Hoka Clifton and Topo Phantom are both neutral running shoes that have a lot of cushioning, lightness and comfort.
We are today comparing Hoka Clifton 8 and Topo Phantom 2 as these are the latest models of these two shoes currently.
In the sections below, I’ve tried to compare these two shoes in as much detail as possible. Hopefully, by the end of this post, you will be able to choose between Topo Phantom vs Hoka Clifton…
Topo Phanton is heavier than Hoka Clifton. The women’s version of Topo Phanton weighs around 9.1oz or 258g whereas Hoka Clifton’s women’s version weighs around 8.0oz or 226.8g. Topo Phantom’s men’s version weighs around 10.4oz or 295g whereas that of Hoka Clifton’s weighs around 8.9oz or 252.3g.
The heel stack of Hoka Clifton (37mm) is higher than that of Topo Phantom (34mm) by 3mm.
The forefoot stack of Hoka Clifton (32mm) is higher than that of Topo Phantom (29mm) by 5mm.
Hoka Clifton has two toe-box widths available for both the women’s version and the men’s version whereas for Topo Phantom there is only one toe-box width available for both versions.
The latest generation of Hoka Clifton is 8 whereas the current generation of Topo Phantom is 2.
Hoka Clifton and Topo Phantom are neutral running shoes. Both of these shoes are very comfortable and shock-absorbing and will provide you with an excellent ride.
They have excellent breathability and stretch, and the outsole has a proper grip on both wet and dry surfaces. You have lesser chances of tripping and falling while wearing these shoes.
In the following sections, I’ll be providing you with an in-depth comparison of Hoka Clifton and Topo Phantom.
So, let’s proceed…
Topo Phantom 2 Vs Hoka Clifton 8 – Features at a glance
Hoka Clifton Vs. Topo Phantom – A head-to-head comparison
In the above sections, we have provided you with some basic differences and similarities between Topo Phantom and Hoka Clifton.
In the following sections, we will be providing you with more details about these two running shoes.
Outsole
The outsole of Topo Phantom is partly made of the exposed midsole and partly with the midsole covered by durable rubber.
If you observe the presence of the durable rubber on the outsole it is only present in the places where there will be more wear and tear.
It is not present in the other places and in those areas you will have a rubberized midsole which is actually the most part of the outsole.
Also, there are different patterns that are made on the outsole. Most of them are either vertical or horizontal. These are the flex groove patterns that make the outsole flexible.
If you didn’t have that the outsole of Topo Phantom would have been very stiff. Also, there are lug patterns that are present in the durable rubber area.
This improves the grip of the shoe. Also, in general, the rubber that is present in the outsole only improves the grip of the shoe.
The outsole of Hoka Clifton is also similar. It has durable rubber in the high wear and tear areas of the outsole.
For the rest of the places, it has a rubberized exposed midsole. Also, the exposed midsole also has a lot of patterns present.
The most important is what is present in the forefoot as this is related to the flexibility of the shoe. If you observe the forefoot of Hoka Clifton, you will find the durable rubber and the midsole is placed parallelly at an angle and in an alternating pattern.
This actually improves flexibility. If the entire area was covered with rubber then the firmness of the sole would have been too much.
Also, due to the presence of durable rubber in high wear and tear-prone areas, improves the overall lifespan of the shoe.
Midsole
The midsole of Topo Phantom is made from ZIP Foam. This is a lightweight foam that is cushy, comfortable, and responsive.
Topo Phantom is already a maximally cushioned running shoe and with Phantom 2, the level of cushioning has increased. Topo Phantom 2 has 3mm more cushioning which makes it, even more, cushier and more comfortable.
This is a low-drop running shoe and has a heel-to-toe drop of 5mm. The heel stack of Topo Phantom is around 34mm whereas the forefoot is around 29mm.
This is a good shoe for any kind of running especially the long-distance ones. However, I’ll not take them for the speed workout.
On the other hand, Hoka Clifton‘s midsole is made from CMEVA. This is compression-molded EVA foam that provides you with exceptional cushioning.
Hoka Clifton is not a maximally cushioned running shoe. Instead, it has balanced cushioning which means, it is a mix of responsiveness and cushioning and you can feel the difference when you wear both of these shoes.
One of them feels like a pillowy cushion whereas Hoka Clifton feels a lot snappier.
The heel-to-toe drop of Hoka Clifton is also 5mm, however, the stack height is different. The forefoot stack is around 32mm and the heel stack is around 37mm.
Although the stack height of both the forefoot and the rearfoot is more than that of Topo Phantom, due to the nature of the materials used in these shoes Hoka Clifton feels snappier.
Upper
The upper of Topo Phantom is made of engineered mesh. This is an overlay-free mesh and is very breathable.
Like many other companies, Topo is also shifting towards a more eco-friendly line of products. Topo phantom is one of them.
It has 30% recycled material in its upper. This helps Topo to be more environmentally friendly and reduces its overall carbon footprint.
Unlike Hoka, Topo is still going with the more traditional look for its running shoes and doesn’t have an extended pull tab.
However, the collar that it has is well padded and will provide you with a good amount of comfort.
Combined with the padded tongue, it will provide your ankle with more stability and you will have fewer chances of twisting your ankles.
Also, it has a padded insole that provides you with step-in comfort and good arch support. The external TPU heel keeps your feet firmly grounded on the platform and you will not have to deal with heel slips or such things.
Like Hoka Clifton, Topo Phantom also has flat laces which remain tied while you run.
What I don’t like about Phantom is its look. It looks bulky and not at all stylish. It is very comfortable however, it doesn’t get a lot of points in the looks department.
Also, another thing that I don’t like about this shoe is that it is not available in wide fit. People who have wider foot requirements will not be able to use it.
Like Topo Phantom, Hoka Clifton also has an engineered mesh upper. Also, like Topo Phantom, it is made from recycled material.
This mesh is durable, breathable, and provides you with excellent comfort. It stretches where and when required and still maintains its structure.
The collar area has an extended pull tab for the easy wearing of the shoe. This collar is also decently padded for providing more ankle and Achilles support.
Also, the tongue is anatomically designed and provides you with additional ankle support.
Like Topo Phantom, Hoka Clifton also has flat laces. These laces don’t come undone when you are running.
Also, the inside of the shoe is very smooth and doesn’t rub against your skin. This is important because such friction can create blisters.
I find Hoka Clifton‘s look to be very stylish and it is also available in multiple widths for both genders. This is great for runners like me who have bunions.
Weight
Hoka Clifton is lighter than Topo Phantom for both versions. It is understandable as Topo Athletic Phantom is a maximally cushioned running shoe and Hoka Clifton has a balanced cushioning.
Topo Phantom weighs around 9.1oz /258g for women and 10.4oz/295g for men.
Hoka Clifton weighs around 8.0oz/226.8g for women and 8.9oz/252.3g for men.
Price
The price of Hoka Clifton and Topo Phantom is almost similar. If you check the price difference between the current versions of Clifton and Phantom, you will find a difference of $0.05 or 5 cents.
