When you look at performance running shoes through a casual walking lens, certain details stand out differently. The cushioning that runners obsess over matters, but not in the same way. The weight distribution, midsole geometry, and heel shape all show their impact during slow-paced, everyday movement. And then there’s the part that usually gets overlooked in purely running-focused reviews: the aesthetic. Because the truth is, if a shoe is joining your daily rotation, you want it to look like it belongs with your clothes, not just your workouts.

Two models that come up again and again in the lifestyle conversation are the Adidas Ultraboost 22 and the Hoka Clifton 9. Both are technically designed for running, yet plenty of people choose them for all-day comfort, long urban walks, or simply the feel of soft foam underfoot.

If you’re trying to decide between these two for casual walking—not running—this guide breaks down everything that actually matters: the feel of each foam, how each model handles weight and foot placement, how they respond to slow walking strides, and how the overall vibe integrates into your wardrobe.

Let’s dig in.

Why Compare These Two for Walking Instead of Running?

The Ultraboost 22 and Clifton 9 land in the same “max comfort” category, but they approach that mission from different angles.

• Ultraboost: classic lifestyle appeal, famous bouncy foam, athletic-yet-stylish primeknit upper.
• Clifton: lightweight maximal cushioning, rocker geometry, performance-first design that still works off the track.

When you’re walking—not pushing pace, not chasing miles—the way a shoe supports your foot changes. You’re not relying on midfoot transitions or propulsion patterns the same way a runner would. Instead, you feel:

• deep cushion compression under slow load,
• upper flexibility during long strolls,
• heel stability when stopping and starting,
• and how the midsole holds up after hours of being on your feet.

Both sneakers excel in different areas, which makes the comparison interesting.

1. Foam Technologies: Boost vs. EVA-Based Compression

This is where the biggest difference lives.

Ultraboost 22 — Boost Foam

Boost foam is known for:

• Energy return: elastic, springy, noticeably bouncy underfoot.
• Density: thicker and heavier than most modern foams.
• Soft responsiveness: compresses with every step and rebounds smoothly.

For casual walking, Boost has a specific feel:

• It doesn’t feel overly soft.
• It doesn’t feel rigid either.
• It adds a kind of “controlled bounce,” especially in the heel.

What makes Boost special is how well it absorbs slow, steady impact. When you’re walking long distances in a city, that bounce keeps things feeling lively. Instead of sinking into foam, you get a cushioned push back up. This is what gives the Ultraboost that distinct “comfort-forward but athletic” experience.

Hoka Clifton 9 — Compression-Molded EVA

The Clifton 9 uses a lighter foam—not as bouncy as Boost, but significantly softer and more plush on first contact. People often describe the Clifton’s cushioning as:

• cloud-like,
• lightweight,
• pillowy,
• and smooth from heel to toe.

The foam compresses more deeply than Boost during slow walking, creating a softer step-in feel. It doesn’t rebound the same way, but that’s not what the Clifton is designed for. Instead, it creates a gentle, rolling sensation that feels effortless and relaxing.

For casual walking, this creates a shoe that feels:

• softer than the Ultraboost,
• much lighter,
• and smoother over long distances.

But it doesn’t feel as “energetic.” It’s more of a cushioned cruiser than a spring-loaded ride.

2. Energy Return During Walking

Energy return sounds like a running-only feature, but it affects how you feel on long walks too—especially if you’re spending hours on your feet.

Ultraboost 22

Boost’s energy return shines more during walking than people expect. Because each step compresses the foam and rebounds, it reduces fatigue in your calves and heels.

Walking in the Ultraboost feels:

• athletic,
• springy,
• and rhythm-friendly.

If you like feeling a little bounce under each step, the Ultraboost delivers that better than the Clifton.

Clifton 9

The Clifton doesn’t emphasize energy return the same way. Its ride is smoother and softer, but not “springy.” When you walk, the rocker geometry helps roll your stride forward, making movement feel natural and efficient, but without that elastic push.

Walking in a Clifton feels:

• effortless,
• cushioned,
• and almost weightless.

If you prefer softness over bounce, the Clifton 9 is the better pick.

3. Midsole Geometry & Walking Mechanics

This part matters more for walking than people realize.

Ultraboost 22 Geometry

The Ultraboost has a neutral platform without an aggressive rocker. It behaves like a traditional running shoe, which makes it feel grounded during walking. There’s no forced rolling motion—just a flexible forefoot and bouncy foam.

Pros for walking:

• Feels stable and natural.
• Easier to stand in for hours.
• Doesn’t force foot mechanics.

Cons:

• Heavier construction means you feel the weight after long distances.
• Less smooth heel-to-toe transition compared to Clifton.

Clifton 9 Geometry

The Clifton has a signature rocker shape—one of Hoka’s defining traits. For walking, this geometry subtly guides your stride forward. You don’t have to “push off” as actively because the rocker helps handle the movement.

Pros:

• Noticeably smooth walking rhythm.
• Extremely comfortable for long distances.
• Reduces foot fatigue by encouraging a rolling motion.

Cons:

• Some people feel “pushed forward” when they first try it.
• Can feel unfamiliar if you’ve only worn traditional sneaker shapes.

4. Upper Feel for Casual Walking

Comfort isn’t just underfoot—your foot shape and the upper material matter too.

Ultraboost 22 Upper — Primeknit + Synthetic Structure

The upper is one of the biggest selling points:

• stretchy,
• breathable,
• sock-like,
• form-fitting.

