In the latest episode of "Sole Mates", our Running Shoes Series, we review HOKA’s latest daily trainer with Cheryl Tay, content creator and local triathlete
As part of an ongoing collaboration with Singapore's premier running specialty iRun Singapore, SportPlus.sg has teamed up with local running content creators and Key Opinion Leaders and athletes to have them share their thoughts on the latest running footwear.
In the second episode of SportPlus.sg's running shoes review series 'Sole Mates', Cheryl Tay, a triathlete and founder of body positivity movement Rock The Naked Truth, gives her valued opinion of the HOKA Clifton 9, daily trainers launched in February this year known for being remarkably light.
Are these daily trainers really the perfect sole mates for runners? Read on to find out.
Overview
A quick look at the HOKA Clifton 9. HOKA's basic design and purpose have remained the same over the years which is to provide a lightweight and cushioned running shoe for long-distance running.
Noticeable Upgrades and Specs
- More breathable upper: Nice engineered knit with a breathable mesh material for improved ventilation and a good lockdown overall
- Meta Rocker Technology: having a better toe off, not so much on the energy return. More of a "cushy", comfortable, and leisurely type of running shoe. It does have the rocker technology that helps propel you forward
- Improved fit: redesigned collar with a more anatomical shape that fits more securely around the ankle and reduces slippage
- Supportive design: Most noticeable upgrade would be that Clifton 9 is lighter than its previous editions. The weight has been reduced. 3mm extra stack height, overall heel to toe drop of 5mm. 32mm in the rearfoot and 27mm in the forefoot. Slightly wider platform for enhanced stability and comfort.
- Midsole: Uses compression molded EVA foam, the same technology that HOKA has used in the Clifton series
- Outsole: Dubrasion Rubber Outsole
Cheryl’s Personal Experience Running with the HOKA Clifton 9 running shoes
It’s good to have shoes in rotation, especially a daily neutral trainer, max, or highly cushioned type of running shoe that will help reduce the stress on your feet. It’s very harsh and aggressive if you use too much of your carbon-plated shoes.
What do you like about the shoe?
Despite having thick cushioning, it’s actually quite light. And that is very important to me, as I don’t want it to be too bulky or chunky.
It’s also breathable, and for the weather in Singapore, which can be really hot, it doesn't make my feet burn.
I also like the heel collar area, as for me, I prefer my ankle area to be supported. And very well cushioned as well. Not to forget that it doesn't poke into my heel.
What do you dislike about the shoe or think can be improved?
I would prefer this shoe to be a bit softer. It’s quite firm compared to other similar max cushioned, neutral daily trainers. But then, it’s a personal preference.
Sole Mates Overall Shoe Rating
Comfort: 4/5
Stability: 4/5
Responsiveness: 3/5
Grippiness: 4/5
Value for Money: 3/5
Taking all this into consideration Cheryl would give the HOKA Clifton 9 and overall rating of 3.8 / 5 soles, and would recommend to runners doing their marathon training or multi-day races.
HOKA Clifton 9 is currently going for S$229 and can be purchased from any iRun Store or online.
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