How the Clifton 11 Compares to the Clifton PRO, Clifton 10, Bondi 9
Choosing the right running shoe is about more than finding the latest release. It is about understanding how different technologies, cushioning levels, and ride characteristics align with your individual goals — whether you are building weekly mileage, chasing a faster pace, or seeking maximum comfort.
The Clifton family has long been a favourite among runners who want a smooth, cushioned and reliable daily trainer. With the arrival of the HOKA Clifton 11 and the introduction of the HOKA Clifton PRO, runners now have two distinct options within the Clifton lineup: one focused on everyday comfort and versatility, and the other designed for a more responsive, performance-driven experience.
This HOKA Clifton 11 review explores how the latest Clifton compares with the Clifton PRO, as well as established favourites including the Clifton 10, Bondi 9.
Whether you are searching for the best HOKA running shoes for daily training, wondering what the difference is between the HOKA Clifton 11 and HOKA Clifton PRO, or trying to decide which is the best HOKA for running based on your goals, this guide breaks down the technology, fit and ride experience of each model.
HOKA Clifton 11 vs Clifton PRO: What Is the Difference?
The Clifton 11 and Clifton PRO share the same foundation: lightweight cushioning, smooth transitions and HOKA’s signature approach to creating comfortable miles.
However, they are designed for different types of runners.
The HOKA Clifton 11 continues the Clifton legacy as a dependable everyday trainer. It is built for runners who want soft cushioning, a smooth ride, and a shoe that can handle everything from easy recovery runs to regular weekly mileage.
The HOKA Clifton PRO introduces a more performance-focused direction for the Clifton family. It combines a lighter, more energetic midsole experience with geometry designed to help runners move efficiently through faster training sessions. Rather than replacing one another, the two shoes provide different experiences:
- Clifton 11: daily miles, recovery runs, long runs and runners prioritising comfort.
- Clifton PRO: faster training sessions, uptempo runs and runners looking for a more responsive ride.
The Everyday Trainer: HOKA Clifton 11
The HOKA Clifton 11 builds on one of HOKA’s most recognised running shoe franchises, refining the comfort and fit that runners have come to expect.
The focus of this update is not a complete redesign of the Clifton experience, but thoughtful refinements that improve the relationship between the runner and the shoe.
The Clifton 11 retains a full-length CMEVA foam midsole, delivering the soft, protective cushioning that defines the Clifton range. With its generous cushioning platform and balanced geometry, the shoe is designed to absorb impact while maintaining a smooth transition from landing to toe-off. The Clifton 11 also features HOKA’s Smooth MetaRocker™ geometry, helping guide the foot through each stride for an effortless rolling sensation.
One of the key updates in the Clifton 11 is the refined upper. The shoe moves from the Clifton 10’s double jacquard knit upper to an elevated engineered mesh construction, designed to provide:
- Improved breathability
- An adaptive fit
- Lightweight comfort
- Secure foot lockdown
Additional details, including 3D-printed touchpoints and an upgraded sockliner, enhance the shoe's premium feel. The Clifton 11 continues to support a wide range of runners, with regular, wide and extra-wide options available.
The Performance Trainer: HOKA Clifton PRO
The HOKA Clifton PRO expands what runners can expect from the Clifton family. While the Clifton 11 focuses on smooth, dependable comfort, the Clifton PRO is designed for runners seeking more energy and responsiveness in their daily training shoe.
The Clifton PRO introduces Supercritical foam EVA technology, designed to deliver:
- Lightweight cushioning
- Increased responsiveness
- Improved energy return
- Durability over higher-intensity training
Its PROGLIDE™+ geometry works alongside HOKA’s rocker design philosophy to encourage efficient transitions and a faster feeling underfoot.
The Clifton PRO takes a more performance-oriented approach to fit. Features include:
- A secure gusseted tongue to reduce movement during faster efforts
- A comfortable collar construction
- A locked-in feel suited to more demanding training sessions
Both the Clifton 11 and Clifton PRO are available in a range of men’s and women’s sizes, with width options designed to accommodate different foot shapes. The Clifton 11 offers the widest fit range with regular, wide and extra-wide options, while the Clifton PRO delivers a more streamlined performance fit in regular and wide widths. If you’re unsure about sizing, our Strutfit service can help you find your ideal fit.
Clifton 11 vs Clifton PRO: Which One Should You Choose?
The answer depends on what you want from your training shoe.
Choose the HOKA Clifton 11 if you want:
A comfortable daily trainer
The Clifton 11 is designed for runners who spend most of their time running easy to moderate-paced miles and want dependable cushioning.
A versatile shoe for weekly mileage
From recovery runs to longer weekend sessions, the Clifton 11 is built to handle a wide variety of training needs.
A softer, smoother ride
The combination of CMEVA cushioning and Smooth MetaRocker™ geometry creates the classic Clifton experience: comfortable, stable and easy to run in.
Choose the HOKA Clifton PRO if you want:
A more responsive daily trainer
The Clifton PRO is designed for runners who want more energy and a faster sensation underfoot.
A shoe that bridges training and performance
It offers a more performance-oriented experience without moving into the specialised territory of a carbon-plated race shoe.
A quicker transition through each stride
The combination of Supercritical foam EVA and PROGLIDE™+ geometry creates a more dynamic ride designed for faster-paced running.
Key Specs at a Glance
Model
Clifton 11
Clifton PRO
Clifton 10
Bondi 9
Best For
Daily training, recovery, long mileage
Faster daily training, uptempo runs, long efforts
Daily training and everyday mileage
Long distance, high mileage, recovery runs
Midsole Foam
Full-length CMEVA foam
Supercritical foam EVA
Full-length CMEVA foam
EVA foam platform
Stack Height
42mm/34mm
42mm/34mm
42mm/34mm
43mm/38mm
Heel-to-toe Drop
8mm
8mm
8mm
5mm
Ride Feel
Smooth, cushioned
Propulsive
Smooth
Soft/stable
Stability
Moderate
Moderate
Moderate
High
Speed Focus
Moderate
High
Moderate
Low