After making some big changes to the Clifton 10, we’re all awaiting the new Hoka Clifton 11 this Fall to see if they’re continuing to take big swings or play it safe.
As someone who has run in every model of Clifton, I’ll admit that the last few years it just hasn’t done much for me. I run in A LOT of Hoka shoes, but this one has slowly faded out of my daily rotation. I think the foam and fit just hasn’t kept up with other brands.
That being said I was proved wrong with the 10 which was significantly better than the 9. So what do we know about this Summer/Fall 2026 release? Here’s what we know after chatting with the HOKA team and holding the new model at The Running Event (TRE) in San Antonio.
Specifications
As soon as we receive them for testing, you’ll get a complete review with any updates to weight or colorways! The only change you’ll notice in the specs is the weight went up just a tad, nothing that you will notice on the run.
- Weight: 9.9 oz men’s, 8.1 oz women’s
- Stack: 42 mm
- Heel Drop: 8 mm
- Available in Wide (and extra wide in men’s)
- $150
- Available Summer/Fall 2026
Read our current review of the Hoka Clifton 10, it’s probably going to be worth stocking up when it goes on sale as the changes here seem to be minimal.
Similar to what Brooks is doing with the Ghost 18, Hoka is keeping the changes limited this year. We think this is for a couple of reasons: they made big swings last year and folks need time to adapt, they have other shoes to focus on.
What’s New and Different in the Hoka Clifton 11
The Clifton 10 was entirely NEW last and a change to the heel to toe drop (up to 8mm from the standard Hoka 5mm), which meant a big adaptation for a lot of runners.
Last year we noted that with the expansion of their line to the HOKA Skyflow (which we love for long runs), the Clifton seems to be moving more towards a casual runner shoe or an incredible option for those who are on their feet all day.
This still feels incredibly true as they haven’t yet upped the quality of the foam to super critical, but instead are sticking with the same full-length compression-molded EVA (CMEVA) foam from the 10. Feels like a missed opportunity or maybe just what we’re hoping to see in the 12.
So what did change?
Mostly they made changes to the upper to refine fit and comfort.
The material is designed to be much softer and more comfortable. I recall the 9 feeling really stiff, so definitely a notable change. Additionally they made changes to the sockliner to again increase softness and overall comfort.
I know the sockliner isn’t something we talk about a lot, but it is a component of the overall cushioned feeling of the shoe and for some shoes can provide additional arch support. Additionally of course we want them to soak up and wick away all the foot sweat we’re creating. So yes, it’s an important component, but not so flashy.
They also added some new reflective features and 3D printed logo…are you excited?
Honestly, at the moment I’m kind of bummed this is all they did for the 11, but who knows I may slip into it and be like holy smokes this upper changes everything. I’ve been proven wrong before.
Hoka Training Line Up
Not sure where all the different models fit in to their line up, here’s a quick breakdown.
- Hoka Clifton – Base daily trainer for neutral running
- Hoka Mach 7 – Absolutely adore the Mach for being that lower drop with cushion, very light and faster shoe.
- Hoka Skyflow – This is going to be your super cushioned long run trainer that gets their tech updates (we’ve been told)
- Hoka Bondi – Plush recovery run shoe, recently we’ve preferred to Clifton. Ideal on your feet all day shoe
- Hoka Skyward X – This is their carbon plated shoe for the masses and boy is it fun!
Who is This For?
It’s long been in our lest of best shoes for standing or walking all day and these updates will keep it firmly a top that list.
- Wide Feet: The new last should improve the room in the forefoot and we love that they do Wide options
- Heavier Runners: These updates should make the Clifton more durable for our taller and heavier runners.
- Long Runs: Honestly, we have other shoes we’d recommend now
- Front of the Pack: Unlikely you’ll be putting in miles on this shoe
All right, that’s your Hoka Clifton 10 preview coming in 2025. A whole new last and possibly a whole new future for this shoe.
What do you think?
Are you excited? Are you feeling a little like, why are you messing with my favorite shoe??
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