Featherlight, plush, unstoppable daily performer
Crossing borders and chasing horizons demands one thing above all else: reliability. And that’s exactly what you’ll find in the Hoka Clifton 10. Ten years in the making, this iconic daily trainer has long been a companion for those hungry to venture farther and push harder. Now, it’s back with more cushioning, more versatility, and a readiness to take you from sunrise runs to bucket-list marathons—no questions asked.
A Decade of Dominance
Ever since the Clifton series hit the pavement, it has shouldered a reputation as Hoka’s best all-around trainer. Some shoes boast faster times or bigger stacks of cushioning, but the Clifton edges them out with a rare blend of lightness, durability, and comfort. Now, for its 10th anniversary, the Hoka Clifton 10 arrives with a few thoughtful tweaks that reinforce its spot as a global best-seller.
Elevated Cushioning and Smoother Transitions
At the core of the Hoka Clifton 10 is its familiar compression-molded EVA (CMEVA) foam midsole—newly enhanced by a subtle but impactful increase in foam. This upgrade ups the ante on impact resistance, ensuring the shoe stays resilient throughout long runs. Hoka also dialed the heel-to-toe drop to 8mm, providing a fluid transition that shines during tempo workouts or swift track sessions.
Lightweight Design for Everyday Miles
The hallmark of the Clifton series has always been an ultralight feel that encourages you to keep moving—day after day, mile after mile. In the Hoka Clifton 10, a breathable jacquard mesh upper helps secure the foot without weighing you down. Meanwhile, the rearfoot-focused Active Foot Frame™ cradles each landing, offering that gentle stability you only notice when it’s missing.
Key Features at a Glance
- Breathable Jacquard Upper
Lightweight, foot-hugging comfort. - Double-Lock Lace
Mitigates tongue migration for a no-fuss fit. - CMEVA Midsole
Provides featherlight cushioning with surprising durability. - Rearfoot-Focused Active Foot Frame™
Offers supportive landings, mile after mile. - Durable Abrasion Rubber Outsole
Improves longevity so you can roam farther.
Refined for Smooth Sailing
This 10th iteration focuses on evolution over revolution. You’ll still find the same balanced ride and comfortable underfoot feel, but with a few essential refinements. Hoka has enhanced the forefoot fit, fine-tuned the midsole geometry for steadier strides, and introduced a double-lace lock that simplifies getting in and out.
Release Details
You won’t have to wait long to grab your pair. The Hoka Clifton 10 launches on April 15 at a price of $150—just $5 more than its predecessor. Initial colorways include gray, black, light blue, navy, and minty green, with more to follow later this year.
Why You’ll Love the Hoka Clifton 10
- Everyday Reliability
Perfect for daily maintenance miles or brisk morning walks. - Long-Lasting Support
Designed to keep your legs fresh for whatever comes next on the itinerary. - Unmatched Comfort
A symmetrical bed of cushioning means forgiving impact and a gentle ride.
Final Word
When you’re plotting your next adventure—whether that’s the marathon you’ve always dreamed of or a casual loop through your hometown—the Hoka Clifton 10 is ready to chart the course alongside you. Resilient yet plush, featherlight yet stable, this all-around trainer has been polished to near perfection over the past decade. Lace up and see for yourself why the Clifton series is going stronger than ever, mile by satisfying mile.
Pros
- Lightweight Construction: The breathable jacquard mesh upper provides airy comfort without weighing you down on those longer training sessions.
- Enhanced Cushioning: An increased foam layer in the compression-molded EVA midsole delivers a more forgiving impact for daily miles, helping you bounce back for the next run.
- Stable Heel-to-Toe Transition: The shift to an 8mm drop ensures a smoother ride at various paces—whether you’re cruising on a tempo run or picking up the pace at the track.
- Durable Abrasion Rubber Outsole: Designed to handle mile after mile, this outsole layout helps maintain traction and extends the overall lifespan of the shoe.
- Improved Lockdown Fit: Thanks to the double-lock lace system, the upper cradles your foot, reducing movement inside the shoe for a more secure experience.
Cons
- Slightly Higher Price: The extra five dollars over previous iterations may not break the bank, but it can still feel like a pinch for budget-minded runners.
- Moderate Speed Performance: Despite being capable of tempo runs, it lacks a truly aggressive feel that racers or high-intensity runners might want in a specialized shoe.
- No Carbon-Fiber Plate: Some might miss the buzzy, plated technology found in faster trainers, making it less competitive for those seeking maximum propulsion.
Verdict
The Hoka Clifton 10 stays true to its heritage by delivering a reliable, everyday trainer that keeps your feet content from sunrise jogs to sunset strides. While it may not be the flashiest or the fastest shoe on the market, its balance of lightweight cushioning and durability cements its place as a dependable go-to for runners who value comfort and consistency above all else.
$150
The Hoka Clifton 9 is an excellent alternative for those who value proven comfort and lightweight performance in their daily runs. Crafted with a breathable upper and engineered for effective impact absorption, the Clifton 9 delivers the essential support and cushioning that everyday runners rely on. Its streamlined design, combined with signature Hoka cushioning technology, offers a smooth, durable ride without unnecessary extras—making it a budget-friendly yet high-performing choice for anyone seeking reliability and efficiency on the road.
