8.7
/10
BEST FOR THE ACTIVE "ONE-SHOE" TRAVELER
8.7
/10
BEST FOR THE ACTIVE "ONE-SHOE" TRAVELER
Last Updated:
Jun 30, 2025
Clifton 9: The Active Traveler's "One Shoe" for Running, Walking, and Exploring
The Active Traveler's "One Shoe" for Running, Walking, and Exploring
Can one shoe handle your morning run \*and\* a full day of sightseeing on your trip? The Hoka Clifton 9 is built for exactly that, offering a sweet spot of Hoka cushioning in a lighter, more versatile package than the max-cushion Bondi. This review, based on extensive traveler reports, explores its performance as the ultimate active travel all-rounder.
🏃♂️
Versatility (Run/Walk)
9
Excels as a single shoe for trips combining running and long walking days.
😌
All-Day Comfort
8.5
Balanced cushioning keeps feet comfortable during hours of city exploration or light hiking.
🎒
Packability
9
Lighter and less bulky than max-cushion models, making it a better choice for carry-on travel.
🕊️
Lightweight Feel
8.5
Noticeably lighter feel on the foot, reducing fatigue over a long travel day.
Perfect For
🚶♀️
Run & Explore in One
🦶
Lighter to Pack
🏙️
Comfortable for City Walking
✈️
Good for Light Trails
🧍
Versatile Styling
Quality & Comfort
The Clifton 9 is a versatile travel shoe that excels for active explorers who want to mix running with extensive city walking. Its balance of cushioning and lightweight responsiveness makes it a standout choice for one-bag travel or trips where packing space is at a premium. The Meta-Rocker geometry promotes a smooth stride, a real benefit during those marathon 18,000-step days exploring European capitals. The streamlined look works for most cafes/restaurants, but still reads as athletic, not business-casual. While it doesn't offer the absolute maximum cushioning of the Bondi 8, it provides more than enough comfort for most travelers for all-day wear. Traveler feedback for those with high arches or who experience swelling after long flights consistently points to the wide fit as the safer, more comfortable choice. Its durability is solid, and it should easily last through a multi-month, high-mileage trip. If you want one comfortable shoe that can handle your workout and your sightseeing, the Clifton 9 is hard to beat.
Durability
Similar to the Bondi, the Clifton 9 uses durable materials expected to hold up well to regular walking and travel. The engineered knit upper is resilient, and the outsole rubber provides good traction and wear resistance for its intended use (road and light paths). Some users have reported slightly faster outsole wear compared to the Bondi, potentially due to the lighter weight and slightly different foam composition, but overall durability is considered good for a cushioned running/walking shoe. It should reliably handle multiple demanding trips and many, many steps.
Packability
The Clifton 9 offers a noticeable improvement in packability compared to the Bondi 8. Being roughly 2 ounces lighter per shoe and having a slightly less voluminous midsole means it takes up approximately 15% less luggage space. While still bulkier than minimalist travel shoes, the Clifton 9 strikes a better balance for travelers who want significant cushioning without completely sacrificing packability. Its reduced weight and volume make it a more practical choice for carry-on travel or trips involving frequent packing and unpacking.
Functionality
Functionally, the Clifton 9 is designed as a versatile cushioned shoe suitable for extensive walking, everyday wear, and even light jogging during travel. Its blend of cushioning and responsiveness works well across various paces. The stable platform provides confidence on typical urban surfaces. Its key function for travelers is providing joint-saving cushioning in a lighter, more energetic package than maximum cushion models. The breathability is adequate for most conditions but might feel warm in peak summer heat compared to highly ventilated shoes.
Value
The Clifton 9 sits at a similar premium price point to other high-end cushioned running shoes. Its value comes from offering a significant portion of the Bondi's cushioning benefits in a lighter, less bulky, and more responsive package. For travelers who cover serious mileage but found the Bondi too cumbersome or unstable, the Clifton 9 presents excellent value by hitting a 'sweet spot' of comfort, weight, and performance. The recommendation to try the wide fit adds a slight complexity, but finding the right fit unlocks its potential as a top-tier cushioned travel companion. If you need substantial cushioning but still value a relatively agile feel and easier packing, the Clifton 9 justifies its cost.
The Clifton 9 design almost encourages your foot to rock forward, like it's preparing you to just go. The Bondi feels a bit more flat, not feeling the rock.
- Reddit User r/Hoka
Did You Know?
HOKA shoes often receive the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance, recognizing products found to be beneficial to foot health.
Quick Verdict
✕
Performance Scores
Durability
8
Support
9
Stability
9
Cushioning
9.5
Versatility (Run/Walk)
8.5
Packability
8
All-Day Comfort
8.5
Lightweight Feel
8
The VOYAGER ULTRALIGHT transitions seamlessly from trail to terminal
The VOYAGER ULTRALIGHT transitions seamlessly from trail to terminal
Performance Analysis
Pros and Cons
Pros
✓
Excellent versatility for trips combining morning runs with long days of sightseeing.
