The HOKA Clifton 9 is the latest update to the brand's popular daily trainer lineup. This version brings an updated ProFly+ midsole that offers the cushioning comfort Clifton fans love while still providing good stability. This iteration of this shoe is ideal for those seeking a reliable, cushioned trainer that handles easy mileage and recovery runs well.
Our Verdict
The HOKA Clifton 9 struggles as a marathon racing shoe, primarily due to its very poor energy return. Its moderate cushioning and average weight contribute little to enhancing marathon performance. However, its decent lateral stability provides reliable footing for runners prioritizing a stable, supportive ride over pure speed and bounce in long-distance events.
Very stable ride.
Midsole is awful at returning energy.
A tad heavy for racing.
The HOKA Clifton 9 is a poor choice for shorter-distance racing, like 5K and 10K runs. Its firm forefoot provides a strong, stable platform suitable for efficient transfers, but this advantage is undermined by the shoe's low energy return and heavy weight. This limits its appeal for competitive runners looking for explosive performance.
Midsole is awful at returning energy.
A tad heavy for racing.
Changelog
- Updated Jun 17, 2026: We've converted this review to Test Bench 0.12, which fixes how we measure firmness, a component of the Stability and 5K/10K Racing usages. There may be inconsistencies between the text and the scores for these usages, but the scores should still be considered valid. We've also brought back the Energy Return score and added two new usages: Daily Training and Long Run. To read more about the changes, see the changelog.
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Updated May 12, 2026:
We've updated this review to add text for the new Responsiveness and True to Size usage boxes, and updated the Popular Running Shoe Comparisons box and some side-by-sides to keep phrasing consistent across the review.
- Updated May 05, 2026: We've converted this review to Test Bench 0.11, adding two new rocker measurements to the Design section, and three new responsiveness tests to the Performance section. The Energy Return usage score has been replaced with Responsiveness. Check out the details in our changelog.
- Updated Apr 29, 2026: We've converted this review to Test Bench 0.10, adding a new set of fit tests to the Design section and an overall fit performance usage. Check out the details in our changelog.
- Updated Apr 13, 2026: We've converted this review to Test Bench 0.9, which adds a Forefoot Long Run Cushioning test to our performance section. Read more in our changelog.
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Updated Oct 20, 2025:
We've adjusted this review's writing to align with the new test bench, including updates to all usage scores, and test boxes for Cushioning, Firmness, and Energy Return.
- Updated Oct 20, 2025: We've converted this review to Test Bench 0.8.2, which updates our methodology for the impact force range used in our compression tests to improve their accuracy. This also affects all usage and performance usage boxes using those compression tests as score components.
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Updated Jul 30, 2025:
We revised the phrasing in the Lateral Stability, Cushioning, Heel Cushioning, Forefoot Cushioning, and Compared To Other Running Shoes boxes to better align with the latest test bench scores.
- Updated Jul 30, 2025: We've converted this review to Test Bench 0.8.1, which mainly updates the score components for the Marathon Racing and Lateral Stability usage boxes to improve accuracy.
- Updated Apr 02, 2025: Converted to Test Bench 0.8.
- Updated Apr 02, 2025: Review published.
We've bought and tested more than 250 running shoes. Every pair purchased with our own money, never supplied or sponsored by brands. Our data-driven tests are designed to go beyond marketing claims, and since every shoe goes through the exact same methodology, you can directly compare results to find the right pair for your needs.
Test Results
Energy Return
Stability
The HOKA Clifton 9 has decent lateral stability, which provides satisfacfory support and steadiness during runs. This shoe limits instability with its notably wide outsole and a firmer midsole. This makes it a solid option for runners needing extra support, particularly when fatigue starts to compromise running form.
Wide base makes for a stable ride.
Midsole is quite firm.
The heel foam of this model is on the firmer side. Initially, the heel feels distinctly firm, providing strong stability, but it can feel softer than other models like the HOKA Mach 6 under heavier loads, which makes it more comfortable but less stable at higher intensities.
