Is the Hoka Clifton 10 Your Next Daily Driver? A Sundried.com Review

Alright, runners, gather 'round! We're diving deep into the latest iteration of a true stalwart in the running shoe world: the Hoka Clifton 10. For a decade, the Clifton series has been Hoka's bread and butter, a byword for plush cushioning and comfort over the miles. So, what's new with the tenth version, and is it the right fit for your daily trot? Let's lace up and find out!

A Legacy of Cushioning, Evolved

The Hoka Clifton, much like a reliable old friend, has consistently delivered on its promise of a soft, protective ride. It's Hoka's "perennial bestseller" for a reason - it just works for countless everyday runs. The Clifton 10 isn't a radical overhaul, but rather a thoughtful refinement, aiming to build on its strengths and iron out a few wrinkles.

So, what's changed in this new release?

• A Loftier Landing: Hoka has bumped up the heel-to-toe drop from the traditional 5mm to a more substantial 8mm. This might sound like a big jump for a brand known for its lower drops, but it's designed to give you even more cushioning under the heel for a super-padded landing.
• Room to Breathe: A major focus this time around has been on creating a more accommodating fit, especially in the forefoot and midfoot. This directly addresses feedback from runners who found previous Cliftons a bit too snug.
• Enhanced Stability: Thanks to updated midsole geometry, a wider platform, and Hoka's Active Foot Frame, the Clifton 10 feels more stable and planted, giving you a secure feel with every stride.
• Tongue Tied No More: An updated double Jacquard knit upper features a clever double-lace lock system, specifically engineered to stop that annoying tongue migration that plagued earlier models. Hooray for consistent comfort!
• A Tad More Substantial: As a natural consequence of all that extra cushioning and structural goodness, the Clifton 10 is marginally heavier than its predecessor. It's a trade-off for enhanced comfort and stability, though.

Under the Bonnet: The Technical Bits

For those who love to geek out on the numbers, here's a quick look at the Clifton 10's vital statistics:

The Good: Where the Clifton 10 Shines

So, what are runners raving about with the Clifton 10?

• "Running on Clouds" Comfort: From the moment you slip your foot in, the Clifton 10 screams comfort. The plush heel collar and thick tongue create an inviting feel, with many reviewers describing it as "running on clouds." The CMEVA midsole strikes a "Goldilocks" balance - not too squishy, not too firm - offering consistent, protective cushioning that's perfect for easy miles and long hauls.
• A More Welcoming Embrace: This is a big one! The significantly more accommodating volume in the forefoot and midfoot is a game-changer for many, directly addressing past critiques about Hoka's narrower fit. Despite the extra room, the updated double Jacquard knit upper provides a secure, wrap-like fit. And that double-lace lock system? It truly works to stop tongue migration, a small but significant improvement.
• Stable and Smooth Operator: The Clifton 10 feels inherently stable, thanks to its wider platform, Active Foot Frame, and robust heel counter. Hoka's signature Meta-Rocker geometry is also expertly integrated, creating a wonderfully smooth and efficient heel-to-toe transition that gently propels you forward. Even with the increased 8mm drop, the ride still feels natural.
• Built to Go the Distance: Strategic placement of durable abrasion rubber on the outsole means excellent grip and impressive longevity. The CMEVA midsole is also noted for its resilience, holding up well over serious mileage. We're talking shoes lasting "several years" or even 700 miles for some users! Plus, it's not just for running - it's a fantastic all-rounder for walking, everyday wear, and long hours on your feet.

Here's a quick summary of those key benefits:

The Bad: A Few Minor Grips

No shoe is perfect, and the Clifton 10 does have a few points where it could improve:

• Not a Speed Demon: This is the most consistent feedback - the Clifton 10 isn't going to set your world alight with its responsiveness. The CMEVA foam, while comfortable, lacks the "energetic pop" or "bouncy feel" of newer, more advanced foams found in some other Hoka models (like the Mach 6) or competitors. It's firmly a "workhorse" shoe, not one for tempo runs or chasing PBs.
• A Bit More Heft: The Clifton 10 is indeed slightly heavier than its predecessor. While some found this "barely noticeable," others felt it added to a bulkier feel, making it less nimble for faster efforts.
• Fit Fiddliness for Some: While the fit is generally praised, a few individual reviewers reported slight rubbing on their big toe, possibly due to the increased forefoot volume allowing too much movement. And, in a rare but notable instance, one reviewer found even the extra-wide version "far too narrow at mid foot," suggesting that universal fit remains a challenge for all foot shapes.
• Aesthetic Quirks: This is subjective, of course, but some wished for "trendier colourways" beyond Hoka's standard bright royal blue. Minor design elements like the absence of pull tabs or the "pointy thing poking off the back of the collar" (affectionately nicknamed "elf ears") were also mentioned.
• Foam for Thought: At a £120-£125 price point, some reviewers question Hoka's continued use of CMEVA foam when many rivals (and even other Hoka shoes) are embracing more advanced, responsive foam blends. It raises the question of long-term value compared to shoes offering a more energetic ride for a similar price.

The Sundried.com Verdict

So, is the Hoka Clifton 10 the right shoe for you?

If you're a runner who prioritises unadulterated comfort, consistent protective cushioning, and inherent stability for your daily training and those longer weekend excursions, then absolutely, the Clifton 10 is a brilliant choice. It excels as a dependable mileage accumulator, prioritising comfort and keeping your feet happy. It's a true workhorse that will faithfully carry you through countless miles.

However, if you're chasing speed, looking for a lively, energetic ride for tempo runs or races, you might find the Clifton 10 a little, well, dull. It's not designed for that "go-fast" feeling. In that case, you might want to consider supplementing your shoe rotation with a more responsive option from Hoka's line-up (like the Mach 6) or exploring other brands.

Ultimately, the Hoka Clifton 10 is a testament to strategic refinement. It's not revolutionary, but it's a highly capable, supremely comfortable, and reliable daily trainer that deserves its place in many a runner's shoe rack. Give it a go - your feet might just thank you!