The Hoka Clifton has become a staple for runners seeking the perfect blend of soft cushioning, lightweight feel, and everyday reliability. Known for its smooth ride and versatile design, the Clifton is ideal for everything from daily runs to long weekend miles and even casual walks.
Now in its 10th iteration, the Clifton continues to evolve. It offers a breathable upper, refined midsole geometry, and the signature comfort Hoka is loved for. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned runner, this shoe delivers a consistently smooth experience with every stride.
Hoka Clifton 10 – Lightweight Comfort Meets Everyday Performance
HOKA Clifton 10 Women’s
$150
Width: Regular, Wide, X-Wide
Hoka Clifton 10 Men’s
$150
Width: Regular, Wide, X-Wide
The Hoka Clifton 10 is the latest evolution of Hoka’s most popular daily trainer—now with even more cushioning and a smoother ride. Designed for runners and walkers who crave all-day comfort without added weight, this neutral shoe features an updated engineered mesh upper, a softer midsole, and refined rocker geometry for seamless transitions from heel to toe.
Whether you’re training for a race, logging recovery miles, or walking all day, the Clifton 10 delivers effortless comfort with every step.
Hoka Clifton 10 Rating (1–5)
| Feature | Rating |
|---|---|
| Cushioning | ★★★★★ |
| Fit & Comfort | ★★★★★ |
| Stability | ★★★★☆ |
| Responsiveness | ★★★☆☆ |
| Breathability | ★★★★☆ |
| Durability | ★★★★☆ |
| Overall | ★★★★☆ |
Why You’ll Love It:
- Max cushioning without the bulk
- Rocker sole for smooth, natural transitions
- Breathable upper with improved lockdown
- Ideal for daily runs, long miles, walking, or standing all day
Specs:
- Price: $150
- Availabel colors: 10
- Weight: 277 g (Men’s US 9)
- Drop: 8 mm
- Stack Height: 42 mm heel / 34 mm forefoot
- Category: Neutral / Road
- Best For: Daily training, recovery runs, casual wear
Compare Similar Hoka Running Shoes
Compare | Hoka Clifton 10 | Hoka Bondi 9 | Hoka Arahi 7 | Hoka Mach 6 | Hoka Gaviota 5 |
Price Best for Number of colors Widths Cushioning Stability |  $150 Everyday run, walking 10 Regular, wide, X-Wide Plush Neutral |  $170 Everyday run, walking 14 Regular, wide, x-wide Plush Neutral |  $145 Everyday run, walking 10 Regular, wide Balanced Stable |  $112-$140 Everyday run, race 14 Regular, wide Responsive Neutral |  $175 Everyday run, walking 10 Regular, wide Plush Stable |
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What the Hoka Clifton Is Best For:
- Daily Training: Ideal for easy runs, base mileage, and recovery days.
- Long Runs: Its plush midsole and rocker geometry reduce fatigue over extended distances.
- Walking & All-Day Wear: Lightweight yet supportive, making it a great choice for people on their feet all day.
- Beginner Runners: Balanced cushioning and a forgiving ride make it very accessible.
- Injury Recovery: The Clifton’s shock absorption helps reduce impact on joints, especially for those dealing with knee or heel pain.
The History of the Hoka Clifton Running Shoe
When Hoka first launched the Clifton in 2014, it quickly changed the perception of what a lightweight, cushioned running shoe could be. At a time when maximalist cushioning was still viewed with skepticism, the original Clifton shocked runners by delivering an ultra-plush ride in a surprisingly light package.
It proved that you didn’t have to sacrifice weight for comfort—and it marked a turning point not only for Hoka as a brand, but for the entire running shoe industry.
Clifton 1: A Cult Classic
The Clifton 1 became an instant favorite. It was praised for its soft, forgiving cushioning and featherlight feel—making it a go-to for daily training and recovery runs. Even as newer models emerged, many die-hard fans continued to hunt for remaining pairs of the original.
