23-05-2025
Hoka Clifton 10 Review: More Foam, Same Daily Comfort And Flow
Now in its 10th iteration, the Hoka Clifton has quietly become one of the most reliable and recognizable running shoes. I picked up my first pair—the Clifton 6—back in 2019, and I've logged hundreds of miles in every version since. It's the shoe you see everywhere because it meets so many needs, and while there's no official data that confirms it's the best-selling shoe, you wouldn't be wrong for thinking so. Expectations are always high when Hoka updates the Clifton, and after a few weeks of marathon training in the Clifton 10, I'm here to report it's as good as it's ever been.
The Clifton is that go-to shoe in a runner's lineup that just works. It's not very fast, but it's not slow either. It's cushy without feeling mushy, soft yet surprisingly spirited. The Clifton 10 introduces some updates, like a higher drop, a new upper and more stack, but it feels like the many models that came before it. Essentially, it's a do-it-all style you can put on and forget about in the best way, and that's what makes it my favorite everyday running shoe. Here's what you need to know before you add it to your quiver.
Price: $150 | Weight: 8.8 ounces (women's), 9.8 ounces (men's) | Drop: 8mm | Stack height: 42mm (heel), 34mm (forefoot) | Upper: Jacquard | Midsole: EVA foam | Outsole: Rubber
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The reason runners fell in love with the Clifton when it launched is the same reason it's still so popular today: its cushioning. But to describe the Clifton 10 as this maximal, cloud-like shoe with a big stack implies it's clunky or even dull, when it's actually quite versatile.
While training for a race, the Clifton 10 started as my shoe of choice for slow recovery runs, but over time it became my preferred option for long weekend runs and even the occasional tempo workout, thanks to Hoka's MetaRocker technology that helps with heel-to-toe transitions. For most workouts, the Clifton 10 was happy to oblige, though it's not the shoe I'd recommend for true speed workouts or qualifying races.
And although this model has maintained a 5mm drop for years, the Clifton 10 increases that to 8mm—a 60% jump. Hoka says the change addresses how runners typically wear their Cliftons for hundreds of miles, during which repetitive impacts compress the foam and make it feel like a lower-drop shoe. By adding more foam, the Clifton 10 helps preserve Hoka's intended offset even after you've broken it in.
During testing, I barely noticed the increased drop—and most runners probably won't either—but the added foam is a welcome upgrade that doesn't compromise stability. And in spite of the bigger midsole, it's still a lightweight shoe for what it offers. Mine weighs just under 10 ounces for a men's size 9.5.
If this shoe's cushioning is its standout feature, the upper isn't far behind. It's one of the only shoes I can pull from the box, lace up and run in without issue. The new jacquard knit upper doesn't look or even feel all that different from the previous one, but it's breathable and seems to hold up well to daily use.
According to Hoka, the forefoot is also slightly wider, which I can appreciate as someone with flat, wide feet. I've read a few reviews that suggest the redesign might rub if you have big toes or bunions, so keep an eye out for hot spots, and pack a Band-Aid if that's a concern.
Material has also been added to the back of the shoe to make it softer and more forgiving in the heel. If anything, it feels ever-so-slightly more plush, but my heel still locks into the shoe and doesn't slip or move around. Again, this is a model you can lace up and run a half-marathon in without a second thought—the added padding doesn't change that. If anything, it just makes it that much easier to wear, especially if you need shoes for standing all day.
The general consensus is that running shoes last between 300 and 500 miles, but it wouldn't be surprising if Clifton fans told me they push theirs well beyond those limits. That's not to say Cliftons are designed to outlast other running shoes, but in my experience, they hold up well to constant use.
I've logged about 40 miles in my Clifton 10s, and they still feel as fresh and supportive as they did on day one. The uppers look great, and, in my experience, they're durable enough to resist ripping or blowouts (and I've never replaced a pair due to a lack of durability). All in all, I think the Clifton 10 is built to go the distance, literally and figuratively.
While this is a well-rounded shoe from top to bottom, ultimately whether or not it's right for you depends on your needs. If you're after something truly fast and responsive, this isn't the shoe for you. And if you need a stability shoe for overpronation, it doesn't check that box either.
Like any running shoe, it performs best when used as intended, and in this case, that means everyday training, long runs, walking and the occasional speed workout. There are a lot of other Hoka running shoes we recommend if you like the brand but can't find a spot for the Clifton in your lineup.
The Clifton 10 checks every box I look for in a daily trainer. It's soft and plush yet surprisingly stable for a maximum-cushioned shoe. It offers just enough responsiveness when you need it and settles in when you don't. And it's easy to wear for hours on end.
Its versatility makes it a great option for a lot of different runners. Whether you're lacing up your first pair of running shoes, logging miles for your next marathon or simply looking for supportive footwear for long hours on your feet, the Clifton 10 adapts to the task at hand. It stays true to what makes the Clifton so popular—and somehow makes it even better.
