Hoka Clifton 9
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Overview
The Hoka Clifton 9 is the latest evolution of the well-regarded Clifton series, offering a lighter and more cushioned experience than its predecessors. Despite a slight increase in stack height, efforts have been made to reduce weight, resulting in a revitalized underfoot feel. This shoe features a responsive new foam and an improved outsole design for a better overall running experience. The upper has been simplified by removing overlays and hotmelts, with attention given to comfort through a plusher heel, a reflective heel panel for visibility, and a streamlined tongue with a single side medial gusset.
In terms of performance, the Hoka Clifton 9 is a narrow-fitting maximalist daily trainer designed with a Meta-Rocker midsole to enhance energy-saving transitions. Its highly cushioned ride leans towards the softer side, making it best suited for slow and easy-paced runs. Notably, the Clifton 9 incorporates 3 mm more midsole foam than its predecessors, contributing to an even more cushioned feel. The reformulated CMEVA midsole material further enhances the shoe's soft and comfortable ride. If you're seeking a plush and cushioned daily trainer for your runs, the Hoka Clifton 9 is a noteworthy option.
According to our analysis of reviews from experts around the world, it averages a review score of 82%. This puts it rated just above the median rating of comparable running shoes. According to our analysis of prices across the internet, at current rates it's just above the median price of running shoes.
Verdict
The consensus on the Hoka Clifton 9
The Hoka Clifton 9 is a reliable daily trainer that offers a high level of cushioning and a comfortable fit. It's ideal for daily running and performs well on road terrain. The shoe's breathability and orthotic-friendly design make it a great choice for long-distance runs. However, the shoe's narrow fit may not be suitable for all runners. Overall, the Hoka Clifton 9 offers good value for its price, providing a comfortable and stable ride for daily runners.
Updates to Hoka Clifton 9
The Clifton 9 has several updates from its predecessor, the Hoka Clifton 8. It features a more cushioned midsole, a softer ride, and a narrower fit. The shoe also has a new knit upper for improved breathability.
Comparable Shoes
6 Hoka Clifton 9 Pros & Cons
3 Pros
3 Cons
In Depth
Upper
The upper of the Hoka Clifton 9 is made from a knit material that offers excellent breathability. It has a narrow to medium toe box, which may not suit runners with wider feet. The upper is also orthotic-friendly, allowing for the insertion of custom orthotics if needed.
Midsole
The midsole of the Clifton 9 features Hoka's PROFLY+ technology, providing a soft and cushioned ride. The shoe's Meta-Rocker geometry aids in smoother transitions, making it ideal for daily running.
Outsole
The outsole of the Clifton 9 provides decent grip on road surfaces. It's not the most aggressive outsole, but it performs well for its intended use of road running.
Size/fit
The Clifton 9 runs true to size, but has a narrower fit compared to some other running shoes. Runners with wider feet may want to consider trying the shoe on before purchasing.
Comfort
With its high level of cushioning and breathable upper, the Clifton 9 scores high on comfort.
Who should buy the Hoka Clifton 9?
The Hoka Clifton 9 is a great choice for runners who prefer a highly cushioned shoe for daily running. It's also a good option for those who run primarily on road surfaces. If you have a neutral gait and prefer a shoe with a medium to narrow fit, the Clifton 9 could be a good fit for you.
Who should not buy the Hoka Clifton 9?
Runners with wider feet may find the Clifton 9 too narrow. If you prefer a shoe with a lot of ground feel, the high stack height of the Clifton 9 may not suit you. It's also not the best choice for trail running due to its outsole design.
Hoka Clifton 9: What's it good for?
The Hoka Clifton 9 is good for daily running and long-distance runs on road surfaces. Its high level of cushioning provides comfort over long distances, and its breathable upper keeps your feet cool during your run.
3 Hoka Clifton 9 FAQs
Is the Hoka Clifton 9 good for long-distance running?
Yes, the Hoka Clifton 9 is a good choice for long-distance running. Its high level of cushioning provides comfort over long distances, and its breathable upper keeps your feet cool during your run.
Does the Hoka Clifton 9 fit true to size?
Yes, the Hoka Clifton 9 fits true to size. However, it has a narrower fit compared to some other running shoes, so runners with wider feet may want to try the shoe on before purchasing.
What is the main update in the Hoka Clifton 9 compared to the Clifton 8?
The main update in the Hoka Clifton 9 compared to the Clifton 8 is the more cushioned midsole. The Clifton 9 also offers a softer ride and has a new knit upper for improved breathability.
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| bestDeal | Show prices | |||||
| priceBand | Price band | |||||
| similarity | Similarity | Very similar | Very similar | |||
| released | ReleasedFeb 2023 | Mar 2023 | Aug 2023 | Mar 2024 | ||
| expertReviewScore | Expert Review Score | |||||
| Weight | WeightM: 249 g W: 207 g | M: 309 g W: 252 g | 315 g | M: 238 g W: 204 g | ||
| Forefoot | ForefootM: 27 mm W: 24 mm | 30 mm | M: 28 mm W: 26 mm | |||
| Heel to toe drop | Heel to toe drop5 mm | 8 mm | 9 mm | 4 mm | ||
| Heel | HeelM: 32 mm W: 29 mm | 39 mm | M: 32 mm W: 30 mm | |||
| Brand | BrandHoka | New Balance | On | Nike | adidas | Altra |
| Strike Type | Strike TypeFore/Midfoot strike | Fore/Midfoot strikeHeel strike | Fore/Midfoot strikeHeel strike | Fore/Midfoot strikeHeel strike | Fore/Midfoot strikeHeel strike | Fore/Midfoot strike |
| Shoe Type | Shoe TypeComfortableLightweight | ComfortableMaximalist | Comfortable | ComfortableLightweightLow drop | ||
| Rocker | Rocker | |||||
| Breathable | Breathable | |||||
| Techs | TechsHoka PROFLY+PROFLY+ | New Balance Fresh FoamNew Balance Fresh FoamXNew Balance FuelCell | On CloudTecOn Helion | Nike React | ||
| Environmental Characteristics | Environmental Characteristics | Sustainable | Sustainable | Sustainable | Sustainable | |
Common characteristicsRoadDaily runningNeutralOrthotic friendlyRemovable insole |
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