Shopping

Hoka vs. Brooks running shoes: Which brand is best for most runners?

Most runners know the hype surrounding Hoka and Brooks running shoes.

Both brands are known for supportive and responsive footwear designed to improve your run while minimizing injury risk. Everyone, from 5K enthusiasts to everyday joggers, adores them, and honestly, that’s sort of the problem if you’re shopping for new sneakers: which one is better?

As a runner, I’ve often pondered the question, so I reached out to both Hoka and Brooks and asked, “May I test your shoes?”

Because no foot or runner’s strike is the same (more on that later), I also enlisted Commerce Writer Emma Sutton-Williams to test the sneakers with me. She’s done a triathlon, three marathons and several 10Ks. My running resume isn’t as impressive but I do clock a minimum of 3 miles every other day, plus have completed two 5Ks, including Warrior Dash.

Hoka vs. Brooks: Overview

Two pairs of sneakers on a pink and orange background.
New York Post Composite

Hoka:

Established in 2009 by Jean-Luc Diard and Nicolas Mermoud, Hoka quickly took off as a popular brand amongst runners, as well as celebrities who liked the oversized and colorful look of the sneakers. Known for its thicker-than-average sole, each shoe is made up of three core technologies: an Active Foot Frame, a Cushioned Midsole, and a MetaRocker. The frame cups the foot to gently keep it in place while the cushion acts as a shock absorber. The infamous Metarocker creates a smoother transition from heel to toe, reducing strain on the ankle and calf.

Brooks:

Although Brooks has been in the shoe making business for more than 100 years, it began producing sneakers in 1974. Since then, it has established a large catalog of athletic shoes, each known for being lightweight and outfitted with the latest technologies to assist with stability, speed, and overall comfort. Podiatrists love Brooks running shoes for their lower stack height, cushion and ankle support, while brand fans praise their flexibility and adaptability.

Hoka and Brooks make great shoes and are both approved by ?The American Podiatric Medical Association (AMPA), making it all the more difficult to decide which one to go with. To make things a touch easier on ourselves, we decided to go with popular picks from the brands and measure how they held up against each other.

Brooks Ghost 16

A pair of Brooks running sneakers in grey and purple.
Brooks

Pros:

  • Curved mid and outsole to aid in smoother transitioning
  • Secure upper designed to keep the foot in place
  • Updated with more cushioning for a softer landing
  • Inclusive sizing

Cons:

  • Not great for those with joint pain

Brooks is known for its supportive running sneakers and the Ghost 16 is no exception. It’s lighter and more breathable than others in the collection, offering softer cushioning and a flexible sole. For those who run in hot climates for long distances, these are sure to be a crowd pleaser, as they won’t weigh you down. The neutral running shoe has the brand’s GlideRoll Rocker, which works in conjunction with the curved mid and outer sole for easier transitions. An enhanced upper offers enhanced stability, while mid-level cushioning provides comfort to the ankle and heel.

Stack height: 24 mm | Weight: 8.5 ounces | Drop: 12 mm | Colors: 16+ | Sizes: (Women) 5-13, (Mens) 7-15


Hoka Clifton 9

An orange HOKA shoe
Hoka

Pros:

  • Responsive foam that cushions the foot and propels it forward
  • Great for those with joint issues
  • Early stage MetaRocker, which helps to evenly distribute the runner’s weight
  • Durabrasion rubber outer soles

Cons:

  • Breathability could be better
  • Still a heavier shoe

The latest in the award-winning Clifton series, the Clifton 9 promises a cushier landing than its predecessor with less weight. Those familiar with the line will recognize that some of the sneaker’s hotmelts and overlays have disappeared without compromising the softness of the shoe. While the general look is the same, the reduction in mass may positively impact your pace.

The sneaker also has an early-stage MetarRocker that starts midfoot to create a smoother transition from heel to toe. For those who deal with knee and ankle pain, this feature will be appreciated for its ability to alleviate pressure from impact. A neutral running shoe, it’s designed for runners seeking balance during daily runs.

