Hoka Clifton 11

The Hoka One One Clifton 11 is a daily trainer for neutral runners looking for cushioning, softness and stability in their everyday running. In Hoka's range it sits between the maximalist Bondi 9 and the versatile Mach 7, although the concept is starting to show signs of fatigue despite the recognisable name (hence the Clifton Pro with its somewhat misleading suffix). The Clifton 11 remains the American brand's accessible workhorse, a versatile option for racking up the miles without complications, a safe bet but perhaps a little boring.

Compared with its predecessor, the Clifton 10, the changes are evolutionary: Hoka keeps the CMEVA midsole and settles on an 8 mm drop geometry, but revamps the upper with a more comfortable engineered jacquard mesh and a slightly more generous fit at the front. The insole is also updated, which improves step-in comfort and slightly softens the ride. The fit remains true to size, although runners with a high instep or a sensitive arch may notice some pressure in the midfoot until the shoe breaks in.

The CMEVA midsole prioritises consistent cushioning and smooth transitions over responsiveness, a profile that works best for easy jogs, long runs and walks. The wide base and Active Foot Frame help stabilise the foot despite the high stack height, although the outsole with exposed areas suggests moderate durability for high-mileage runners. As in previous editions, there will also be Gore-Tex® versions to cope better with bad weather. Ideal for neutral runners who want a smooth-rolling, comfortable and predictable shoe for everyday running.