Hoka Clifton 10 Review: A Comprehensive Look at the Latest Upgrade 🏃‍♀️

The Hoka Clifton series has long been a favorite among runners for its balance of comfort, cushioning, and versatility. With the release of the Hoka Clifton 10, the brand has introduced several updates that aim to refine the shoe’s performance while staying true to its roots. In this in-depth review, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the Clifton 10, from its design and fit to its performance on the road. Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or a casual jogger, this article will help you decide if the Clifton 10 is the right shoe for you.

🛠️ Key Features of the Hoka Clifton 10

The Hoka Clifton 10 comes with several notable updates that set it apart from its predecessor, the Clifton 9. Here’s a breakdown of the key features:

🧱 Midsole and Stack Height

• Stack Height: The Clifton 10 features a stack height of 42mm at the heel and 34mm at the forefoot, making it one of the more cushioned shoes in Hoka’s lineup.
• Drop: The shoe now has an 8mm drop, up from the 5mm drop in the Clifton 9. This change is designed to provide a smoother heel-to-toe transition, especially for heel strikers.
• Foam: Unlike some of Hoka’s other models, the Clifton 10 continues to use compression-molded EVA foam instead of the newer supercritical EVA foam found in models like the Bondi and Mach. While this foam isn’t the latest technology, it still offers a balanced and comfortable ride.

👟 Outsole and Durability

• Outsole Material: The Clifton 10 features a Durabrasion rubber outsole with good coverage in high-impact areas. However, there are still sections of exposed EVA foam, which may affect durability over time.
• Traction: The segmented rubber outsole provides decent traction, but runners who land on their midfoot may notice faster wear in the exposed foam areas.

👕 Upper and Fit

• Upper Material: The Clifton 10 uses a Jacquard knit upper, which is breathable, supportive, and smooth to the touch. It also includes reflective elements for added visibility during low-light runs.
• Fit: The shoe is true to size and offers a medium width, with wide and extra-wide options available. The high heel tab and padded collar provide excellent support and comfort, especially for runners with narrow feet.

⚖️ Weight

• Weight: The Clifton 10 weighs in at 275g (9.7 oz), making it slightly heavier than the Clifton 9, which weighed 247g (8.7 oz). The added weight is likely due to the updated upper and additional stability features.

🏞️ Design and Aesthetics

The Hoka Clifton 10 retains the sleek, modern design that the series is known for. While it may look similar to the Clifton 9 at first glance, there are subtle updates that enhance both its functionality and appearance.

🎨 Colorways

The Clifton 10 is available in a variety of color options, ranging from classic neutrals to bold, vibrant hues. This allows runners to choose a style that matches their personality and preferences.

🔍 Stability Features

One of the standout design updates in the Clifton 10 is the addition of an active foot frame in the midsole. This feature provides extra stability, particularly in the heel area, making the shoe more suitable for runners who need additional support or who run on uneven surfaces.

🏃‍♂️ Performance on the Road

The true test of any running shoe is how it performs during actual runs. Here’s how the Hoka Clifton 10 stacks up in various running scenarios:

🚶‍♂️ Daily Training

The Clifton 10 excels as a daily trainer, offering a comfortable and stable ride for easy runs and long-distance training. The increased drop and stack height provide a smooth heel-to-toe transition, making it a great option for runners who prefer a more cushioned feel.

🏃‍♀️ Long Runs

For long runs, the Clifton 10’s cushioning and support really shine. The shoe’s Meta Rocker design helps promote a natural gait cycle, reducing fatigue and allowing runners to maintain their pace over extended distances.

🏞️ Recovery Runs

The Clifton 10 is also an excellent choice for recovery runs. The plush cushioning and supportive upper make it easy to log miles without putting too much stress on your legs, helping you recover faster after intense workouts.

⚡ Speed Work

While the Clifton 10 is versatile, it’s not the best option for speed work or tempo runs. The shoe’s weight and lack of responsive foam make it less suitable for faster paces. Runners looking for a shoe for speed work may want to consider models like the Hoka Mach or Carbon X.

👍 Pros and Cons

✔️ Pros

• Comfortable Cushioning: The Clifton 10 offers a plush, well-balanced ride that’s perfect for daily training and long runs.
• Stable Design: The active foot frame and high heel counter provide excellent stability, especially for heel strikers and heavier runners.
• Breathable Upper: The Jacquard knit upper is both breathable and supportive, ensuring a comfortable fit throughout your run.
• Versatile: The Clifton 10 is suitable for a wide range of runners, from beginners to advanced athletes.

❌ Cons

• Weight: At 275g (9.7 oz), the Clifton 10 is slightly heavier than its predecessor, which may be a drawback for some runners.
• Durability Concerns: The exposed EVA foam on the outsole may wear down faster, particularly for midfoot strikers.
• Lack of Responsive Foam: The Clifton 10 doesn’t feature Hoka’s latest foam technology, which may be a downside for runners looking for a more energetic ride.

🆚 Comparison with Other Models

🥇 Hoka Clifton 10 vs. Clifton 9

The Clifton 10 builds on the strengths of the Clifton 9 while introducing several key updates. The increased drop and stack height provide a smoother ride, and the active foot frame adds extra stability. However, the Clifton 10 is slightly heavier and doesn’t feature the latest foam technology, which may be a drawback for some runners.

🥈 Hoka Clifton 10 vs. Hoka Bondi 9

The Bondi is Hoka’s most cushioned shoe, offering a plush ride that’s ideal for recovery runs. However, the Bondi is heavier and less versatile than the Clifton 10, which makes the latter a better option for daily training and long runs.

🥉 Hoka Clifton 10 vs. Hoka Mach 7

The Mach is a lighter, more responsive shoe that’s better suited for speed work and tempo runs. While the Clifton 10 offers more cushioning and stability, the Mach is the clear choice for runners looking to pick up the pace.

🏆 Final Verdict

The Hoka Clifton 10 is a solid update to an already popular shoe. While it may not feature the latest foam technology, it offers a comfortable, stable, and versatile ride that’s perfect for daily training and long runs. The increased drop and stack height provide a smoother heel-to-toe transition, and the active foot frame adds extra stability, making it a great option for a wide range of runners.

However, the shoe’s weight and durability concerns may be drawbacks for some runners. If you’re looking for a more responsive or lightweight option, you may want to consider other models in Hoka’s lineup.

Overall, the Hoka Clifton 10 is a reliable and comfortable daily trainer that’s well worth considering for your next pair of running shoes.

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