This difference is negligible and will not affect your decision to pick the one more suitable for you. Also, since the drop of both of these shoes is also the same, this also will not help you decide on the same.
So, I would suggest that you try on both of these shoes and find out which feels more comfortable to you. Some, love the plush cushioning and the others will like the responsiveness.
Based on your comfort and preference pick the shoe for you.
In the above sections, we have tried to provide you with all the differences and similarities between Topo Phantom and Hoka Clifton.
However, we have provided some alternatives to these two running shoes in the below sections. Check them out.
Similar Shoes
Running Shoes Similar To Topo Athletic Phantom 2
Topo Athletic Phantom is a maximal cushioned running shoe. It is excellent with shock absorption and will provide you with a very cushy experience. Also, it is a low-drop running shoe.
A running shoe that will provide you with a similar experience is Hoka Bondi. It is also a maximal cushioned running shoe with a low heel-to-toe drop. Running in Bondi feels like running on the clouds.
Last update on 2024-04-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Running Shoes Similar To Hoka One One Clifton 8
Hoka Clifton is a lightweight running shoe. It is responsive and will provide you with a cushy ride. It is good for even longer distances.
A running shoe that can provide you with a similar experience is Brooks Trace. It is a lightweight running shoe that will provide you with good responsiveness while providing a good amount of cushioning.
THIS MEN'S SHOE IS FOR: The Trace is a perfect choice for runners who want a performance running shoe — but not necessarily all the bells and whistles.
NEUTRAL SUPPORT: The Trace offers neutral support combined with dynamic cushioning throughout, to minimize the impact of your every step while delivering a smooth ride from start to finish.
ADAPTIVE CUSHIONING: Lightweight BioMoGo DNA adapts to your speed, stride, and weight to help deflect impact away from your body.
Last update on 2024-04-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Conclusion
In the above sections, I have tried to cover almost all the differences and similarities between Hoka Clifton Vs Topo Phantom. However, we liked Topo Phantom a bit more than Hoka Clifton.
Almost everything in Topo Phantom is comparable to Hoka Clifton. However, the amount of cushioning that Topo Phantom has is way more than Hoka Clifton. This is the reason why we chose Topo Phantom over Hoka Clifton.
Madhusree Basu
Author, Admin
Blogger and a fitness enthusiast. She loves running and Yoga and everything in between. She started running to manage her weight and to eat to her heart’s content. A true foodie at heart she shares whatever knowledge she has gained throughout the years about weight management and fitness.
Hoka Mach and Brooks Ghost are both neutral running shoes. One of them is a bit more responsive than the other. Whereas the other one feels a bit more cushioned.
Hoka Mach and Brooks Ghost, though belonging to the neutral running shoe category, can’t be more different than each other. Although both of them provide you with an excellent running experience, the feel of running itself differs in these two shoes.
We are today comparing Hoka Mach 5 and Brooks Ghost 14 as these are the latest models of these two shoes currently.
In the sections below, I’ve compared both of these running shoes in great detail…and tried to keep things as objective as possible.
Hopefully, by the end of this post, you will be able to decide between Hoka Mach vs Brooks Ghost, which one is best for you…
The heel-to-toe drop of Brooks Ghost is 12mm and the heel-to-toe drop of Hoka Mach is 5mm.
Brooks Ghost is heavier than Hoka Mach. The women’s version of Brooks Ghost weighs around 9oz or 255.1g whereas Hoka Mach’s women’s version weighs around 6.8 oz or 193g. Brooks Ghost’s men’s version weighs around 9.9oz or 280.7g whereas that of Hoka Mach’s weighs around 8.6oz or 232.5g.
The heel stack of Brooks Ghost (36mm) is higher than that of Hoka Mach (35mm) by 1mm.
The forefoot stack of Brooks Ghost (24mm) is lower than that of Hoka Mach (30mm) by 5mm.
Brooks Ghost has three toe-box widths available for the women’s version and four toe-box widths available for the men’s version whereas for Hoka Mach there are two toe-box widths available for both versions.
The outsole of Hoka Mach is rubberized CMEVA whereas the outsole of Brooks Ghost has a separate durable rubber layer.
The latest generation of Brooks Ghost is 14 whereas the current generation of Hoka Mach is 5.
Brooks Ghost and Hoka Mach are neutral running shoes. Both of these running shoes are very comfortable, shock-absorbing, and great for day-to-day running.
The amount of cushioning that both of these running shoes provide is excellent and the breathability and grip of both of these shoes are also very good.
In the following sections, I’ll be providing you with an in-depth comparison of Brooks Ghost and Hoka Mach.
So, let’s proceed…
Hoka Mach 5 Vs Brooks Ghost 14 – Features at a glance
Brooks Ghost Vs. Hoka Mach – A head-to-head comparison
In the above sections, you will get a very brief overview and some major differences between Brooks Ghost and Hoka Mach.
In the following sections, I’ll be providing you with a more in-depth comparison of all the features of these two running shoes.
Outsole
The outsole of the Hoka Mach 5 did not change from the last version. It is basically rubberized EVA foam.
It is an extension of the midsole material and it is made rubberized to provide you with an outsole that is grippy and stable.
Being rubberized its weight is reduced significantly and that is why Hoka Mach is very lightweight.
The color of the outsole is the same as that of the midsole as it is an extension of the same.
In some of the places on the outsole, you will be able to see glimpses of the PROFLY+ layer. This is because the outsole is cut out in those places.
This reduces the overall stiffness of the outsole and improves its flexibility to a certain extent. Also, to improve the flexibility of the forefoot, there are some parallel and horizontal shallow grooves present.
This also in turn reduces the forefoot stiffness of the outsole. The outsole on the other hand being rubberized improves the overall durability of this shoe and provides you with a grippy experience for a long time.
The outsole of Brooks Ghost has an actual layer of durable rubber. You can see that due to the black color of the same which is very contrasting the midsole color of Brooks Ghost.
Also, if you touch the outsole and the midsole, the feel is very different.
Almost all the outer surface of the midsole is covered with durable rubber except the center of the heel and the junction between the forefoot and the rear foot on the lateral side.
Due to this added rubber, the overall weight of Brooks Ghost has also increased. It is much heavier than Hoka Mach but then again, the running experience that Brooks Ghost provides is excellent.
When you add rubber to the outer surface of any midsole the shoe becomes stiffer. To combat that, different companies use different kinds of technologies.
Brooks has used one of the most common techniques that are available and that is the addition of flex grooves. If you check the forefoot, it has almost horizontal lines. These are the flex grooves and they impart good flexibility to the forefoot.
Also, the grooves are fused together under the first metatarsal. This provides additional support during toe-off.
Midsole
The midsole of Hoka Mach is made from CMEVA. This is compression-molded EVA foam and uses EVA foam as the base material.
The cushioning that Hoka Mach provides is a responsive one. You will have more springy movement and you can move fast.
However, this makes it good for shorter distances like up until 10K. You can go beyond that but that will make not your running very comfortable.
