Clifton 8 Review
Tried and True With a Little New
Likes
- Impressive weight-to-cushion ratio
- Improved fit
- Breathable, comfy upper
- Soft, protective midsole
Dislikes
- Low energy return
- Not very versatile
What's New
In HOKA's own words, they "kept what you loved and updated what you didn't" in the new Clifton 8. These fan-favorite daily trainers feature a new EVA foam compound in the midsole, which is 15% lighter and more responsive than previous models. HOKA also updated the outsole with a new Hi-Abrasion Rubber configuration that increases the Clifton's flexibility and durability. Although it looks and feels similar to the previous model, the Clifton 8 is refined for more enjoyable long run or recovery run experiences.
The Bottom Line
The HOKA Clifton has experienced many changes throughout the years, but the new Clifton 8 stays true to the original qualities that made these daily trainers one of the most popular shoes in the industry. Soft, light, and protective, the Clifton's midsole is ideal for easy training days and recovery runs. Even though the midsole has been updated with a lighter EVA foam compound, the ride still feels familiar, offering incredibly smooth heel-to-toe transitions with the help of HOKA's Early Stage Meta-Rocker geometry. The Clifton 8 will not be launching anyone towards their race-day PR, but recovery runs will be a delight when these shoes are in the rotation. Further, it should come as no surprise that the Clifton 8's lightweight, breathable upper is comfortable and will have no issues keeping your feet secure. The fit is not the most spacious, but the Clifton is available in a variety of widths and can accommodate any runner. Sweetening the deal, all of these high-quality features are packed into an accessible $130 package, making the Clifton a high-value option for beginner runners and seasoned veterans alike.
Shoe Performance
Shoe Softnessi
FirmSoftRide/Energy Returni
Less SpringyMore SpringyUnderfoot Protectioni
LowHighFlexibilityi
RigidElasticUpper Supporti
StructuredAdaptableSpecifications & Fit
How It Fits
| Toe Box | Width: Medium | Height: Medium |
| Midfoot Volume | Medium |
| Heel Width | Medium |
| Arch Height | Medium |
Shoe Specs
| Weight | Men's: 8.9 oz (size 9) | Women's: 8.0 oz (size 8) |
| Stack Height | 37 mm (Heel), 32 mm (Forefoot) – includes removable sock liner |
| Terrain | Road |
| Stability | Neutral |
| Sizing | True to size |
Our In-Depth Look
Shoe Softnessi
The Clifton 8 continues to be the plush shoe that fans are familiar with. The soft midsole may lack a little bit of pop, but runners looking for a comfortable long-distance trainer will love the Clifton 8.
Becky: "The Clifton 8 has the right amount of softness for me and always feels forgiving on my legs and feet. It's the soft step-in feel and running experience I expect out of a Clifton, and it does not disappoint."
Kaleb: "The Full Compression EVA foam midsole is very soft underfoot and was comfortable every time I laced up regardless of what type of run was on the schedule for the day. Unfortunately, the Clifton flirts with being mushy, as the foam is much better at energy absorption than energy return."
Ride/Energy Returni
As our testers mentioned above, the midsole of the Clifton 8 doesn't have the most lively feel. These daily trainers are lightweight and will not weigh you down if you want to push a slightly faster pace, but the Clifton is not the shoe to go after your PB. With their smooth ride, these long-distance trainers are best for slower-paced runs.
Becky: "I wish the Clifton's midsole offered more bounce; it doesn't have the same springy feel as some other daily trainers. That said, because it is pretty lightweight, I could pick up the pace if needed."
Kaleb: "The Clifton's midsole has never been known for having a big energy return, and the Clifton 8 is no different. Even though it lacks bounce, the ride is smooth thanks to the Meta-Rocker midsole. This made for some really enjoyable long training runs and recovery jaunts."
Underfoot Protectioni
Protection is a top attribute of the Clifton 8. Stacked 37 mm high in the heel, the full-compression EVA foam offers exceptionally soft landings and protection from the roads. Running long distances won't be an issue while the Clifton 8 is on foot.
Becky: "The Clifton 8 has enough cushion for any running distance. It's an easy choice for a long run day or recovery run when you want more protection from the road."
Kaleb: "I would not say that I could go forever in the Clifton 8—sadly, I am not that kind of runner (yet)—but these shoes are highly protective. My body always felt fresh and ready to go, even late in my runs, as a result of the excellent underfoot protection."
Flexibilityi
The Clifton 8 is not the most flexible shoe, but it does have a slight flex that helps the wearer roll smoothly through their stride. This flexibility is aided by the rockered midsole geometry to make the Clifton 8 ideal for coasting over long distances.
Becky: "The Clifton is not super flexible because of its high stack of midsole cushion, however, the rockered midsole makes the transition from heel to toe feel natural and unrestricted."
Kaleb: "This shoe is not very flexible due to the high stack. That said, it becomes noticeably more flexible towards the forefoot, which helps contribute to the smooth ride and minimal snap at toe-off."
Upper Supporti
The engineered mesh upper is another impressive highlight of the Clifton 8. Secure and breathable with enough space for toes to splay, the Clifton 8's upper has it all. HOKA continues to outfit its uppers with long laces, but this is a minute detail and will not affect the comfortable feel of the upper's design.
Becky: "The upper of version 7 had a better lockdown, which HOKA has seemingly opened up in version 8. Don't let that statement fool you, as I prefer the fit of the Clifton 8 because of how spacious it feels. I think it will be a more accommodating fit for a greater range of people."
Kaleb: "I have said this in other HOKA reviews, but it remains true that the uppers of most HOKA shoes work very well with the shape of my foot, and I found the upper of the Clifton 8 to be very comfortable. I was also impressed with the breathability of the engineered mesh design, which had no problems keeping my feet cool."
HOKA Men's Clifton
HOKA Women's Clifton
Individual Thoughts
The materials used on the upper in this version of the Clifton are really nice. I think the heel collar feels premium. The fit is more spacious than the previous version, which makes it more comfortable. I'm ready to use the Clifton 8s all summer for many miles.
Shoe Softness
FirmSoftRide/Energy Return
Less SpringyMore SpringyUnderfoot Protection
LowHighFlexibility
RigidElasticUpper Support
StructuredAdaptable
I think one of the best qualities of the Clifton line is its consistency. It never fails to be a soft and protective daily trainer that is great for eating up mileage. For me, the fit of the Clifton is reliable and comfortable, and I can confidently run in them immediately out of the box. The only real issue I had with the Clifton 8 was with the midsole foam, which could have been more responsive, in my opinion. The rocker design makes for smooth transitions and an enjoyable overall ride, but in a world of soft and responsive super foams, the Clifton's EVA midsole is not very exciting. That said, if you are a Clifton or HOKA fan, then you will likely love the Clifton 8 for your easy long-distance runs or your recovery days. The Clifton also still makes for a great introductory shoe for beginner runners taking on longer runs.
