10Shoe
Hoka One One · running · 2023
Pulse 61st percentile in running 8.9/10 · 9 of 9 sources

Hoka Clifton 9 Review

A max-cushioned, lightweight running shoe designed for everyday use. It features an updated midsole foam for a softer and more energetic ride with a streamlined upper for enhanced comfort, making it a great choice for casual wear, daily training, and extended runs.

hoka clifton 9 review

Specifications

Heel stack
32 mm
Forefoot stack
27 mm
Heel-to-toe drop
5 mm
Weight
11 oz
Cushion
Maximum
Arch support
Neutral
Pronation
Neutral Pronation
Widths
Standard, Wide
Available in
Mens, Womens

Where to buy

Mens on REI › Womens on REI ›

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Reviewers and runners disagree

Professional reviewers rate this 1.6 points higher than the people who own it (8.3 vs 6.8). Worth reading the owner complaints below before buying.

How this score was built

  • runrepeat.com Independent review 8.7
  • runningshoesguru.com Independent review 8.0 → 8.9
  • rei.com Retailer customers 8.8 → 8.9
  • runningwarehouse.com Retailer customers 9.0 → 9.2
  • runningshoesguru.com/users Readers of that outlet 6.8 → 8.4
  • dickssportinggoods.com Retailer customers 8.8 → 8.6
  • hoka.com Brand-site customers 9.0 → 9.1
  • footlocker.com Retailer customers 8.8 → 8.6
  • backcountry.com Retailer customers 9.0 → 10.0

Each source is re-centred against its own historical average, then weighted by tier and type. Full methodology.

What people like

  • Extremely comfortable and lightweight
  • Excellent breathability
  • Great energy returns
  • Durable outsole with good traction
  • Great for everyday wear
  • Lots of color options

What people don't

  • May be too narrow for some
  • Higher price point
  • Too cushioned for some runners

How it performs

Comfort and fit

The Hoka Clifton 9 features an updated midsole with a compression-molded EVA that delivers exceptional comfort with a more plush, supportive, and fitted feel. The newly designed and streamlined gusseted tongue also provides a more soft and sock-like feeling with a secure fit. The increased stack height offers a softer landing, making each stride plush and comfortable. While some runners note that the fit can be slightly narrow, the Clifton 9 has been praised for its exceptional comfort while remaining extremely lightweight and responsive.

Durability

Constructed with an improved outsole rubber, the Clifton 9 is plush and comfortable while maintaining durability. The outsole’s material and thickness also contribute to the shoe’s overall durability. Runners report minimal wear and tear over extended periods of use and mileage.

Traction

The outsole is designed with a thin layer of durabrasion rubber that enhances the traction and durability of the shoe. Runners appreciate the increased grip, especially on wet and tough surfaces. The traction is reliable for a wide range of activities and in various conditions.

Breathability

Designed with a more streamlined knit upper that is highly breathable, the Clifton 9 keeps the feet cool and dry even during intense and long runs. However, some runners report limited breathability in hotter climates and that it can feel too warm and uncomfortable when worn on longer runs.

Support

The Clifton 9 offers ample support for neutral runners, with an improved cushioned midsole that provides a balanced, stable, and energetic ride. Runners report that this everyday running shoe perfectly balances support, comfort, and durability.

Protection

The outsole design combined with the new gusseted tongue provides great protection against external debris while remaining soft and comfortable. The construction of the outsole and thicker midsole cushioning also absorbs impact effectively, protecting the feet and legs from injuries.

Flexibility and responsiveness

The updated midsole foam delivers a smooth and responsive ride while remaining lightweight. It’s not super flexible but offers an energetic, bouncy, and responsive ride all around. Paired with the rocker geometry construction, this shoe is a great choice for all walks and runs.

Style

This versatile shoe is not only for running. The Clifton 9 comes in over 20 color options for both men and women with styles and colors for various purposes. Customers use this shoe for a variety of activities, including running, walking, working, and casual everyday wear. No matter the activity, the Clifton 9 will elevate your look!

Construction

Outsole

The outsole of the Clifton 9 is designed with a thin layer of durabrasion rubber that enhances the traction and durability of the shoe. Customers appreciate its durability and grip across a wide range of activities and in various conditions. The treads and overall outsole construction provide reliable traction across different terrains without compromising comfort and support.

Midsole

This is where the Clifton 9 shines. The new and improved compression-molded EVA midsole features an updated foam that enhances the shoe's cushioning and responsiveness. There is an extra 3mm added to the overall stack height but the shoe is lighter, bouncier, and overall long-lasting comfortable. This is a great shoe for long runs, daily training, and even marathons.

Upper

Crafted with a breathable, engineered knit upper, the Clifton 9 is lightweight and provides foot-hugging comfort. The upper is also made of 35% recycled polyester with 60% recycled polyester in the collar and tongue lining. The gusseted tongue is also less thick than previous versions and feels more secure with improved breathability.

Lacing

The laces are created with 70% recycled nylon and 30% recycled polyester. The lacing system is effective, providing a secure and adjustable fit, though some runners feel the need to adjust the laces frequently for optimal comfort.

Overall, the Hoka Clifton 9 features new and improved updates that make it a better version than previous shoes. It’s a tried-and-true daily trainer noted for its exceptional comfort, support, and durability for runners and walkers alike. The new midsole is the highlight of this shoe, with an increased stack height that ensures a plush and responsive ride while remaining extremely lightweight and supportive. With over 20 color options, this shoe also pairs great with any outfit for any activity. The overall construction and eco-friendly materials make it a reliable, well-rounded shoe.

Video reviews

Sources consulted (7)

Carried over from the previous methodology. Ratings shown are historical and do not contribute to a current pulse score.