HOKA Women's Clifton 9 Running Shoes - Lightweight Cushioning

Our review of the HOKA Women's Clifton 9 finds it best suited to runners and walkers who want a plush daily trainer that remains surprisingly light. The biggest reason to buy is the revamped midsole: the Clifton 9 adds 3mm of stack height while cutting weight, delivering a softer, more responsive underfoot feel that helps reduce foot pain for many users. The stripped back upper and reflective heel panel also make it easier to wear for longer runs or everyday use without added bulk.

Key Features

• Lightweight midsole: New responsive foam reduces overall shoe weight while increasing cushioning, so runs feel less fatiguing without losing protection.
• Increased stack height: An extra 3mm of stack height provides more underfoot cushioning for longer runs and better impact absorption.
• Stripped back upper: Removing overlays and hotmelts creates a softer, more flexible fit that minimizes irritation in the toe and midfoot areas.
• Plusher heel and reflective panel: A cushioned heel and reflective detail add comfort and visibility for early morning or evening outings.
• Improved outsole design: The reworked outsole aims to offer a smoother, more responsive ride and better transition on road surfaces.

Who It's For

The Clifton 9 is ideal for everyday road runners, walkers, and those seeking relief from common foot complaints like plantar fasciitis because the added cushioning and supportive geometry reduce impact on the foot. It also works well for runners who prefer a roomy toe box and a lightweight shoe that still provides reliable arch support.

Runners who prioritize aggressive traction for wet or technical surfaces should look elsewhere, as some customers reported slipperiness and early outsole wear in certain cases. Also, shoppers seeking a budget option may find the price high relative to similar daily trainers.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Exceptional comfort and support from the responsive foam and increased stack height.
• Lightweight construction that reduces fatigue on longer runs and daily wear.
• Roomy toe box and good arch support that help with foot pain such as plantar fasciitis.
• Plusher heel and reflective panel improve comfort and low-light visibility.

Cons

• Some users report slipperiness and premature outsole wear, which may affect long-term durability on slick surfaces.
• Perceived as expensive by several buyers compared with other daily trainers.

Specifications

Brand	HOKA
Model	Clifton 9 Womens Shoes
Color	Black/Black (multi-colored option noted)
Key update	+3mm stack height and lighter weight with new foam
Upper	Stripped back upper with no overlays and a streamlined tongue
Heel details	Plusher heel with reflective heel panel

Our Verdict

The Clifton 9 is a strong choice for runners seeking a lightweight, highly cushioned daily trainer that soothes foot pain and offers a comfortable, roomy fit. While durability on slippery surfaces and price are potential drawbacks, the improved foam and added stack height make it a good value for runners who prioritize comfort and impact protection.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes good for plantar fasciitis?
The Clifton 9's increased cushioning and supportive geometry help reduce heel and arch strain for many users, making them suitable for plantar fasciitis relief.

Do they run true to size?
Customers report a well-fitting, roomy toe box and generally true-to-size fit, so most buyers should choose their usual women's running size.

Is the outsole durable on wet roads?
Some users have reported slipperiness and outsole wear; while the improved outsole design aims to perform better, caution is advised on wet surfaces.