What’s new
- ProGlide+ Midsole
- Updated Rocker Geometry
- Podular Outsole Design
ON THE RUN
Jen: I guess one could say that I have had a close relationship with the Clifton line for a few years now so when the opportunity came for me to review the Clifton Pro, I was suspicious but excited at the same time. The first run in the Clifton Pro was like having a reunion with an old friend and all I wanted to do was catch up the whole time. After a 6-mile love affair on the road, I came back and couldn't wait for the next run date. I was surprised by how lively the foam underfoot felt but still with a plushy feel. Throughout the course of a week, I took my new friend on a variety of routes which included hilly and flat dirt roads, sidewalks, boardwalks and concrete paths. Not only did the Pro make these runs feel more energetic but my pace also reflected it.
Quinn: The first thing that stood out to me during my long run in the Clifton Pro was how effortlessly it seemed to disappear on my foot. There was no break-in period, no awkward getting-acquainted phase, just a seamless transition from standing at the trailhead to clicking off miles. The fit wrapped around my foot like a well-worn racing glove, secure enough to inspire confidence but comfortable enough that I quickly forgot I was wearing anything at all. What surprised me most was how the shoe seemed to reveal more of its personality as the pace increased. At easy efforts, it felt smooth and composed, but once I began pressing the pace, the ride sharpened considerably. The Clifton Pro didn't just tolerate faster running, it seemed to encourage it. Each stride rolled naturally into the next, creating a fluid rhythm that made the miles pass by faster than expected.
THE FIT
Jen: The updated engineer mesh that is used on the Clifton Pro is a big improvement from other models recently. It did not feel constrictive and was very breathable on my runs. The tongue stays in place thanks to the tongue-tied mesh used to secure the tongue to the shoe. I typically go between a size 8-8.5 depending on the brand and what my devious plans are for the shoe. My toes could still wiggle but they did not get lost in the shoe either. I usually know after 5-6 miles if the shoe is too narrow by my baby toe behavior and they were both very contempt. I also would like to mention that I replace the factory insole liner with my own orthotic and in doing so, my heel still felt secured in the heel cup. As mentioned above, I have worn several versions of the Clifton through the years. When I put the Clifton Pro on, it felt familiar but spunky!
Quinn: The Clifton Pro takes a noticeably different approach to fit than the traditional Clifton. While previous versions have often catered to a broad audience with a forgiving, accommodating shape, this shoe feels more intentional and performance-oriented. The upper hugs the foot with a tailored feel that immediately reminded me of the difference between an off-the-rack suit and one that has been professionally fitted. There's less excess material, less movement, and a greater sense of connection between foot and shoe. That more dialed-in fit won't be for everyone. Walkers or runners who have historically gravitated toward the Clifton because of its roomy, relaxed nature may find this version surprisingly snug. On the other hand, runners who have spent years wishing HOKA would create a more aggressive daily trainer will likely feel like their requests have finally been answered. The upper creates a secure lockdown without feeling restrictive, allowing the foot to sit confidently over the platform while still remaining comfortable over longer distances.
THE FEEL
Jen: I like to do side by side comparisons of models to really get a feel for the underfoot experience. When comparing the Clifton 10 vs. the Clifton Pro, I could really feel the difference between the two foams used. The Clifton Pro (with its ProGlide+ technology) does have a more aggressive toe off. Hoka has combined a mix of supercritical foams with a more aggressive meta-rocker to provide that peppy feel. The Clifton Pro is very stable and has the classic wide base appearance that Hoka's are known for. One thing that I have noticed over the years wearing many brands and models is that a shoe may feel great running but maybe not for the day-to-day grind. The Clifton Pro felt great for whatever I put it through.
Quinn: Walking around in the Clifton Pro for the first time, I honestly expected something softer. The initial step-in experience is firmer than many modern max-cushioned trainers, and I wondered whether the shoe would deliver the plush ride I've come to associate with high-stack daily trainers. Fortunately, that first impression proved somewhat misleading.
Once running forces entered the equation, the midsole came alive. Instead of collapsing underneath me, the foam compressed and rebounded with a distinctly punchy sensation, particularly through the mid foot. The best comparison I can think of is a diving board that looks rigid from a distance but springs to life the moment you commit your weight to it. Rather than feeling marshmallow soft, the Clifton Pro delivers a controlled and energetic cushioning experience that rewards forward momentum. The platform remains stable and predictable throughout the stride, allowing the cushioning to feel lively without ever becoming wobbly or disconnected.
THE NITTY GRITTY
Jen: The Clifton Pro could be used for a variety of runs. If you want a little more pep in your step for those everyday runs or a plush yet responsive feel for those long runs then this would be one to pull. Because of this, the Clifton Pro is the best of both worlds. I went into this review on my first run not knowing anything about the "nitty gritty" of the shoe and was surprised when I was told that it had no plate inside. To me, that speaks volumes to the engineering that Hoka is doing on these newer models. This is still considered a mid-cushioned neutral shoe in Hoka's lineup but if you are looking for something more than the regular Clifton but more responsive and lighter in weight than the Bondi, I would encourage anyone to try this out.
Quinn: If I were building a rotation, the Clifton Pro would immediately earn a place as my long run and threshold day companion. This is the type of shoe I would reach for when I want to save my legs during a demanding workout without sacrificing efficiency or rhythm. It offers enough protection to handle substantial mileage while maintaining a responsiveness that keeps the run engaging.
Compared to previous Clifton models, the Clifton Pro feels like the version that finally spent a few months hanging around the faster members of the Hoka lineup. It retains the durability and versatility that made the Clifton franchise successful, but it introduces a level of responsiveness and purpose that previous versions sometimes lacked. While I wouldn't necessarily choose it for all out race day efforts, it occupies a sweet spot between traditional daily trainer and performance trainer that makes it incredibly useful for a wide range of runs.
THE RUNDOWN
Jen: I am looking forward to getting these out for more miles and testing the life of the shoe. One of Hoka's goals with the ProGlide+ series technology is to be able to extend the life than past Clifton models so I am going to put it to the test.
Quinn: The Clifton Pro feels like a thoughtful evolution rather than a complete reinvention. The more performance oriented fit, the energetic midsole behavior, and the smooth ride all work together to create a shoe that feels modern without abandoning what Clifton fans have historically appreciated. Hoka managed to make the shoe feel faster and more exciting while maintaining enough comfort and stability to support everyday training.
Meet the Reviewers
