Podiatrist ApprovedHOKA
Clifton 9
9.1/10 Sole Score
★★★★★
4.7 · 3 reviewsLightweight cushion with a forgiving rocker — a daily favorite for sore feet.
WalkingStanding All DayHelps · Plantar FasciitisHelps · Heel Pain
$145Shop at HOKA
The full review
The Clifton 9 is HOKA's most balanced daily trainer. A redesigned compression-molded EVA midsole adds 3mm of extra cushion versus the Clifton 8 while shaving 20g off the weight. The early-stage Meta-Rocker rolls you forward smoothly, which is why I keep recommending this shoe to patients with chronic heel pain and plantar fasciitis flare-ups.
Key features
- ✓Compression-molded EVA midsole with extra forefoot cushion
- ✓Early-stage Meta-Rocker geometry for a smooth toe-off
- ✓Engineered creel jacquard upper for breathability
- ✓Extended heel pull and gusseted tongue
What works
- +Plush underfoot feel without feeling unstable
- +Wide platform supports mild overpronation
- +Comfortable straight out of the box — minimal break-in
Worth knowing
- –Outsole rubber wears faster than the midsole
- –Toe box still a touch narrow for very wide feet (consider the Wide)