Evolution Through the Generations
With each new version, Hoka refined the Clifton’s design to improve durability, fit, and responsiveness – while staying true to the shoe’s core identity. Some editions leaned softer (like Clifton 3), while others focused on a firmer, more stable ride (like Clifton 6 and 7).
As the lineup evolved, Hoka responded to feedback on things like upper materials, tongue padding, and heel lockdown, gradually turning the Clifton into one of the most balanced daily trainers on the market.
Clifton 10: Modernized for 2025
The Clifton 10, released in 2025, marks a significant upgrade. It features a higher stack height, a more sculpted rocker, and an engineered mesh upper for improved breathability.
While slightly heavier than earlier versions, it maintains the signature smooth ride that Clifton fans love – now with better stability and long-run comfort.
Hoka Clifton 9 vs. Clifton 10 – What’s the Difference?
Both the Clifton 9 and Clifton 10 represent Hoka’s vision for everyday comfort and reliable performance—but with some notable updates in the latest version.
If you’re deciding between the two, here’s a breakdown of what’s new and what remains familiar.
Spec Comparison
| Feature | Clifton 9 | Clifton 10 |
|---|---|---|
| Weight (Men’s US 9) | 248 g | 277 g |
| Stack Height | 32 mm heel / 27 mm forefoot | 42 mm heel / 34 mm forefoot |
| Heel-to-Toe Drop | 5 mm | 8 mm |
| Midsole Foam | Compression Molded EVA | Updated CMEVA (thicker, softer ride) |
| Upper | Engineered mesh | New jacquard knit mesh |
| Outsole | Durabrasion rubber | Redesigned outsole for better grip |
| Best For | Daily training, mid-distance runs | Daily training, longer miles, comfort |
| Ride Feel | Balanced and slightly firm | Softer, more stable, more rocker-based |
What’s Better in the Clifton 10?
➕ More Cushioning: A noticeable increase in stack height makes the Clifton 10 softer and better for long runs or recovery days.
➕ Smoother Transitions: The new geometry and more aggressive rocker help promote a rolling stride.
➕ Improved Stability: A broader platform and redesigned sole give the Clifton 10 a more stable base, especially at slower paces.
➕ Breathable Fit: The jacquard mesh upper feels more premium and secure, with a slightly more structured toe box.
Where the Clifton 9 Still Shines
➖ Lighter Weight: At nearly 30 grams lighter, the Clifton 9 feels a bit nimbler and faster underfoot.
➖ Lower Drop: With a 5 mm drop versus 8 mm, the Clifton 9 appeals more to midfoot or forefoot strikers.
➖ More Flexible: The sole of the Clifton 9 bends more easily, giving it a slightly more natural ride feel.
➖ Better for Tempo Runs: Its lighter build and firmer feel make it more suited to uptempo efforts than the softer Clifton 10.
Final Verdict
Choose the Clifton 9 if you want a lighter, slightly firmer daily trainer that still offers plenty of cushion but feels a bit more agile. Choose the Clifton 10 if you prioritize comfort, support, and a smoother ride, especially for longer efforts, recovery runs, or walking.
Both are excellent options, but the Clifton 10 leans toward comfort-first runners, while the Clifton 9 still holds its ground as a balanced all-rounder.
Hoka Clifton vs. Bondi – What’s the Difference?
The Hoka Clifton and Hoka Bondi are the two most popular running shoe models in the Hoka lineup—each loved for their plush cushioning and signature rocker ride. While they may seem similar at first glance, they cater to slightly different needs. Choosing the right one depends on your preferred fit, ride feel, and how you plan to use them.
Both the Clifton and Bondi deliver on Hoka’s promise of comfort and support – but they shine in different areas. The Clifton is a reliable all-rounder for runners who want cushioning without too much bulk, while the Bondi is the ultimate comfort shoe for long hours, easy efforts, or recovery days.
Think of the Clifton as “light and smooth,” and the Bondi as “soft and protective.”
