On Running Vs Nike: Which Brand Is Best For You?

On Running Vs Nike: Which Brand Is Best For You?

Last Updated: July 11th, 2022

On Running Vs Nike is a comparison that is going to be interesting. Nike is one of the most popular brands all over the world whereas those who use On Running, are mostly its loyal fans.

In the below sections we have provides you with as much detail about both the brands and have highlighted the differences between the two and our analysis wherever possible…

By the end of this post, we hope that you find the brand that is most suitable for you…

On Running Vs Nike

On Running Vs Nike: Differences

1. The maximum drop of an On Running shoe is 11mm whereas the maximum drop of a Nike shoe is 10mm.

2. Nike produces more types of sports shoes, however, On Running also has hiking gear which Nike doesn’t have.

3. Nike has 3 trail-running models and around 48 road-running models of shoes, whereas On Running has 4 trail-running models and 11 road-running models of shoes.

4. Between On Running and Nike, surprisingly Nike has the most maximally cushioned shoes.

5. Nike has a more traditional-looking midsole, whereas On Running has midsoles that resemble clouds from the side profile.

6. In general, On Running cushioning feels slightly softer than Nike midsoles.

7. Nike has more models of running shoes than On Running combining both road running and trail running shoes.

8. On Running looks more stylish than Nike and resembles lifestyle shoes. Nike looks more like a traditional sports shoe.

9. Nike is available in India whereas On Running is not.

On Running and Nike: Similarities

  • The minimum drop of both On Running and Nike is 4mm.
  • Both Nike and On Running are shifting towards eco-friendly and sustainable materials.
  • Both manufacture sports apparel.
  • Both have running shoes in the maximal cushioning category.
  • Both manufacture running shoes for trails and roads.
  • Both the brands have a non-restrictive fit.
  • Both use engineered mesh in the upper of their running shoes.
  • Both use a foam material that is a derivative of EVA foam.

Related: Saucony Vs Asics Sizing Chart: How Are They Different?

Shoe Construction

On Running has become a very popular brand among runners with its unconventional style and approach to its running shoes. Nike on the other hand is a more traditional brand that needs no introduction.

While Nike has an experience of almost 58 years of experience under its belt, On Running is yet to enter its teenage years in terms of experience.

On Running was founded in 2010 whereas Nike has been around since 1964.

However, with almost one-fifth of the experience as Nike as a brand, On Running is a formidable competitor of Nike.

On Running is a Swiss company unlike Nike, which is based in the US. Also, On is spreading its wings outside Switzerland and is quite making a mark in it.

Nike on the other hand is probably one of the most well-known brands across the world and has its presence known in almost 41 countries.

Both of these brands produce running shoes for different purposes like short-distance running, long-distance running, overpronation, neutral, etc.

But how does their performance match up?

Let’s find out…

Related: Hoka Vs Nike: Which Brand Is Right For You?

Midsole

The midsole of a running shoe is the make-or-break point while trying to decide on a running shoe. This is one of the single most important parts of the running shoe and its choice mainly depends on the kind of running you do.

With midsole, most companies go above and beyond with their midsole technologies and On Running and Nike are also no different. Throughout the years they have used different innovations to provide you with comfort and improved performance.

One of the most important and visible technologies that On Running uses is CloudTec. It is made in the shape of a cloud with air pockets.

These cloud pockets come together in a series to form a CloudTec sole that is cushiony, comfortable, and provides you with excellent performance.

This is somewhat similar to Nike whose 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, the Clouds of On Running and the Air Zoom pockets of Nike contract, and when you take the pressure off they expand, producing an explosive force that will help you to propel forward.

In general, these units are present throughout the length of the sole or in the heel region for that added shock absorption in both of these shoes.

However, Nike Air Zoom is not visible from the outside whereas, you will be able to see the clouds of On Running from the outsole. This gives On Cloud shoes a distinct look.

Apart from CloudTec another thing that is prevalent in On Running shoes is the SpeedBoard. It also uses Carbon Fibre plates extensively for more faster and resilient performance.

This imparts a kind of stiffness to the midsole that makes them more responsive. However, that is offset by the different cloud placements for optimum running comfort.

For example, the On Cloudboom Echo has a stiffer midsole than its previous version, Cloudboom. However, that is offset by adding more cushioning to the forefoot above the SpeedBoard.

This makes it more comfortable for the runners and also helps them to perform better.

Apart from the Air Zoom technology, Nike also uses rocker technology in most of the shoes with  ZoomX cushioning. This is found in the forefoot and it helps in the easier heel-to-toe 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.

The reason for the usage of this carbon fiber plate In Nike is similar to that of On Running. It increases the overall responsiveness of the shoe, thus improving the performance of the runner.

In place of the rocker technology, On Running uses the curvature of the SpeedBoard for powerful forward propulsion.

The more curved the SpeedBoard is, the more power you will have while moving forward.

You can experience it for yourself with the Cloudboom Echo. The curvature of the SpeedBoard is increased for the sole purpose of providing you with a more powerful forward motion.

Another type of cushioning that Nike uses is the React foam. This has become a super successful cushioning after its debut in 2017 in the basketball shoes and in the subsequent year for the running shoes.

This foam is a lightweight foam that has very high responsiveness. This was a breakthrough from Nike as cushioning and responsiveness most of the time don’t go hand in hand. With react foams you will get excellent energy return along with very high cushioning.

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.

Cushlon foams are not for long-distance running. However, for shorter distances they are excellent, lightweight cushioning.

Although Nike has exclusive shoes that are made for overpronation, you will not be able to find such a model with On Cloud.

To verify this, I searched almost all the shoes that they make and did not come across a shoe that specifically says that they support overpronation. The maximum thing that they say is supportive. Please let me know if you have found otherwise. This will help me to improve this article with the source.

Nike uses the medial post to handle overpronation and with such shoes from Nike, you will be able to feel that difference.

I would vote that comfort-wise, On Cloud and Nike, are almost at par. However, I felt the Nike soles to be a bit stiffer and I would prefer something with a bit less stiffness. But then again, it’s a personal preference and you can only decide if you can try this on.

The heel-to-toe drop both On Cloud and Nike has a wide spectrum and ranges from low drop shoes to high drop shoes.

However, On Cloud beats Nike by 1mm for the high drop shoes as the highest drop available in On Running is 11mm whereas for that Nike is 10mm.

However, both of them have a similar low drop of around 4mm.

Previously, On Running was making midsoles made from only foam, however, now they are blending rubber with the foam for some models to improve their overall durability.

Related: Salomon Vs Nike Sizing: How Different Are They?

Outsole

The outsole of On Running is made from durable rubber. Rather than spreading throughout the outsole, this durable rubber is present in the more wear and tear-prone areas like the forefoot and the heels.

Here is how a typical On Running outsole looks:

A Typical On Running Outsole

For the rest of the areas, it is an exposed rubberized midsole. The overall durability of this outsole is good and is excellent for longevity.

Also, due to the natural shape of the cloud, the outsole has deep horizontal grooves. Also, since there is one pair of clouds in each row, there is a deep vertical groove that runs through the middle of the shoe.

If you observe, there is a deep gap in the center of the midfoot as well…All these combined provide good flexibility to this running shoe. Without this flexibility, the sole unit would have been very hard and uncomfortable to run in.

The above picture shows the typical pattern of the outsole for the road running shoe. However, for trail running shoes also this pattern is present. Along with that, there is a slight addition to make it suitable for the trails.

For trail running shoes On Running has used something called Missiongrip. You will be able to find this kind of outsole in running shoes like On Cloudventure Waterproof.

This improves the traction even on the wet soft ground and provides you with a reliable grip for propulsion.

The forefoot of trail running shoes from On Running has something called studs aka lugs which provide you with excellent traction and stronger push-offs, even on soft terrains.

For the rest of the outsole, you will find a combination of these rubber blocks and On’s trademark 3-D-shaped texture. This improves the ground contact and provides you with high traction even on dry surfaces.

