Hoka Clifton 10 vs Clifton 9: What Changed & Is It Worth It?

The Hoka Clifton 10 is a significant update over the Clifton 9, with a new midsole foam, a revised upper, and a slightly higher stack height. The upgrade is worth it if you want a softer, more cushioned ride and a more secure fit, but the Clifton 9 remains a solid, lighter option for those who prefer a firmer feel.

Background: The Clifton’s Place in Hoka’s Lineup

The Clifton has been Hoka’s go-to daily trainer since 2014, known for balancing a thick layer of cushion with a relatively light weight. The Clifton 9, released in 2023, refined the formula with a new foam (compression-molded EVA) and a more streamlined upper. The Clifton 10, released in 2025, takes a bigger step: it uses a new supercritical foam (often called “Supercritical EVA”) that is lighter and more responsive than the standard EVA used in the 9. This change is the core of the update, affecting everything from the ride to the weight.

Key Changes: What’s Different on the Clifton 10

The most obvious change is the midsole. The Clifton 10 uses a new supercritical foam that is injected with gas to create a more energetic, bouncier feel. This is a departure from the firmer, more traditional EVA of the Clifton 9. The stack height also increases slightly: the Clifton 10 has 39mm in the heel and 33mm in the forefoot (up from 37mm/29mm on the 9). That’s a 2mm increase in the heel and 4mm in the forefoot, which makes the 10 feel noticeably more cushioned under the forefoot.

The upper also gets a redesign. The Clifton 10 uses a new engineered mesh that is more breathable and has a more structured heel collar. The lacing system is also updated with a more traditional, gusseted tongue that stays in place better. The outsole is largely the same, with high-abrasion rubber in the heel and forefoot, but the placement is tweaked for better durability.

Weight is a key difference. The Clifton 9 weighs about 8.7oz (247g) for a men’s size 9, while the Clifton 10 comes in around 8.9oz (252g) for the same size. That’s a slight increase, likely due to the extra foam and a more substantial upper. It’s not a huge difference, but it’s worth noting if you’re sensitive to weight.

Ride and Feel: How They Compare on the Run

The Clifton 9 offers a firm, stable ride that is best for easy miles and daily training. It’s not dead, but it’s not bouncy either—it’s a classic, predictable trainer. The Clifton 10, with its supercritical foam, feels noticeably softer and more springy. The initial step-in is plush, and the foam rebounds with a slight pop. This makes the 10 better for picking up the pace, but it also means it’s less stable than the 9. The 10 has a wider base and a more rockered shape, which helps with transitions, but the softer foam can feel a bit wobbly if you’re not used to it.

For a 10K or half marathon, the Clifton 10’s cushioning is a clear advantage. The extra forefoot foam reduces fatigue in the later miles. The Clifton 9, being firmer, offers more ground feel and is better for those who prefer a more minimal, connected ride. If you’re a heavier runner or want maximum shock absorption, the 10 is the better choice. If you want a lighter, more agile trainer for faster workouts, the 9 might be more appealing.

How to Choose: Which One Is Right for You?

Your choice depends on your priorities. Here’s a simple breakdown:

• Choose the Clifton 10 if: you want the softest, most cushioned ride Hoka offers in a daily trainer, you like a bouncy feel, you do long runs (over 10 miles) and want to reduce fatigue, or you have a history of joint pain and want maximum shock absorption.
• Choose the Clifton 9 if: you prefer a firmer, more stable ride, you want a slightly lighter shoe for faster paces, you’re on a budget (the 9 is often discounted), or you’re a forefoot striker who wants more ground feel.

If you’re between sizes, note that the Clifton 10 fits true to size, but the new upper is slightly narrower in the toe box. If you have wide feet, you might want to size up or try the wide version. The Clifton 9 also fits true to size, but the toe box is a bit more generous.