Stack height: 29-32mm | Weight: 7 .05-8.7 ounces | Drop: 5.0 mm | Colors: 20+ | Sizes: (Women) 5-12, (Mens) 7-16


Our Review

Before Sutton-Williams or I took our new kicks for a test run (wink-wink), I reached out to two experts to expand my knowledge of what makes a good running shoe and the things anyone, from a bonafide athlete to a running novice, should consider when selecting a sneaker.

First, I contacted Ben Delaney, New York Road Runners Director of Training Programs. “Shopping online is how a lot of runners buy today but purchasing the “on trend” or most colorful shoe might not be what you need,” he explained.

“If a runner knows their foot strike and what shoe support they need (neutral, stability) that can help when buying online.”

1 of 6
A blue pair of sneakers
My Clifton 9 sneakers in a gorgeous blue color.Holly J Coley
A pair of pastel sneakers.
Sutton Williams Hoka sneakers.Emma Sutton-Williams
Advertisement
A pair of sneakers on a wooden staircase
Sutton-Williams pair of Brooks.Emma Sutton-Willams
A pair of black sneakers on a marble staircase.
I went for something more understated but still lovely for the Brooks Ghost 16Holly J Coley
Advertisement

If you don’t know what a foot strike is, don’t be ashamed. I’ve been running for years and had to ask Delaney for the definition. “A foot strike is defined as the moment in the running gait cycle when the foot first contacts the ground,” he explained.

“Ideally, we want the foot strike to land beneath the hips. Yet, as we know, runners come in all shapes and sizes. It’s important to consider there is no single perfect running technique to suit everybody…Depending on your foot strike this will help inform you on what type of shoe will best suit your running needs.”

Additionally, comfort plays a large role and should take precedence over everything else. Wil Colón, a Clinical Specialist at NYU Running Performance Program, recommended paying attention to the cushioning of a sneaker, especially if unable to try it on in person.

“Having a shoe that you feel comfortable running in is really important,” he explained, mentioning that two runners could have the same foot strike but still require different shoes based on the intensity of their landing.

How to know your foot strike:

You don’t need to visit a runner clinic to learn your foot strike but merely have to pay attention to the way your foot lands when you run. Checking the bottom of your current sneakers for where they have the most wear and tear is also a good indicator.

  • Forefoot strike: If your toes or outside of the foot touch the ground first, you have a forefoot strike. Those who have this runner style tend to have a quick and light gait.
  • Midfoot: Those with a midfoot strike land with their heel and toe on the ground at the same time. This helps to evenly distribute weight and minimize impact.
  • Heel: A heel strike is the most common of the three types and is when the heel of the foot lands first.

I’m a midfoot striker with bony, high-arched feet, so I like lightweight sneakers with ample cushioning.

In contrast, Sutton-Williams is a forefoot striker but also prefers sneakers with a softer feel. “I look for a cushion,” she said. “I’ve run several marathons now, so my knees are a little overused. I want a shoe that gives me a little roll forward, so higher in the back and lower in the front to propel me forward. If I’m working out in the gym, I prefer a flat running shoe that’s more even and provides balance.”

Hoka vs. Brooks: Feel

As someone who has worn (and loved) the Brooks Ghost for years, I didn’t think a more comfortable shoe existed until I tried the Hoka Clifton 9. Slipping them on was like experiencing a hybrid memory foam mattress after years of sleeping on a box spring.

This isn’t to say that the Brooks Ghost 16 isn’t comfortable. It is. But the plushness that the Clifton 9 offers is truly on another level.

For those with more fat on their feet or who prefer a lighter-weight sneaker, the Ghost 16 may be better equipped. However, I found that I wasn’t hindered by the weight because of how easy the MetaRocker made it for me to move forward.

Sutton-Williams also agreed that when it came to feel, Hoka won. “I found that my knees stopped aching when I switched to the Clifton 9,” she said.

