Hoka Clifton 11 VS Hoka Clifton Pro! Tried, tested and reviewed!

The Clifton range has always had a reputation for delivering reliable comfort, smooth transitions and everyday versatility, and the brand is back with not only an updated Clifton 11, but a brand new Clifton Pro, entering the world of high performance every-day trainers. I was lucky enough to try out both of these shoes, and test out the difference between a staple, everyday comfort trainer in the Clifton 11, and a new up-tempo, snappy daily trainer in the Clifton Pro.

Both shoes have the same stack height (Men’s 42mm / 34mm & women’s 38mm / 30mm) and the same 8mm drop. The engineered mesh upper is the same between the two shoes as well, but it is in the foams (in particular the midsole foams) where the biggest differences lie. The Clifton 11 uses a classic Compression-Moulded EVA (CMEVA) foam, however the Clifton Pro now uses PROGLIDE+, a more dynamic and performance based foam for a more responsive and more durable shoe. In regards to durability, the Clifton Pro also has more outsole grip and coverage than the Clifton 11, making this a good shoe for walking in or taking on light gravel as well.

I tried both these shoes for easy runs, long runs, interval sessions and drills/technique sessions. The Clifton 11 felt very similar to the Clifton 10, still with that soft, lightweight feel and smooth rocker that so many people love. The Clifton Pro is where things got interesting.... I loved the feel of these, mixing the soft midsole that the Clifton 11 has with a snappy and responsive feel. Unlike the smoother rocker that the Clifton 11 has, the Clifton Pro has a more aggressive 'MetaRocker', making it a shoe that you almost want to pick up the pace in. I found the Clifton Pro performed perfectly as a 'long run'/up-tempo shoe, giving you comfort and 'pop' late into the run. The Clifton 11 i found shone during easy/recovery runs. Certainly not the same responsiveness as the Clifton Pro, but a shoe that you could run or walk all day in. I got the feeling that whenever i put these on it felt like i was walking on air!!

In conclusion, if you are looking for a shoe that can give you all day comfort for your everyday running or walking mileage, the Clifton 11 will be a fantastic option. If you are looking for a shoe that can also give you comfort, but something with just a little more liveliness to it, i think the Clifton Pro will be a great addition to your rotation. I certainly found that when my legs were a little tired from a tough session the day before, the Clifton 11 gave me a little more cushioning and relief, whereas the slightly firmer feel, and enhanced rocker on the Clifton Pro really helped deep into long runs when you need a little more pop from a shoe.