Review: Hoka Clifton 9 vs Hoka Clifton 8
As runners, we all know the importance of finding the perfect pair of shoes. And when you find a pair that you love, it's hard to imagine anything better. That's how many of us feel about the Hoka Clifton 8's. They're light, comfortable, and provide the perfect amount of cushioning for those everyday runs. If you're like me, and were surprised by the new version when you went to the running store. Now that I've been in the 9's for a little bit, I'll dive into how the 9's changed. In this blog, we'll be taking a closer look at the differences between the Clifton 8's and the Clifton 9's, and sharing my thoughts on the new version. So, whether you're a die-hard Clifton 8 fan, or just curious about the new model, let's dive in and see how the Clifton 9's stack up.
My first run with the Hoka Clifton 9's
I originally switched my everyday trainers to the Hoka Cliftons because I was experiencing pain and planter fasciitis when running with my Altras. I wanted to find a more cushioned shoe, while still having a lower heel drop. I hadn't had good luck with the Hoka Bondi shoes in the past so I was a little wary of trying more Hoka shoes. I was pleasantly surprised when the Clifton 8's completely cleared up my planter fasciitis and all pain. I've enjoyed running in them for the past 6 months and the shoe feels extremely comfortable as a daily trainer.
A few weeks ago, I went in to get a new pair and was told that the Hoka Clifton 9 shoes had been released. I bought the Hoka Clifton 9's hoping that I would love them just as much as the 8's. After my first run in them, I definitely noticed some differences, but they were also a familiar run.
My feet didn't didn't feel enough of a difference to go through that "breaking in new shoes" feeling, but I did notice the foam feel a little stiffer. Hoka Cliftons aren't known to have great energy return, and I felt as though the 9's have slightly less than the 8's, but for an everyday trainer that's what is to be expected.
One downfall of the Hoka Clifton's is I find their lifespan to be on the shorter side than advertised. They should last between 300-500 miles and I find myself wanting to replace them closer to 300 miles. This isn't an issue, but I would be curious to see if I can get a longer lifespan out of them with the new foam. I'll update this article when I replace them to see how many miles I got out of them.
What's different about the Hoka Clifton 9 shoes?
There are two main changes to the Hoka Clifton 9's compared to the previous version and that is the foam, as I mentioned, as well as the midsole cushioning. They increased the midsole cushioning by 3 mm to give you a softer ride. I definitely notice the increased cushioning on my runs. The shoes have a smooth ride and I feel very stable in them as a daily trainer. The new midsole foam is lighter than the previous versions so even though there's 3 more millimeters of stack height, the shoe is actually lighter, coming in around 9 oz.
Pros of the Hoka Clifton 9
The Hoka Clifton 9 is an excellent choice for an everyday trainer, especially for those seeking exceptional cushioning and comfort. Its plush midsole foam provides a soft and stable feel, making it perfect for recovery runs or runs in general on hard surfaces. The shoe's unique design incorporates their early stage meta rocker technology, which promotes a smooth heel-to-toe transition, reducing stress on the feet and joints. The cushioning and support offered by the Hoka Clifton make it ideal for those with foot or knee issues, as it can help alleviate pain and discomfort. While I'm not a doctor, I can personally say that they pretty much cured my planter fasciitis. With its comfortable fit and excellent cushioning, the Hoka Clifton 9 is a great choice for anyone looking for a shoe that can keep up with their busy running schedule while providing a decent amount of extra padding for your feet.
Cons of the Hoka Clifton 9
While the Hoka Clifton 9 has many positive attributes, there are a few drawbacks that you might want to consider when choosing a daily trainer. One of the most common issues with the Hoka Clifton is the narrow toe box, which can be uncomfortable for those with wider feet or who prefer a more roomy fit. I always get mine in the wide size which has been ample room for me. Additionally, the Clifton's cushioning, while providing excellent comfort, does not offer the same level of energy return as some other running shoes on the market. This can be a concern for runners who value a more responsive and springy ride. Since I primarily run in these for my recovery slow runs, I don't really care about pace so this isn't an issue for me. While the Hoka Clifton is still a great shoe overall, these factors may be worth considering for those looking for a shoe that provides a wider toe box or a more energetic feel.
My Hoka Clifton 9 Review
The Hoka Clifton 8s were one of my favorite running shoes last year and my Hoka Clifton 9 review isn't much different. They're a phenomenal shoe that is a staple in my running routine for recovery runs. They have a soft ride, that isn't quite a bouncy ride. but nonetheless is exactly what my feet need for recovery days. They're the perfect daily trainer and it's no shock that they're one of the best selling shoes on the market. I'm looking forward to seeing how the lifespan and durability compares to previous versions of the Clifton but I have high hopes for a really durable shoe.
