Hoka Clifton 8 Full Review, better than the 7?

[@davidschmill8250]

Hi Seth, i'd love to see a list/table of rankings for all the shoes you've reviewed over a defined time period (last 12 months for example). I love the review videos but at times wonder how a given shoe ranks compared to other shoes. Thanks and keep up the great work!

[@Ma_rkw589]

Come on Seth lad...

[@Abes523]

Great daily trainer for a heavier runner, love the Cliftons!

[@danieltsuedo334]

100 percent agree.., as a non-traditional body type runner.., I am glad the Clifton is out there., the 7 was my first Hoka. not disappointed.

[@antigravity19]

Agreed. Been using a few others more regularly lately as I can push harder. But Cliftons really help the feet with adding mileage

[@StickNclutch]

What do you mean heavier runner?? Heavy as in overweight??

[@Abes523]

@@StickNclutch Stocky, more weightlifter than runner

[@danieltsuedo334]

@@Abes523 that’s what I was thinking when you initially wrote it., I am a former rugby player.., who has spent plenty of time in the gym., plus rugby is just a totally different type of running. heck I remember when running events had a special category for runners over 220 lbs

[@RamblinView]

I love Hoka, I have run in only Hoka for years. They are way past due for trying new midsole compounds. Unfortunately I feel like all of their effort goes into marketing and social media instead

[@frankjaucot6846]

On my second pair of 7‘s in wide, first pair did over 1400 km and still feel fine despite the creasing, just not good on wet tar. Brilliant shoes for daily training, I weigh 84kg.

[@dont_talk2me]

Thanks

[@MountainStandardTime]

Big Hoka sale today. I picked up some Clifton 8's for $67

[@bradballantine9644]

I love my Clifton 7, bought another pair when they went on sale. My next pair will be the Mach 4 to try that Profly lineup

[@jsherzog]

that intro was epic Seth! Man- I'm so glad this vlog's content has kept up experientially as the community has grown 🙌 Support SJD and his fambam if you enjoy this!

[@davismyers8498]

The intro is so amazing dude, The content and videography is amazing my man!!

[@ericpetersen8645]

My Clifton 7s are going past 400 miles right now. The longest of any I’ve worn (4,5,6 and OG). Really love them. I will try the 8. Can’t beat that bucket seat footbed design for injury prevention and inherent stability.

[@alexr273]

Seth- the Endorphin Speed 2 colorways & description are on Running Warehouse so it seems the embargo is over

[@SethJamesDeMoor]

yeah, nobody told me : ( oh well

[@MrNeilsmallwood]

A general comment on EVA and daily trainers: I've read somewhere that EVA needs at least 24hrs between runs to recover and this is borne out in my experience. My first pair of clifton 6s were used every day I had no rotation and they were flat as a pancake at 500km (and I'm British so that's a flat pancake!) My second pair I've had with a rotation of 3 other pairs of shoes, I use them twice a week normally and at 450km they're still in great condition. So the clifton 6 IMO was a great daily trainer as long as you don't use them daily! I suspect this is the same with the 7 and 8.

[@nirwanra]

How abt TPU foam ?

[@tonybowen455]

Oh man, clifton 7 for 103, crazy good price. I'm loving my bondi's though!

[@justinpatrickhoffman]

Bondi 7 so good!

[@markbritton844]

I've got about 335 miles on my Bondis, love them!

[@robertharlow9531]

Great review Seth - I have run in Hoka Cliftons for 8 years - best shoe ever! - leaning towards Clifton 7 for upcoming April Boston Marathon vs Clifton 8.

[@TobascoJake]

I bought pairs of Clifton 7’s, NB FC Rebel, and Saucony Kinvara 11 last year and fell in love with all three of them. With that said, as much as I love my Clifton 7’s I can’t wear them. They cause horrible lateral pain in both feet that prevents me from going more than a mille or two at most if I try pushing through the pain and only have 68 miles in them per Strava over the past year. I’ve never had a pair of shoes cause pain like that before. I even traded in my original pair for an extra wide pair which did not solve the issue. I love how much cushion the Clifton 7’s have and was really looking forward to eating up some miles during long runs in them but unfortunately I doubt that will happen now. Even though the Clifton 7’s did not work for me, I still want them to find a good home. I would like to donate them to someone that could really use them and enjoy them. If anyone has any suggestions on where I can donate them, the help would be greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance and thank you Seth for always giving in-depth reviews on shoes. Looking for new shoes to try can be overwhelming and your reviews really help me to narrow down which shoes I want try.

[@vbee7365]

Hi Tobi did you ever donate them I really could use a pair

[@pmquiram]

QD: From a science background the thing I always looked for in tests was if the Methodology was consistent and reasonable for what was being measured. So for shoe reviews it would be great to see the check list with the reasoning why that test. E.G. - a tempo run to see how the show feels at higher speed, ran on wet pavement to check traction. That we know not only what you tested but what you were trying to learn from that test.

[@takejantalgar1503]

Please compare daily training shoes to the Novablast2 too sometimes .

[@ivanbarcot3827]

QD: Seth, maybe you can add the shoe's pace at which works the best whether it is for slower or faster paces. DGR strong!!!

