β‘οΈ Quick Verdict - HOKA Clifton 9
- Best For: Everyday training, neutral runners, recovery runs.
- Strengths: Lightweight cushioning, smooth transitions, improved upper comfort.
- Drawbacks: Stability may be insufficient for some, outsole durability can vary.
- Verdict: A reliable and versatile daily trainer offering a balanced blend of comfort and responsiveness.
βοΈ Pros & Cons Explained
| Aspect | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Cushioning | Users report a softer and more responsive ride compared to previous versions, providing excellent impact absorption for long runs. | Some runners find the increased softness lacks the desired ground feel or can feel less stable on uneven surfaces. |
| Weight | Feedback indicates it is noticeably lighter, contributing to a less fatiguing experience over longer distances. | A few users mention that while lighter, it's still not a dedicated speed-work shoe for competitive runners. |
| Fit & Upper | The engineered knit upper is praised for its improved breathability and adaptive comfort, securing the foot without feeling restrictive. | Some individuals with wider feet report the toe box can feel slightly narrow, requiring careful sizing. |
| Durability | The midsole generally maintains its cushioning properties well over typical mileage. | Real-world use suggests that the outsole rubber shows significant wear for some high-mileage runners, potentially impacting overall lifespan. |
π§ Whatβs Included? & Why It Matters
| Component/Technology | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Compression Molded EVA (CMEVA) Midsole | Provides a balance of cushioning and responsiveness, crucial for impact absorption and energy return during runs. The updated density in the Clifton 9 contributes to its lighter and softer feel. |
| Early Stage Meta-Rocker Geometry | Designed to promote a smooth transition from heel strike to toe-off, facilitating an efficient and consistent stride, reducing fatigue over distance. |
| Engineered Knit Upper | Offers enhanced breathability and a secure, adaptive fit. This material choice allows for improved airflow and accommodates various foot shapes more comfortably than previous versions. |
| Durabrasion Rubber Outsole | Strategically placed rubber on high-wear areas aims to provide traction and extend the shoe's lifespan, although user experiences vary regarding its overall durability. |
π° Is It Worth It? β Value & Cost Efficiency
| Aspect | Positive | Negative |
|---|---|---|
| Performance Longevity | The midsole cushioning typically maintains its integrity and responsive feel through a significant portion of its expected lifespan, providing consistent comfort. | Some users report that the outsole can wear out faster than the midsole, potentially limiting the shoe's total usable mileage, especially on abrasive surfaces. |
| Versatility & Use Case | Its balanced design makes it a highly versatile option for daily training, long runs, and recovery efforts, potentially reducing the need for multiple specialized shoes. | For runners seeking a shoe specifically for fast-paced workouts or races, the Clifton 9's cushioning might be perceived as too soft, necessitating an additional shoe for those specific purposes. |
π HOKA Comparison β How This Version Improves Over Previous Models
| Aspect | HOKA Clifton 8 | HOKA Clifton 9 |
|---|---|---|
| Weight (Men's US9) | 8.8 oz (249g) | 8.7 oz (247g) |
| Stack Height (Heel/Forefoot) | 29mm/24mm | 32mm/27mm (increased cushion) |
| Midsole Compound | Standard EVA | New, lighter, and more responsive CMEVA |
| Upper Material | Engineered Mesh | More refined Engineered Knit for improved breathability and fit |
| Ride Feel | Balanced, slightly firmer | Softer, smoother, and more forgiving |
βοΈ Alternatives vs HOKA Clifton 9
| Aspect | Brooks Ghost 15 | Saucony Kinvara 14 | HOKA Clifton 9 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cushioning Level | Balanced, moderately soft | Minimalist, responsive | Maximal, very soft |
| Weight (Men's US9) | 9.8 oz (278g) | 6.5 oz (184g) | 8.7 oz (247g) |
| Flexibility | Moderate flexibility | Highly flexible | Less flexible due to stack height |
| Best Use Case | Reliable daily trainer | Tempo runs, short distances | Daily training, long runs, recovery |
| Stability | Very stable neutral ride | Neutral, good ground feel | Neutral, can feel less stable for some |
π‘ FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
- Is the HOKA Clifton 9 suitable for wide feet? The HOKA Clifton 9 is available in standard and wide (D and 2E) sizes. Individuals with wider feet generally report improved comfort with the wide option due to the refined upper.
- How does the Clifton 9 compare to the Clifton 8 in terms of softness? The Clifton 9 features a re-engineered CMEVA midsole with an increased stack height, resulting in a noticeably softer and more cushioned feel compared to the Clifton 8.
- What type of running is the Clifton 9 best for? The HOKA Clifton 9 is primarily designed as a daily training shoe, excelling in easy runs, long distances, and recovery efforts due to its ample cushioning and smooth ride.
- Does the Clifton 9 have good traction? The Durabrasion Rubber outsole provides reliable traction on typical road surfaces and light trails in dry conditions. Performance on wet or highly technical terrain may vary.
π Positive Reviews - What Users Love
- The cushioning feels just right for my daily miles, absorbing impact without feeling overly squishy.
- I appreciate the updated upper; it's much more breathable and comfortable than previous models, fitting snugly without any pressure points.
- This shoe is surprisingly light for how much cushioning it offers, making long runs feel less taxing.
- The smooth transitions really help maintain my stride, especially when I start to tire late in a run.
- It's a versatile shoe that handles everything from short recovery jogs to my weekend long runs with consistent comfort.
π Negative Reviews - What Could Be Better
- The outsole rubber seems to wear down quicker than I'd expect for a shoe in this category, especially in high-wear areas.
- While the cushioning is soft, I sometimes feel a lack of ground feedback, which can be an adjustment for runners used to firmer shoes.
- The toe box felt a bit constricting for my foot shape, even in my usual size, leading to some discomfort on longer runs.
- I found that on technical or uneven surfaces, the high stack height made me feel less stable compared to other daily trainers.
- After a few hundred miles, the responsiveness started to diminish, not as lively as it was initially.
π Key Details & Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Category | Neutral Road Running Shoe |
| Weight (Men's US9 / Women's US7) | Men: 8.7 oz (247g) / Women: 7.3 oz (207g) |
| Stack Height (Heel / Forefoot) | Men: 32mm / 27mm / Women: 29mm / 24mm |
| Heel-to-Toe Drop | 5mm |
| Cushioning | Maximal |
| Support Type | Neutral |
| Upper Material | Engineered Knit |
| Midsole Material | Compression Molded EVA (CMEVA) |
| Outsole Material | Durabrasion Rubber |
| Pronation | Neutral |
π Summary β Is This the Right Choice for You?
- The HOKA Clifton 9 stands out as a highly cushioned daily trainer designed to provide a comfortable and smooth ride for a wide range of runners.
- Its significant weight reduction and increased stack height with softer foam distinguish it from its predecessor, offering a more forgiving experience.
- While excelling in daily mileage and recovery runs, runners who prioritize firm ground feel, maximum stability, or aggressive speed work might find it less suitable for those specific needs.
- The refined engineered knit upper enhances comfort and breathability, though some users with specific foot shapes may still require the wide version.
- Consider the Clifton 9 if you are a neutral runner seeking a reliable, versatile shoe that prioritizes soft cushioning and a smooth transition for your everyday training and longer efforts.