Hoka vs. Brooks: Fit and Sizing

Feet naturally expand as you run, so I ordered up a size in both sneakers. While a few customer reviews on Brooks’ website reported that they run small, I found that they had a glove-like fit and Sutton-Williams thought it was a major pro that they were also available in wide, extra wide, and narrow.

There wasn’t excess room in the toe box but for those concerned with stability, this isn’t necessarily a bad thing, and if you enjoy feeling like your foot is molding with the shoe, you’ll enjoy the overall feel.

As for the Clifton 9, I also found them true to size, though they felt very different than the Ghost 16. As previously mentioned, they’re heavier. I also felt there was more room between my foot and the wall of the shoe. Again, not a bad, thing, but if you like something more snug, Brooks will be for you.

Hoka vs. Brooks: Durability

I’ve been running in the Hoka and Brooks sneakers since June and would characterize both as exceptionally durable shoes. On average, I run between 17 to 25 miles per week, so between the two, I’ve already put close to 100 miles on both.

As you can see, the bottoms are still in excellent shape, especially considering that I run mainly on concrete.

1 of 3
The bottoms of my Clifton 9 sneakers.Holly J Coley
The bottom of a pair of sneakers.
The bottom of my Ghost 16 sneakers.Holly J Coley
Advertisement

Although I’ve worn the Clifton 9 a bit more, I got caught in a terrible downpour while wearing the Ghost 16 and they still held up beautifully. Deterioration to the tread has been minimal.

Hoka vs. Brooks: Cushioning

Sutton-Williams and I both agree that the cushioning for the Hoka Clifton 9 is unparalleled. While most of the cushion in the Ghost 16 is felt around the heel, the cushion in the Clifton’s is felt throughout.

For those who run on track or treadmills, the additional plushness may not feel necessary. However, my feet and joints found it intoxicating.

Interestingly, I preferred the Brooks more on the treadmill, which I typically walked on instead. It felt easier to get a sense of the belt, which made me feel more secure than when I wore the Cliftons.

Hoka vs. Brooks: Stability

In terms of stability, both sneakers are top, though I will say I was more aware of my foot strike when wearing the Brooks. They fit closer to the foot, so there’s no jostling around, making one feel more stable inside the shoe. However, I also felt I had less protection if I tripped or turned my heel the wrong way.

In contrast, while not being as breathable, the Clifton 9 gave me more “breathing room,” if that makes sense. I felt, even when I tied both sneakers tightly, that I received better circulation to my feet in the Cliftons, which resulted in longer runs.

Because they’re more glove-like, the Brooks’ felt less forgiving when my strike became a little sloppy, which can happen on the last lap. In some ways, this is a positive, as they forced me to maintain proper form.

Hoka vs. Brooks: Price and Value

Coming in at a $5 difference, the Ghost 16 and Clifton 9 will roughly cost you the same. Are they both worth it? Yes.

Both brands are loved by runners for a reason. Known for their exceptional quality, either option is money well spent. It all comes down to what you’re looking for and your preference in terms of feel.

The Bottom Line:

Brooks Ghost 16

Hoka Clifton 9

Pros:

  • Lightweight feel, making them amazing for those working on their speed or who run long-distance
  • The Brooks’ Ghost 16 offers exceptional stability, hugging the foot as it moves
  • Durable with wonderful grip, even on slick surfaces

Pros:

  • Hoka’s Clifton 9 has outstanding cushioning from heel to toe
  • Top pick for those with joint pain or sensitive knees
  • Durable and comfortable fit

Cons:

  • The cushion feels minimal compared to the Clifton 9

Cons:

  • Lighter than the Clifton 8 but heavier than the Ghost 16

As mentioned multiple times in this review, the Brooks Ghost 16 and Hoka Clifton 9 are both fantastic running sneakers, and most would be happy to have either as part of their running gear. Sutton-Williams wore the Ghost to cross the finishing line of a marathon and would “recommend [them] for long-distance runs, especially if you’re aiming to break speed records.”

We also agreed that they were better in terms of stability, and could also be enjoyed for cross-training, as they are lower to the ground. However, both of us really loved wearing the Clifton 9.

