HOKA Clifton 9 vs Brooks Ghost 16
Verdict: The HOKA Clifton 9 excels for runners seeking maximal cushioning and speed on daily miles, beating the Brooks Ghost 16 by 1.3 oz in weight and offering a lower 5 mm drop versus 12 mm per HOKA and Brooks official specs. The Brooks Ghost 16 provides superior longevity at over 400 miles compared to the Clifton 9's 300-mile limit according to Runner's World and Road Runner Sports reviews. Choose the Clifton 9 for plush recovery runs or the Ghost 16 for versatile training that holds up longer.
Winner: HOKA Clifton 9
HOKA Clifton 9: 8.5/10
Brooks Ghost 16: 8/10
Spec-by-spec comparison
| HOKA Clifton 9 | Brooks Ghost 16 | |
|---|---|---|
| Weight (men's size 9) | 7.5 oz | 8.8 oz |
| Heel-to-toe drop | 5 mm | 12 mm |
| Cushioning type | CME-EVA foam | DNA Loft v3 |
| Upper material | Engineered mesh | Engineered mesh |
HOKA Clifton 9
What works
- Exceptionally lightweight for daily training
- Plush underfoot cushioning reduces impact
- Smooth rocker geometry aids forward propulsion
What doesn't
- Durability limited to 250-300 miles
- Narrower fit may require sizing up
Brooks Ghost 16
What works
- Versatile for both easy and tempo runs
- Reliable durability often exceeds 400 miles
- Stable platform with smooth transitions
What doesn't
- Heavier feel compared to minimalist options
- Less maximal cushioning than HOKA models
Bottom line
Our pick: HOKA Clifton 9. It edges out the alternative on exceptionally lightweight for daily training. That said, Brooks Ghost 16 still wins on versatile for both easy and tempo runs — consider it if that single trade matters most for your use.
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