This video reviews the Hoka Clifton 10, examining its evolution from the revolutionary Clifton 1 (2014) and its place in today's running shoe market dominated by max-stack and energetic foams. The review highlights significant changes from the Clifton 9, including an increased stack height (now 42mm with an 8mm drop), greater weight, and a higher price. While praised for its surprising comfort, stability, smooth ride, and dependability as a versatile daily trainer, making it ideal for new runners and casual wear, the Clifton 10 is criticized for its lack of liveliness due to the traditional EVA foam. The reviewer compares it to key competitors like the Asics Nova Blast 5, New Balance 1080, and Hoka's own Mach 6, suggesting alternatives for runners seeking more responsiveness or a lighter, faster experience.
Hoka Clifton 10 Review: The Evolution of a Daily Trainer
0:00 - 0:38 A Legacy Reimagined: The Hoka Clifton 10 enters a market vastly different from when the original, revolutionary Clifton 1 launched in 2014. The video questions if the new version maintains the original's special qualities amidst a landscape of max-stack and energetic foam shoes.
0:38 - 1:07 Key Changes from Clifton 9: The Clifton 10 features a 10mm increase in stack height, making it a max-stack shoe, a higher drop, and is slightly heavier. It is also £10 more expensive than its predecessor, a price increase attributed to inflation.
1:10 - 2:06 Purpose & Specifications: Intended as a classic daily trainer, the Clifton 10 is Hoka's bestseller, priced at £140 (UK). It boasts a 42mm stack height at the heel with an 8mm drop (up from 32mm/5mm on the Clifton 9) and weighs 324g (11.4 oz) for a UK size 12, about 12g heavier than the 9.
2:06 - 2:25 Construction Details: The shoe features a jacquard knit upper with no gusseted tongue, Hoka's classic EVA midsole with a meta-rocker (no plate), and a durable abrasion rubber outsole (similar to the Clifton 9). Grip is deemed "okay."
3:01 - 4:00 Comfort & Support: A major "like" is its surprising comfort, which is improved over the Clifton 9. It offers excellent support and mass appeal, making it a good choice for new runners. The lockdown is spot-on, with zero heel slip and a beneficial heel flare for Achilles comfort.
4:00 - 4:32 Smooth & Stable Ride: The increased stack height contributes to a very smooth ride, effectively covering ground. The shoe's geometry and subtle rocker work well for all foot strike types, providing a stable platform.
4:32 - 5:11 Dependability & Versatility: The Clifton 10 is described as very dependable and reliable, offering a classic Clifton feel. It's a "jack of all trades," suitable for running, gym use, casual wear, and travel, offering all-day comfort.
5:11 - 6:17 Dislikes: Drop & Liveliness: Clifton purists may dislike the increased 8mm drop, which makes the wearer feel more on their toes. The traditional EVA foam is criticized for not being lively, bouncy, or responsive, making the shoe "dull" for speedwork but predictable for easy miles.
Asics Nova Blast 5: Softer, cheaper, more bouncy/responsive, wider pace range, lighter, but slightly less stable.
New Balance 1080: More lively, softer, plush, but less stable, heavier, and more expensive.
Hoka Mach 6: Recommended for those seeking a lighter, more responsive shoe with a super critical EVA foam and 5mm drop, especially since the Clifton 10 has become heavier.
7:39 - 8:28 Final Recommendation: The Clifton 10 is recommended as a "solid do-it-all shoe" and an excellent option for new runners. However, fans of the Clifton 9 or those seeking a dedicated running shoe for faster paces might prefer the Hoka Mach 6 or Asics Nova Blast 5 due to the Clifton 10's changes and less lively foam.