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  1. Table of Contents
  2. Top
  3. Main Differences
  4. Design
    1. Weight
    2. Stack Heights
    3. External Shape
    4. Internal Shape
    5. Other Features
  5. Performance
    1. Heel Energy Return
    2. Forefoot Energy Return
    3. Heel Cushioning
    4. Forefoot Cushioning
    5. Heel Firmness
    6. Forefoot Firmness
  6. Comments

HOKA Clifton 9 vs HOKA Skyward X

Side-by-Side Comparison

Products

HOKA Clifton 9
HOKA Skyward X

Tested using Methodology v0.8

Updated Apr 15, 2025 04:45 PM

SEE PRICE
Amazon.com

Tested using Methodology v0.8

Updated Apr 01, 2025 09:49 PM

SEE PRICE
Amazon.com
HOKA Clifton 9 Picture
HOKA Skyward X Picture

Variants

  • Clifton 9 (Black/Black - (Women - US 7))
  • Clifton 9 (Black/Rose Gold - (Women - US 7))
  • Clifton 9 (Evening Sky Coral - (Women - US 7))
  • Clifton 9 (Frost/Gold - (Men - US 9))
  • Clifton 9 (Lettuce/Solar Flare - (Women - US 7))
  • Clifton 9 (Nimbuscloud/Steel Wool - (Men - US 9))
  • Clifton 9 (Oat Milk/Barley - (Men - US 9))
  • Clifton 9 (Olive Haze/Mercury - (Women - US 7))
  • Clifton 9 (Sandstone/Cream - (Women - US 7))
  • Clifton 9 (Solar Flare/Lettuce - (Men - US 9))
  • Clifton 9 (Stardust/Electric Cobalt - (Men - US 9))
  • Clifton 9 (Sunlit Ocean/Lilac Mist - (Women - US 7))
  • Clifton 9 (Vanilla/Astral - (Women - US 7))
  • Skyward X (Men - US 9) (Cosmic Grey/Silver)

Our Verdict

HOKA Clifton 9

HOKA Skyward X

The HOKA Skyward X and HOKA Clifton 9 are both high-stack, cushioned running shoes, yet they cater to different preferences and training needs. The Clifton 9 is lighter and offers superior lateral stability, partly due to its substantial yet lower stack height compared to the Skyward X. This design provides a more grounded feel and makes it suitable for runners seeking a stable daily trainer. In contrast, the Skyward X delivers more cushioning and significantly higher energy return, making for a more dynamic running experience.

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