Apart from that, it also has a closed midsole channel that prevents stone catching. This also improves durability.

With Nike, the overall coverage of rubber in the outsole is more. It looks like almost the entire outsole is covered with durable rubber. However, there are few models that are below $100 that still have that exposed midsole with a rubberized coating.

Nike has used a computer-generated outsole design based on user input and provides you with a groove and flex pattern that is very precisely placed.

This makes the outsole durable and provides you with an excellent grip. Also, the amount of rubber and the patterns that are present on the outsole provides a bit of additional cushioning to your feet.

Nike has used different kinds of patterns on the outsole, however, one of the most prevalent patterns is the waffle pattern. This is present in the forefoot of running shoes like Pegasus.

This is nothing but a set of shallow lugs that are placed in such a way that they will add a layer of shock absorption and cushioning. When you land on these waffle lugs, they distribute the load and provide you with a firm grip on the ground.

This is how it looks…

Waffle pattern of Nike Outsole

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.

Apart from the waffle structure, to improve the flexibility of the shoe, Nike uses flex grooves on the forefoot.

Mostly, there is a single horizontal groove and a vertical one for improving flexibility. Also, some models which belong to the sub $75 category, have multiple flex grooves. This is their primary feature which helps in improving the flexibility of those kinds of outsoles.

This is a similar method that both Nike and On Running use to improve the flexibility of their running shoes.

This helps in easy heel-to-toe transition and provides you with a comfortable running experience.

For shoes that don’t have flex grooves, Nike uses a meta rocker for easy heel-to-toe movement.

For trail runners, Nike uses lugs for unidirectional and multidirectional which is typical of most trail running shoes.

Nike shoes have tapering lugs that easily get embedded in the trails, providing you with a lot more stability while running on them.

Now the most important question…

How different is it to run in On Running and Nike?

I won’t say much if we are comparing the grip of these two brands. Both provide excellent grip and traction on both roads and trails.

Upper

As with most running shoes, both On Running and Nike uses engineered mesh as their primary upper material. This material is durable, breathable, and flexible. They move with your feet so that you can move more naturally.

On Running uses more than 70% recycled materials in its shoes and is creating a positive impact on the planet.

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.

There are overlays present on the upper of On Running shoes. However, they are minimal and are used to reinforce the lace holes.

The first set of lace holes is placed just after the joint of the toes with the foot. This helps to have a better lacing experience and support from the laces.

The laces are flat as with most of the shoes that you will see nowadays in most of the shoes.

The tongue of On Running shoes is well padded and sits on your foot properly. It keeps your ankle joint stable along with the padding of the collar area.

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.

You will not find extended pull tabs in this shoe brand. Also, you will in general not find a pull tab at all. You may think of it as a shortcoming, however, it is not. I in any case find the pull tab to be useless, but then again, this is personal to the runners themselves.

The heel counter of the On Running shoes is smooth and well padded. The helps to keep the heel stable and it does not move around. Also, you will not have to deal with heel slips which can create blisters.

The sockliner of the On Running shoes is removable and it provides you with good arch support. You will be very comfortable in these insoles as they will provide you with a lot of cushioning.

Nike uses engineered mesh as the primary type of material for its upper’s construction. This is for similar reasons like On Running and will provide you with good breathable mesh material.

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.

The Flyknit material is a more premium upper material and is made from strong lightweight yarn. It is woven into a single piece material so that there is no unnecessary stitching involved in the upper. 

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.

You will find extended pull tabs in many models from Nike. This is supposed to make the wearing of the shoes easy. However, one thing that I forgot to mention above is that they provide additional support to the Achilles Tendons and also minimize the heel slip.

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 Nike models have flat laces. They will provide you with nonmarking support and is great for keeping the midfoot secured.

Other Considerations

On Running and Nike, both produce running shoes that are very well made and race-ready. They provide you with durability, comfort, and ease of running.

Also, most of the shoes of these two brands are true-to-size with only a couple of exceptions. However, the numbers with which they represent the shoes are not exactly the same.

To match them up, you will have to use a more universal number like the cm or the inches. This way you will be able to map the sizes of both of these shoes.

We have compared the main things of On vs Nike running shoes. However, if you are trying to purchase, these are not the only thing that needs to be considered. You will have to compare other things, like the durability, price, fit, etc.

These things we are taking up in the next sections so that we have a more wholesome comparison of the two brands.

Related: 10 Best Running Shoes With High Heel Drop (12mm-15mm)

Durability

On Running shoes are very durable. They will last for around 300-500 miles or around 482 to 800 km. This is a bit longer than Nike and may tilt the purchase decision in On Running’s favor.

 This is good news as these shoes are expensive. If they lasted much lesser then it will be a problem as spending so much on a less durable shoe is not worth it.

According to Nike quality engineers, an average Nike shoe lasts for 200-300 miles. This is a lot less than that of On Running. This is not a good thing as the difference in the length of the durability, certainly is something to consider.

The pricing of Nike shoes is also high if you want to run in a more premium shoe from Nike. So if they wear out faster then the cost per mile comes up almost double that of On Running. So, you will be spending a lot more on your running shoes which may not be desirable.

Actually, this was a bit surprising for me as I thought being a newer brand, On Running may be less durable. However, since Nike is the one whose durability is a bit less, I would prefer to go for On Running.

Related: New Balance Size Chart Vs Nike

Cushioning

The main cushioning material that On Running uses is the Cloud. These are air pockets made in foam or for some versions, foam combined with rubber. These provide you with excellent comfort and durability. Also, due to the nature of cushioning it also provides you with explosive movements.

Also, there is a carbon-fiber plate included that improves the responsiveness of the shoes.

There are different kinds of cushioning materials that Nike uses. The most used cushioning material is the Air Zoom. The other one is the Cushlon Foam. They provide you with good cushioning and shock absorption.

Comparing the comfort between On Cloud running shoes vs Nike, I found that they are at par. I think this is partly because they use similar materials and technologies. 

Related: Asics Gel Kayano Vs Nike Pegasus: Which One Is The Best For You?

Hoka Bondi Vs Clifton – Which Hoka Is Best For Your Feet?

Overall Fit And Comfort

The overall fit of On Running is true-to-size. I won’t go into a sizing comparison of these two shoes as that is a huge topic and I won’t be able to cover that in this post. I’ll post a separate article explaining all the differences and similarities between the sizing of On Running and Nike brands.

Not all the models from On Running is available in wide fit. Currently, at the time of writing this post, only On Cloudflow, On Cloudrunner, and On Cloudflyer are available in wide fit.

Nike running shoe models are also true to size if not all, most of them. However, for all of them, not all the models have a wide fit available.

If you wanted to try On Running or Nike, then the models that are available to you may not be as per your liking, if you have a wide fit.

I didn’t like that and probably this is the only complaint from me for these two brands.

Pricing

The starting price of Nike road running shoes is around $40 and in the range between $40 to $100, you get many models. Also, the trail running shoe Nike Juniper Trail falls into this category.

However, the minimum price that you need to pay for an On Running shoe is around $140. This is a huge price gap in the starting prices and may deter runners to try them on.

However, if you check out the more premium models of both brands, the price point will be somewhat similar.

Actually no, the prices of the most premium shoes like Nike Zoom Alphafly Next Nature will cost you way more than the most premium running shoe from On Running which is On Cloudboom Echo.

Basically, Nike gives you way more options in terms of price and you can choose something premium or not based on your requirement. However, such an option doesn’t exist for On Running and you will have to shell out a lot of cash just to try out this brand.

Conclusion

Comparing Nike Vs On Running, we found that they have a lot of similarities and differences. In some cases, Nike scores the point, whereas in other cases, On Running scores the point.

As a whole, you cannot choose a brand that is better than the other. So, ultimately, it will come down to your comfort. 