The forefoot is firm across all pressure levels, providing great support and a stable platform during toe-offs. This consistently firm feel benefits runners who prefer a solid, controlled sensation underfoot but might feel a bit too harsh for runners looking for a soft, pillowy feel.
Cushioning
The HOKA Clifton 9 offers good cushioning overall. The heel stays soft and protective even as increasing force is applied, and the forefoot provides good impact protection as well, although it becomes less absorbent at higher force levels.
Heel cushioning is good.
Forefoot cushioning is disappointing.
Responsiveness
The HOKA Clifton 9 isn't designed to be responsive underfoot, making it unsuitable for runners seeking an energetic ride. Both the heel and forefoot energy return are particularly terrible, resulting in a dull experience underfoot that doesn't feel efficient, especially at higher speeds or during demanding sessions.
Midsole is awful at returning energy.
True To Size
The HOKA Clifton 9 has superb sizing, and most runners can stick to their normal size. The length is true to size, with plenty of forefoot height and a very accommodating fit through the front of the shoe. The arch and forefoot run a touch narrower than perfect, but not enough to create a major fit issue for most runners. Wider-footed runners may still want to try them on first.
Popular Running Shoe Comparisons
The HOKA Clifton 9 is a dependable, straightforward daily trainer known for providing very good stability and some ground feel, making it a popular choice for runners seeking simplicity and consistent performance. However, it falls short in terms of versatility and responsiveness compared to lighter, more lively options like the highly cushioned and dynamic ASICS NOVABLAST 5 or the adidas Adizero Evo SL.
In HOKA's lineup, the Clifton 9 is positioned as their entry-level model, below more specialized shoes such as the lightweight trainer HOKA Mach 7 or the versatile super trainer HOKA Mach X 2, and dedicated racing models like the carbon-plated HOKA Cielo X 2.0. Ultimately, the Clifton 9 is a reliable everyday trainer, ideal for runners who prioritize predictable comfort over responsiveness or advanced features.
For more options, check out our recommendations for the best running shoes to find the perfect pair.
The HOKA Clifton 9 and HOKA Bondi 8 are both cushioned daily trainers, but they don’t feel like direct swaps. The Clifton 9 is the lighter, more straightforward option, with similar overall cushioning in a much nimbler package, making it better suited to easy mileage and dependable daily training. The Bondi 8 is the bigger, heavier cruiser, with slightly more stack underfoot and a broader, more stable platform, but it feels much less energetic. The Clifton 9 works best if you want a cushioned daily trainer that still feels relatively light and simple. The Bondi 8 is better reserved for runners who want a stable, easy-rolling shoe for recovery runs and slow mileage.
The HOKA Clifton 9 and Brooks Ghost 16 are both classic daily trainers, but they take different approaches. The HOKA is the higher-stack, more cushioned option, with better heel and forefoot protection, making it better suited to relaxed daily miles and longer easy runs. The Brooks is the more traditional workhorse: lower stacked, firmer, more stable, and a bit more responsive underfoot, though it doesn’t offer the same level of protection. For runners who want more cushioning and a softer ride, the HOKA is the clearer fit. The Brooks is the better match if you prefer a firmer, more stable daily trainer for easy runs and walking.
The HOKA Clifton 9 and HOKA Bondi 9 are both cushioned daily trainers, but they deliver comfort in different ways. The Clifton 9 is the more straightforward option, with a stable, predictable ride that works well for easy mileage when you want a no-drama cruiser. The Bondi 9 feels more premium and modern underfoot, delivering a livelier ride thanks to its softer, lighter foam, which increases energy return while also feeling more cushioned. Even with a slightly higher stack, it still feels a bit lighter, which helps it feel less bulky for a max-cushion style shoe. Overall, this makes the Bondi a more versatile option for various run lengths and types.
