Model comparison
Hoka Clifton vs. ASICS Novablast
Choose Clifton for a soft, high-stack easy-mile ride. Choose Novablast if you want a more energetic, bouncy daily trainer for recreational miles.
Last reviewed:
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Side-by-side comparison
| Spec | Hoka Clifton 9 | ASICS Novablast 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Exact model / version | Hoka Clifton 9 | ASICS Novablast 4 |
| Best suited for | Runners who want a lighter maximal cushion feel for easy miles | Recreational runners who want a bouncier daily ride |
| Intended use | Cushioned daily road running | Energetic daily training and easy long runs |
| Typical fit | Roomy toe box relative to many traditional trainers; check width listings | Standard volume; check listings if you need wide |
| Available widths | Standard, Wide | Standard, Wide (select versions) |
| Manufacturer-published weight | Approx. 8–9 oz (men's 9) depending on version | Approx. 8–9 oz depending on version |
| Heel-to-toe drop | 5–8 mm depending on version | 8 mm (typical recent Novablast) |
| Cushioning description | Soft, high-stack daily cushioning | Soft, energetic stack |
| Surface | Road | Road |
| Notable strengths | Soft ride for long easy efforts; Popular beginner-friendly cushion profile; Often available in multiple widths | Fun daily energy for recreational miles; Strong comparison alternative to Clifton; Often discounted previous generations appear on Amazon |
| Important tradeoffs | Tall stack and rockered feel may feel unfamiliar at first | Bouncier ride may feel less stable for slower walk-run segments |
| Amazon availability | Check Hoka availability | Check ASICS availability |
Specs are based on manufacturer-published information for the versions named above. Availability and listing details can change on Amazon.
Hoka Clifton 9
Runners who want a lighter maximal cushion feel for easy miles
ASICS Novablast 4
Recreational runners who want a bouncier daily ride
Advantages and tradeoffs
Hoka Clifton 9
Strengths: Soft ride for long easy efforts; Popular beginner-friendly cushion profile; Often available in multiple widths
Tradeoff: Tall stack and rockered feel may feel unfamiliar at first
ASICS Novablast 4
Strengths: Fun daily energy for recreational miles; Strong comparison alternative to Clifton; Often discounted previous generations appear on Amazon
Tradeoff: Bouncier ride may feel less stable for slower walk-run segments
Choose the Hoka Clifton 9 if you want:
- Soft easy-mile comfort is the top priority
- You already like Hoka’s daily geometry
- You want a calmer maximal cushion feel
Tradeoff: Tall stack and rockered feel may feel unfamiliar at first
Choose the ASICS Novablast 4 if you want:
- You want a livelier daily foam sensation
- You enjoy energetic easy runs
- You are comparing fun daily trainers under a similar budget
Tradeoff: Bouncier ride may feel less stable for slower walk-run segments
Amazon availability
Confirm your size and preferred width on the live listing. Prices change and are not hardcoded on this page.
Research methodology and sources
Our comparisons are based on manufacturer specifications, available widths and sizes, intended use, current Amazon availability and other verifiable product information. We do not claim to have personally tested a shoe unless explicitly stated.
- Last reviewed
- Amazon availability checked
Frequently asked questions
Which is better for beginners?
Clifton is often the simpler comfort-first pick. Novablast suits beginners who already know they like a springier ride.
Bottom line
Both are cushion-forward. Clifton is the softer easy default; Novablast is the more playful daily alternative.
Related Running-Shoe Guides
Author: My Running Pair Editorial
Last reviewed: 2026-09-15
We may earn a commission from Amazon links. Disclosure