There is another improvement that Hoka has added to Mach 5. It has replaced the PROFLY top layer with the PROFLY+ top layer. This is the same top layer material that Hoka Mach Supersonic uses.
This top layer is a bit more responsive and will add an additional pep to your stride. Also, the midsole material is also improved to provide you with some more responsiveness without compromising the cushioning.
On the other hand, the midsole of Brooks Ghost is made from DNA LOFT. It is a softer material and will provide you with good cushioning for even longer runs.
DNA LOFT is a lightweight material that is proprietary to Brooks and provides you with excellent cushioning.
In the previous versions of Brooks Ghost, the midsole used to have a combination of BioMoGo DNA and DNA LOFT, but from the last two versions, it is coming with 100% cushioning.
You can run more than 10K in Brooks Ghost and still be comfortable.
Hoka Mach is a low-drop running shoe and has a heel-drop of 5mm. If you have feet that don’t have any issues and you want to strengthen them, then Hoka Mach will be a perfect choice.
In such cases, Brooks Ghost is a better choice as it has a higher heel drop of 12mm. This will take the load off the Achilles area.
Also, this is a great drop for heel strikers as the amount of cushioning present at the heels of Brooks Ghost is excellent.
We all know that Hoka dominates the maximally cushioned category of running shoes. However, I was surprised to find that the actual heel height of Brooks Ghost is actually 1mm more than that of Hoka Mach.
The heel height of Hoka Mach is 35mm whereas that of Brooks Ghost is 36mm. Also, the forefoot stack of Hoka Mach is 30mm whereas the forefoot stack of Brooks Ghost is 24mm.
Hoka Mach also has the early-stage meta-rocker which is the meta-rocker placed before the metatarsals. This helps in the easier heel-to-toe movement.
Brooks Ghost on the other hand uses Omega flex grooves to handle the same.
Overall, both the cushioning materials are very comfortable and will provide you with an excellent running experience.
Upper
The upper of Hoka Mach is made from engineered mesh. This is a lightweight mesh that has an alternating line pattern throughout the forefoot. It alternates between densely woven mesh and a more open mesh for optimal breathability.
Also, this mesh provides a nice stretch to the fabric and it takes the shape of your feet providing you with a comfortable and nice fit.
Hoka has started adopting that extended pull tab for almost all its shoes. For Hoka Mach also, it is not any different.
If you observe the side profile of this shoe you will find a very prominent extended pull tab.
This pull tab is well padded and provides you with excellent cushioning and support to the Achilles area. You will not have to deal with heel slips while wearing this shoe.
It also has a decently padded tongue that is anatomically designed. This spreads across the top of your feet providing you with additional comfort while running.
The upper of Hoka Mach is very smooth and you can feel that when you step into the shoe. This is great as this will not create any hot zones and subsequent blisters.
The only thing that I disliked about the previous version of Hoka Mach is that it was available only in one width. However, with Hoka Mach 5, Hoka has changed this and now Hoka Mach is available in two toe-box widths, Regular and Wide for both versions.
The upper of Hoka Mach is completely redesigned…with the alternating line patterns and the shaded sharp contrasting color scheme, Hoka Mach 5 looks stunning. This is the best thing for me, as I used to find the previous version’s upper boring.
Like the other models from Hoka, Hoka Mach also has flat laces. These laces stay tied when you are running and will not come undone while running.
Also, the midfoot support from the upper is also good in Hoka Mach. The foot will not move in that area. However, the toe-box is wide enough for easy toe splay, providing a comfortable running experience.
The upper of Brooks Ghost is also made from engineered mesh. It is breathable and lightweight and will keep your feet cool and comfortable throughout your running session.
Brooks Ghost is a more traditional-looking running shoe and Brooks has not gone overboard to change its design.
It still has that traditional tongue and collar and it supports the ankles by keeping it stabler. The heel cup is very comfortable and it holds the heels in place.
You will not have to deal with heel slips and you can run without worrying about mishaps.
Brooks Ghost is available in multiple widths and for the women’s version, you have Narrow, Medium, and wide fitting whereas for the men’s version you have Narrow, Medium, Wide, and Extra wide fitting.
Overall, both the running shoes will provide you with a comfortable fit however, Brooks Ghost is capable of catering to a wider range of runners.
Weight
Brooks Ghost is heavier than Hoka Mach. This may be due to the added rubber in the outsole of Brooks Ghost.
Hoka Mach weighs around 6.8oz /193g for women and 8.6oz/232.5g for men.
Brooks Ghost weighs around 9.0oz/255.1g for women and 9.9oz/280.7g for men.
Price
If you compare the prices of Brooks Ghost and Hoka Mach, the prices are the same. The $10 difference that was there between Brooks Ghost and the previous model of Hoka Mach, is not there anymore.
So while deciding on which shoe to buy between the two, price will not play a part. If you love a low-drop shoe, then Hoka Mach will be your choice, if not, then go for Brooks Ghost.
In the above sections, you will find almost all the similarities and differences between Brooks Ghost and Hoka Mach.
However, if you want to look at some of the options, here are some of the running shoes that can serve as a great alternative to either of these two shoes.
Similar Shoes
Running Shoes Similar To Brooks Ghost 14
Brooks Ghost is a running shoe that is cushy and great at shock absorption. It is a neutral shoe that will provide you with an excellent running experience.
Another running shoe that is similar to Brooks Ghost is New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v12. It is also a highly cushioned running shoe that will provide you with a superb running experience.
This model runs large, compared to previous versions. You may consider ordering down from your normal size.
Fresh Foam X cushioning delivers our most cushioned Fresh Foam experience for incredible comfort
Hypoknit upper designed to provide strategic areas of stretch and support
Last update on 2024-04-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Running Shoes Similar To Hoka Mach 5
Hoka Mach is a lightweight running shoe that will provide you with a responsive running experience. This has balanced cushioning that will provide you with excellent shock absorption and comfort.
A running shoe similar to Hoka Mach is Asics Novablast. This is a lightweight running shoe and will provide you with a responsive and comfortable running experience.
Last update on 2024-04-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Conclusion
In the above sections, we have covered almost all the differences and similarities between Brooks Ghost Vs Hoka Mach. However, we liked Brooks Ghost a bit more than Hoka Mach.
Almost everything in Brooks Ghost is comparable to Hoka Mach. However, Brooks Ghost beats Hoka Mach in two aspects. First of all, it is good for runners with specific foot issues due to its higher drop. Secondly, it has more widths available that are not present in Hoka Mach.
This is why we chose Brooks Ghost over Hoka Mach.
Madhusree Basu
Author, Admin
Blogger and a fitness enthusiast. She loves running and Yoga and everything in between. She started running to manage her weight and to eat to her heart’s content. A true foodie at heart she shares whatever knowledge she has gained throughout the years about weight management and fitness.
Retrocalcaneal bursitis is a painful condition and can develop in anybody. It is the inflammation or irritation of the fluid-filled sack in between the heel bone and the Achilles Tendon.