“It’s an excellent choice for anyone with joint issues, as the slightly elevated heel softens the impact. A friend of mine, who fractured her foot, was advised by her podiatrist to wear Hokas exclusively,” said Sutton-Williams.

Similarly, I found them more pleasurable to wear. Although heavier than the Ghost 16, I was able to run longer because my feet were so comfortable.

For those looking for a sneaker they can run and do other sporty activities in, the Ghost 16 will work well. However, for those seeking a sneaker purely for running, the Clifton 9 is unbelievable.

1 of 3
Showing off my very comfy Hoka Clifton 9 sneakers.Holly J Coley
A running selfie in my new favorite Hoka sneakers.Holly J Coley
Advertisement

How we tested:

To test the Clifton 9 and Ghost 16 we looked at a variety of things:

  • Surfaces: Because not all runners train in the same environment, Sutton-Williams and I tested both sneakers on various surfaces, including treadmills, running tracks, and sidewalks. This was the best way for us to determine the sneakers’ overall feel and stability when used on different terrains.
  • Weight: The weight of a sneaker can greatly impact one’s speed and how they move. When testing the sneakers, we asked ourselves how the shoe’s weight impacted, if at all, our endurance and whether it enhanced or took it away.
  • Comfort: This was the largest deciding factor. While we both agreed that stability is important, it also plays into a shoe’s comfort and whether one feels protected during a run. Because of its extra cushioning and design, we felt the Clifton 9 was supportive and pleasant to wear, making training easier.

November 2024 Update:

Four months after publishing this review I’m still wearing my Hoka Clifton 9 sneakers. Truthfully, I wouldn’t recommend this as experts encourage runners to change their sneakers every 300 miles. However, I’m really frugal and with some inserts, my Clifton’s are still holding up.

I continue to be impressed with them. While there’s some wear on the tread, they still hold exceptional cushion and bounce.

I wear them for my morning runs and walks. Minus some dirt from the New York City streets, they’ve retained their gorgeous shape and color.

I still highly recommend them to friends and family and have every intention of buying another pair when I feel these are finally on their last mile.


Why Trust Post Wanted by the New York Post

For over 200 years, the New York Post has been America’s go-to source for bold news, engaging stories, in-depth reporting, and now, insightful shopping guidance. We’re not just thorough reporters – we sift through mountains of information, test and compare products, and consult experts on any topics we aren’t already schooled specialists in to deliver useful, realistic product recommendations based on our extensive and hands-on analysis. Here at The Post, we’re known for being brutally honest – we clearly label partnership content, and whether we receive anything from affiliate links, so you always know where we stand. We routinely update content to reflect current research and expert advice, provide context (and wit) and ensure our links work. Please note that deals can expire, and all prices are subject to change.


Hunting for a headline-worthy haul? Keep shopping with Post Wanted.

