA foam and a completely new upper making it the roomiest, most versatile and softest Bondi yet.With its humongous foam, your foot will find itself in a very comfy position. On top of this, it will allow you to move with precision, thanks to its highly stable ride.

Overall, the Bondi 8 from Hoka is a daily running shoe that's great for those who want a very cushioned ride. 

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The Bondi 8 Pros and Cons

Where to Buy HOKA Bondi 8?

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Gaviota 5 vs. Arahi 6 vs. Clifton 9 vs. Bondi 8: Comparision Side by Side

1. Shoe Specs

2. Outsole

Gaviota 5 - The Gaviota features a durable rubber outsole that exhibits excellent wear resistance.Whether you are running on roads, trails, or even rough surfaces, the Gaviota’s outsole shows minimal signs of wear resistance, providing confidence in its long-lasting performance.The Gaviota contains a broader base than the Clifton, which offers more steadiness and support.

Durabrasion rubber patches cover a series of “circles” running up and down both sides of the outsole as well as the tip of the shoe bringing decent grip. The rubber wears alongside exposed midsole. This shoe’s lowest point is outsole durability.

Arahi 6 - The outsole has a thin layer of high abrasion lightweight rubber. The bulk of the blown rubber is strategically placed in the forefoot and heel portions of the trainer.Zonal rubber on the outsole increases durability in this model. I would agree that the shoe does feel a little more durable than previous editions as the miles continue to add up.

Clifton 9 - The Clifton has also received an outsole update in version 9, featuring more outsole coverage along the medial side of the shoe.The Clifton 9 has more blown rubber than earlier versions (the downside of the rubber is it’s heavier!). I think the new outsole configuration helps add a level of stability.Clifton’s outsole is moderately more flexible, allowing for a more natural foot motion.

Bondi 8 - Like the previous version, the outsole uses a combination of exposed EVA foam and rubber overlays to protect the platform and maximize traction on the road.The result is convincing, with a good grip on wet pavement and easy dirt roads.The Bondi has rubber on the forefoot, rearfoot and on the lateral sides of the midfoot making the Bondi more durable than the Clifton.

3. Midsole

Gaviota 5 - This midsole now sports an early-stage Meta-Rocker that rolls the runner through the foot plant. Meta-Rockers function like a fulcrum, making the shoes roll like a rocking chair.The top, firm midsole layer is shaped like an “H” to provide support to both edges of the shoe. This increases Gaviota’s appeal with those who overpronate (roll too far in) and supinate (don’t roll far enough). This “H-frame” technology replaces the “J-frame” of the past.Gaviota’s soft CMEVA (compression molded ethylene vinyl acetate) midsole foam is comfortable without being squishy and is surprisingly light.

Arahi 6 - With a midsole constructed from a thick chunk of CMEVA foam, the Arahi 6 offers superb cushioning, making it a good choice for those clocking big miles. The stability of the Arahi comes from their J-Frame technology. This is a dual density part of the midsole that runs from your forefoot on the medial side to the heel portion of the lateral side (forming a J around your foot). You can tell where it is because it is a different color than the rest of the midsole.The Hoka Arahi is also equipped with an early stage Meta-Rocker geometry. This is a standard for most Hoka trainers. It is a rocker shaped midsole to promote smooth transitions and propulsion during runs.The Meta-Rocker geometry also shortens the adjustment period to these trainers.On the downside, it adds to the firmness felt from the midsole. 

Clifton 9 - The Clifton has an oversized EVA compression midsole. The Clifton has a Metarocker which smoothes the heel-to-toe transitions and the midsole of the Clifton feels soft in the forefoot and heel but doesn’t feel mushy. It gives you some responsiveness with plenty of deep cushioning without any bottoming-out flatness.The midsole has 3 mm of extra stack height but it’s lighter than the previous version at the same time.However,it still doesn’t have much energy return.