People who run a lot or have increased their exercise intensity suddenly are at more risk of developing such a condition. One of the main ways to stay comfortable with such a condition is to have your heel elevated a bit. This releases any pressures on your Achilles Tendons.
So, a proper running shoe for this condition should have a higher heel stack, a well-cushioned heel area, and should not be narrow/tight fitting.
One of the running shoes that fit all these criteria is ASICS Gel-Nimbus 24. It has an overall roomy fit, a heel-to-toe drop of 13mm for women and 10mm for men, and has a good amount of padding in the heel, collar, and tongue area.
Also, below we have prepared a list of 10 different running shoes that will suit different types of runners and all have the required features to deal with retrocalcaneal bursitis.
Without further ado, let’s check out the list of best running shoes for retrocalcaneal bursitis…
Asics Gel-Nimbus 24 is the first running shoe on our list for retrocalcaneal bursitis. They are one of the most comfortable running shoes around and fit into the criteria of heel bursitis perfectly.
It is not a narrow shoe and is available in different widths as well for both women and men. Also, this shoe has a high heel drop. For this shoe, the heel drop is different for both genders.
However, irrespective of that, both the drop qualify for what is required for retrocalcaneal bursitis. For this, you would need a running shoe that can keep your heel slightly elevated.
Anything above 8mm is good for this purpose. Asics Gel-Nimbus has a heel-to-toe drop of 10mm for the men’s version and 13mm for the women’s version.
Also, the fitting of the heel is not snug and has plenty of room. This is important for a person suffering from heel bursitis as this can make the whole running experience more uncomfortable. It can also aggravate the condition.
The overall cushioning of the heel area is good and smooth. This doesn’t put much pressure on your heels. Also, being smooth, you will not have to deal with problems like blisters.
The padding of the collar and the tongue also keeps the ankle area more stable and provides you with a more comfortable running experience.
The cushioning of Asics Gel-Nimbus is also excellent. It has gel cushioning and FlyteFoam in its midsole. This makes it very good at shock-absorption and this also keeps your heel and ankle area comfortable.
Pros.
Good fit and style.
No breaking-in period is needed.
Available in different widths.
Higher drop is good for issues in the ankle, heels, or Achilles Tendon area.
ASICS Novablast 2 is a very comfortable running shoe. It has maximal cushioning that provides exceptional impact absorption.
One of the best things about Asics Novablast is that it has a heel stabilizer. It provides additional support to the foot by stabilizing the heel. This provides you with a more balanced ride. In other words, you will have lesser stress on your ankles and heels which is a good thing, if you are suffering from retrocalcaneal bursitis.
The heel drop of Asics Novablast is not as high as Asics Gel-Nimbus, however, it is still within the required minimum limit. The drop of Asics Novablast is 8mm for both men’s and women’s running shoes. This creates the required heel elevation and takes offload from Achilles’ tendons.
This is a good thing as if you have developed heel bursitis, then there may be a higher chance that you have got it due to a sudden increase in your activity or running levels.
If that is the case, then not only your heel bursae but also your Achilles’s tendons are at a higher risk of developing an injury. In other words, you are at a much higher risk of developing Achilles Tendonitis.
Apart from the 8mm drop and heel stabilization, the width of Asics Novablast is also good. It has a decent width from toe to heel and you will not feel snug while wearing this shoe.
Having a snug fit only increases the chances of worsening your bursitis. However, having a widish fit can make you feel more comfortable and you will be able to tackle your heel bursitis better.
Apart from being a supportive shoe for your bursitis, Asics Novablast is a great running shoe. It has a very grippy and wear-resistant outsole that will last for a long time.
The FlyteFoam Blast midsole is comfortable and lightweight. It is bouncy and highly responsive and provides you with a very efficient ride.
This is another favorite shoe of mine. Brooks Launch GTS is a ‘support’ running shoe. It comes with Brooks proprietary GuideRails and it keeps your knees in the line of motion.
This is a running shoe for overpronating runners. This is the first shoe in this category that is a stable running shoe. The shoes that are provided above are of neutral category or support mild underpronation.
This is a very comfortable running shoe that is great for running shorter distances that are up to 10K. Also, they are a great shoe for walking, if you want to use them for that.
The drop of Brooks Launch GTS is 10mm. This is around 2mm more than the lowest drop permissible for a runner with retrocalcaneal bursitis.
Due to this drop, the pressure on your Achilles’s tendons and ankle joints is reduced. This will make your running with bursitis a bit more comfortable and you will also experience the pain lesser. Also, the extended pull tab will provide additional support to the Achilles area.
The heel area is padded well. It is smooth and devoid of any stitches. This makes it comfortable to wear even with bursitis. However, what I would have liked more was for the tongue to be more padded.
The tongue is like a neoprene tongue and doesn’t have much padding. It is not uncomfortable, but a padded one would have made a slight difference I feel.
The width of Brooks Launch GTS is good and is also available in two different widths, the medium width, and the wide width. This makes the fitting of the shoe very comfortable and will not bite into your feet.
The same goes for the heel area. This also has a decent width and will not have a hard grip on your heels.
The outsole of Brooks Launch GTS is made of high abrasive rubber and is very durable. It covers almost the entire sole and provides you with a very stable ride.
This is a very lightweight shoe and has a very responsive midsole. This adds a bit of zing to your feet and will make your ride that much peppier.
Pros
Lightweight.
Affordable.
Good for people with a bad back.
Excellent for foot issues like metatarsalgia and bunions.
New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v12 is one of the cushiest running shoes around. The Fresh Foam X is softer, lighter, and more resilient than the Fresh Foam.
Also, it is great for running longer distances and is very stylish to look at…
Now I’m digressing…
How is New Balance 1080 beneficial for your retrocalcaneal bursitis?
Let’s find out…
Let’s start with one of the most important aspects of this shoe that will help you with your heel bursitis…It is the heel drop of this shoe.
New Balance 1080 has a heel drop of 8mm which is a good drop for retrocalcaneal bursitis. As mentioned earlier, this bursitis can develop due to increased activities.
This can also develop due to inflexibility of the foot. In that case, having a higher drop releases some of the stress from the Achilles tendons and other areas of the foot, giving you some relief from the bursitis pain.
Another important aspect of New Balance 1080 is the width of the shoe. First of all the overall fit of this shoe is wideish. Also, it is available in different widths making it comfortable for runners with different foot widths.
A snug fit especially in the heel area causes bursitis to aggravate and your pain may increase a lot. Having a decent width in the heels will lead you to have a more comfortable fit and a much more pleasurable running experience, even with bursitis.
The heel area is smooth and well-padded and is great for runners with bursitis. This will provide additional cushioning to the heel area and will keep you comfortable.
Also, the tongue of the New Balance 1080 is also well padded. This helps to keep the ankle joint stable and will help to reduce the pain to some extent.
The outsole of the shoe is made from durable rubber which enhances the lifespan of the shoe. This also keeps you stable on the roads while you are running. This has a good grip on surfaces whether wet or dry. The jacquard mesh is breathable and provides you with excellent stretch and comfort.