universo-virtual.com
buytrendz.net
thisforall.net
benchpressgains.com
qthzb.com
mindhunter9.com
dwjqp1.com
secure-signup.net
ahaayy.com
soxtry.com
tressesindia.com
puresybian.com
krpano-chs.com
cre8workshop.com
hdkino.org
peixun021.com
qz786.com
utahperformingartscenter.org
maw-pr.com
zaaksen.com
ypxsptbfd7.com
worldqrmconference.com
shangyuwh.com
eejssdfsdfdfjsd.com
playminecraftfreeonline.com
trekvietnamtour.com
your-business-articles.com
essaywritingservice10.com
hindusamaaj.com
joggingvideo.com
wandercoups.com
onlinenewsofindia.com
worldgraphic-team.com
bnsrz.com
wormblaster.net
tongchengchuyange0004.com
internetknowing.com
breachurch.com
peachesnginburlesque.com
dataarchitectoo.com
clientfunnelformula.com
30pps.com
cherylroll.com
ks2252.com
webmanicura.com
osostore.com
softsmob.com
sofietsshotel.com
facetorch.com
nylawyerreview.com
apapromotions.com
shareparelli.com
goeaglepointe.com
thegreenmanpubphuket.com
karotorossian.com
publicsensor.com
taiwandefence.com
epcsur.com
odskc.com
inzziln.info
leaiiln.info
cq-oa.com
dqtianshun.com
southstills.com
tvtv98.com
thewellington-hotel.com
bccaipiao.com
colectoresindustrialesgs.com
shenanddcg.com
capriartfilmfestival.com
replicabreitlingsale.com
thaiamarinnewtoncorner.com
gkmcww.com
mbnkbj.com
andrewbrennandesign.com
cod54.com
luobinzhang.com
bartoysdirect.com
taquerialoscompadresdc.com
aaoodln.info
amcckln.info
drvrnln.info
dwabmln.info
fcsjoln.info
hlonxln.info
kcmeiln.info
kplrrln.info
fatcatoons.com
91guoys.com
signupforfreehosting.com
faithfirst.net
zjyc28.com
tongchengjinyeyouyue0004.com
nhuan6.com
oldgardensflowers.com
lightupthefloor.com
bahamamamas-stjohns.com
ly2818.com
905onthebay.com
fonemenu.com
notanothermovie.com
ukrainehighclassescort.com
meincmagazine.com
av-5858.com
yallerdawg.com
donkeythemovie.com
corporatehospitalitygroup.com
boboyy88.com
miteinander-lernen.com
dannayconsulting.com
officialtomsshoesoutletstore.com
forsale-amoxil-amoxicillin.net
generictadalafil-canada.net
guitarlessonseastlondon.com
lesliesrestaurants.com
mattyno9.com
nri-homeloans.com
rtgvisas-qatar.com
salbutamolventolinonline.net
sportsinjuries.info
topsedu.xyz
xmxm7.com
x332.xyz
sportstrainingblog.com
autopartspares.com
readguy.net
soniasegreto.com
bobbygdavis.com
wedsna.com
rgkntk.com
bkkmarketplace.com
zxqcwx.com
breakupprogram.com
boxcardc.com
unblockyoutubeindonesia.com
fabulousbookmark.com
beat-the.com
guatemala-sailfishing-vacations-charters.com
magie-marketing.com
kingstonliteracy.com
guitaraffinity.com
eurelookinggoodapparel.com
howtolosecheekfat.net
marioncma.org
oliviadavismusic.com
shantelcampbellrealestate.com
shopleborn13.com
topindiafree.com
v-visitors.net
qazwsxedcokmijn.com
parabis.net
terriesandelin.com
luxuryhomme.com
studyexpanse.com
ronoom.com
djjky.com
053hh.com
originbluei.com
baucishotel.com
33kkn.com
intrinsiqresearch.com
mariaescort-kiev.com
mymaguk.com
sponsored4u.com
crimsonclass.com
bataillenavale.com
searchtile.com
ze-stribrnych-struh.com
zenithalhype.com
modalpkv.com
bouisset-lafforgue.com
useupload.com
37r.net
autoankauf-muenster.com
bantinbongda.net
bilgius.com
brabustermagazine.com
indigrow.org
miicrosofts.net
mysmiletravel.com
selinasims.com
spellcubesapp.com
usa-faction.com
snn01.com
hope-kelley.com
bancodeprofissionais.com
zjccp99.com
liturgycreator.com
weedsmj.com
majorelenco.com
colcollect.com
androidnews-jp.com
hypoallergenicdogsnames.com
dailyupdatez.com
foodphotographyreviews.com
cricutcom-setup.com
chprowebdesign.com