✓
Lightweight and more packable than the max-cushion Bondi 8, making it better for carry-on travel.
✓
Balanced cushioning is comfortable for all-day wear and suitable for light trails.
✓
100% waterproof knit (no coating)
Cons
x
Less maximum cushioning than the Bondi 8, so may not be as forgiving for travelers with severe foot pain on very long walking days.
x
Exposed foam on the outsole can be a durability concern for some travelers, potentially wearing faster on rough city surfaces.
x
Not a specialized technical hiker; best for well-maintained trails.
x
The standard width can feel snug for some; the wide version is often recommended for all-day travel comfort.
Final Verdict
8.7
Balanced
Lightweight HOKA cushion saves joints on high-mileage travel days, letting you explore further.
The Hoka Clifton 9 offers a compelling blend of substantial cushioning and relatively lightweight performance, making it an excellent choice for travelers who log serious miles but prefer a more energetic feel than max-cushion giants like the Bondi 8. Its balanced design absorbs impact effectively on hard surfaces while the Meta-Rocker geometry promotes a smooth, efficient stride, which is why it's a favorite for high-step-count European trips.
While still bulkier than minimalist options, the Clifton 9 is noticeably lighter and easier to pack than the Bondi, striking a popular middle ground. Be mindful of the potentially snug midfoot fit – trying the wide version is recommended for most. For high-mileage walking vacations where comfort is key but agility is still valued, the Clifton 9 is a well-regarded and high-performing option. Your knees might just thank you for choosing these for those endless cobblestone explorations.
SHOP NOW
Compare Alternatives
Hoka Clifton 9
$150
Breathable engineered knit upper
Gusseted tongue
Durabrasion rubber outsole
SHOP NOW
We may earn a commission when you purchase through our links, at no additional cost to you.
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Active Travel All-Rounder
Hoka Clifton 9
The Active Traveler's "One Shoe" for Running, Walking, and Exploring
8.7
SCORE
Lightweight HOKA cushion saves joints on high-mileage travel days, letting you explore further.
Last Updated:
Jun 30, 2025
Can one shoe handle your morning run \*and\* a full day of sightseeing on your trip? The Hoka Clifton 9 is built for exactly that, offering a sweet spot of Hoka cushioning in a lighter, more versatile package than the max-cushion Bondi. This review, based on extensive traveler reports, explores its performance as the ultimate active travel all-rounder.
✓
Strengths
Excellent versatility for trips combining morning runs with long days of sightseeing.
Lightweight and more packable than the max-cushion Bondi 8, making it better for carry-on travel.
Balanced cushioning is comfortable for all-day wear and suitable for light trails.
More streamlined style than the Bondi 8, making it easier to pair with casual travel outfits.
X
Consider
Less maximum cushioning than the Bondi 8, so may not be as forgiving for travelers with severe foot pain on very long walking days.
Exposed foam on the outsole can be a durability concern for some travelers, potentially wearing faster on rough city surfaces.
Not a specialized technical hiker; best for well-maintained trails.
The standard width can feel snug for some; the wide version is often recommended for all-day travel comfort.
View Current Price
Compare
🏃♂️
Versatility (Run/Walk)
8.5
🎒
Packability
8
😌
All-Day Comfort
8.5
🕊️
Lightweight Feel
8
🌧️
Weather
9.2
Performance
🚶♀️
Run & Explore in One
🦶
Lighter to Pack
🏙️
Comfortable for City Walking
✈️
Good for Light Trails
🧍
Versatile Styling
Perfect For
Quality & Comfort
The Clifton 9 is a versatile travel shoe that excels for active explorers who want to mix running with extensive city walking. Its balance of cushioning and lightweight responsiveness makes it a standout choice for one-bag travel or trips where packing space is at a premium. The Meta-Rocker geometry promotes a smooth stride, a real benefit during those marathon 18,000-step days exploring European capitals. The streamlined look works for most cafes/restaurants, but still reads as athletic, not business-casual. While it doesn't offer the absolute maximum cushioning of the Bondi 8, it provides more than enough comfort for most travelers for all-day wear. Traveler feedback for those with high arches or who experience swelling after long flights consistently points to the wide fit as the safer, more comfortable choice. Its durability is solid, and it should easily last through a multi-month, high-mileage trip. If you want one comfortable shoe that can handle your workout and your sightseeing, the Clifton 9 is hard to beat.
Durability
Similar to the Bondi, the Clifton 9 uses durable materials expected to hold up well to regular walking and travel. The engineered knit upper is resilient, and the outsole rubber provides good traction and wear resistance for its intended use (road and light paths). Some users have reported slightly faster outsole wear compared to the Bondi, potentially due to the lighter weight and slightly different foam composition, but overall durability is considered good for a cushioned running/walking shoe. It should reliably handle multiple demanding trips and many, many steps.
