The HOKA Clifton series has long been one of the most popular running shoe lines for daily training. With the HOKA Clifton PRO, the brand takes the concept a significant step further.

Rather than being just another comfortable daily trainer, the Clifton PRO has been developed for runners who want to combine the signature Clifton ride with noticeably more speed, responsiveness and energy return.

HOKA describes the Clifton PRO as “the softest Clifton ever”, while also positioning it as a shoe built for faster running thanks to an entirely new midsole platform and a more aggressive rocker geometry. 

HOKA Clifton PRO at a Glance

A New Generation of Clifton

Ever since the original Clifton launched, the series has been synonymous with comfort, easy mileage and maximum cushioning. It has become a favourite among recreational runners, marathoners and ultrarunners who value reduced impact over explosive performance.

The Clifton PRO represents a clear evolution.

Rather than focusing solely on comfort, HOKA has created a shoe that feels genuinely fast, placing it somewhere between a traditional daily trainer and today’s modern “super trainer” category.

Two major updates define this model:

• An entirely new midsole
• A significantly more aggressive rocker geometry

PROGLIDE™+ Delivers a New Running Experience

The biggest innovation is undoubtedly PROGLIDE™+, HOKA’s new midsole platform.

It uses SCF (Super Critical Foam) instead of the CMEVA foam found in the Clifton 11, resulting in a noticeably different ride.

For runners, this translates into:

• Higher energy return
• More bounce
• Faster responsiveness
• Softer landings

Instead of the slightly muted feel that has characterised previous Clifton models, the Clifton PRO feels considerably more lively underfoot.

It almost encourages you to pick up the pace. 

Aggressive MetaRocker Makes a Real Difference

HOKA has long been known for its MetaRocker technology, but the geometry has become even more aggressive in the Clifton PRO.

The curved sole helps roll the foot forward more quickly through each stride, resulting in:

• Shorter ground contact time
• More efficient toe-off
• Reduced calf fatigue
• Smoother running at faster paces

For half marathon and marathon runners, this could make a noticeable difference during the closing miles when fatigue begins to set in. 

The Comfort Is Still There

Despite its more performance-oriented focus, the Clifton PRO still feels unmistakably like a Clifton.

The generous 42 mm heel and 34 mm forefoot stack height provide excellent protection during long training runs.

Additional comfort features include:

• Soft heel collar for a secure fit
• Breathable engineered mesh upper
• Reflective details for improved visibility in low-light conditions

Neutral Yet Stable

Like every other Clifton model, the Clifton PRO is a neutral running shoe. Instead of relying on traditional stability elements, HOKA achieves stability through:

• A wide platform
• Tall stack height
• Carefully engineered geometry
• A balanced overall construction

For most neutral runners, this provides more than enough stability without adding unnecessary support features. 

Built to Handle High Mileage

The outsole combines two different rubber compounds.

The forefoot uses Durabrasion Rubber, while the heel features the even more durable Super Abrasion Rubber.

A pod-style outsole pattern further improves grip and flexibility, making the shoe well suited to accumulating high weekly mileage. 

HOKA Clifton PRO vs. Clifton 11

At first glance, it may seem like the Clifton PRO is simply a premium version of the Clifton 11.

In reality, they serve different purposes.

If the Clifton 11 is your go-to shoe for relaxed daily mileage, the Clifton PRO makes an excellent companion for quality sessions, faster long runs and race-specific training.

Who Should Buy the Clifton PRO?

The Clifton PRO is particularly well suited to runners who:

• Are training for a half marathon or marathon
• Want a fast training shoe without a carbon plate
• Run high weekly mileage
• Appreciate maximum cushioning with improved responsiveness
• Need one shoe for both long runs and tempo sessions

However, it may not be the ideal choice for beginners who mainly jog at easy recovery paces. 

Pros

• Exceptionally soft yet responsive midsole
• Significantly faster ride than previous Clifton models
• Outstanding comfort during long runs
• Aggressive MetaRocker improves running efficiency
• Durable outsole with excellent grip
• Modern, breathable upper

Cons

• Slightly heavier than several competitors in the same category
• Premium price
• May feel overly aggressive for relaxed recovery runs
• Doesn’t provide the explosive propulsion of a carbon-plated racing shoe

Verdict

The HOKA Clifton PRO is not a replacement for the Clifton 11—it is an evolution of the Clifton concept for runners who want more speed without sacrificing comfort.

The new PROGLIDE™+ midsole, more aggressive MetaRocker geometry, and well-balanced construction create a much livelier ride than previous Clifton generations, while preserving the series’ defining characteristics: generous cushioning, dependable stability and excellent comfort.

For runners training for longer races or looking for one versatile shoe capable of handling both daily mileage and faster workouts, the Clifton PRO stands out as one of HOKA’s most compelling additions in recent years. Its combination of comfort and performance makes it a strong contender in today’s premium performance trainer category.