Hoka’s Best Daily Trainer Is Now More Durable, More Versatile and Even More Cushioned

The Clifton 10 marks a decade of dominance for Hoka’s most popular trainer. But this is bigger than an anniversary release.

By Jack Seemer

Published April 17, 2025

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Updated April 17, 2025

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The Clifton isn’t Hoka’s fastest shoe. It doesn’t have a carbon-fiber plate. Within the brand’s catalog, it doesn’t even have the most cushioning — Hoka’s calling card for nearly 20 years.

But the Clifton’s well-rounded reputation has earned the shoe its own unique superlative: Hoka’s best all-around trainer, not to mention the most popular shoe in the brand’s full repertoire.

In fact, it’s one of the best-selling running shoes on the planet.

Now, with a brand-new update, the 10th in the series, the Clifton’s stock may rise even further. Literally.

New heights

Finally available for purchase after being teased at The Running Event in 2024, the Clifton 10 marks a decade of dominance for Hoka’s most popular trainer.

Truth be told, though, its individual story is one of evolution, not revolution — as if anyone will complain. After all, why mess with a good thing?

Compared to last year’s model, the biggest changes happen underfoot, where the Clifton gains an extra 3mm of stack height, clocking in at 42mm for a men’s size 10.

While Hoka’s designers decided to preserve the midsole material, compression-molded EVA, the extra foam should offer additional impact resistance during longer efforts, as well as increased durability over hundreds of miles.

What’s more, the heel-to-toe drop increases from 5mm to a more universal 8mm, offering a smoother transition underfoot — especially at faster paces — making this the most competent Clifton for tempo and track workouts.

Otherwise, the Clifton 10 preserves many of the attributes that have made the series a go-to for runners at all levels, including a breathable mesh upper and the aforementioned CMEVA foam midsole.