When you think of Hoka, you probably think of its Clifton sneaker. It’s one of the most well-known and top-selling shoes in its lineup, and it helped kickstart the maximum cushioning sneaker trend that we see today.
Many people, myself included, have come to love the shoe for its comfort and versatility. We’ve written about them countless times, citing them as a great option for those with plantar fasciitis, beginner runners and people with wide feet.
And this summer, the brand has released not one, but two new versions: the Hoka Clifton 11 and the brand new Hoka Clifton Pro. As a longtime wearer of the Clifton, I put both shoes to the test over the last month to see how they compare and who each option might be best for.
What’s the difference between Hoka Clifton 10 and 11?
Hoka Clifton 11
Let’s start with the original Clifton line. I’ve worn multiple versions of the Hoka Clifton, and the Clifton 10s were by far my favorite yet. They built on the cushioned comfort that the shoe has become known for, but felt more stable than previous iterations. But instead of pillow-like cushioning that your foot sinks into, they felt slightly firmer and more structured, without losing the comfort level that I had come to love.
The Clifton 11s feature that same base of compression-molded foam that bounces and absorbs shock with each step you take. The main updates you’ll find in this new version come in the upper section. The shoes feature a re-engineered mesh that is comfortable and breathable, as well as a softer sockliner.
While the material does feel more comfortable, I also find the shoe feels more narrow in the top midfoot portion. So while I typically wear a regular size, I almost wish I had gotten them in a wide version. It’s not enough to really bug me on shorter runs and walks, but I could imagine if I were creeping into double digits in mileage, the tightness might begin to bother me.
Overall though, these sneakers fall into the same category as the past versions, a kind of shoe I affectionately refer to as “old reliables.” They have a permanent spot next to my front door, so I can easily grab them for walks or runs, and know that no matter what distance I go, my feet will stay supported and comfortable.
What is the Hoka Clifton Pro?
The Clifton Pro comes at a time when many companies are releasing “plus” or “max” versions of their most popular shoes, taking the things people love about the style and dialing them up a notch.
For the Clifton Pros, that means adding a more aggressive rocker profile to keep you moving forward and swapping the compression-molded foam for a super critical EVA, which is made using high temperature and pressure to give you a lightweight and responsive material.
You won’t get that same zippy feel you get from a true speed shoe with a plate, but there’s enough technology in this shoe to propel you forward and make your steps bouncier and a little easier, which is why I’ve enjoyed slipping them on for both long and short runs as well as the occasional speed work.
At $165, they’re actually slightly more affordable than some other brands’ “pro” or “max” models — and I think they stand up pretty well to the competition.
Which is better: The Hoka Clifton 11 or Clifton Pro?
The truth is, the shoes aren’t drastically different by any means. They both deliver on the main qualities that you would expect from a pair of Hokas: They’re comfortable, bouncy and have just enough support to keep you feeling your best through long miles and days on your feet.
Still, I’d say each one is geared toward different groups. The Clifton 11s are slightly cheaper and deliver reliable comfort and cushioning, making them an overall great choice for those spending a lot of time on their feet while walking, running or standing during your day job.
The Clifton Pros, on the other hand, with their bouncier foam and more aggressive rocker, are more geared toward runners (though I have enjoyed walking in them as well). I think they are great for anyone who wants a trainer that will add a little more pep to their everyday miles, speed runs or race training.
And if you’re looking for a good deal, you can still get select sizes of the Hoka Clifton 10s right now, which offer a little more room in the upper section for those who need it.
What do podiatrists think of Hoka’s sneakers?
Overall, podiatrists that we’ve spoken to highly recommend Hoka’s sneakers for everyone from nurses to beginner runners.
Dr. Jacqueline Sutera, a New York City-based podiatrist, previously told us that the brand’s shoes provide comfort, support and shock absorption, so they’re good for frequent walkers or those who stand all day. (Not only does she recommend the brand’s shoes to patients, but she owns them herself as well.)
Dr. Miguel Cunha, podiatrist and founder of Gotham Footcare, also counts Hoka as one of his favorite brands. He previously shared with us that Hoka’s sneakers offer “superior cushioning” and are good for those with wide feet.
Are Hoka Cliftons good for stability?
Hoka’s Clifton sneakers are a neutral shoe, meaning that while they are supportive, they don’t have prescriptive technologies that will address pronation issues. If you need a stability shoe, I recommend trying the brand’s Arahi line.
How we tested
Over the course of the last month, I wore both the Hoka Clifton 11s and Pros for a number of walks and runs — both outdoors and inside — as well as HIIT workouts. I logged a minimum of 30 miles in each pair.
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Emma Stessman is a writer for Shop TODAY. She has over a decade of experience in digital media — with nearly half of that time being focused on the health and wellness space. She regularly interviews podiatrists and other experts for her coverage around sneaker trends, foot health and top shoe brands. At Shop TODAY, she covers a range of topics, from wellness products to expert-approved beauty trends.
She is a runner and has previously run multiple marathons and half marathons.