Until now, the running shoes that we have presented for retrocalcaneal bursitis are all road running shoes. But it is not that only road runners suffer from this foot problem…trail runners also have to deal with similar problems…
This is why we thought to include a trail running shoe into the list and what better could be than Salomon SpeedCross 5. This is one of the most popular trails running shoes that have been around for some time.
But how does it helps with bursitis?
The drop of Salomon SpeedCross is 10mm. This is a very important feature of this shoe as it is one of the primary requirements for this foot condition.
This essentially elevates the heel taking off pressure from the Achilles and the calf area. This helps you to run more comfortably even with the bursitis pain.
Now let’s look at the heel area of the shoe itself. The fit of the heel is comfortable. It is not hugely wide, but comfortable and doesn’t create a pinch grip on your heels.
This makes it comfortable for runners with heel bursitis as a snug fit will make you more uncomfortable. Also, the added pressure from the snug fit will make the heel bursitis worse.
The heel area of this shoe is well padded. It is comfortable and smooth and will not rub against your feet to create blisters. It is also an additional layer that will act as an added protection to your heel area.
The tongue and also well padded providing additional stability to the ankle area. This may seem a minor thing, but this added cushioning actually makes your life that bit easier.
I only have one complaint with this shoe. It is not good for runners who have wide feet. It has a bit of a snug toe box that may not be very comfortable for long runs.
ON Cloudrunner is a very well-built running shoe that is good with cushioning and is great for longish distances. The fit is comfortable and the toe-box is not as pointed as the New Balance 1080.
One thing that I love about ON Cloudrunner, apart from its performance is its looks. It looks more like a lifestyle sneaker than a running shoe. So, you can comfortably wear them even for casual outings.
These shoes are very comfortable even on the inside which has a comfortable padding in the right places and a smooth finish devoid of any stitches and roughness.
Now let’s check if it has the required features of a running shoe suitable for retrocalcaneal bursitis…
First of all, the drop of ON Cloudrunner is around 9mm. This is just above the requirement of 8mm for heel bursitis. Also, not only does it have a heel elevation, but it is also great from a heel cushioning perspective. The cushioning of the heel is soft, impact-absorbent, and is great for heel strikers.
Also, this elevation is great if you have stiff calf muscles, and will take some load off them.
The cushioning at the heels is also good…it is soft and firm and is great for providing additional support to the heel area. Also, the fitting of the heel is not snug and is good for runners with heel bursitis.
If the fit of the heel was snug, it would have increased the discomfort that you already have or may have aggravated the condition.
Also, the collar and the tongue have a decent amount of padding and the collar area has a notch at the Achillis portion. This improves the overall Achilles support which will further enhance the comfort.
Nike ZoomX Invincible Run Flyknit 2 is a comparative newer model than the other ones like Nike Pegasus. However, these shoes have excellent cushioning and are in the maximal cushioning category.
Also, if you observe the midsole of Nike ZoomX Invincible Run, you will find that the midsole is a bit protruded backward like Hoka Clifton EDGE.
This improves the cushioning and impact resistance for heel strikers, who are more at risk of heel bursitis. Also, you will have a more comfortable ride wearing this amount of cushioning.
Although it may not show, the drop of Nike ZoomX Invincible Run is around 9mm. It is a good heel drop if you are suffering heel bursitis. This will help you take the pressure off that area and the Achilles and will make you have a more comfortable running experience.
The overall fit of this shoe is very comfortable. It is wideish and will not press down on any part of your foot, especially at the heels. The heel area having a good width doesn’t put additional pressure on the heels.
This is good as more pressure on your bursae will only increase the discomfort and will make you very uncomfortable.
Also, the tongue and the collar are well-padded to provide you with added ankle stability. The tongue is an oversized one that spreads on the top of your foot well and provides a gentle grip for a stable experience.
The outsole of Invincible Run is a rubberized midsole that is grippy and long-lasting. However, in more wear and tear, prone areas like the tip of the forefoot or the edge of the heels have a more durable rubber. This improves the durability of the shoe.
Overall, you will have a comfortable running experience while running in Nike ZoomX Invincible Run, even if you have heel bursitis.
Brooks Hyperion Elite 3 is a running shoe that has a carbon fiber plate in its midsole. This improves the responsiveness of this shoe. Also, having a nitrogen-infused midsole is excellent for longer rides as it makes this shoe very lightweight.
The drop of Brooks Hyperion Elite is around 8mm. This is a good heel drop for heel bursitis as I’ve already mentioned earlier.
The heel is also decent as it doesn’t give you a snug fit. However, where it lacks is the padding in the collar and tongue area. Although the amount of padding that is present is not very bad, I would have preferred a bit more like that in the other Brooks shoes.
Also, I love the fit of Brooks Hyperion Elite as it has a wideish fit and will not bite into your feet. It has excellent wiggle space and a very comfortable and relaxed fit.
The outsole of Hyperion Elite is also very grippy and has durable rubber in the high wear and tear-prone areas.
Also, this is a very lightweight shoe and will not bog you down with your weight.
This is a unisex running shoe that is excellent for all neutral runners and is good for casual runs or long-distance running.
Mizuno Wave Inspire 18 is a stability running shoe. It is great for runners with overpronation and will keep your foot motion in check. It is a no-frills attached running shoe and is simple, comfortable, and lightweight.
This is one of the best qualities that I like about Mizuno…they have streamlined the shoe so much that it has only the things that will contribute to your performance. If it doesn’t then it is not present in this shoe.
The cushioning level of this shoe is also very good. It has those famous Mizuno waves that add an extra bit of peppiness under your heels. This is good for runners suffering from heel bursitis as the more cushioning you have the better.
Also, the drop of Mizuno Wave Inspire is around 12mm which is similar to that of Brooks Ghost or Adrenaline and provides you with a good amount of elevation so that your Achilles are not overloaded.
The fit of the heel is wideish and doesn’t pinch. Also, it is not so wide that it will provide you with a very bad fit and heel slip…
The cushioning of the heel area, the collar, and the tongue are also good and will provide you with additional stability.
The outsole of Mizuno Wave Inspire has durable rubber in the high wear and tear areas. This makes it durable and has an excellent grip. It will not make you unstable even on the wetter ground and is excellent for long-distance running as well.
Also, the upper has engineered mesh and is breathable, and will provide you with a cool and comfortable ride.
Pros
Lightweight.
No breaking-in period is needed.
Good for runners with overpronation.
Good for low arches.
Cons
Toe-box could have been wider.
A notch in the Achilles area would have been better.
Saucony Endorphin Speed 2 is the last but not the least running shoe in our list of heel bursitis running shoes. It is excellent in providing comfort and is great for speed and performance.
Instead of a carbon plate, Endorphin Speed has a nylon plate that improves the snappiness of the sole. This provides you with a similar experience to the carbon plate shoe and is great for responsiveness and performance.
