The Hoka Clifton 8 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models of 2026

The Hoka Clifton 8 is a versatile running shoe, ideal for both long-distance running and recovery sessions. With its balanced design, the shoe caters to runners seeking comfort and stability during their workouts. The lab-tested weight of 255 grams demonstrates that despite its cushioning, it remains lightweight.

The generous 5 mm drop aids in promoting a natural footstrike, making it particularly suitable for midfoot strikers. Additionally, the firm 32 HA foam offers a stable platform, translating to reliable performance on various terrains. This combination of features ensures that the Hoka Clifton 8 delivers a smooth ride that supports runners over extended distances without compromising on comfort.


Pros

  • Comfy, comfy comfy
  • Fits true to size
  • Smooth rockered ride
  • Great durability
  • Grippy outsole
  • Lightweight for a daily trainer
  • Great lockdown

Cons

  • Runs warm
  • Doesn’t love to go fast

Key Features

  • Early stage meta-rocker: This design feature contributes to a smoother ride, promoting efficient transitions and reducing fatigue during long runs.
  • Breathable mesh upper: The combination of enhanced breathable mesh with a padded tongue ensures a snug fit while keeping your feet cool and comfortable.
  • Reinforced heel: Extra cushioning around the heel provides a softer, lighter feel, enhancing overall comfort during each step.

Specifications

  • Sole material: Rubber - providing durability and traction.
  • Shaft height: Alla caviglia - offering additional ankle support.
  • Outer material: Textile - lightweight and flexible for better movement.
  • Inner material: Textile - ensuring a soft feel against your skin.

Hoka Clifton 8 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

Hoka Clifton 8 On Cloudrunner 2 Hoka Clifton 10 Skechers GO RUN Ride 11
Price $130 $150 $150 $125
Pace Daily running Daily running Daily running Daily running
Arch support Neutral Neutral Neutral Neutral
Weight lab Weight brand 9 oz / 256g 9.7 oz / 275g 9.7 oz / 275g 10.1 oz / 285g
Drop lab Drop brand 8.6 mm 8.5 mm 12.4 mm 6.5 mm
Strike pattern Heel Heel Heel Mid/forefoot
Size True to size True to size True to size True to size
Midsole softness - Balanced Soft Soft
Difference in midsole softness in cold - Small Small Normal
Toebox durability - Decent Good Decent
Heel padding durability - Decent Good Bad
Outsole durability - Decent Decent Good
Breathability Warm Moderate Moderate Moderate
Width / fit Narrow Medium Medium Narrow
Toebox width - Medium Medium Medium
Stiffness Stiff Stiff Moderate Moderate
Torsional rigidity Stiff Moderate Stiff Stiff
Heel counter stiffness Stiff Stiff Moderate Moderate
Rocker
Heel lab Heel brand 33.7 mm 33.6 mm 44.4 mm 34.1 mm
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand 25.1 mm 25.1 mm 32.0 mm 27.6 mm
Widths available Normal Normal Narrow Normal
Orthotic friendly
Season All seasons All seasons All seasons All seasons
Removable insole
Ranking Top 28% Top 35% Top 33% Top 2%
Popularity Top 18% Top 21% Top 2% Bottom 27%