Choose the brand in whose shoes you feel most comfortable and by that I mean it can be anything, like, you may like a softer shoe or maybe a stiffer shoe. You may want more style or a more traditional-looking shoe…

Whatever, it is, based on your preference choose the shoe.

Madhusree Basu

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.

Topo Phantom Vs Hoka Clifton: Which One Is The Best For You?

Topo Phantom Vs Hoka Clifton: Which One Is The Best For You?

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate and an affiliate for some reputed brands, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost you. I may recieve a commission if you purchase something mentioned in this post. See more details here.

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

Let’s proceed…

Topo Phantom Vs Hoka Clifton

This is our winner

Last update on 2023-08-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Topo Phantom 2

Why did we pick this one?

  • Maximal cushioning.
  • Lightweight.
  • Elegant style.
  • Good ankle stability.
  • Excellent durability.

Differences 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.

Topo Phantom Vs Hoka Clifton – An Overview

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 Vs Hoka Clifton - Overview

Topo Phantom 2  Vs Hoka Clifton 8 – Features at a glance

Topo Phantom 2 Hoka Clifton 8
TOPO ATHLETIC PHANTOM 2 HOKA CLIFTON
Check Price!
Check Price!
Type Neutral Neutral
Heel-to-toe Drop 5mm 12mm
Weight

9.1oz / 258g (Women)

10.4oz / 295g (Men)

8.0oz / 226.8g (Women)

8.9oz / 252.3g (Men)

Arch Support Medium Medium
Midsole Type ZIP Foam CMEVA
Technology ZIP Foam, OrthoLite Footbed Breathable mesh, Early-stage meta rocker, Extended pull tab, CMEVA midsole
Sizes

4.0 – 9.0 (Women)

7.0 – 13.0 (Men)

5.0 – 12.0 (Women)

7.0 – 16.0 (Men)

Width

Medium (Women)

Medium (Men)

Medium (B), Wide (D) (Women)

Medium (D), Wide (EE) (Men)

Use Any Distances, Treadmill, Road Any Distances, Speed Run, Treadmill, Road
Editor’s Rating 4 and a half star-92X25-min 4 and a half star-92X25-min
Check Price!
Check Price!

PRODUCT

TOPO ATHLETIC PHANTOM 2

Topo Phantom 2

FEATURES

3YPE: Neutral

HEEL-TO-TOE DROP: 5mm

WEIGHT: 9.1oz / 258g (Women)/ 10.4oz / 295g (Men)

ARCH SUPPORT: Medium

MIDSOLE TYPE: ZIP Foam

TECHNOLOGY: ZIP Foam, OrthoLite Footbed

SIZES: 4.0 – 9.0 (Women) / 7.0 – 13.0 (Men)

WIDTH: Medium (Women) / Medium (Men)

USE: Any Distances, Treadmill, Road

EDITOR’S RATING

4 and a half star-92X25-min

PRODUCT

HOKA CLIFTON

Hoka Clifton 8

FEATURES

TYPE: Neutral

HEEL-TO-TOE DROP: 5mm

WEIGHT: 8.0oz/226.8g (Women) / 8.9oz/252.3g (Men)

ARCH SUPPORT: Medium

MIDSOLE TYPE: CMEVA

TECHNOLOGY: Breathable mesh, Early-stage meta rocker, Extended pull tab, CMEVA midsole

SIZES: 5.0 – 12.0 (Women) / 7.0 – 16.0 (Men)

WIDTH: Medium (B), Wide (D) (Women) / Medium (D), Wide (EE) (Men)

USE: Any Distances, Speed Run, Treadmill, Road

EDITOR’S RATING

4 and a half star-92X25-min

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

Topo Athletic Phantom 2 Vs Hoka One One Clifton 8 - 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

Hoka Clifton Vs Topo Phantom - 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

Topo Phantom 2 Vs Hoka Clifton 8 - 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.

Hoka Bondi 7
1,386 Reviews
Hoka Bondi 7
  • Open mesh construction
  • Memory foam collar
  • Refined early stage Meta-Rocker

Last update on 2023-08-31 / 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.

Sale
Brooks Trace Running Shoes
766 Reviews
Brooks Trace Running Shoes
  • 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 2023-08-27 / 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.

Topo Phantom Vs Hoka Clifton Running Shoes Pin
Madhusree Basu

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 Vs Brooks Ghost: Which One Is The Best For You? [2022]

Hoka Mach Vs Brooks Ghost: Which One Is The Best For You? [2022]

Last Updated: July 6th, 2022

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate and an affiliate for some reputed brands, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost you. I may recieve a commission if you purchase something mentioned in this post. See more details here.

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…

Let’s proceed…

Hoka Mach Vs Brooks Ghost

This is our winner

Last update on 2023-08-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Brooks Ghost 14

Why did we pick this one?

  • Responsive cushioning.
  • Lightweight.
  • Good for runners with even certain foot issues like heel bursitis.
  • Elegant style.
  • Good ankle stability.
  • Uses 100% DNA LOFT.

Differences Between Hoka Mach Vs Brooks Ghost

  • 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 Vs Hoka Mach – An Overview

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 Vs Brooks Ghost - Overview

Hoka Mach 5  Vs Brooks Ghost 14 – Features at a glance

Hoka Mach 5 Brooks Ghost 14
HOKA MACH 5 Brooks Ghost 14
Check Price!
Check Price!
Type Neutral Neutral
Heel-to-toe Drop 5mm 12mm
Weight

6.8oz / 193g (Women)

8.6oz / 232.5g (Men)

9.0oz / 255.1g (Women)

9.9oz / 280.7g (Men)

Arch Support Medium Medium
Midsole Type CMEVA DNA LOFT
Technology Engineered mesh, Anatomical Achilles construction, PROFLY+™ construction, Early-stage Meta-Rocker, Rubberized EVA outsole, Molded EVA Sockliner DNA LOFT, Segmented Crash Pad, 3D Fit Print
Sizes

5.0 – 11.0 (Women)

7.0 – 14.0 (Men)

5.0 – 13.0 (Women)

7.0 – 15.0 (Men)

Width

Regular (B), Wide (D) (Women)

Regular (D), Wide (EE) (Men)

Narrow (2A), Medium (1B), Wide (1D) (Women)

Narrow (1B), Medium (1D), Wide (2E), Extra Wide (4E) (Men)

Use Shorter Distances, Speed Run, Treadmill, Road Any Distances, Speed Run, Treadmill, Road
Editor’s Rating 4 and a half star-92X25-min 4 and a half star-92X25-min
Check Price!
Check Price!

PRODUCT

HOKA MACH 5

Hoka Mach 5

FEATURES

TYPE: Neutral

HEEL-TO-TOE DROP: 5mm

WEIGHT: 6.8oz / 193g (Women)/ 8.6oz / 232.5g (Men)

ARCH SUPPORT: Medium

MIDSOLE TYPE: CMEVA

TECHNOLOGY: Engineered mesh, Anatomical Achilles Construction, PROFLY+ construction, Early-stage meta-rocker, Rubberized EVA outsole, Molded EVA Sockliner

SIZES: 5.0 – 11.0 (Women) / 7.0 – 14.0 (Men)

WIDTH: Regular (B), Wide (D) (Women) / Regular (D), Wide (EE) (Men)

USE: Shorter Distances, Speed Run, Treadmill, Road

EDITOR’S RATING

4 and a half star-92X25-min

PRODUCT

Brooks Ghost 14

Brooks Ghost 14

FEATURES

TYPE: Neutral

HEEL-TO-TOE DROP: 12mm

WEIGHT: 9.0oz/255.1g (Women) / 9.9oz/280.7g (Men)

ARCH SUPPORT: Medium

MIDSOLE TYPE: DNA LOFT

TECHNOLOGY: DNA LOFT, Segmented Crash Pad, 3D Fit Print

SIZES: 5.0 – 13.0 (Women) / 7.0 – 15.0 (Men)

WIDTH: Narrow (2A), Medium (1B), WIde (1D) (Women) / Narrow (1B), Medium (1D), Wide (2E), Extra Wide (4E) (Men)

USE: Any Distances, Speed Run, Treadmill, Road

EDITOR’S RATING

4 and a half star-92X25-min

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

Differences between the outsoles of Hoka Mach and Brooks Ghost

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

Hoka Mach 5 Vs Brooks 14 - 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.