The drop of Saucony Endorphin Speed is around 8mm, which is the acceptable heel drop for anyone suffering from heel bursitis. The main reason for any heel drop is to take away the discomfort from the Achilles and the heel area.
However, a lower drop or a zero drop is not as effective and will add additional load on these areas. Having a drop of at least 8mm solves this problem and Saucony Endorphin Speed has that.
The heel and tongue area of Saucony Endorphin Speed has decent padding and will keep your ankle stable and will provide you with a decent amount of cushioning.
However, the amount of cushioning in those areas could have been better, this is what I felt. Also, the overall width of the shoe is decent. The heel area doesn’t have a suffocating grip on the heels and is great for runners with retrocalcaneal bursitis.
Overall it is a good shoe that will provide you with a decent performance.
Pros
Cushy and responsive.
True-to-size.
Good for any distance running.
Wideish fit.
Cons
Bulky.
The collar area could have used more cushioning.
FAQs
Can I run with retrocalcaneal bursitis?
You should not run with retrocalcaneal bursitis. If you are having pain, then it is better to stop all activities that will put pressure on the heel like walking, running, jumping, etc, until the pain subsides.
But what exactly is retrocalcaneal bursitis?
A bursa is a small fluid-filled sac that has a slippery texture. It forms a cushion and a lubricant and protects the bones from rubbing against the tendons, muscles, or skin.
There is a bursa behind both of the ankles near your heel bone (calcaneus). It is present in between the Achilles tendon and the heel bone. That is why it is called retrocalcaneal bursa or the bursa behind the heel.
When this bursa gets irritated due to any reason, it causes pain and discomfort, known as bursitis.
How do you get rid of retrocalcaneal bursitis?
There are different ways to get rid of retrocalcaneal bursitis. I’ll list down the common ways. However, consult your physician before using any of these methods…
Orthotics or Heel wedges – One of the main ways to relieve the bursitis pain is to elevate the heel. This can be achieved in three different ways…use an orthotic that will create a heel-to-toe drop, or use a heel wedge. You can also do that by using any shoe that has a heel-to-toe drop.
Physical Therapy focused on calf and Achilles – One way to remove the pain from bursitis is to improve the flexibility of the calf muscles and Achilles’s tendons. This way, it will alleviate the pressure from your heels and will help you to heal. You can include Achilles stretching and strengthening exercises in this routine. However, take a doctor’s or physiotherapist’s help for the same.
Corticosteroids – If the pain is unbearable then your doctor may inject a corticosteroid into the affected region. I don’t know what are those as I’m not a medical professional. Kindly contact your doctor if you wish to know more.
Surgery – In some extreme cases, you may have to go under the knife to get better.
Antibiotics – If your healthcare professional finds that your bursitis is due to some kind of bacteria infection, then they may prescribe you some antibiotics.
Is retrocalcaneal bursitis same as Achilles Tendonitis?
No retrocalcaneal bursitis is not the same as Achilles Tendonitis. Retrocalcaneal Bursitis is a condition related to the retrocalcaneal bursa, whereas Achilles tendonitis is related to Achilles Tendons.
Although sometimes the things that you need to do to relieve both of these pains are similar like using a heel wedge or a shoe with higher heel-to-toe drop.
The reason is, that both of them are connected and are like a chain. If one of them is affected, then the whole chain fails. Also, sometimes both of the conditions develop due to similar reasons like suddenly putting a lot of load on your feet or having inflexible calf and Achilles area.
However, heel bursitis may also occur due to bacterial infection which is not the case with Achilles Tendonitis.
Can running shoes really help with retrocalcaneal bursitis?
Running shoes can help with retrocalcaneal bursitis if they have a higher elevation. They will act in the same way as a heel wedge and will relieve some stress from the Achilles Tendons.
However, if you are planning to run with this foot condition wearing an elevated shoe, I’ll advise against that, as that may increase the pain that you have.
Does heel bursitis ever go away?
Yes, heel bursitis goes away within two to three weeks. However, if you have a more severe condition then it may take six to 12 months.
Most Loved Running Shoes For Retrocalcaneal Bursitis
Madhusree Basu (Author, Admin)
Blogger and a fitness enthusiast. She loves running and Yoga and everything in between. She started running to manage her weight and to eat to her heart’s content. A true foodie at heart she shares whatever knowledge she has gained throughout the years about weight management and fitness.
Salomon and Nike are two very popular brands of running shoes.
Actually, to say that they only produce running shoes is a bit of an understatement. Both of them produce a lot of other products with Salomon having a fair share of other outdoor equipment.
We will cover that in a future post when we compare the brands as a whole. However, since this post is related to the sizing of Salomon vs Nike, we will focus on that. More specifically on the running footwear that they produce.
There are a lot of similarities between these two brands related to running shoe sizing, but there are a whole lot of differences as well.
Also, before proceeding further, I would like to tell you that, I’ll not be comparing the heel-to-toe drop of Salomon and Nike with each other as I’ve already covered that in this article.
1. For Nike women’s size starts from 21cm(8.27 in)/4(US)/1.5(UK)/34.5(EU). For Nike women’s size starts from 22cm (8.66 in)/5(US)/3.5(UK)/36(EU).
2. For Salomon men’s size starts from 22cm (8.5 in)/4(US)/3.5(UK)/36(EU). For Nike men’s size starts from 22.5cm (8.86 in)/3.5(US)/3(UK)/35.5(EU).
3. Some of the sizes of Salomon for EU region are represented with fractions like 1/3, 2/3 etc. whereas for Nike it is represented in an increment of 0.5 for the EU region.
4. For some of the sizes from Nike there is a double number representation like 4.5/5 for all the regions. Such a thing is not present in Salomon.
5. For women’s shoes Nike has more sizes than Salomon for smaller pairs and larger pairs as well.
6. For men’s shoes, Salomon has one more smaller size than Nike. However, for the larger pairs, there are many more sizes available in Nike than Salomon.
7. The numbers representing the same lengths of the shoes are completely different for both the brands and you will not be able to relate to it directly.
No Nike doesn’t run bigger or smaller than Salomon. The lengths in cm or inches that are present in Salomon are also present in Nike barring a few which lengths are not available in either of the brands.
However, if you try to equate the lengths based on the different numbers other that are used for shoe size representation, then you will have a hard time.
Of all the size comparisons that I’ve done, I’ve not seen so much of number variations between the two brands.
Only a handful of the numbers match with each other for both the brands and the rest are all different.
Also, you cannot apply generalized rules for those numbers as well…They vary so much that I cannot even tell that, from this number to this number Salomon is leading or Nike is leading…or something similar…
So, as always, I’ll tell you to check the shoe length in a more universal unit like cm or inches that way you will be able to avoid this numbering confusion.
Blogger and a fitness enthusiast. She loves running and Yoga and everything in between. She started running to manage her weight and to eat to her heart’s content. A true foodie at heart she shares whatever knowledge she has gained throughout the years about weight management and fitness.
