The Hoka Clifton Pro: A Running Shoe That's a Smooth Ride, But Lacks Versatility
I recently had the opportunity to test out the Hoka Clifton Pro, a running shoe that promises a smoother, springier ride than its predecessor, the Clifton 11. As an avid runner and fitness journalist, I was intrigued by the shoe's potential, especially given Hoka's reputation for making comfortable, supportive shoes. But does the Clifton Pro live up to the hype? In my opinion, it's a mixed bag.
What makes this particular fascinating is the Clifton Pro's unique selling point: its midsole foam, ProGlide+, which is a supercritical EVA material. This foam is designed to provide a bouncier ride, and in theory, it should make for a more enjoyable running experience. However, I found that the Clifton Pro's ride was indeed smooth and comfortable, but it lacked the versatility I was hoping for.
One thing that immediately stands out is the Clifton Pro's price point. At $165 in the U.S. and £150 in the U.K., it's $10 more expensive than the Clifton 11. This price difference is notable, especially when compared to other cushioned daily trainers like the Asics Novablast 6, which is cheaper and offers a slightly livelier ride at faster paces. In my opinion, the Clifton Pro's price is a bit steep for what it offers.
From my perspective, the Clifton Pro's design and fit are solid. It comes in seven colors, including the white-and-orange design I tested, and it fits well in my normal running shoe size. The shoe has the same stack height and drop as the Clifton 11, with an 8mm drop and a height of 42mm at the heel and 34mm at the forefoot. The upper is made of mesh, which proved breathable during my testing in a heatwave in the U.K.
However, the Clifton Pro's midsole foam is where it really shines. The ProGlide+ foam is a significant upgrade from the compression-moulded EVA on the Clifton 11, providing a bouncier ride and a more aggressive rocker profile. This makes for a smoother ride, especially at faster paces. But here's the catch: while the Clifton Pro feels great on the run, it's not a super-trainer. It lacks the versatility and speedy feel I like to tackle my fastest workouts.
In my experience, the Clifton Pro is an excellent daily trainer for easy, steady, and long runs. It's comfortable, protective, and fun to run in. However, it's not the best choice for runners who prioritize versatility or who work well in rotation with a faster shoe for workouts. Personally, I'd recommend it to runners who want a cushioned daily trainer that's protective and comfortable, but I wouldn't call it a 'pro' choice.
What many people don't realize is that the Clifton Pro's price point and lack of versatility make it a less appealing option compared to other cushioned daily trainers on the market. While it's a solid shoe, it doesn't offer the same value for money as some of its competitors. If you're looking for a daily trainer, I'd suggest considering other options like the Asics Novablast 6 or the Nike Vomero Plus, which offer a more versatile and lively ride.
In conclusion, the Hoka Clifton Pro is a solid running shoe with a smooth, comfortable ride. However, it's not the best choice for runners who prioritize versatility or who want a shoe that can handle fast workouts. Personally, I'd recommend it to runners who want a cushioned daily trainer that's protective and comfortable, but I wouldn't call it a 'pro' choice. If you're in the market for a new running shoe, it's worth considering other options that offer more versatility and value for money.
