The Clifton was the first HOKA Performance shoe and has a great legacy. Round 9 keeps the foot on the gas, because it can. The upper is closed mesh with no-sew overlays, and the fit has been reworked so it provides more room up front and better tailoring all around, including a slightly stretchy feel, to better respond to the foot in motion. While the upper is light, it isn’t spare. The collar and tongue caresses the foot, with well placed foam and a textured lining. The midsole has added two additional millimeters of foam, and a new formulation which is light, but as responsive as before. The outersole has been reworked, spreading the familiar rubber lugs over more of the toughened foam layer, for better traction and durability. In short, The Clifton 9 is like the Swiss Army knife of running shoes, if the Swiss Army knife had laces.
Testers: “The Clifton has been my favorite Hoka shoe for, like every version. Great cushion, light, even trails…well urban trails.”
Updates the Clifton 8
Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15; Women 5–11
Weight: 10.0 oz. (men’s 11); 7.9 oz. (women’s 8)
Shape: semi-curved
Construction: Strobel slip-lasted
Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics