Support Type: Neutral Purpose: Everyday Trainer
The Hoka Clifton is one of the most popular models in the Hoka lineup. And for good reason. It’s impossible to ignore the Clifton when looking for a comfortable, highly cushioned daily trainer for everyday running. Year after year, version after version, this model has continued to be a staple for runners since 2014.
While semi narrow-fitting, the Hoka Clifton is built with a Meta-Rocker in the midsole for smooth transitions while running. In more recent versions, runners will notice a bit more cushion in the midsole which provides a softer ride than earlier versions.
While primarily a running shoe, we often recommend the Clifton for walkers or individuals who are simply on their feet all day. With ample cushioning sometimes you just need a quality shoe to carry you through the day. The only downside is, if you have really wide feet, Clifton may not be the best choice as they tend to have a more narrow fit compared to other daily trainers. Also, if you prefer a shoe with more ground feel, the high stack height will likely eliminate this model as an option.
What is the difference between the Hoka Clifton and the Hoka Bondi?
The purpose of these two shoes, the Hoka Clifton and Hoka Bondi tend to get mixed up quite often. To keep things simple just remember, the Hoka Clifton is the lightweight, cushioned daily trainer. The Hoka Bondi on the other hand is the MAX-cushioned, long-distance trainer.
While the Hoka Clifton can certainly be comfortable on those long distance runs throughout the week, if you’re heading out for ultra long distances, the Bondi will likely be your best bet. Bondi is Hoka’s softest, plushest trainer. However, that max-cushioned shoe does come at a cost…literally. Not only is it heavier, but it’s also a little more expensive.
How many miles will the Hoka Clifton last?
With the Hoka Clifton engineered to be a daily trainer, it’s meant to go the distance during your training. Most shoes usually last at least 300 plus miles before starting to break down. With the Hoka Clifton, depending on how well you take care of them and what terrain you’re using them on during your runs, you can expect around 300-500 miles (we’ve seen some clocking 400 miles easily before any reported serious physical damage). But remember, these shoes are not designed to last forever. Be sure to take note of your mileage. Once the cushion, structure, and tread start to break down, you’ll want to have a back up to start breaking in and integrating into your training.
Is the Hoka Clifton good for training?
Absolutely. The Hoka Clifton was designed specifically as a daily trainer. It provides plenty of cushion, is durable and great to take out when logging miles throughout the week. This is a very popular shoe for walkers and those who spend a lot of time on their feet throughout the day as well.
What are other shoe brands/models that are similar to the Hoka Clifton?
All brands have their standard neutral daily trainer. The other shoes most similar to the Hoka Clifton would be the Brooks Ghost, New Balance Fresh Foam 880 and Saucony Endorphin Speed. While these shoes may all be similar in purpose (all neutral trainers), they will also feel very different from one another to each individual.
It’s important to note that when it comes to shoe preference, it’s very much subjective. What feels good and works well for one runner/walker, may not be the case for another. For the most accurate review, we highly recommend coming into the running shop and having one of our staff walk you through the fitting process. This way you have an opportunity to try on multiple brands and models, including Hoka, and compare/contrast them against one another. If you’re unfamiliar with our fitting process, click here to learn more.
FAQs
The Hoka Clifton 9 is best for runners looking for a neutral daily trainer, running shoes designed for those with a neutral pronation pattern, where the foot only slightly rolls inward. They're also great for covering long distances at a slow pace and for building mileage while training for a longer run or race.
Which is better, Bondi or Clifton? ›
In summary, if you prioritize functionality, a streamlined design, and a shoe that's great for various running styles and durations, the Hoka Clifton may be your top pick. However, if you lean towards cushioned comfort and need a shoe that excels on longer, more leisurely runs, the Hoka Bondi is an excellent choice.
Which Hoka shoes are recommended by podiatrists? ›
Our experts recommend the Clifton 9 and Gaviota 5.
What are the cons of Hoka shoes? ›
The cons of Hoka shoes are their high cost and limited style options, posing barriers for some consumers. Furthermore, durability concerns and a narrow forefoot limit long-term usage and comfort for wider feet. Takeaways: Hoka shoes offer unparalleled cushioning and stability, ideal for various activities.