However, if you have issues like retrocalcaneal bursitis (heel bursitis) or Achilles Tendonitis, then such a low drop will not be comfortable for you as this loads up the Achilles more.

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

Brooks Ghost Vs Hoka Mach - 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.

New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v12 Running Shoes
  • 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 2023-08-19 / 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.

Asics Novablast 2 Running Shoes
1,004 Reviews
Asics Novablast 2 Running Shoes
  • Material: Synthetic
  • Internal Material: Synthetic
  • Heel Height: 32 mm

Last update on 2023-09-03 / 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.

Comparing Hoka Mach and Brooks Ghost
Madhusree Basu

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.

Brooks Vs Saucony Vs Hoka: Which Brand Is Right For You?

Brooks Vs Saucony Vs Hoka: Which Brand Is Right For You?

Last Updated: August 8th, 2022

Brooks Vs Saucony Vs Hoka. All of these sports shoe brands are among the most popular running shoe brands…

They are comfortable and they have their own set of fan-following…

But between these three brands, is there anyone who shines the most? Let’s find out…

Brooks Vs Saucony Vs Hoka

Brooks Vs Saucony Vs Hoka: Differences

1. Hoka shoe’s maximum drop is 6mm whereas both Saucony and Brooks have a maximum drop of 12mm.

2. Both Hoka and Brooks produce more types of sports shoes, whereas Saucony produces only running shoes.

3. Brooks manufactures all types of sports apparel including socks, Hoka has shorts, tops, and leggings and Saucony manufactures tops, bottoms, and innerwear for women.

4. Brooks has 4 trail-running models and 25 road running models of shoes, Hoka has 12 trail-running models and 20 road-running models of shoes, whereas Saucony has 5 trail-running models and 15 road-running models.

5. Between three brands Hoka has the thickest cushioning with a 40mm heel stack and a 36mm forefoot stack (Bondi) closely followed by Brooks Cascadia (39mm hs/35mm fs) and Saucony Endorphin Pro 2 and Saucony Hurricane 23 (39mm hs/31mm fs).

6. Between the three, Hoka has the most models of running shoes, followed by Brooks and Saucony in that order.

7. Between the three, Brooks shoes look more stylish whereas both Hoka and Saucony shoes have a bulky appearance.

Related: ON Running Vs Nike Sizing: Differences And Similarities

Hoka and New Balance: Similarities

  • The minimum drop of Hoka, Brooks, and Saucony is 4mm.
  • Brooks, Saucony, and Hoka are shifting towards eco-friendly and sustainable materials.
  • All three have running shoes in the maximal cushioning category.
  • All three manufacture running shoes for trails and roads.
  • All three brands have a non-restrictive fit.
  • All three use engineered mesh in the upper of their running shoes.
  • All three use a foam material that is a derivative of EVA foam.
  • All three have at least one model that has a carbon fiber plate.

Shoe Construction

As a runner, you may already have a favorite brand. It may be Hoka, Saucony, Brooks, or any other brand…

Choice of a running shoe is very personal…and between these three brands which you will prefer will also be completely based on the comfort that you feel in them.

For some, they may like the flex grooves of Brooks or the meta rocker technology of Hoka. Or, they may like the no-fuss minimalistic Saucony Kinvara.

There is no definite way to tell which shoe you will like the most, although, all of these are well constructed and all the companies have spent years together to perfect the comfort that these shoes provide…

So, let’s find out what these brands have to offer and how they will benefit you…

Midsole

When selecting a running shoe, one of the main things that you will look at is the midsole. This is a make-or-break for your purchase decision.

Then between Hoka, Brooks, and Saucony which fares the most and which is worthy of your investment…let’s find out…

When it comes to Brooks, there are only a couple of types of midsoles that are present. Each of these midsoles has its own characteristics and will provide you with a unique experience. We will describe each of them below…

Brooks midsole type: Cushion

The midsole material that falls in this category is the DNA LOFT. This is a carefully calibrated mix of mesh, air, and rubber to provide you with one of the softest and cushiest midsoles available on the market.

To come up with this material, Brooks has mixed EVA foam with rubber and air. This provides you with that soft and cushy feeling when you wear the shoes like Brooks Ghost, Brooks Adrenaline, etc.

Another type of midsole that belongs to the cushion category is the BioMoGo DNA. This was a similar type of material to DNA LOFT. However, in many shoes, Brooks is transitioning to DNA LOFT from BioMOGo DNA as the former is a bit softer and cushier.

Brooks midsole type: Energize

The cushion material that belongs to this category is the DNA AMP. It is a responsive material and provides you with excellent energy return rather than absorbing it.

The material is springy and bouncy and is not as soft as the DNA LOFT.

It is made from polyurethane (PU) foam which is encased in a thin layer of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU).

In this variation of PU that is being used in these shoes, you will find plastic combined with rubber for the firmness and the elasticity. The TPU also provides DNA AMP with additional rigidity.

Shoes that belong to this category are Brooks Levitate.

Brooks midsole type: Speed

This type of cushioning is meant for fast and adaptive energy return. The midsole material that is created for this purpose is built with nitrogen infusion.

It is a very lightweight midsole that is meant for speed and good energy return.

Another aspect that imparts the speed to these kinds of midsoles is the Carbon Fiber Propulsion Plate. This is an ultralight plate that helps to keep you in your preferred motion path so that you run more efficiently.

Shoes that belong to this category are Brooks Hyperion Tempo, Brooks Launch, Brooks Launch GTS, and Brooks Hyperion Elite.

Holistic GuideRails System

Apart from the midsole cushioning, there is another component that comes into play if you are dealing with overpronation.

To provide you with stability, Brooks has come up with something called Holistic GuideRails System.

This is excellent for providing you with support and bringing your knees back in the line of motion and protecting the knees from injuries.

Also, this is the standard technology that Brooks has incorporated in all of its stability shoes like Brooks Adrenaline GTS, Brooks Addiction GTS, Launch GTS, Brooks Beast, and Brooks Ariel.

Hoka Midsole

Like Brooks, Hoka also uses EVA foam as the base material for its midsoles however, it is being made into CMEVA or Compression-Molded EVA foam. This is the primary material for the midsole of Hoka Shoes.

Apart from CMEVA, for a more smooth and natural heel-to-toe transition, Hoka uses meta rocker technology which is present in almost all the Hoka shoes.

However, as mentioned earlier in the Hoka Vs New Balance post, there are basically two types of rocker technologies. The early-stage meta rocker and the late-stage meta rocker.

The difference between these two types of meta rockers is the position where the transition zone is placed.

In the case of an early-stage meta rocker, the transition zone is placed behind the metatarsals, whereas for a late-stage meta rocker, the transition zone is placed in front of the metatarsal.

For stability, Hoka uses a J-Frame which is basically a firmer foam on the medial side in the shape of a J. This provides additional support to the runners with overpronation.

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.

Saucony Midsole

Saucony midsoles are also using the base material of EVA foam and have changed it to suit different types of running and cushioning requirements.

Here are some of the technologies that come into play in the midsole of Saucony running shoes:

PWRRUN

PWRRUN is one of the primary materials that are used in the midsoles of Saucony. It is a TPU EVA blend and provides you responsive and cushioned feeling.

All the subsequent midsole materials are mostly an enhanced version of PWRRUN except for VERSAFOAM.

You will find PWRRUN in Saucony Kinvara, Saucony Ride, Saucony Echelon, and Saucony Guide among others.

PWRRUN+

PWRRUN+ is an enhanced version of PWRRUN and is lighter, softer, and springier than PWRRUN.