Key Differences Between Hoka Clifton and Bondi
| Feature | Hoka Clifton | Hoka Bondi |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Lightweight daily trainer | Max-cushion comfort & long-distance use |
| Weight (Men’s US 9) | ~248–277 g (Clifton 9–10) | ~306 g (Bondi 9) |
| Stack Height | 32–42 mm heel | 43 mm heel |
| Heel-to-Toe Drop | 5 mm (Clifton 9), 8 mm (Clifton 10) | 5 mm |
| Ride Feel | Soft but more responsive | Ultra-soft, plush, more protective |
| Upper | Engineered mesh or knit | Padded mesh with more structure |
| Best For | Daily training, long runs, walking | Walking, recovery, long hours on feet |
| Responsiveness | Higher – better for varied paces | Lower – better for easy efforts only |
| Stability | Neutral with mild support | Wide platform for enhanced inherent stability |
| Foot Type | Neutral runners | Neutral runners, walkers, or those with foot pain |
| Fit Options | Regular and Wide | Regular, Wide, Extra Wide |
Choose Hoka Clifton if:
- You want a versatile shoe for daily running, long miles, or walking
- You prefer a lighter, slightly more responsive ride
- You’re a neutral runner or beginner looking for an easy-to-wear, well-balanced shoe
Choose Hoka Bondi if:
- You prioritize maximum cushioning and impact protection
- You walk a lot or stand all day (great for nurses, retail, recovery use)
- You suffer from joint issues or plantar fasciitis and need shock absorption
Why the Clifton Still Matters
Over a decade after its debut, the Hoka Clifton remains one of the most popular and versatile neutral running shoes on the market. It strikes a rare balance between cushioning, responsiveness, and daily usability, making it a reliable choice for beginners, marathoners, and anyone in between.
Its staying power comes from constant refinement—always adapting, never straying too far from what made it great.
Hoka Clifton 10 Release Date
The Hoka Clifton 10, which has been one of the most anticipated running shoe releases of 2025, hit the shelves in April 2025. Marking the 10th anniversary of the Clifton series, this update introduces significant changes while honoring the legacy of the original uptempo “max” cushion trainer.
Designed for runners seeking plush comfort and reliable performance, the Clifton 10 aims to redefine its place in Hoka’s lineup.
Hoka Clifton 10 Key Updates: More Cushion, Higher Drop
The Clifton 10 features a substantial update in its geometry, with a heel-to-toe drop of 8mm—an increase from the previous model’s 5mm. This marks a notable shift for Hoka, offering enhanced performance at slower paces while maintaining the brand’s signature smooth ride. The stack height has also been increased, now standing at 42mm in the heel and 34mm in the forefoot.
An additional 3mm of foam underfoot has been introduced, improving durability and extending the shoe’s lifespan. The majority of this cushioning is concentrated in the heel, ensuring a plush landing experience.
The midsole continues to use Hoka’s trusted compression-molded EVA foam, delivering the lightweight, cushioned feel that has made the Clifton series a favorite among runners.
One of the standout changes in the Clifton 10 is the revamped last, which offers a roomier toe box for improved comfort. The upper is crafted from a plush Jacquard mesh, adding breathability and a premium feel to the shoe. These updates not only improve the fit but also enhance its appeal for daily maintenance miles.
Hoka Clifton 11 Release Date
As of May 2025, Hoka has not officially announced the release date for the Clifton 11. However, based on Hoka’s historical release patterns, we can make an informed speculation.
Expected Release Timeline
Hoka typically updates the Clifton series on an annual basis. For instance, the Clifton 10 was released in April 2025 and the Clifton 9 in June 2023. Following this pattern, it’s reasonable to anticipate that the Clifton 11 may be released around summer 2026 or 2027.
What to Expect from the Clifton 11
While specific details about the Clifton 11 are not yet available, Hoka often introduces incremental improvements with each new model. Potential updates might include:
- Enhanced Cushioning: Building upon the Clifton 10’s plush midsole, the Clifton 11 may offer improved shock absorption for increased comfort during long runs.
- Refined Upper Design: Hoka may update the upper material for better breathability and a more secure fit.
- Outsole Durability: Improvements to the outsole could enhance traction and longevity, catering to runners who log high mileage.