Hoka Running Shoes – Clifton 9

Without doubt, one of our favourite brands of trainers here in the clinic, are HOKA. We recommend them in many forms depending on individual needs, but the HOKA CLIFTON remains a well established favourite.

This review delves into the shoe’s design, cushioning, stability features, and how these elements contribute to an improved running experience for different foot types and mechanics.

Overview of the Hoka Clifton 9

The Hoka Clifton 9 is a part of Hoka’s popular Clifton series, known for its maximalist approach to cushioning while maintaining a lightweight design. The ninth iteration of this line maintains the reputation of the Clifton series, offering a plush, comfortable ride that is ideal for runners seeking a cushioned yet lightweight shoe. The Clifton 9 has a neutral design, but its construction, particularly the cushioning and rocker profile, makes it suitable for a broad spectrum of runners, from beginners to seasoned marathoners.

Biomechanical Advantages of the Hoka Clifton 9

1. Maximal Cushioning with a Lightweight Feel

One of the standout features of the Clifton 9 is its ample cushioning. The EVA midsole is thick but lightweight, providing a soft and responsive ride. This maximalist cushioning is designed to absorb impact forces during the foot strike, which is especially beneficial for runners who are prone to joint discomfort or who require extra shock absorption.

Impact Absorption: The plush midsole decreases the load transmitted up the kinetic chain (ankles, knees, hips) by distributing the impact over a larger surface area. This can help reduce stress on the joints, making it a good choice for those who experience knee or hip discomfort during or after running.
Joint Preservation: The soft landing promotes a smoother transition through the gait cycle, leading to a more comfortable experience, particularly during long-distance runs. It’s especially advantageous for older runners or those recovering from injuries, as the cushioning reduces fatigue by minimizing the ground reaction forces.

2. Early Stage Meta-Rocker Geometry

Hoka’s Meta-Rocker technology is a defining feature in the Clifton 9. This refers to the slight curve in the sole from heel to toe, designed to create a smoother transition from heel strike to toe-off.

Efficient Gait Cycle: The early-stage Meta-Rocker encourages a rolling motion, allowing the foot to move naturally and efficiently from initial contact to the push-off phase. This promotes a quick heel-to-toe transition, which can reduce strain on the calf muscles and Achilles tendon, minimizing the risk of injuries in these areas.
Enhanced Propulsion: The rocker design helps generate forward momentum, making the Clifton 9 an efficient shoe for longer distances. It reduces the need for excessive ankle dorsiflexion (lifting the foot towards the shin), which can ease the workload on the lower leg muscles, benefiting runners who are prone to calf tightness or Achilles tendinitis.

Preventing Ankle Injuries with the Hoka Clifton 9

1. Stable and Wide Base

The Clifton 9’s outsole has a broad platform, providing a stable base for each step. This stability feature is crucial in reducing ankle sprains or twists, which are common injuries for runners, particularly those with a history of ankle instability or weak proprioception (body’s sense of position in space).

Ankle Stability: A wide base supports the foot’s medial and lateral movements, limiting excessive rolling of the ankle, especially on uneven terrain. This makes the Clifton 9 a great choice for runners who might typically experience ankle injuries or those running on mixed surfaces.
Natural Support: Unlike stability shoes with rigid medial posts, the Clifton 9’s stability comes from its overall geometry and cushioning. This subtle form of support doesn’t interfere with the natural mechanics of the foot, making it suitable for neutral runners as well as mild overpronators.

2. Secure and Adaptive Fit

The Clifton 9 features an engineered mesh upper that is breathable, flexible, and offers a snug fit around the midfoot. This enhances the shoe’s ability to lock the foot in place, reducing unwanted movements that could contribute to ankle injuries.

Reduced Heel Slippage: A secure heel fit is essential to prevent excessive motion within the shoe, which can lead to ankle twists. The Clifton 9 has an improved heel counter that comfortably locks the heel down, decreasing the risk of lateral movement.
Adaptive Upper: The flexible upper material accommodates swelling and natural foot splay, particularly during long runs, without sacrificing stability. This adaptable fit reduces the likelihood of blisters or hotspots, allowing runners to maintain proper form throughout their workout.