Common Problems and Misconceptions

One common misconception is that the Clifton 10 is just a softer Clifton 9. In reality, the geometry is also different—the 10 has a more aggressive rocker, which means it rolls forward more quickly. This can take a few runs to get used to, especially if you’re coming from the 9. Some runners also report that the Clifton 10’s upper is less breathable than the 9’s, especially in hot weather. The new mesh is more structured, but it doesn’t allow as much airflow.

Another issue is durability. The supercritical foam in the 10 is lighter and softer, but it may compress faster than the firmer EVA in the 9. Some early reviews suggest the 10 loses its bounce after 300-400 miles, whereas the 9 can last 400-500 miles. This isn’t a dealbreaker, but it’s something to consider if you’re a high-mileage runner.

Cost and Value: Is the Upgrade Worth the Price?

The Clifton 10 retails for $145, while the Clifton 9 launched at $140 but is often available for $100-120 now that the new model is out. The $5 price increase is modest, but the real question is whether the performance gains justify it. If you’re a neutral runner who does a mix of easy runs and long runs, the 10’s extra cushioning and bouncier foam are a clear upgrade. You’ll feel less tired after long runs, and the shoe is more versatile for tempo efforts.

However, if you’re a light runner (under 150 lbs) or you prefer a firmer ride, the 9 is still an excellent shoe. You can save $20-40 and get a lighter, more responsive trainer. The 9 is also a better choice for those who do a lot of speedwork or races, as the lower stack height gives you better ground feel and stability.

Alternatives to Consider

If you’re not sure about the Clifton 10, here are a few comparable daily trainers:

• Brooks Ghost 16: A classic daily trainer with a soft, balanced ride. It’s slightly heavier than the Clifton 10 but offers a more traditional fit and a smoother heel-to-toe transition.
• Saucony Ride 17: Uses a PWRRUN+ foam that’s similar to Hoka’s supercritical—light and bouncy. It’s a bit firmer than the Clifton 10 and has a more snug fit.
• New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 v14: A max-cushion shoe with a plush, luxurious feel. It’s heavier than the Clifton 10 but offers even more cushioning for recovery runs.
• Nike Pegasus 41: A versatile daily trainer with a responsive Air Zoom unit. It’s lighter than the Clifton 10 and better for faster paces, but less cushioned for long runs.

Each of these shoes has its own character, so it’s worth trying them on to see which fits your foot and running style best.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Clifton 10 good for wide feet?

The Clifton 10 is available in a wide (2E) size, but the standard width is slightly narrower than the Clifton 9. If you have wide feet, order the wide version or size up half a size. The toe box is still roomy, but the midfoot is more snug.

Can I use the Clifton 10 for marathon racing?

Yes, the Clifton 10 is a great marathon shoe for most runners. The extra cushioning helps reduce fatigue in the later miles, and the rocker shape promotes a smooth stride. However, it’s not as light as a dedicated racing shoe like the Hoka Rocket X 2, so if you’re aiming for a PR, you might prefer a lighter option.

How long do the Clifton 10s last?

Most runners get 350-450 miles out of the Clifton 10. The supercritical foam compresses faster than the firmer EVA in the Clifton 9, so you might need to replace them sooner if you’re a heavier runner or run on rough surfaces. Check the outsole for wear and the midsole for visible creasing.

Is the Clifton 10 good for walking?

Yes, the Clifton 10 is an excellent walking shoe, especially for all-day standing or walking on hard surfaces. The thick cushioning absorbs shock, and the rocker bottom helps you roll through your stride. However, the soft foam can feel unstable on uneven terrain, so it’s best for flat, paved surfaces.

What is the drop on the Clifton 10?

The Clifton 10 has a 6mm heel-to-toe drop, the same as the Clifton 9. This is a moderate drop that suits most runners, whether you’re a heel striker or a forefoot striker.

Can I use the Clifton 10 for speedwork?

Yes, the Clifton 10 is versatile enough for tempo runs and intervals, thanks to the bouncy supercritical foam. However, it’s not as responsive as a lightweight trainer like the Hoka Mach 6, so if you’re doing short, fast repeats, you might prefer a firmer, lighter shoe.

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