Hoka Vs Nike is tough to compare as a brand. Both produce two very different kinds of shoes and both are very popular brands.
We found it very hard to compare Nike and Hoka…but nonetheless we tried to do justice with this comparison.
Below we have compared them in as much detail as possible so that you can choose the right brand for you…let’s find out, which one we prefer…Nike or Hoka…
Hoka Vs Nike: Differences
1. The maximum drop of a Hoka shoe is 6mm whereas the maximum drop of a Nike shoe is 10mm.
2. Nike produces more types of sports shoes, however, Hoka also has orthopedic shoes and recovery sandals which Nike doesn’t have.
3. Nike manufactures from caps to sweatshirts to modest wear, whereas Hoka only has shorts, tops, and leggings.
4. Nike has 3 trail-running models and around 48 road running models of shoes, whereas Hoka has 12 trail-running models and 20 road-running models of shoes.
5. Between Hoka and Nike, surprisingly Nike has the most maximally cushioned shoes.
6. Nike has a toe spring and flex grooves in the forefoot for easier heel-to-toe movement, whereas Hoka uses rocker technology.
7. In general, Hoka cushioning feels slightly softer than Nike midsoles.
8. Nike has more models of running shoes than Hoka combining both road running and trail running shoes.
9. Nike looks edgier than Hoka, who has a more bulky appearance.
10. Nike has a pointed toe box, whereas Hoka generally has a more roundish toe box.
Hoka and Nike is both very popular brands for running shoes. However, Hoka is a comparatively newer entry into the running shoe horizon.
Hoka was founded in 2009 whereas Nike has been around since 1964.
However, that doesn’t change the way these shoes feel on your feet. Hoka throughout the years has done a lot of innovations and is currently dominating the lower drop segment in the market.
Nike on the other hand needs no introduction even outside the US. This may be one of the most loved brands throughout the world.
And as per construction, both of them make world-class running shoes that are great for excellent performance and cushioning.
Both the brands support multiple types of runners and multiple types of runs. Now let’s see how each of their components measures up to each other.
The midsole of the running shoe is the main source of comfort and performance for a runner. Hoka and Nike both have gone above and beyond with innovation to provide you with the right cushioning for just your need…
Hoka heavily uses CMEVA or Compression-Molded EVA foam. It is created from EVA foam and retains it comfort and cushioning.
Nike has different types of midsoles that are used in different models. One of the primary cushioning materials from Nike is the Air Zoom material. You can think of them as pockets filled with air in between stretched materials.
When you apply pressure on that unit, it compresses, and with the release of pressure, it bounces back to the original shape. This provides you with exceptional cushioning and shock absorption.
In general, these units are present throughout the length of the sole or in the heel region for that added shock absorption.
Also, most of the running shoes from Hoka use meta rocker technology which has two distinct categories…the early-stage meta rocker and the late-stage meta rocker.
The position of the transition zone decided the type of meta rocker that is used. If it is behind the metatarsals, then it is an early-stage meta rocker. If the transition zone is in front of the metatarsals, it is the late-stage meta-rocker. The late stage provides a more stable midfoot.
You will be able to find this rocker technology in Nike as well. This is most common in shoes that have ZoomX cushioning. As with Hoka, this technology from Nike also has a similar function. It helps in easier heel-to-transition.
ZoomX is one of the most, if not the lightest, softest, and most responsive midsole materials from Nike. Apart from being one of the cushiest materials from Nike, ZoomX also has a unidirectional carbon fiber plate.
This enhances the responsiveness of the sole and provides you with better performance.
Apart from ZoomX, Nike also has React foam. As you might be aware, this foam debuted in 2017 for basketball shoes and within a year, Nike adapted it for its running shoes.
This is a cushioning which is a blend of soft cushiness and excellent energy return, which is often mutually exclusive. React cushioning has significant energy return and provides you excellent cushioning while simultaneously being lightweight.
Also, this foam is very durable and will not lose shape easily.
Another type of cushioning that you will frequently see in the lower-priced shoes from Nike is the Cushlon foam. This is a soft foam that is good with cushioning and responsiveness. It feels soft under the foot and is good for everyday runs.
I would not recommend Cushlon for longer distances, but for shorter distances and training, they are excellent cushioning material.
For stability Hoka uses J-Frame. This helps runners with overpronation. It is basically a firmer foam on the medial side in the shape of a J.
Nike uses a supportive medial post for stability. This is a dual-density foam handle overpronation and helps runners who need more support.
For Hoka, there is another H-Frame technology that comes into play in some shoes like Gaviota. The midfoot H-Frame provides you with increased upper support and also locks down the midfoot.
I would vote that comfort-wise, Hoka and Nike are almost at par. However, I’ve always found Nike to be a bit stiffer than my liking. Being said that, cushions, Nike does a fabulous job and so does Hoka.
So, to decide between the two, the only choice you have is to try them on. Choose the one wearing which you feel more comfortable. It need not have to be super-soft if that is not your preference. Choose something that you like and will serve your purpose.
Also, this may be the appropriate place to mention that, Hoka dominates the low heel drop segment. The highest drop that is available from Hoka is 6mm, so, decide accordingly.
The outsole of Hoka is mostly made of durable rubber. This type of rubber is highly abrasion resistant and will last for a long time.
Also, the grip on both wet and dry surfaces of these outsoles is also good. You have fewer chances of tripping, slipping, or falling.
However, if you are thinking of a full-blown outsole covering the entire outer surface of the midsole, then you are mistaken.
Hoka uses, what can be dest described as rubber stips on the high wear and tear prone areas. This reinforces those areas and improves durability.
With Hoka, you will find another variation in the outsole and it is the rubberized EVA. In this type, what Hoka does is make the outer surface of the midsole rubberized.
This way they saved up on the rubber strips of durable rubber and simultaneously lighten the overall weight of the shoe.
However, I felt that the durably of such shoes are slightly less than that of the rubber sole shoes. Hoka also uses this similar method for the exposed areas of the midsole in-between rubber-covered areas.
With Nike, the usage of durable rubber on the outsole is more. However, you can still find rubberized foam in the less-premium models from Nike.
The outsole design of Nike is generated through a computer and provides you with a precise groove and flex pattern. The input of this design is based on the inputs from thousand of athletes and this provides you with a running outsole that is durable, grippy, and provides slightly added cushioning.
There are various patterns that you will be able to find on the outsole of the shoes from Nike and one of them is the waffle pattern that is present at the forefoot of Nike models like Pegasus.
On landing, they distribute the load and also grip the ground firmly. This way it acts as a cushioning material as well.
Although the rubber is distributed throughout the outsole, it is not a continuous piece of rubber. This ensures that the running shoe has optimal flexibility and doesn’t add additional stiffness to the sole. This is because the inherent nature of durable rubber is stiffness.
The other thing that Nike uses to improve the flexibility of the shoe is the addition of flex grooves on the forefoot. This is not present in all the models from Nike, but some of the popular models like Flex Experience Run have this feature. Also, this is a method that Nike uses and you will not find it in Hoka.