katyrealty-kanepa.com
tasramar.com
bilgipinari.org
four-am.com
indiarepublicday.com
inquick-enbooks.com
iracmpi.com
kakaschoenen.com
lsm99flash.com
nana1255.com
ngen-niagara.com
technwzs.com
virtualonlinecasino1345.com
wallpapertop.net
nova-click.com
abeautifulcrazylife.com
diggmobile.com
denochemexicana.com
eventhalfkg.com
medcon-taiwan.com
life-himawari.com
myriamshomes.com
nightmarevue.com
allstarsru.com
bestofthebuckeyestate.com
bestofthefirststate.com
bestwireless7.com
declarationintermittent.com
findhereall.com
jingyou888.com
lsm99deal.com
lsm99galaxy.com
moozatech.com
nuagh.com
patliyo.com
philomenamagikz.net
rckouba.net
saturnunipessoallda.com
tallahasseefrolics.com
thematurehardcore.net
totalenvironment-inthatquietearth.com
velislavakaymakanova.com
vermontenergetic.com
sizam-design.com
kakakpintar.com
begorgeouslady.com
1800birks4u.com
2wheelstogo.com
6strip4you.com
bigdata-world.net
emailandco.net
gacapal.com
jharpost.com
krishnaastro.com
lsm99credit.com
mascalzonicampani.com
sitemapxml.org
thecityslums.net
topagh.com
flairnetwebdesign.com
bangkaeair.com
beneventocoupon.com
noternet.org
oqtive.com
smilebrightrx.com
decollage-etiquette.com
1millionbestdownloads.com
7658.info
bidbass.com
devlopworldtech.com
digitalmarketingrajkot.com
fluginfo.net
naqlafshk.com
passion-decouverte.com
playsirius.com
spacceleratorintl.com
stikyballs.com
top10way.com
yokidsyogurt.com
zszyhl.com
16firthcrescent.com
abogadolaboralistamd.com
apk2wap.com
aromacremeria.com
banparacard.com
bosmanraws.com
businessproviderblog.com
caltonosa.com
calvaryrevivalchurch.org
chastenedsoulwithabrokenheart.com
cheminotsgardcevennes.com
cooksspot.com
cqxzpt.com
deesywig.com
deltacartoonmaps.com
despixelsetdeshommes.com
duocoracaobrasileiro.com
fareshopbd.com
goodpainspills.com
kobisitecdn.com
makaigoods.com
mgs1454.com
piccadillyresidences.com
radiolaondafresca.com
rubendorf.com
searchengineimprov.com
sellmyhrvahome.com
shugahouseessentials.com
sonihullquad.com
subtractkilos.com
valeriekelmansky.com
vipasdigitalmarketing.com
voolivrerj.com
zeelonggroup.com
1015southrockhill.com
10x10b.com
111-online-casinos.com
191cb.com
3665arpentunitd.com
aitesonics.com
bag-shokunin.com
brightotech.com
communication-digitale-services.com
covoakland.org
dariaprimapack.com
freefortniteaccountss.com
gatebizglobal.com
global1entertainmentnews.com
greatytene.com
hiroshiwakita.com
iktodaypk.com
jahatsakong.com
meadowbrookgolfgroup.com
newsbharati.net
platinumstudiosdesign.com
slotxogamesplay.com
strikestaruk.com
trucosdefortnite.com
ufabetrune.com
weddedtowhitmore.com
12940brycecanyonunitb.com
1311dietrichoaks.com
2monarchtraceunit303.com
601legendhill.com
850elaine.com
adieusolasomade.com
andora-ke.com
bestslotxogames.com
cannagomcallen.com
endlesslyhot.com
iestpjva.com
ouqprint.com
pwmaplefest.com
qtylmr.com
rb88betting.com
buscadogues.com
1007macfm.com
born-wild.com
growthinvests.com
promocode-casino.com
proyectogalgoargentina.com
wbthompson-art.com
whitemountainwheels.com
7thavehvl.com
developmethis.com
funkydogbowties.com
travelodgegrandjunction.com
gao-town.com
globalmarketsuite.com
blogshippo.com
hdbka.com
proboards67.com
outletonline-michaelkors.com
kalkis-research.com
thuthuatit.net
buckcash.com
hollistercanada.com
docterror.com
asadart.com
vmayke.org
erwincomputers.com
dirimart.org
okkii.com
loteriasdecehegin.com
mountanalog.com
healingtaobritain.com
ttxmonitor.com
bamthemes.com
nwordpress.com
11bolabonanza.com
avgo.top