Suitable for Different Runner Types

1. Neutral Runners

For neutral runners, who have a relatively balanced foot strike without significant inward or outward rolling, the Clifton 9 provides an ideal blend of cushioning and responsiveness.

Even Cushioning: Neutral runners will appreciate the consistent cushioning that the Clifton 9 offers. It provides protection without correcting the natural gait, allowing runners to maintain their preferred stride.
Natural Ride: The early-stage Meta-Rocker facilitates a smooth and natural gait cycle, enhancing the efficiency of neutral runners without over-correcting or imposing unnecessary stability features.

2. Mild Overpronators

Mild overpronators—runners whose feet roll slightly inward—can also benefit from the Clifton 9’s construction. Although it’s a neutral shoe, the Clifton 9’s geometry provides a degree of inherent stability.

Subtle Stability: The wide platform and cushioned midsole offer a stable base that can help control mild inward rolling without requiring a structured medial post. This makes the Clifton 9 an option for mild overpronators who don’t need the aggressive support of traditional stability shoes.
Joint Protection: The ample cushioning can help mitigate the added stress that overpronation places on the joints, particularly the knees and hips, making long runs more comfortable and less fatiguing.

3. Underpronators (Supinators)

Underpronators, or supinators, are runners whose feet tend to roll outward upon landing. This foot type requires additional shock absorption to counteract the lack of natural cushioning from the gait.

Shock Absorption: The Clifton 9’s thick EVA midsole provides the necessary cushioning for supinators, who need extra padding to absorb shock. This reduces the impact on the outer edge of the foot, where supinators typically place the most pressure.
Enhanced Comfort: Supinators often benefit from the Clifton 9’s softer feel, which helps protect their feet and legs from the hard impact forces that result from an inefficient distribution of pressure.

Durability and Longevity

The Hoka Clifton 9 is known for its durability, thanks to high-quality materials used in both the upper and midsole. The engineered mesh upper resists wear while remaining lightweight and breathable, and the midsole maintains its cushioning properties over long distances.

Durable Outsole: Though the Clifton 9 has a relatively thin rubber outsole to maintain a lightweight feel, the strategic placement of rubber in high-wear areas ensures durability without adding bulk. This design supports runners logging high mileage and contributes to long-lasting comfort.
EVA Foam Longevity: The midsole’s EVA foam doesn’t compress quickly, retaining its softness and cushioning properties for extended periods. This means runners can enjoy the shoe’s signature cushioning for longer without feeling a significant change in ride quality over time.

Additional Features Supporting Injury Prevention

1. Heel Support

The Clifton 9’s improved heel structure aids in providing a locked-in feel that supports the ankle. A secure heel cup reduces unwanted movement, which is particularly beneficial for runners prone to rolling their ankles. By ensuring the heel is firmly anchored, the Clifton 9 promotes a stable gait, reducing the risk of strains or sprains.

2. Lightweight Design

While the Clifton 9 offers substantial cushioning, it remains surprisingly lightweight. This combination reduces the energy cost of running, allowing for longer distances with less fatigue. The lightweight nature also makes it easier for runners to maintain proper form, which can be critical in preventing lower leg and ankle injuries.

3. Flexible Sole with Supportive Cushioning

The midsole is both cushioned and flexible, striking a balance that supports natural foot movement. This flexibility allows the foot to adapt to the ground, providing stability on various surfaces without forcing a specific movement pattern. This adaptability reduces the risk of ankle instability, particularly when running on uneven or unpredictable terrain.

Conclusion: A Well-Rounded Shoe for a Variety of Runners

The Hoka Clifton 9 stands out as a versatile, well-cushioned shoe suitable for a wide range of runners. Its biomechanical advantages, including maximal cushioning, Meta-Rocker geometry, and a stable, broad base, make it a reliable choice for reducing joint impact and supporting proper gait mechanics.

Neutral Runners benefit from its smooth ride and cushioned protection.
Mild Overpronators can appreciate the stability provided without sacrificing comfort.
Underpronators find the shock absorption they need for joint protection.

The combination of lightweight design, responsive cushioning, and secure fit contributes significantly to preventing ankle injuries. With a secure yet flexible upper, an accommodating heel counter, and a supportive midsole, the Clifton 9 caters to runners who prioritize comfort, safety, and efficiency in their training.