[@ultimusG]

Many reviewers already mentioned that there is not much changes from 7 to the 8 so that means its good. If you wanna save money, get 7. If you wanna get the latest, get the 8. Overall, Seth was right to give the Clifton 8 this mid rating.

[@jankaduraciiik]

QD: I would love to see, exactly, for each category, what 1/10 up 10/10 means...because I dont think I have ever seen either in your reviews...for example Ride and energy return - going through each point out of 10, like 1 would be no energy return, uncomfortable ride, flat feeling midsole, no snap, no bounce, and 10 would be effortless, fast, right up to the stars :D though that might it all a little too lengthy and too much work

[@SethJamesDeMoor]

COMMENT OF THE DAY!

[@RUN-SC]

I bought the Clifton 6 for 95$ a few months ago and love them. I am looking for another pair soon, if not the 7 will still be a great deal.

[@sgtmidgetpanda2121]

I feel like the cliftons are always going to have a loyal fan base because it’s just a simple daily trainer that doesn’t try to be anything crazy and some people love that

[@terry4137]

I’ve got the 7 however I’m old 65 and I’m not running unless I see a snake. I love them because they’re comfortable. I’m Sz 7! Love them!

[@fabi8731]

Love the reviews as well as the regular vlogs! Always get me hyped for my training sessions and I honestly don't know if I were as consistent if it wasn't for your daily vlogs

[@robingerritsen]

Wow the grade went down from an 8.1 for the Clifton 7 to a 6.97 for this year's iteration, that's quite a significant drop!

[@reecejulian]

Yea the 7 was rated so highly.. bit confusing as it was the pick for easy day runners last year. It seems the rating is relative to this years shoes rather than against each other? There doesn’t seem a massive drop in quality

[@MrNeilsmallwood]

The market has moved on by the sounds of things. I'll probably get a clifton 7 in the sales this year then look at a different daily trainer next time round

[@gbaker125]

Yeah honestly doesn't make sense really, the shoe barely changed and it's only been a year, the market hasn't changed that much in a year. Feel like Seth is being way too harsh here. 6/10 for comfort is crazy.

[@michaelbathurst7871]

I love the Clifton 7, I’ll wait till Clifton 9

[@MrAndyBrooks]

QD: fantastic daily vlog. For running shoes focusing on ideal run type, shoe parameters and mileage is key. One other suggestion associated with the shoe brands it seems most shoes are in the 6.5 to 7.5 range. As a consumer that either means there is lots out there that are good or what you might think is could you be tougher on the shoe brand. Is a 10/10 price shoe $300 Just a thought to all us as consumers to really pick those best shoes. Keep up the great work

[@wikedwun]

8>7 everything got improved: tongue, upper and especially the midsole

[@markoljustina]

8>6>7>5

[@raysollarsthehappyjogger5907]

Well, along with my Skechers rotation in the last two months I have been "Hoka-fied!" I have the Clifton 7, the Mach 4, and the Challenger ATR 6. Yup, Clifton 7 is on clearance for $103.95. I will be running my 1st road race, a 5K, since my half-marathon in 2016 on Memorial Day. (I am a Marine Corps veteran too.) Hoo-Ray! I will be giving my Hoka's a rest though and pulling out my Skechers Razor 3's. With any luck, my "Butter My Bread" T-Shirt will arrive and I will run in that! Thanks for the review Seth. :-)

[@christophermyers9427]

Good luck with your race!

[@savannarivera788]

Was looking for a good long run shoe this helped narrow my decision down, so thank you!! Also! Loving that Blessed mother pendant! God bless my brother and keep on running!

[@gonzaloespinoza5426]

What was ur choice on long run shoe I’m debating right now wat to get

[@antigravity19]

QD: I think it would be helpful for each category to give show examples at 3 or 4 points across the grading scale. Like midsole: On = harsh/ low, Clifton = generic middle of road, Novablast = bouncy/Fun higher score.

[@davidohearn8047]

Morning everybody!!! My plan is to get another pair of 7s when the time comes and wait for any possible upgrades to the 9 when they come out.

[@iberiksoderblom]

The 7 for me ! Just used two days hunting down a pair of 7's in my size and Wide. Will continue to try and find another pair as well. All they needed to improve the 7 was..., nothing ! But finding small things, then a little more rocker and a segmentet outersole rubber like on the 8. But thats it !

[@photo80sjeff84]

I did not want to like the Hoka shoes, but my Clifton 8 are so dang comfortable on my runs. I haven't tried the other hokas, but these are my favorites. I usually wear Brooks ghost or Asics .

[@mattschm5486]

The types of runs are important in my opinion

[@rickfox4710]

Agree completely, would be really helpful to see the types of run done whilst testing. Can then see if & where it'd fit in the rotation. Keep up the great work

[@andreweisenberg4755]

I think if you had similar shoes for each category you grade it on that would be helpful. For example: The comfort of the Peg 38 is similar to the 37 and the ...

[@vincentvenieris2185]

Good morning!!!