This will provide you with excellent feedback and will keep your feet well protected.

Shoes that belong to the PWRRUN+ category are Hurricane, Triumph, Cohesion, etc.

PWRRUN PB

This is yet another improvement in PWRRUN. The PWRRUN PB midsoles are made from a PEBA-based midsole and are very soft.

The responsiveness of these midsoles is slightly less and will provide you with excellent cushioning.

Running shoes from Saucony that uses PWRRUN PB are Endorphin Pro, Freedom, etc.

VERSARUN

This is a durable cushioning that is based on EVA foam and is very responsive. This holds its shape for a variety of activities.

Shoes that use VERSARUN are Cohesion.

Carbon Fiber Plate

The carbon Fiber Plate is introduced in the Endorphin models of Saucony. This is extremely lightweight and durable and improves the responsiveness of these shoes.

It is great for speed shoes and is excellent for speed drills.

SPEED ROLL technology

This is an advanced technology which is basically a footwear geometry that provides you with an always forward feel.

S-CURVE Carbon Plate

This is the kind of carbon plate that is present in midsoles of shoes like Endorphin PRO. It is shaped in the form of a curve at the arch of the foot and it bends downwards slightly at the balls of the foot.

This improves the responsiveness of the shoe…

Related: Brooks Ghost Vs Saucony Endorphin Speed: Which One Is The Best Choice For You?

To improve the stability of the support shoes, Saucony uses an extended medial post. This stabilizes your feet and controls your overpronation.

If you try to compare the cushioning level of Saucony, Hoka, and Brooks, you will find all of them have all the varieties from ultra-plush cushioning to very responsive running shoes.

All of them have some models that incorporate the carbon fiber plate.

However, I felt, that the cushioning of DNA LOFT was slightly softer than that of PWRRUN and CMEVA. Being said that, I personally prefer a soft running shoe and have always liked DNA LOFT for that matter.

So, setting my bias aside, the kind of cushioning and responsiveness that these shoes provide is very good and you can consider them at par.

However, if you want to go for something which has an ultra-high level of cushioning then Bondi will be a great choice for neutral runners.

Go for Beast or Ariel if you are an overpronating runner. If you like minimal springy cushioning, the Saucony Kinvara should be your choice.

Outsole

The outsole of Hoka is mostly made of durable blown rubber which is highly abrasion-resistant.

This will provide you with an excellent grip on both wet and dry surfaces and is excellent for any kind of terrain.

The outsole of Hoka shoes is not completely covered with rubber. Instead, it has rubber stips placed on the high wear and tear prone areas. This reinforces those areas and improves durability.

Another type of outsole is common in Hoka. In this type, Hoka uses a rubberized version of CMEVA. Actually, this is not any separate layer, rather the exposed midsole layer is rubberized.

This way they saved up on the rubber strips of durable rubber and simultaneously lighten the overall weight of the shoe.

However, durability-wise, these outsoles are a bit less durable, and also the traction felt slightly lesser on the wet surfaces.

The outsole of Brooks employs similar things as in Hoka and Saucony to provide you with a durable outsole that has a good grip on both wet and dry surfaces.

It uses HPR rubber strips on the high wear and tears prone zones like the forefoot and the heels. The area between the forefoot and the heels is often devoid of such kind of rubber.

However, those areas are made in such a way that they don’t come in contact with the ground.

One thing that is common in all three brands is that they employ similar techniques to improve the flexibility of the sole.

To improve the durability of the shoe, the usage of hard rubber is probably the only option. However, that adds to the stiffness of the outsole.

For that, there are flex grooves present on the forefoot. For Brooks, they are called Omega Flex Grooves. However, based on the shoe model, the type of grooves that are used also differ.

For example, in Brooks Ghost, the grooves are almost horizontal, whereas, in Launch, it is more in the shape of an arrow pattern.

You will not see such a difference in the rest of the two brands which use almost horizontal grooves for imparting flexibility to the forefoot.

For trail running shoes Brooks uses TrailTack. This is a sticky rubber compound that provides excellent grip on the trails.

The outsole of Saucony basically uses blown rubber that is spread across the forefoot and the heels.

Also, the kind of techniques that Saucony uses is similar to that of Brooks and Hoka for improving the grip and flexibility of the shoes.

However, the technologies that Saucony uses vary greatly from these brands and also from its shoe to shoe.

The technologies that Saucony uses in its outsole are:

TRI-FLEX

It improves the force dispersion over a larger surface and provides excellent flexibility and traction. It is often used with the EVERUN topsole.

XT-600

This is a carbon rubber compound that is used for improved durability. They provide excellent traction as well.

XT-900

This is a carbon rubber that uses excellent traction and durability. It is an improvement on XT-600.

CRYSTAL RUBBER

It provides you with very high durability and great traction. This material is more flexible than the XT series and provides you with a more natural movement.

Grip-wise, I would consider all the three brands at par. However, the rubberized midsoles that are used in some of the models of Hoka and Saucony have slightly lesser durability. Other than that, the outsoles of all these three brands are at par.

Upper

There are a lot of things that go into the upper of Hoka, Brooks, and Saucony.

However, what is common in all of these brands is that mostly they use Engineered Mesh.

Hoka mainly uses two types of mesh materials…one is the engineered mesh and the other is engineered jacquard mesh.

In Jacquard mesh, you will find complex designs are directly knitted in the mesh…whereas engineered mesh will give you a more open feel…

The breathability of both of these types of meshes is good…However, the appearance of jacquard mesh is denser and thicker.

To reduce its carbon footprint, Hoka has started using recycled materials for its upper…although not all of the models have recycled material, Hoka is speedily shifting towards that…

Most of the upper of Hoka shoes have TPU overlays…these overlays are used to reinforce the midfoot structure of the shoes.

The tongue of Hoka shoes is made from a similar mesh material as that of the upper and gives it a more uniform look like that of the upper. This makes the tongue breathable and comfortable.

Also, the tongue may be gusseted/integrated or non-gusseted/free…However, being anatomically designed, they will sit on the top of your foot properly and will not move around unnecessarily.

Hoka has started using that extended pull tabs in many models like Clifton or Mach. This is an Achilles support and also helps you to wear the shoe more easily…Also, it enhances the overall appeal of the shoe.

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.

Most of the shoes from Hoka have a Silicone Print Logo, some are glossy and some have a matt finish. This only enhances the appeal of the Hoka Shoes.

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.

The upper of Brooks running shoes are mostly made up of engineered mesh with the exception of the shoes that use GORE-TEX or GTX. It doesn’t use jacquard mesh as Hoka uses in some of the models.

The mesh material is well ventilated and keeps the airflow high inside the shoe.

Brooks is gradually moving towards a more sustainable type of mesh and is using recycled materials in its upper.

This is helping them to reduce their carbon footprint and is contributing to a cleaner environment.

Similar to Hoka and Saucony, Brooks also uses a removable sockliner that is meant to provide you with excellent comfort and arch support.

These sockliners are also breathable keeping the overall in-shoe environment dry.

Apart from this similarity, Brooks like Hoka is shifting towards the extended pull tab look. This not only improves the style of the shoes but also provides you with an easy way to put on the shoe.

The tongue of the running shoes of the Brooks brand is well padded and is mostly made of mesh material.

This makes the tongue comfortable and breathable, and it sits comfortably between the laces and the skin of the top of your feet. This avoids rubbing the laces which may cause blisters.

Like Hoka, the tongue of Brooks shoes may be gusseted or non-gusseted based on the model. However, what I’ve seen is no matter which model you choose, the tongue stays in place while running.

If you look at the upper of Saucony, it also has engineered mesh on the different models. The mesh that Saucony uses is also very breathable and like Brooks will help to keep the in-shoe environment cool and dry.

However, it uses FORMFIT in different models to provide you with exceptional fit and stretch according to the shape of your feet.