The main reason to have that is to help in easier heel-to-toe transition which is handled by Hoka using its meta rocker technology.
This is an alternate technology that Nike uses to improve the heel-to-toe transition. Also, the shoes from Nike that uses rocker technology don’t have these flex grooves for obvious reasons.
This is what is used in the outsole of road running shoes. For trail runners, both companies use aggressive lugs that may be unidirectional or multidirectional.
Nike shoes have tapering lugs that easily get embedded in the trails, providing you with a lot more stability while running on them.
Is there any difference when you run in either of these shoes?
Grip-wise you won’t be able to tell much. They grip the roads or the trails pretty well and are excellent to provide durability to these shoes.
Upper
Hoka and Nike both uses engineered mesh on the upper for durability, support, and to keep the runner’s feet secured.
In Hoka, there are mainly two types of meshed…one is the engineered mesh and the other is engineered jacquard mesh.
In Jacquard mesh, complex designs are directly knitted in the mesh whereas, in engineered mesh, such a thing is not there…
For example, the upper of Mach Supersonic is jacquard mesh whereas Bondi is open engineered mesh.
With both types of meshes, you will not have issues with breathability…however, a jacquard mesh appears to be thicker and denser.
Hoka has started transitioning to a more sustainable way of production and is using a lot of recycled materials in its shoes.
A similar thing can be observed in Nike as well and one such initiative is to replace their double-layered cardboard boxes with single-layer boxes and to make that box with 90% recycled materials.
Most of the upper of Hoka shoes have TPU overlays…these overlays are used to reinforce the midfoot structure of the shoes.
The tongue in the models of Hoka is made from engineered mesh and has nice padding. They are anatomically designed and are great with breathability.
Also, the tongue may be gusseted/integrated or non-gusseted/free…Since the design of the tongues is anatomical, they will rarely move even if they are free.
Hoka is also transitioning to include that extended pull tab in its models. Some of the models like Bondi or Arahi still have the traditional lace pull tab at the back of the heel.
However, the likes of Clifton or Mach have already included that in the upper and now provide additional support to the Achilles area plus. This has also made it easy to put on these shoes.
The heel counter of Hoka shoes are well constructed and locks your heel in. This doesn’t allow your heels to move around for any unforeseen accidents and/or create blisters.
These Hoka Shoes have a sockliner which is from OrthoLite and most of them are removable. These are molded EVA sockliner and provide you with comfort and proper arch support.
Nike uses a couple of technologies when it comes to the upper, however, it boils down to a primary type of mesh which is the engineered mesh.
Unlike Hoka, Nike has not yet adopted jacquard mesh and it doesn’t seem that they will adopt that in the future.
However, with engineered mesh they use two primary kinds…one is the Fresh knit that you will find in shoes like Flex Experience Run and Flyknit that you will find in shoes like Pegasus.
Flyknit is a more premium upper which is manufactured from strong yet lightweight yarn. It is woven into a single-piece upper to avoid unnecessary stitching.
With Flyknit another thing that comes into the picture is the Flywire cables. They are present in the lace area and provide additional midfoot stability. They also secure the midfoot.
Many of the models of Nike have adopted that extended pull tab feature which is excellent for easily wearing this shoe.
Also, the tongue that is present in most of the models has a padded tongue. This is a key thing for comfort as it will keep you comfortable while running.
The tongue of Nike models may be gusseted or non-gusseted depending on the models and will provide you with excellent comfort.
The laces of all the models of Nike now have a flat lace. This helps to keep them remain tied while running. Although this should have been the case ideally, for some of the models (I personally own a Nike Air Zoom Structure), they tend to come untied while running.
Hoka and Nike both produce running shoes that are very well made. Both the brands produce running shoes whose most models are true to size. However, if you try to draw parallels to the sizing, then you may have a bit of difficulty as the way they represent sizing is a bit different.
But you can still co-relate that using the length of the shoes either represented in cm or inches.
As we know, Hoka only produces running shoes that are low drop. However, Nike covers a wider range of drops and some of them belong to the category of high heel drops.
Hoka shoes may last you around 350 miles. Although, how long they will last will depend on how careful you are with the shoes and how you are using them.
With any highly cushioned running shoe, this is common and this doesn’t come as a surprise. Anything which lasts for 300-500 miles is considered good durability and Hoka is right in the ballpark of that.
Nike on the other hand lasts a bit lesser and according to Nike quality engineers, an average Nike shoe lasts for 200-300 miles. Of course, that changes from shoe to shoe and the usage, but that is how it is…
This is a bit surprising as I expected that due to the maximal nature of Hoka, they may last lesser than Nike. However, other than this, these shoes are considered at par.
The main cushioning material of Hoka is CMEVA. This is a cushy material and will provide you with exceptional impact resistance and is great for running longer distances.
They have included different technologies together to provide you with an excellent running experience.
The main material for cushioning in Nike running shoes is Zoom or Air Zoom. In some cases, they use Cushlon foam also. All these materials are a derivative of EVA foam and are combined with some specific technologies to make it even more comfortable.
Comfort-wise, I’ll consider both of these brands at par.
The overall fit of Hoka is a bit widish. It will not be comfortable for most of the runners. However, one big limitation with Hoka is that, apart from the most popular models, the rest of them are not available in wide fit.
A similar thing exists with Nike as well. Apart from a couple of models, Nike is not available in wide fit.
This is bit of a problem for the runners who need a wider fit. Also, it may be only my perception, but I find Nike’s fit a bit snugger than a Hoka…but it is there…
Pricing
The starting price of Nike road running shoes is around $40 and in the range between $40 to $100, you get many models. You will also get the Nike Juniper Trail which is a trail running shoe.
However, with Hoka, the starting price of their road running range is around $130. You will not find a road running shoe in the $50-$100 range.
So, if you want to switch to Hoka from Nike, then depending on the model of Nike that you use, the price jump can be rather stiff.
However, if you are using something that is a more premium model from Nike, then the price point may match that of Hoka.
Actually, there are some models of Nike that costs way more than the most premium shoe from Hoka like Nike Zoom Alphafly Next Nature.
So, price-wise, Nike as a brand provides a much wider range than Hoka and for that matter has a lot more models than Hoka as well.
Conclusion
If you compare Nike Vs Hoka, both the brands are very similar in a lot of ways.
If one scores one point in some aspect, the other takes leads in some other category. Also, while comparing, I came to realize that some of the shortcomings that Hoka has are also present in Nike and vice versa.
Overall, both are excellent running shoe brands and will serve you well. However, which one will suit you will be completely dependent on your preference.
Madhusree Basu
Author, Admin
Blogger and a fitness enthusiast. She loves running and Yoga and everything in between. She started running to manage her weight and to eat to her heart’s content. A true foodie at heart she shares whatever knowledge she has gained throughout the years about weight management and fitness.
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We don’t accept any payment whether in cash or otherwise for the reviews. They are written with the intention to help our users select better products. We try to be as objective as possible while writing the reviews.
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