Packability
The Clifton 9 offers a noticeable improvement in packability compared to the Bondi 8. Being roughly 2 ounces lighter per shoe and having a slightly less voluminous midsole means it takes up approximately 15% less luggage space. While still bulkier than minimalist travel shoes, the Clifton 9 strikes a better balance for travelers who want significant cushioning without completely sacrificing packability. Its reduced weight and volume make it a more practical choice for carry-on travel or trips involving frequent packing and unpacking.
Functionality
Functionally, the Clifton 9 is designed as a versatile cushioned shoe suitable for extensive walking, everyday wear, and even light jogging during travel. Its blend of cushioning and responsiveness works well across various paces. The stable platform provides confidence on typical urban surfaces. Its key function for travelers is providing joint-saving cushioning in a lighter, more energetic package than maximum cushion models. The breathability is adequate for most conditions but might feel warm in peak summer heat compared to highly ventilated shoes.
Value
The Clifton 9 sits at a similar premium price point to other high-end cushioned running shoes. Its value comes from offering a significant portion of the Bondi's cushioning benefits in a lighter, less bulky, and more responsive package. For travelers who cover serious mileage but found the Bondi too cumbersome or unstable, the Clifton 9 presents excellent value by hitting a 'sweet spot' of comfort, weight, and performance. The recommendation to try the wide fit adds a slight complexity, but finding the right fit unlocks its potential as a top-tier cushioned travel companion. If you need substantial cushioning but still value a relatively agile feel and easier packing, the Clifton 9 justifies its cost.
The Clifton 9 design almost encourages your foot to rock forward, like it's preparing you to just go. The Bondi feels a bit more flat, not feeling the rock.
- Reddit User r/Hoka
You Might Also Like
Balanced
Lightweight HOKA cushion saves joints on high-mileage travel days, letting you explore further.
8.8
The Hoka Clifton 9 offers a compelling blend of substantial cushioning and relatively lightweight performance, making it an excellent choice for travelers who log serious miles but prefer a more energetic feel than max-cushion giants like the Bondi 8. Its balanced design absorbs impact effectively on hard surfaces while the Meta-Rocker geometry promotes a smooth, efficient stride, which is why it's a favorite for high-step-count European trips.
While still bulkier than minimalist options, the Clifton 9 is noticeably lighter and easier to pack than the Bondi, striking a popular middle ground. Be mindful of the potentially snug midfoot fit – trying the wide version is recommended for most. For high-mileage walking vacations where comfort is key but agility is still valued, the Clifton 9 is a well-regarded and high-performing option. Your knees might just thank you for choosing these for those endless cobblestone explorations.
SHOP NOW
Hoka Clifton 9
$149
✓
Breathable engineered knit upper
✓
Gusseted tongue
✓
Durabrasion rubber outsole
SHOP NOW
We may earn a commission when you purchase through our links, at no additional cost to you.
About The Author
Shaun
Travel Gear Editor
Shaun's recommendations stem from direct experience traveling 24 countries and living across 4 continents (currently based in Canada after years in the UK and Australia). Witnessing the gap between marketing claims and actual performance, he created this platform dedicated to unbiased, experience-driven gear reviews you can trust, free from paid promotions.
"From UK cobblestones to Aussie beaches and Canadian winters – living across continents teaches you what travel gear really needs to endure. That's the standard here."
📍
🇨🇦
Currently Based
🏠
🇬🇧
Hometown Country
🕒
7+
Years Travelling
🌎
25+
Countries Visited
Shaun's recommendations stem from direct experience traveling 24 countries and living across 4 continents (currently based in Canada after years in the UK and Australia). Witnessing the gap between marketing claims and actual performance, he created this platform dedicated to unbiased, experience-driven gear reviews you can trust, free from paid promotions.
"From UK cobblestones to Aussie beaches and Canadian winters – living across continents teaches you what travel gear really needs to endure. That's the standard here."
📍
🇨🇦
Currently Based
🏠
🇬🇧
Hometown Country
🕒
7+
Years Travelling
🌎
25+
Countries Visited
About The Author
Shaun
Travel Gear Editor
About The Author
Shaun
Travel Gear Editor
Shaun's recommendations stem from direct experience traveling 24 countries and living across 4 continents (currently based in Canada after years in the UK and Australia). Witnessing the gap between marketing claims and actual performance, he created this platform dedicated to unbiased, experience-driven gear reviews you can trust, free from paid promotions.
"From UK cobblestones to Aussie beaches and Canadian winters – living across continents teaches you what travel gear really needs to endure. That's the standard here."
📍
🇨🇦
Currently Based
🏠
🇬🇧
Hometown Country
🕒
7+
Years Travelling
🌎
25+
Countries Visited