For walking, this means:

• excellent flexibility,
• minimal pressure points,
• easy all-day comfort.

However, some people with wider feet find the midfoot cage a little snug until the shoe breaks in.

Clifton 9 Upper — Engineered Mesh

The Clifton’s upper is softer than previous versions and extremely breathable. But it’s more structured than Primeknit. It doesn’t move with your foot in the same stretchy way.

For walking, the Clifton’s upper offers:

• secure hold,
• better stability,
• less “give” but more lockdown.

People who prefer a looser or more adaptive upper usually lean Ultraboost. Those who prefer a traditional athletic fit lean Clifton.

5. Weight & Long-Distance Walking

This is where the differences become clear.

Ultraboost 22

Pros:

• substantial feel,
• premium materials,
• soft but supportive ride.

Cons:

• heavier than most daily trainers,
• weight becomes noticeable after long walking sessions.

Clifton 9

Pros:

• significantly lighter,
• airy, easy movement,
• better for long walks or travel days.

Cons:

• the lightweight feel may not satisfy people who want a more solid, substantial shoe.

6. Stability & Support for Everyday Activity

Walking isn’t the same as running, but stability still matters—especially when navigating uneven surfaces, stairs, or long days on your feet.

Ultraboost 22 Stability

The Ultraboost 22 offers:

• a wider base in the heel,
• torsion system underfoot,
• supportive heel counter.

For casual daily use, this means:

• strong heel stability,
• a planted step,
• good balance for standing or slow walking.

Its weight actually helps stability—you don’t feel wobbly.

Clifton 9 Stability

The Clifton isn’t a stability shoe, but its geometry gives it inherent balance:

• broad midsole,
• rocker that guides your stride,
• steady heel landings.

It feels stable during movement, though less grounded for long stationary standing due to the soft foam.

If your day involves a lot of standing, the Ultraboost is better. If your day involves miles of walking, the Clifton wins.

7. Breathability & Temperature Control

Ultraboost 22

Primeknit is breathable, but the cage and structure add heat. In warm weather or full-day wear, it can feel warm around the midfoot.

Clifton 9

The engineered mesh vents air extremely well, especially in the forefoot. For people whose feet heat up during long walks, this is a noticeable benefit.

8. Durability for Non-Running Use

Ultraboost 22

Boost foam holds up for a long time during casual wear. The outsole rubber is thick and grips well, and the upper is durable.

Clifton 9

The foam is softer, so it may compress faster than Boost, but for walking rather than running, this usually isn’t a major issue. Mesh uppers may show wear sooner.

Overall durability edge: Ultraboost.

9. Aesthetic & Style Versatility

Here’s where the Ultraboost often wins for everyday use.

Ultraboost 22 Style

The Ultraboost is known for blending athletic performance with lifestyle versatility. You can pair it with:

• joggers,
• cargo pants,
• slim or regular denim,
• shorts,
• athleisure fits.

It reads as a “modern lifestyle sneaker,” not just a running shoe.

Clifton 9 Style

The Clifton leans more toward pure running aesthetics:

• thicker midsole,
• more performance-forward vibe,
• chunky running silhouette.

It works with:

• athletic fits,
• oversized streetwear,
• techwear-inspired outfits.

But it doesn’t blend into semi-dressed-up casual looks as easily as the Ultraboost.

If style matters heavily, the Ultraboost generally wins.

10. All-Day Comfort: Which One Feels Better?

This depends on your walking habits.

For light daily walking (1–3 miles, errands, around town)

Ultraboost 22 feels more balanced—cushioned but controlled, stylish, and stable.

For long, slow walks (3+ miles, city exploring, travel days)

Clifton 9 feels easier on the legs thanks to its light weight and softer cushioning.

For standing for long periods

Ultraboost 22 stays more stable and supportive.

For mixed walking + standing + activities

Both work, but the Ultraboost feels more “all-around.”

11. How Each Model Handles Different Foot Types

Wide Feet

• Ultraboost: stretchy but midfoot cage can feel tight.
• Clifton: more accommodating overall.

Narrow Feet

• Ultraboost: very secure fit.
• Clifton: soft upper may require tighter lacing.

High Arches

• Boost feels excellent under high arches.

Flat Feet

• Clifton geometry is more forgiving for low arches.

12. Which One Should You Choose for Casual Walking?

Let’s break it down cleanly.

Choose the Adidas Ultraboost 22 if:

• you want bounce, not plush softness,
• style and wardrobe integration matter,
• you stand a lot during the day,
• you prefer a structured, sock-like upper,
• you want a shoe that feels solid and premium.

Choose the Hoka Clifton 9 if:

• you take long daily walks,
• you want the lightest possible feel,
• you like soft cushioning,
• you appreciate rocker geometry,
• you want maximum comfort for slow-paced, long-distance movement.

Final Thoughts

These two shoes may belong to the same broad “comfortable running shoe” category, but for casual walking they offer very different experiences. The Ultraboost 22 brings an energetic, responsive feel with lifestyle-friendly styling and long-term durability. It’s the better all-around option for mixed daily activities. The Clifton 9, meanwhile, leans into pure comfort: soft foam, light weight, smooth transitions, and a relaxed ride that makes long walks feel easy.

Neither is objectively better—they just serve different walking styles.

If you want bounce and style, choose the Ultraboost.
If you want softness and distance comfort, choose the Clifton.