Bondi 8 - Bondi 8 kept Hoka's classic engineered EVA foam.The foam is placed strategically in line with Hoka’s classic Meta-Rocker platform and under typical strike zones like the heel and midfoot.There are beveled lines in the foam which look nice but serve the purpose of absorbing shock and helping move the stride forward. The Bondi has a heel stack height of 39mm and a forefoot stack height of 35mm. With such large stack heights, there is very little road feel in the shoes. Instead of road feel, you get massive amounts of foot protection and shock absorption.

4. Upper

Gaviota 5 - The upper part of the Gaviota 5 shoes is made from breathable materials, so your feet stay cool even during intense workouts or sweltering summers.It’s not only comfortable and breathable, but also eco-friendly and durable. Hoka shows that they care about the environment and sustainability by making the upper mesh with recycled materials.The upper provided an excellent heel lockdown and support for the foot all around. It was secure while being spacious enough through the midfoot and toe box for toe splay. A handy heel pull tab in the back makes it easy to slip the Gaviota 5 off and on.

Arahi 6 - The new jacquard mesh upper provides a sleek, sporty look, and the elevated plushness to the tongue creates all-day comfort. An added bonus to the upper is that it is made with vegan and recycled materials!Arahi contains a broader and more absorbent upper than the Gaviota, which may generate it more snug for those with wider feet.

Clifton 9 - The Clifton has a new engineered mesh upper with improved ventilation. HOKA has removed some overlay and hot melts, making the Clifton feel lighter than previous models, which is always appreciated. 

Bondi 8 - The Bondi also has an engineered mesh upper which is more durable. It has a redesigned heel counter made from memory foam. The memory foam gives the Bondi a premium look and feel. But, on this version, the lines look like they are pulling back to the heel and this is not only a more modern design but has a specific function.While designs on the upper may look cool, sleek, and modern, they actually serve a purpose in holding the foot securely in place and help guide the foot with every stride. 

5. Fit and Sizing

Gaviota 5 - The Gaviota 5 fits wider than previous versions of the shoe, which is something to keep in mind if you have narrow or low-volume feet.The toebox has a good amount of width for toe splaying.The heel counter is rigid about halfway up the heel and finished out with generous padding. The insole is removeable.The shoe's depth accommodates different foot shapes, making it a favorable choice for individuals requiring orthotic inserts.While the Gaviota 5 offers standard and wide-width options, the absence of a 4E option for men might pose limitations for those with wider feet.

Arahi 6 - The Hoka Arahi 6 fits 1/2 larger than many other shoes.Keeping in mind that the occasional wearer may need to go down 1/2 size to achieve the same fit they’re comfortable in with competing brands.The shoe offers a precise foot lockdown and has a broad toe box, which permits for more natural toe splay and a snug fit. 

Clifton 9 - The Clifton has a padded heel counter which locks down the heel well and a padded tongue which is semi gusseted.The toe box of the Clifton is wider than previous versions but in general the Clifton has a narrow fit so order the wide version if you don’t have narrow feet. The Clifton fits true to size.

Bondi 8 - The HOKA Bondi 8 fits true to size when it comes to the length of the shoe.The toe box has adequate height and foot splay room but like all Hoka shoes, the Bondi fits narrow so you might have to size up or get the wide version.

6. Stability

Hoka is using the same approach to add some inherent stability to these shoes:

• J-Frame system

• Dual-density EVA midsole

Because of Hoka’s innovative J-frame stability technology, you don’t have to worry quite as much about having that really solid extra hard posting on the medial side to cover up that arch.

Gaviota 5 - Geared for a wide variety of athletes, this reliable road shoe was engineered to provide a balanced ride over any distance. The J-Frame is more dominant in the Gaviota, which means the Gaviota is going to offer a little bit more protection and correct your overpronation more than the Arahi 6.

Arahi 6 - The Hoka Arahi 6 is a maximal, moderate stability shoe.The shoe is ideal for runners who overpronate. This stability running shoe corrects overpronation with J-Frame technology that offers support when needed without overcorrecting or adding weight.