Most of the models of Saucony have adopted that extended pull tab. However, that pull tab is not as evident as that in Hoka or Brooks. If you are not observant, you will surely miss it. However, this also provides that added support to your Achilles area.

Also, the tongue of the shoes of Saucony is thick and well padded like its collar. This will keep you comfortable and will not move around while running.

In most of the models of Saucony, the tongue is anatomically designed and will provide you with the utmost comfort.

The laces that all these brands have adopted is a flat lace. They are mostly polyester laces that remain in place and are properly tied when you are running.

All the models have overlays on them. This reinforces the support of the upper and also enhances the overall style of the shoe.

Comfort-wise, the upper of all the three brands are at par, however, style-wise, I like Brooks more, followed by Hoka and then Saucony. This is a personal preference though, and it may vary for you.

Related: 10 Best Walking Shoes For Blister Prone Feet (Highly Rated)

Other Considerations

Hoka, Brooks and Saucony have a lot of similarities. All the brands produce running shoes whose most models are true to size although the way represent sizing may differ a bit. The cushioning is great, and so is the overall comfort.

Related: Topo Vs Altra Sizing Chart: How Different Are They?

However, there are a lot of differences. Firstly, Hoka is a low-drop shoe brand whereas both Saucony and Brooks have many models that have higher drops.

But most importantly, it is how they handle their cushioning which we have covered in great detail above.

Durability

Typically a Hoka shoe will last you for around 350 miles. After that, you may start to see the wear and tear.

Since most of the Hoka shoes fall in the max cushioned category, this is expected. I would invest in a good shoe that lasts for some lesser miles than spend the same money on a physician to fix the problems caused by a cheap running shoe.

For Brooks and Saucony, the durability is slightly higher around 400 to 450 miles. From a running distance perspective that may be another 1 month extra of running.

This is where I feel, Brooks fares slightly better.

Cushioning

The primary cushioning material of Hoka is CMEVA. It is a very cushy and responsive material. However, I feel, this is slightly stiffer than DNA LOFT which is one of the primary cushioning materials from Brooks.

Related: Hoka Bondi Vs Clifton – Which Hoka Is Best For Your Feet?

Brooks Ghost Vs Hoka Clifton – Which One Is Best For Your Feet?

Also, the PWRRUN or its further enhancements that you find in Saucony is soft and cushy. The cushioning is good and comfortable, but the bounciness could have been better.

However, that is slightly better with Hoka and Brooks.

It is hard to decide on which one is better as all the cushions score some points in one aspect and lose some in the other. But nonetheless, all of them are very comfortable. The final choice will be the kind that you would want…

Overall Fit And Comfort

The overall fit of both Brooks and Hoka are similar as both of them has a wideish fit. Saucony on the other hand, for some of the models, has a bit of a snug fit.

However, one big shortcoming of Hoka is that, apart from the popular models like Bondi and Clifton, most of the other models don’t have a wide fit.

This is true for Saucony as well, where apart from the models Kinvara and Triumph there are no wide shoes.

Brooks shines in this aspect. It has a wide and extra wide-fitting shoe for most of its models. This is good news for runners like me who have bunions. We need running shoes that are wider on the forefoot.

Related: 6 Best Running Shoes For Tailor’s Bunion

Pricing

The starting price of Brooks running shoes is around $75 and in the range between $75 to $100, you have a lot of variety including trail running shoes.

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.

For Saucony, the starting price is around $85. Also, in the price range up to $100, you will not have a lot of options.

So, if you want to just try out a Hoka or Saucony, then you will have to pay a little more than Brooks. Also, the choices that you will have, may not be what you want.

However, for the most premium shoes, all the models, the prices reach slightly above $200.

So, if you don’t want to spend a lot of money, then you can go for Brooks…

However, if you have a budget of $100 or above, you have options from all of these brands.

Conclusion

If you compare Saucony Vs Hoka Vs Brooks, all of these brands almost are at par.

There are a couple of places where Hoka gets a few extra points and in others, Brooks or Saucony scores high.

So, if we want to pick a winner then it will not be fair to the other two Brands. The whole thing that the choice between these brands will boil down to the kind of comfort you feel in these shoes.

For me, I prefer Brooks and I cannot describe all the reasons why…but it feels more comfortable for me…and I don’t end up with bunion pain.

Other than that, I loved the shoes of all the three brands and you will love them as well…

Madhusree Basu

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.

Topo Vs Altra Sizing Chart: How Different Are They?

Topo Vs Altra Sizing Chart: How Different Are They?

Last Updated: July 11th, 2022

Comparing the sizes of Topo and Altra is very interesting.

They have almost similar sizes with one of them offering a couple of extra sizes for both men and women.

Also, some of the size numbers in Topo and Altra are different, however, the length in cm or inches are the same.

That is why we have included, the length of the shoe in cm (inches) along with sizes for each country like US, UK, EU…

This helps standardize the sizes and you will be able to tally the sizes based on an actual length and not some arbitrary number.

Related: New Balance Size Chart Vs Nike

Topo Vs Altra Sizing

Topo Vs Altra Sizing: Differences

1. Topo Athletic’s minimum length: 22.5 cm (8.85 inches) W/25 cm (9.84 inches) M, Altra‘s minimum length: 22 cm (8.66 inches) W/26 cm (10.24 inches) M

2. Topo Athletic doesn’t have 5.5 (US)/3.5 (UK)/36 (EU), 11.5 (US)/9.5 (UK)/44 (EU), and 13 (US)/11 (UK)/46 (EU) for women and 16 (US)/15 (UK)/51.5 (EU) for men. All these sizes are available in Altra.

3. Altra doesn’t have 7 (US)/6 (UK)/40 (EU) and 7.5 (US)/6.5 (UK)/40.5 (EU) sizes for men. These sizes are available in Topo Athletic.

4. The size 44.5 (EU) of Altra is equivalent to 44 of Topo Athletic for women’s shoes.

5. The size 44 (EU) of Altra doesn’t have an equivalent size in Topo Athletic for women.

6. The size 47.5 (EU) of Topo Athletic is equivalent to 47 (EU) of Altra for the men’s version of the shoes.

Related: Running Shoe Heel Drop Chart (Illustrated)

Topo Athletic Vs Altra Sizing: Women’s Shoes (cm, inches)

cm (inches)

TA (US)

Altra (US)

TA (UK)

Altra (UK)

TA (EU)

Altra (EU)

22 cm

(8.66 in)

N/A

5.5

N/A

3.5

N/A

36

22.5 cm

(8.85 in)

6

6

4

4

37

37

23 cm

(9.05 in)

6.5

6.5

4.5

4.5

37.5

37.5

23.5 cm

(9.25 in)

7

7

5

5

38

38

24 cm

(9.45 in)

7.5

7.5

5.5

5.5

38.5

38.5

24.5 cm

(9.65 in)

8

8

6

6

39

39

25 cm

(9.85 in)

8.5

8.5

6.5

6.5

40

40

25.5 cm

(10.03 in)

9

9

7

7

40.5

40.5

26 cm

(10.24 in)

9.5

9.5

7.5

7.5

41

41

26.5 cm

(10.43 in)

10

10

8

8

42

42

27 cm

(10.63 in)

10.5

10.5

8.5

8.5

42.5

42.5

27.5 cm

(10.83 in)

11

11

9

9

43

43

28 cm

(11.02 in)

N/A

11.5

N/A

9.5

N/A

44

28.5 cm

(11.22 in)

12

12

10

10

44

44.5

29.5 cm

(11.61 in)

N/A

13

N/A

11

N/A

46

Download Topo Vs Altra Size Chart For Women

Related: Top 24 Best Running Shoes For Bunions Reviewed

Altra Vs Topo Sizing: Men’s Shoes (cm, inches)

cm (inches)

Topo (US)

Altra (US)

Topo (UK)

Altra (UK)

Topo (EU)

Altra (EU)

25 cm

(9.84 in)

7

N/A

6

N/A

40

N/A

25.5 cm

(10.04 in)

