Hoka

Hoka Clifton 9

Ranked #12 in Running Shoes

292 LP on the category ladder what's LP?

The Clifton 9 is marketed as a budget option but is heavier and offers limited energy return compared to newer Hoka models.

Consolidated from 26 cited sources across 24 outlets

Where the cited sources landed, as we read them

20 positive sources
2 mixed sources
1 unconvinced source

See the sources

Flagged as a product to avoid

2 of 6 research runs entered this as a product to avoid rather than a pick.

Heavier and less responsive than newer Hoka models.
Flagged 13 September 2026

1 earlier flag predates the point where runs began recording their reasoning, so its grounds were never written down.

Why the boards include products to avoid

Check price

Pros & cons

✓ Light and soft cushioning
✓ Frequently discounted as it cycles out
✓ Still a mainstream recommendation

✗ Heavy weight
✗ Limited energy return
✗ Older generation now being replaced by a newer model

The sources behind this ranking

We searched the web and YouTube for what has been published about this product, then read the articles, video transcripts and comments we found.

Evidence 13 articles, 10 video reviews and 3 community sources

20 positive sources

Podiatrists in Richmond, VA | Achilles Foot and Ankle Center AFAC DOCS · reviewer

If every step feels like a jab to your heels or a grind in your knees, the Hoka Clifton 9 delivers cloud-soft cushioning without feeling squishy or unstable. As a comfort shoe for seniors, it’s earned podiatrist praise and an APMA Seal of Acceptance for promoting foot health , with testers noting longer, pain-free walks and less knee or hip discomfort.

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The Run Testers The Run Testers · 121K subscribers · Apr 2023

Um, I was pretty happy true to size in both shoes. Maybe the Hocus slightly tighter a little bit, but not nothing that was a concern for me overall in the long run. So, yeah, I was happy true to size. Yeah, the these are two shoes that are are basically designed for widespread appeal.

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paige ditullio Paige DiTullio · reviewer

Hokas are one of my favorite shoe brands, and I often get asked if I prefer the Bondi 8 or Clifton 9 , since I wear both frequently and find them to be worth the investment. Everyone has different preferences when it comes to shoes, particularly if you’re someone who stands all day, walks, needs a go-to travel shoe, or runs long distances.

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Fleet Feet Fleet Feet · 38.9K subscribers · Feb 2023

It's firm enough to provide a stable platform to push off from, yet still provide ample protection from the pounding of the road.” I really love the cushioning in the Hoka Clifton 9 because it's super soft and it does provide a really soft step in feel, but not so much that it's mushy. So you can still kind of feel a little bit of rebound and energy pushing you forward into your next stride.

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TODAY.com Emma Stessman · reviewer

But for me, there was a clear winner between the two: The Hoka Clifton 9. As someone who runs or walks most days, I find the shoe keeps my feet comfortable and pretty pain-free for both activities. And it really works for me instead of against, so every step feels bouncy.

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Jha Reviews Jha Reviews · 9.7K subscribers · May 2025

If you're seeking a reliable, waterproof running shoe that doesn't compromise on comfort or performance, the Hoka Clifton 9 GTX is a solid choice.

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Mountaineerjourney.com Tyler · reviewer

The Clifton 9 remains an excellent choice for users who prioritize cushioning comfort, without going overboard. Its softer ride makes it particularly well-suited for recovery days and slower paced runs when protection and comfort are more important than speed.

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Jha Reviews Jha Reviews · 9.7K subscribers · May 2025

In summary, the Hoka Clifton 9 GTXTS is a versatile running shoe that offers waterproof protection, excellent cushioning, and reliable traction, all wrapped up in a reflective, stylish package.

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silive Dawn Magyar · reviewer

Fans of HOKA’s Clifton 9 GTX rave about the sneaker, saying it’s “Lightweight yet incredibly cushioned, it delivers a smooth, responsive ride while the Gore‑Tex keeps feet dry in rain or wet conditions.