Clifton 9 - Stability in the Clifton 9 is excellent. Not only does it have a very wide base but it also has a midsole rim which cups your foot and guides it through the gait cycle. This neutral trainer should be fine for even mild overpronators due to its high stability level.

Bondi 8 - Conversely, the Bondi is considered an average running shoe with no stability characteristics.

7. Durability

The Hoka Gaviota,Arahi,Clifton and Bondi are designed with top-quality materials and constructed to last. The outsole of these shoes is manufactured with durable rubber, which gives remarkable traction and durability.

However, sthe Gaviota’s upper material is easier-wearing than the other three's.The Gaviota’s upper material is designed with a mushier netting material, which may deteriorate faster than the others' more hard-wearing upper material.

Conclusion: Which Should You Buy?

The Arahi is really the stability option to the Clifton and the Gaviota is the stability max cushion version of the Bondi.The Arahi provides moderate stability and cushioning while the Gaviota offers the max.

The Hoka Gaviota is a sturdy shoe.The Gaviota may be the finer choice if you require more aid and correction for overpronation.

If you need a stable shoe with an optimal structure to better support your foot, then the Hoka Arahi is a compelling alternative.

If you’re a runner looking a pure long-distance or recovery trainer with an uber soft ride, the Clifton is for you. The Clifton is one of the most cushioned shoes on the market and offers plenty of protection and stability. The Clifton is lighter than the Bondi and is lighter on foot than it looks. 

If you’re a runner looking for daily trainer which has a silky smooth and cushioned ride, the Bondi is for you. The Bondi has a comfortable, secure mesh upper and a wide midsole base for high levels of stability.

In conclusion, the Hoka Gaviota,Arahi,Clifton and Bondi have advantages and disadvantages. It’s necessary to consider your particular requirements and likings when selecting which shoe to buy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Hoka Gaviota good for standing all day?

Featuring a dual-density midsole that is designed to stabilize the foot by reducing overpronation, the Gaviota offers your feet, knees, and back some extra support so you will still be feeling good as you clock out after a long day. You may even be feeling good enough to take them out for a post-work jog.

What is the Hoka Gaviota best for?

For everyday running or leisurely walking, the Gaviota is your go-to shoe. This is the definition of a premium stability shoe with its plush cushioning.

Is Hoka Gaviota good for knee pain?

A firm back exterior that cradles the heel and Hoka's signature J-frame (read: extra padding on the inner side of the sole) work together to prevent overpronation, a common contributor to knee pain.

What is Hoka Arahi best for?

The Hoka Arahi 6 is light, comfortable, and is a lively support shoe for a wide range of runners.

Are Hoka Arahi good for walking?

Ideal for walking and everyday running, these sneakers offer balanced cushioning and a frame designed to prevent feet from rolling inward as you step.

Are Hoka Arahi 6 good for running?

Remarkably light and exceptionally comfortable, the Arahi 6 is a lively support shoe for a wide range of runners.

What are Hoka Clifton 9s good for?

The Hoka Clifton 9 is a lightweight, mid-high cushion neutral shoe that is great for road runners, walkers or just those looking for a comfortable shoe to wear everyday. Because of the thick EVA foam midsole, it offers an incredibly comfortable ride while also feeling light on the feet.

Is Hoka Clifton 9 a good walking shoe?

The Hoka Clifton 9 will work for most runners. It's a neutral shoe with extra cushioning, which suits newbies to expert runners looking for a new daily trainer. But it's also an excellent shoe for anyone looking for a walking shoe or a shoe to wear at work, especially if you spend extended time standing or moving.

Is Clifton 8 or 9 better?

Both the Clifton 8 and 9 have CMEVA midsoles but the main difference is that the Clifton 9 is softer and squishier than the 8. This makes the Clifton 8 better for shorter, faster runs while the Clifton 9 is better for slow and long runs. The midsoles are shaped like a rocker, so they feel energy-saving during runs.

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