7.5

N/A

6.5

N/A

40.5

N/A

26 cm

(10.24 in)

8

8

7

7

41

41

26.5 cm

(10.43 in)

8.5

8.5

7.5

7.5

42

42

27 cm

(10.63 in)

9

9

8

8

42.5

42.5

27.5 cm

(10.83 in)

9.5

9.5

8.5

8.5

43

43

28 cm

(11.02 in)

10

10

9

9

44

44

28.5 cm

(11.22 in)

10.5

10.5

9.5

9.5

44.5

44.5

29 cm

(11.42 in)

11

11

10

10

45

45

29.5 cm

(11.61 in)

11.5

11.5

10.5

10.5

46

46

30 cm

(11.81 in)

12

12

11

11

46.5

46.5

30.5 cm

(12 in)

12.5

12.5

11.5

11.5

47.5

47

31 cm

(12.20 in)

13

13

12

12

48

48

32 cm

(12.60 in)

14

14

13

13

49

49

33 cm

(13 in)

15

15

14

14

50

50

34 cm

(13.39 in)

N/A

16

N/A

15

N/A

51.5

Download Altra size compared to Topo (Men)

Related: Top 15 Best Running Shoes for Morton’s Neuroma Reviewed

Do Topo Athletic Run Bigger Or Smaller Than Altra?

Most of the sizes of Topo Athletic are the same as that of Altra. However, there are a couple of them that varies.

First of all, some of the sizes that are available in the women’s version of Altra running shoes are not present in Topo Athletic running shoes.

In the men’s version, the situation is the opposite. Some of the sizes that are available in Topo Athletic are not present in Altra.

There is an anomaly with the size 44 (EU) of Topo Athletic and that of 44.5 (EU) of Altra. Lengthwise both are similar, however, the numbering is different, and also, this is the last size that is available from Topo Athletic in the women’s version of the shoes.

However, the interesting thing about this size is that they are represented by the same numbers for Altra and Topo Athletic for the US and UK regions.

A similar anomaly exists for the men’s version of the shoes also. The 47.5 (EU) of Topo Athletic is equivalent to the size 47 (EU) of Altra s both of them have the same length.

But, for US and UK regions, are represented by the same number for both the companies.

Related: ON Running Vs Nike Sizing: Differences And Similarities

Madhusree Basu

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.






New Balance 1080v12 Vs 1080v11: What Changed?

New Balance 1080v12 Vs 1080v11: What Changed?

Last Updated: May 24th, 2022

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate and an affiliate for some reputed brands, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost you. I may recieve a commission if you purchase something mentioned in this post. See more details here.

New Balance 1080v12 is out in the market. As expected it is warmly welcomed by the crowd…

If you are still sitting on the sidelines for deciding whether to go for it or not….\this post may help you out…

New Balance 1080v12 surely looks a bit different than the New Balance 1080v11. Does it feel different?

Did New Balance solve the issues with New Balance 1080v11? Will New Balance 1080v12 be more comfortable than New Balance 1080v11?

Between New Balance 1080v12 and New Balance 1080v11 which one is better?

Find out in this detailed comparison of New Balance 1080v12 vs 1080v11 below…

New Balance 1080 v12 Vs 1080 v11

New Balance 1080v12 Vs 1080v11

Quick Comparison

If you are in a hurry, these are the main difference and similarities between New Balance 1080v12 vs 1080v11…

Differences between New Balance 1080v12 Vs 1080v11:

  • New Balance 1080v12 has updated the Fresh Foam X midsole to provide a softer cushioning than New Balance 1080v11.
  • In New Balance 1080v12 the ultra heel of New Balance 1080v11 is replaced by a standard slightly elevated heel.
  • The heel slip problem that New Balance 1080v11 has is eliminated in New Balance 1080v12 with a new heel area design.
  •  The thin collar of New Balance 1080v11 is replaced with a more padded collar in New Balance 1080v12 to improve ankle stability and added resistance to heel slip.
  • The stack height of New Balance 1080v12 is more than New Balance 1080v11 by a whole 2 mm in both the forefoot and the rearfoot.
  • The upper of the New Balance 1080v12 feels wider than the New Balance 1080v11 and is more comfortable.
  • The upper mesh design of New Balance 1080v12 is made with Hypoknit which is more streamlined than New Balance 1080v11 and provides a more stylish look.
  • New Balance 1080v12 meets the New Balance Green Leaf Standard for the usage of recycled materials in the construction of the shoe. This was not present in New Balance 1080v11.
  • The exposed midsole area in the outsole of New Balance 1080v12 is scooped out to minimize wear and tear of the midsole. This area of the outsole in New Balance 1080v11 was toughing the ground.
  • New Balance 1080v12 is slightly heavier than New Balance 1080v11.

Similarities:

  • The midsole of both versions uses Fresh Foam X.
  • Both are neutral running shoes.
  • Both have an extended heel collar for easy slip-on.
  • Both have a sock-like fit.
  • Both are 8mm drop shoes.
  • Both have similar durable rubber coverage on the outsole.
  • Both have flat laces.
  • Both have medium arch support.

Introducing…

Last update on 2023-08-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

New Balance 1080v12

Special features…

  • Updated and softer midsole
  • Higher stack height
  • Standard heel fit
  • Padded extended collar and tongue for added comfort.

Midsole

New Balance 1080v11 Vs 1080v12 - Midsole Differences

The midsole of 1080v12 is made from Fresh Foam X as is 1080v11. However, the midsole of New Balance 1080v12 is softer than that of 1080v11.

This is made possible by updating the midsole mapping. This helps you to have more foam in wider areas and also it improves the flexibility of the narrower areas of the shoe.

This is why the midsole of New Balance 1080v12 is softer than that of New Balance 1080v11.

Another factor that improves the softness of the midsole is the amount of foam that is present in the midsole.

The midsole of New Balance 1080v12 has 2 mm more Fresh Foam X in the midsole than New Balance 1080v11. This is both in the forefoot and the rearfoot and provides you with additional cushioning and comfort.

New Balance 1080v12 has retained the laser markings of the New Balance 1080v11 and this has helped it to retain and improve its flexibility.

Also, having the New Balance Green Leaf standard, at least one midsole or outsole has a minimum of 3% bio-based or 5% recycled based material.

Related: New Balance 1080 vs Brooks Ghost: Which One Will Suit You?

How are these updated materials will help you?

Having more softness in the midsole will help you to stay more comfortable for longer runs. It will reduce your foot fatigue and will help you to run further.

New Balance 1080v12 will now provide you with a more cushioned and comfortable ride.

Even if you have foot problems like plantar fasciitis, Morton’s Neumora, tailor’s bunion, or bunions like me, this cushioning will keep you comfortable.

Since New Balance 1080v12 uses more recycled materials, it will help you to reduce your overall carbon footprint on this planet.

Related: Brooks Beast Vs New Balance 1540: Which Running Shoe Is You Feet?

What is Fresh Foam X?

Fresh Foam X is an updated version of Fresh Foam which is made after taking input from hundreds of athletes.

Initially, there was some skepticism with the Fresh Foam, but its ultra cushioning and your less tired feet and legs own over the skeptics.

Now this Fresh Foam is updated to Fresh Foam X and provides you with excellent cushioning and comfort even on the longer rides.

Related: Brooks Beast Vs New Balance 990: Which One Is Best For You?

Drop, Stack, Weight

Stack, Drop, Weight Differences of New Balance 1080v12 and New Balance 1080v11

The midsole of New Balance 1080v12 has seen some improvement and it has become softer and cushier. One of the main reasons for this is the increase in stack height for both the forefoot and the rear foot.

Although the drop of both of these running shoes stays the same at 8 mm, the stack height has changed.

New Balance 1080v12 now has a heel stack of 36 mm and a forefoot stack of 28 mm whereas New Balance 1080v11 has a heel stack of 34 mm and a forefoot stack of 26 mm.

