What to expect
More cushioning underfoot
The Clifton 10 features a noticeably taller midsole than the Clifton 9. The heel measures 42 mm and the forefoot 34 mm, providing 10 mm more foam underfoot than before. Hoka uses its CMEVA foam to create a soft yet stable ride.
Despite the increased cushioning the shoe doesn’t feel heavy or bulky. Weight is 9.8 oz for men and 8.0 oz for women. This makes the model appealing for runners who want lots of cushioning without sacrificing a lightweight feel.
Upper and fit
The new double jacquard knit upper provides a soft, conforming feel around the foot. The material breathes and offers some stretch where needed, which helps on longer runs. The heel counter also has a cleaner shape to reduce the risk of chafing.
The forefoot feels slightly roomier, giving the toes better space to splay naturally. The Clifton 10 is also available in standard, wide and extra wide, making the model more flexible for different foot shapes. This is especially good for those who often find running shoes too narrow.
Ride and running
The Clifton 10 has an 8 mm drop, compared with 5 mm in the Clifton 9. This gives a more pronounced forward roll and a slightly quicker toe-off. The shoe therefore suits both easy distance runs and longer outings where you want to keep your legs feeling fresher for longer.
Hoka’s rocker geometry remains and works together with the extra cushioning. The result is a smooth transition from heel to toe. The model is intended as an everyday training shoe and also works well for walking if you want the same shock absorption off the run.
Who the shoe is for
The Clifton 10 targets runners who want a maximally cushioned but lightweight everyday shoe. It suits both beginners and more experienced runners looking for a shoe for many types of sessions. Long runs, easy jogs and recovery outings are especially well suited to the model.
This is also a shoe for those who prioritise comfort and fit over aggressive speed feel. Compared with the Clifton 9, Hoka has made the model softer, slightly lighter and more inclusive in size range. That makes it a broad everyday model in the series.