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Jha Reviews Jha Reviews · 9.7K subscribers · Apr 2026

The Hoka Clifton 9 is a versatile masterpiece. It's perfect for anyone who wants maximum comfort without the heavy weight.

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Rundreamachieve Article

It is ready to tackle the bulk of your training miles. It has a ride that’s smooth, protective, and surprisingly light.

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RunDNA RunDNA · 9.2K subscribers · Feb 2023

It's cushioned, so it keeps you protected for those long times on your feet. Still, because it is a little bit firmer, it is a little bit snappier through that toe off. So, if you're doing a long run where you pick up or you just want to feel a little bit quicker when you're running, it's another really good option for that. Now, it's time to jump into the nitty-gritty details of the Clifton 9.

Watch G Grays Article

They fit my feet perfectly, no rubbing, or blisters, from the get go. I didn’t feel that I had to break them in.

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PlayBeezy PlayBeezy · 8.8K subscribers · Dec 2025

But I just wanted to share with you guys like this um this shoe is so comfortable. Like they've told me that these and the cloud shoes are very comfortable, but I think I tried I tried on the cloud shoes at the store, but I think these hands down are the best. Like so far. There's a couple more pairs that I want to try out and when I get the chance I will share that with you guys as well. But yeah

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Fit&Well Article

I rated the Clifton 9 as the best shoe for walking on concrete because it is slightly lighter than the Bondi 8.

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The Product Critiques The Product Critiques · 8.7K subscribers · Aug 2023

known for its comfort and reliability this shoe aims to impress with some key updates let's take a closer look at our first impressions and whether it holds up against the competition the Hoka Clifton 9 is the latest iteration of the popular Clifton line offering a lighter and snappier experience compared to its predecessor to Clifton 8.

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Especially While They're 20% Off Article

The Clifton 9s are everyday sneakers that are the perfect blend of form and function.

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Ray Ray Reviews Ray Ray Reviews · 564 subscribers · Mar 2025

After 4 and a half miles of walking, I can honestly say that these shoes are amazing. I think I found my forever tennis shoe.

Watch F Facebook womenshealthuk

'The Hoka Clifton 9 running shoes helped me hit a huge marathon PR'.

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Women's Health Currie Engel · reviewer

I am now completely obsessed with these running shoes!

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2 mixed sources

H r/Hoka u/SneakerHead1993 · owner

The Clifton and especially the Bondi are way way way too much cushioned for daily walking on asphalt. The Arahi and Gaviota are more stable and don’t feel like walking on inches of squishy foam. Clifton used to be my favorites but started to develop knee pain which isn’t the case with the Arahi’s.

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Run Weekly Run Weekly · reviewer

The rubber outsole on the Clifton 10 is just average, maybe a bit less.

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1 unconvinced source

T TikTok TikTok post

Let me know, I really liked these @HOKA Clifton 9s but they wore out so quickly! #running #runningshoes #shoes #hoka #fyp #asktiktok HOKA Clifton 9 Review: Quick Wear Concerns. Discover why the HOKA Clifton 9 running shoes wore out quickly and what that means for your next purchase.

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3 stance not read sources

RTINGS Article Read A

Alastair Running Alastair Running · 20.2K subscribers · Mar 2023

Hey guys I'm Alastair from Trail and Kale and today I'm going to be reviewing the Hoka Clifton 9. So this is an interesting shoe from HOKA it's a road running shoe primarily targeted at, I would say, beginner runners, or also people who are training for a marathon.

Watch R

Runner’s World Article Read

Frequently asked questions

It ranks #12 of 17 on our running shoes tier list, in D tier. That placement draws on 26 cited sources across 24 outlets.

1 of the 23 sources with a clear view is critical of it: TikTok. Heavy weight. Limited energy return. Older generation now being replaced by a newer model.

On our running shoes board, Hoka Mach 6 ranks #7 (B tier) ahead of Hoka Clifton 9 at #12 (D tier). Hoka Mach 6: The Mach 6 is highlighted as a top choice for marathon training, providing maximum cushioning and excellent shock absorption, as noted by Runner’s World and RTINGS.