What is the best version of Hoka Clifton? ›
The original Clifton is legendary among Hoka fans and marked a turning point for the brand—it proved that a shoe could provide maximum cushion without feeling clunky. The ninth iteration features even more cushioning–the stack height grew by 3mm–but it's slightly lighter than the Clifton 8.
Is Hoka Clifton good for plantar fasciitis? ›
Hoka Clifton or Bondi
Hoka is a good choice for people with plantar fasciitis. The thick stack of foam absorbs impact while still being firm enough to provide support, and the wide base encourages a natural stride while you're walking or running.
Which HOKA style is best for walking? ›
HOKA Clifton 9
One of the most recommended walking shoes, loved by both Broe and Tuliamuk, these come with a balanced cushion and are one of the lightest models you can get. Not to mention, they come in a sizable so many color options. Customer review: “I've spent most of my adult life avoiding sneakers.
Which HOKA is best for seniors? ›
When it comes to the best cushioned shoes for walkers, we always recommend Hoka's Bondi Sneaker. The thick, full-length midsole offers a plush yet supportive feel and protective shock absorption. And despite its ample cushioning, we found that the mesh upper still offers great breathability and blister prevention.
Are HOKA Bondi bad for knees? ›
Buyers have described them as “like heaven for midfoot arthritis” and also said that they're “perfect for [helping those with] knee problems.” The shoes have even received a Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association, which recognizes products beneficial to foot health.
Which HOKA is best for walking and knee pain? ›
Best Hoka Shoes For Walking, According To Foot And Fitness Experts
- Best Hoka Shoes For Walking Overall: Hoka Clifton 9.
- Most Stable Hoka Shoes For Walking: Hoka Arahi 7.
- Best Cushioned Hoka Shoes For Walking: Hoka Bondi 8.
- Best Everyday Hoka Shoes For Walking: Hoka Transport X.
The HOKA Bondi 8, which also makes our Best HOKA Shoes and Best Walking Shoes lists, comes in regular and wide widths for both men and women, but only extra-wide widths for men. Dr. Mehta recommends this shoe for active people, including runners, who experience back pain.
Do orthopedic doctors recommend Hoka shoes? ›
They have frequently awarded the Seal to selective styles of the innovative, cushioned footwear from HOKA. The American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance recognizes products that have been found beneficial to foot health.
Why do my feet hurt after wearing Hokas? ›
The researchers hypothesized that this increase in impact forces while wearing the Hoka One One running shoes was potentially attributable to runners unconsciously altering their biomechanics while running in the highly cushioned shoes.
Is Hoka owned by Nike? ›
The brand's original, highest-cushion models are now accompanied in the Hoka lineup by lighter-weight shoes that retain much of the brand's cushion, lightweight training and racing shoes, and track spikes. Hoka was purchased on April 1, 2013 by Deckers Brands, the parent company for UGG, Teva and other footwear brands.
What shoe compares to Hoka? ›
Both Hoka and Brooks make top-tier running shoes designed for a variety of activities. The price point of each brand is comparable, so consider what type of cushioning and stability you prefer before making your final shopping decision.
What kind of feet are Hokas good for? ›
When compared to other popular sneakers, Hoka's shoes have a wider toe box, which allows for a more comfortable fit for those with a broader forefoot and can minimize the risk of developing uncomfortable conditions, like bunions or ingrown toenails, he adds.
What is so special about Hoka shoes? ›
Nothing feels quite like HOKA. We create our unique on-foot experience with three core technologies that are in every pair: the Cushioned Midsole, our Active Foot Frame™, and the MetaRocker™. Together they create a specific performance for each HOKA style. Racers get more speed.
Which style of Hoka shoes are best for walking? ›
Hoka Bondi 8
Hoka is known for making the most cushiony walking shoes, and the Bondi 8 is the cushiest of all. The shoe feels like walking on clouds thanks to layers of soft, lightweight foams, and updates include a pillowed tongue, a sockliner, and an extended heel.
Is Hoka Clifton a daily trainer? ›
The Hoka Clifton 9 is a narrow-fitting maximalist daily trainer with a Meta-Rocker midsole for energy-saving transitions. It has a highly cushioned ride which is on the soft side and it's best suited to slow, easy paced runs.
