Hoka Arahi vs Clifton 8 Key Differences 

A few years ago, I suddenly felt pain in my big toes. The worst thing is, I was wearing the wrong shoe type. I started looking for a new pair. Hoka Arahi and Hoka Clifton grabbed my eyes. I compared them side by side and found key differences.  

So, what is the difference between Hoka Arahi vs Clifton? Hoka Arahi is a stability shoe for overpronators. Hoka Clifton is a neutral shoe ideal for everyone. Though, Clifton may not provide the necessary support to the people with overpronation.

Besides the shoe type, Arahi and Clifton have vital differences. I shared my research result in more detail in this comprehensive guide.

Hoka Arahi vs Clifton – Comparison Chart

Parameter	Hoka Clifton	Hoka Arahi
Weight	Men: 8.5 oz. (average)Women: 7.2 (average)	Men: 9.9 oz. (average)Women: 8.2 (average)
Stack Height	Heel: 29 mmForefoot: 14 mm	Heel: 27 mmForefoot: 22 mm
Heel to Toe Drop	5 mm	5 mm
Upper	Engineered mesh	Engineered flat knit mesh
Midsole	EVA foam	EVA foam
Outsole	Rubber	Rigid rubber
Best for	Neutral runners	Overpronators
Durability	Low	High
Shoe Type	Neutral	Stability

Feature Comparison Between Hoka Arahi and Clifton

Whatever Hoka shoes you buy, remember they come with specific benefits and drawbacks. Here is a detailed difference between Hoka Arahi and Clifton so you can make a precise decision.

Design

The design seems similar for both shoes. However, the differences will appear if you look intently.

You can see the J-frame line throughout the heel area in Arahi. Also, the well-padded tongue and collar are visible.

Hoka Clifton looks well-cushioned from the upper. Moreover, the wide toe box area makes it seem suitable for people with wider feet.

Upper

100% vegan materials and seamless engineered mesh are used in the Clifton’s upper. I wore them without socks and felt air passing through the breathable upper. I found Cliftons the most breathable so far.

Hoka Arahi shoes also feel breathable, yet the upper construction differs from Cliftons. Engineered flat knit upper provides a comfortable feeling regardless of your activities. Hoka designed Arahi styles with enough padding around the heel collar. Such a design guarantees a perfect balance between breathability and comfort.

Midsole

Hokas are designed with EVA foam for extra comfort and flexibility. The Arahi and Clifton styles promise to provide the same level of support with flexible midsoles.

Dual-density midsole features a firmer EVA J-frame, providing significant stability in your gait cycle. Thick Otholite insoles are used in the shoes. As a result, they become suitable for longer recovery runs.

One-piece thick EVA foam makes the Hoka Clifton lightweight. Necessary amounts of cushioning in the midsole helps soft landings when running. Also, the heel has raised side walls to prevent accidental slippage.  

Outsole

The outsole rubber in the Clifton is considerably thick. Also, some exposed midsole foam holds up reasonably well. Meta-rocker helps your feet to roll forward. Thus, you will feel less fatigued when wearing them for a whole day.

On the other hand, thick and dense rubber covers 75% of the outsole of Hoka Arahi. Harder-to-touch outsole offers significant grip on a variety of terrains. Also, meta-rocker and J-frame performs combine to propel you forward.

Durability

If you are looking for durable Hoka shoes, the Arohi series will surely meet your expectations. The outsole of Clifton has some exposed midsole foam, resulting in less durability. Moreover, the stiff sole fights poorly against regular wear and tear.

In contrast, Arahi doesn’t show premature damage in the dense rubberized outsole. Also, the upper cushioning feels the same as the first days after wearing them for several months. You can wear them for day-long running purposes for many days.

Pronation Control

People with overpronation require the right amount of support from their shoes when walking. Too much or too little support doesn’t work for them. In this case, Hoka Arahi provides the required support.

Hoka Arahi shoes prevent forward rolling, eliminating awkward strikes. You will barely feel uncomfortable wearing them if you have an overpronation issue. Besides, a wearer stated that Arahi solved Hallux Rigidus in both of their big toes. 

Conversely, Hoka Clifton also supports overpronators less than Hoka Arahi. The series lacks controlling overpronation. However, they can be effective for mild pronators. Hoka Clifton is an ideal choice for neutral runners.

Weight

The Clifton is lighter between the styles. The average weight of Hoka Clifton Men’s shoes is 8.5 oz., and women’s shoes weigh 7.2 oz. You can wear them during faster workouts, daily or weekend runs. Additionally, its lightweight design makes it more versatile.

Then again, the weight of men’s and women’s Arahi shoes is 9.9 oz. and 8.1 oz. respectively. Maximum cushioning plays a vital role in the weight of Hoka Arahi. 

Keep in mind that the shoe’s weight varies based on the size. 

Terrain

If you are looking for a pair of road running shoes, Arahi and Clifton will meet your requirements. They offer superb traction with fantastic soles. What’s more! You can wear them for almost all terrains.

Arahi outsole features zonal rubber, letting you run on a wide range of terrains without discomfort. Also, you will not slip when running on uneven surfaces due to the stable design.

On top of that, Clifton shoes are ideal for track running compared to Asics, Brooks and Nike. They are a good performer with hard surfaces like concrete. Extra cushioning in the midsole absorbs shocks and impacts. You will hardly feel fatigued and in pain.

Hoka Arahi vs Clifton – Which Provides Ultimate Comfort?

So, do you want a clear suggestion?

As I always said, buy one that fits comfortably. Picking just one is hard because of its distinctive features. 

I suggest you buy Clifton if	I suggest you buy Arahi, if
Want a lightweight shoe	Require a durable shoe
Looking for a neutral running shoe	Run on uneven terrains a lot
You have a wider foot	You are an overpronator