Custom Roms, Do I need same version? 4.4.2, 4.4.4. topic

If I download a custom rom( alliance, ricks Roms, beans) using safe strap do I need to have the same version as the rom. ( like do I need 4.4.4 to flash a rom custom rom using 4.4.4. Or can I do if I have 4.4.2?)
Also should I download clockworkmod recovery and safe strap ? Or just safe strap ? Thanks