The HOKA Clifton 9 and the HOKA Mach 6 are both daily trainers, but each caters to slightly different preferences. The Clifton 9 is a more basic, reliable option, offering simplicity and stability for everyday mileage. The Mach 6, however, is more versatile thanks to its lighter weight, superior bounce, and more responsive cushioning. The Clifton is a good choice if you're looking for a straightforward workhorse. Still, for runners wanting more agility, responsiveness, and versatility in daily training, the Mach 6 will be the better pick.
The Saucony Triumph 22 and the HOKA Clifton 9 are two popular daily trainers that share a similar level of stability, with the Saucony having a slight edge in this aspect. However, they differ significantly in other key areas. The Saucony offers far superior cushioning and energy return compared to the HOKA, making it a great option for runners who prioritize comfort and a bouncier ride. On the other hand, the HOKA is approximately 35 grams lighter, making a noticeable difference for those who prefer a more effortless, lightweight feel during their runs.
The Nike Invincible 3 and the HOKA Clifton 9 are both popular daily trainers with differing strengths. The HOKA is better cushioned and lighter, making it feel a bit more pleasant over longer distances. However, the Nike is a more premium daily trainer due to its bouncy ZoomX foam, resulting in a ride that feels more responsive underfoot. This added bounce makes the Nike more versatile, allowing it to handle some strides more easily. In contrast, the HOKA leans more toward consistent daily mileage with a balanced, reliable feel.
The HOKA Skyward X and HOKA Clifton 9 are both high-stack, cushioned running shoes, yet they cater to different preferences and training needs. The Clifton 9 is lighter and offers superior lateral stability, partly due to its substantial yet lower stack height compared to the Skyward X. This design provides a more grounded feel and makes it suitable for runners seeking a stable daily trainer. In contrast, the Skyward X delivers more cushioning and much more responsiveness, making for a more dynamic running experience.
The ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 26 and the HOKA Clifton 9 are both popular, well-cushioned daily trainers, but each has its own advantages. The HOKA is lighter and offers better energy return, making it a bit more versatile. The ASICS, meanwhile, has a wider base and offers better lateral stability, making it a somewhat smoother ride for easy miles.
The HOKA Clifton 9 and the HOKA Clifton 10 share the same DNA, but the 10 refines the formula in ways that make it a better daily trainer for runners who prioritize softness and protection. The Clifton 10 has a higher stack height and is more cushioned. However, the added stack means it's less stable than the Clifton 9 despite its wider platform. It also runs longer and offers a softer underfoot feel, perfect for easy daily runs. In contrast, the Clifton 9 is lighter and a bit more compact, giving it a more nimble feel that may suit runners who prefer a firmer ride. While both shoes are fine at relaxed paces, the Clifton 10 feels like a clear upgrade for those seeking a plush, forgiving trainer with more protection for everyday mileage.
The HOKA Clifton 9 and the adidas Supernova Rise are both well-rounded daily trainers. The HOKA is more cushioned than the adidas, with a higher stack height and a softer feel underfoot. It's also lighter than the adidas. However, the adidas shoe delivers significantly better energy return, making it the preferred choice if you like a bouncier experience for your daily miles.
The HOKA Clifton 9 and On Cloudmonster 2 are popular daily trainers that are perfect if you mostly run for Strava kudos. The On is more stable, while the HOKA is lighter and better cushioned, offering a smooth ride on casual daily runs. Neither is particularly bouncy, but the HOKA has the edge in responsiveness.
Differences Between Sizes And Variants
We tested the HOKA Clifton 9 in men's US size 9, as indicated on the label. The color shown here is Solar Flare/Lettuce, and the shoe is available in more than 20 additional colorways depending on the region. It also comes in a waterproof GORE-TEX version, a Movement Edition in collaboration with Free People, and a Kid's version with adapted sizes. The design section applies only to the exact model we tested, but we expect other size and gender variants to perform similarly.
HOKA also sells the similarly named Clifton L and Clifton LS, which, despite sharing a name and using a last adapted from the Clifton 3, are lifestyle shoes designed for casual all-day wear rather than running.