Related: New Balance 860 Vs Asics GT 2000: Which One Will Suit You?

An 8 mm drop is a standard drop that many running shoe companies are maintaining. Also, it a good for runners with Achilles issues. Due to the good response from its runners, New Balance has retained this heel drop in New Balance 1080v12 and I think this works pretty well for this shoe.

In terms of weight, New Balance 1080v12 has gained significantly for both the men’s and the women’s versions.

The men’s version has become heavier by around 1.1 oz or 31 gm and the women’s version has become heavier by 0.5 oz or 14.17 gm

New Balance 1080v11

Women’s size 8: 7.8 oz/221.13 gm

Men’s size 9: 9.2 oz/261 gm

New Balance 1080v12

Women’s size 8: 8.3 oz/235 gm

Men’s size 9: 10.3 oz/292 gm

Related: Saucony Guide Vs New Balance 860: Which One Is Best For You?

New Balance 1080v11 was certainly not a light shoe and with New Balance 1080v12 it has become even heavier. However, if you compare the weights of the New Balance 1080v12 with other shoes in the cushioned category, you will find that they all weigh approximately the same.

This is the tradeoff that we have to make if we want a cushioned and comfortable shoe and I’m happy with the weight of the New Balance 1080v12.

Widths

New Balance 1080 is one of the most popular running shoes on the market. It is great for runners who want a daily trainer with good cushioning.

The previous version of New Balance 1080 did not have different widths available. However, with New Balance 1080v12, New Balance has changed that.

New Balance 1080v12 is available in different widths and is able to fit runners from narrow to wide feet. This is great news for runners with narrow feet, because, there are not a lot of shoe choices when it comes to narrow feet. The same goes for the extra-wide feet.

Related: New Balance Size Chart Vs Nike

Now New Balance 1080v12 has 4 widths available for men and 4 widths available for women.

New Balance 1080v11

  • Men: Standard
  • Women: Standard

New Balance 1080v12

  • Men: Narrow, Standard, Wide X-Wide
  • Women: Narrow, Standard, Wide, X-Wide

Also, most of the sizes for New Balance 1080v12 have all the widths available. So, you will be able to find your right fit whether you have a narrow fit or extra-wide feet.

Also, if you have super extra wide feet, give New Balance 1080v12 a try. The fit of this is wide in general, so the X-wide width should be able to accommodate your super extra wide feet.

Related: Nike Pegasus Vs New Balance 1400: Which One Should You Choose?

Outsole

New Balance 1080 v12 Vs 1080 v11 - Outsole Differences

New Balance did not change much in the outsole of 1080v12 from 1080v11 to retain the same kind of grip and durability.

However, if you observe closely, you will find two subtle changes to the outsole.

Although the general durable rubber coverage of the outsole is the same. However, the silhouette of the blob-shaped structure (lugs) of the rubber has changed.

To be precise, the structures have become bigger.

Related: New Balance Arishi Vs 1080: Which One Is The Best For You?

New Balance 1080v12 - Larger lugs

Another change that I loved was the part where the midsole of 1080v12 is exposed to touch the ground. In New Balance 1080v11 that part touched the ground.

With New Balance 1080v12, New Balance has opted for a concave structure there, more like, they have scooped that area to form a shallow pocket-like structure. This ensures that it doesn’t come in contact with the road.

New Balance 1080v12 - Scooped Out Concave Midsole area of the outsole

I think these changes were implemented to:

  • Improve the overall durability of the shoe.
  • Improve the flexibility of the shoe.
  • Provide a smoother heel-to-toe transition.

The outsole changes make 1080v12 a more attractive choice. If you want to run long miles and are uncomfortable that your cushioned shoe wears out too easily, go for this one.

It will last you for around 500 miles, and if you get habituated with this shoe, I personally think you will be sticking with it for years to come.

Related: Asics Gel Kayano Vs New Balance 1080: Which Is The Best Option For You?

Upper

New Balance 1080v12 Vs 1080v11 - Upper Differences

Whether you are talking about 1080, 680, 880, or 990 New Balance has mastered the art of making comfortable uppers.

Not that every type of upper is the same, but they have maintained the comfort, throughout their models.

With New Balance 1080v12 also, they have only done minor changes to make it more comfortable and breathable.

The upper has wider shallow air-pits on the upper which improves the overall ventilation of the shoe and also makes the upper marginally lighter.

Where New Balance 1080v12 stands out from New Balance 1080v11 is that it is made from at least 50% recycled materials. This is helping New Balance to achieve its 2025 target of having all their cotton and leather from preferred sources and at least 50% of their polyesters recycled.

New Balance 1080v11 Upper

The upper of New Balance 1080v11 was made with synthetic engineered mesh which was breathable and stretchable.

With New Balance 1080v12, the upper is made with Hypoknit technology and recycled materials. This mesh has improved breathability and stretch and is adapted to fit a wide variety of feet.

It has a hard material lining the side of the shoes and the toe area. This protects your feet and you will not get injured from those sudden rocks and debris.

New Balance 1080v12 Upper

Overall, these are some good changes that New Balance has come up with 1080v12. Although they seem to be only cosmetic changes, what made up the upper has completely changed.

Fit

Although New Balance 108v11 was true to size, New Balance 1080v12 fits a bit large. The toe-box feels to be wider even for the standard size.

This is a good thing as your toes will be easily able to spread and you will feel much more comfortable running.

This change of with is not there are the back and the fit how a standard fit s for any of the other New Balance models including 1080v11.

Heel Counter And Collar

New Balance 1080v11 heel counter and tongue

New Balance 1080v11 was a great shoe, however, its ultra heel didn’t sit well with many of the runners.

The common complaint that I heard was there was heel slip and also the extended pull tab didn’t provide that much Achilles support. The material was thin as well.

New Balance changed that in 1080v12 and in now you have a more standard heel. This is what I mean…

New Balance 1080v12 Heel Counter and tongue

Although the heel area is slightly elevated, it cradles the heel as it used to previously. The comfort level of this heel is excellent.

The padding is great and the extended pull tab is also well padded providing you with a good amount of Achilles support.

Also, I did not deal with heel slip with this shoe and the ankle area felt stable and comfortable.

This is a great update going from New Balance 1080v11 to New Balance 1080v12.

Tongue

The cushioning of the tongue of both New Balance 1080v11 and New Balance 1080v12 is decent. The cushioning did not change with the new version. They are comfortable and you will not feel the laces digging in.

Also, for both the models the tongue is gusseted. This means they are locked down in place and are not going anywhere when you run.

This is pretty convenient if you ask me. I love this as it gives peace of mind that the tongue will shift to a side while running.

Laces

New Balance 1080v11 Laces

New Balance 1080v11 Laces

The laces of both versions of New Balance 1080 are made of polyester material and are flat laces. They did not change the laces and the laces remained tied while running.

I like flat laces more than round ones. They have more surface area and they remain tied and secured when running. Like the round ones, they don’t come undone and are great while running.

There are overlays that keep the lace holes secured and they don’t get torn up when pulling the laces or during the stretching of the laces during running.

New Balance 1080v12 Laces

Running Shoes Similar To New Balance 1080

New Balance 1080 is a good running shoe and after the last couple of updates they have become one of the best neutral running shoes on the market and New Balance 1080v12 is no exception.

What I found was the cushioning is absolutely great and the additional room in the toe area makes it so much better.

With the update in the collar padding and the heel area, this has become one of my favorite.

However, I understand that not everyone will like New Balance 1080v12. So we wanted to suggest a couple of alternatives to you.

In this article, we have shared some of the alternatives to New Balance 1080 whose comfort level is nowhere lesser than that of New Balance 1080.

Where to buy New Balance 1080?

Amazon

1080v11/1080v12

Running warehouse

1080v11/1080v12

Flat feet

1080v11/1080v12

Roadrunner sports

1080v11/1080v12

New Balance

1080v11/1080v12

Madhusree Basu

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.