[@SethJamesDeMoor]

Good morning! ☀️

[@marrunslow3815]

I would like to see specific on the web page on types of terrain each show is “ best for” as well as “best for” runners of different body weight classes ( small, mid weight or Clydesdale) .

[@FreeWilly416]

QD: Here are two ideas.. in case it makes sense: 1. List the % max heart rate for the run type the shoe was tested on. 2. compare the insole/last of shoes vs previous gen or similar shoe in same category. This way people can at least get an idea of any changes in width and overall fit...

[@philault2854]

good review but how does it stack up against the Novablast 2?

[@SethJamesDeMoor]

Not close, nova was in the 8s

[@petermuller6903]

IDEA: If after a full review you compare it to other shoes, show the full review score of the other shoes. I am 3 days from my 100K Ultra Trail. GREETINGS FROM SALZBURG/AUSTRIA!!!

[@boquii]

Great review! Looking for a long run shoe for a soft ride in which I can pick up the pace, currently using Clifton 6, like it, but as you said it is staying behind against the new midsoles out there

[@Deadbuck73]

Good Morning!7th!

[@amymorgan8875]

Just bought a pair of clifton 8's. I love em (:

[@Matt_Kraczon]

I’m wondering if Hoka didn’t make things tough for this one with the excellent Mach 4. From the 250ish mi I’ve got in mine, I feel they cover so many types of run that the Clifton 8 is too limited and the competition have a lot of really great max cushion options. It’s a great time to be a runner with all these great shoes!

[@Runnerrwe]

idea for process page: list 3-4 types of runs that all shoes must be tested in that category. For example Clifton 7, 8 and Mach 4 should be tested on all of the listed runs since they are in same category of running shoes. That is my idea

[@terridoten178]

Totally subjective. Navy blue 7's arch cut into my foot. The other colors not as much. Not sure what that is, other people noticed it as well) I ran in the 8's today - first run in them and total comfort. No arch pain. Softer landing. Overall better feel. I love the Clifton's. Best shoe I have ever run in.

[@Bodhished]

I'm running in the 7s, only slight issue is it's a bit narrow in toebox. Do you find any more room in the 8s?

[@JordanThomasmedia]

Agree that its not that exciting of a midsole. Feel like it's time to innovate the midsole/outsole innovation. Mach 4 gave me a lot of hope, but the Clifton 8 brought me back to earth. The Peg 38 blows the doors off of the Clifton 8. Nice work.

[@limwowo5902]

is mach 4 good for everyday run?

[@anthonyhibbert5219]

Bought a pair of 7s on sale but went wide - so much better for me than my old regular 7s. Probably skip the 8

[@McCambira]

Great review

[@Freight_Train_Running]

I just picked up the Clifton 8 for $100. I think as a heavy runner (250lbs) these shoes are a good shoe.

[@cber5077]

I really like Hokka, but the insole on the rincon2 is either too thin or not glued down well because after 10k I get a crease in the middle that is so bad/painful to run with that I will no longer wear them for a long run. So disappointing. Probably I’ll pull them out and insert new ones from an old pair of Asics- Asics have excellent insoles, but In the past 3-4 years their shoes have become so gimmicky that they all weigh over 10oz, which for me is totally unacceptable.

[@elliotresnick5433]

I’ve been experiencing mild Plantar Fasciitis combined with a nasty Morton’s Neuroma, so well cushioned running shoes with a generous toe box have helped me a lot. While New Balance Free Foam More 3 have been “numero uno”, I found Hoka Bondi too bulky and Clifton 7 too narrow. Further suggestions would be great; also when you’re doing reviews for easy day or recovery running shoes, maybe add a rating for runners or anyone seeking relief like me. Cheers!!

[@aaliazee]

So what did you finally decide on? I have the same problems that you mentioned

[@danidanara6427]

Id suggest either Hoka Arahi 5 or Gaviota to cope your PF. Both are stability lines by the Hoka. While Bondi and Clifton are neutral shoes

[@jackkinnaman1342]

I picked up the Clifton 7 a few weeks ago, when I tried it in the store it felt amazing when I went in my first run the bones and muscles in my feet hurt all around and all the muscles in my lower leg got tight and cramped, I tried walking in it and the same thing happened I don’t know why this happened to me has it happened to anybody else?

[@machupikachu8349]

I loved them in store too, but after walking in them, they don’t feel that great on my feet and legs too. They weren’t in pain, but yeah, some tightness in my muscles.

[@cohenmurray5766]

loosen ur laces up and wear a thicker sock it might also be about ur strike? are u heel striking

[@evlmnky33]

You might be used to using higher drop shoes. If your coming from a 10-12mm drop, a 4mm will feel weird. Happened to me when I tried altras shoes.

[@MrEric295]

Hey Seth, can you check with Hoka to see what the clifton 8 is weighted too. What weight is there optimal runner. A lot of larger runners love it where as a lot of slim people don't like it.

[@claytonbryant7922]

Hey, Seth. Awesome into! What song did you use? It matched the footage to a tee.

[@bsmoov7]

Might be time to tweak the scoring system. Seems like the large majority of scores fall between 7 and 8. Using the bell curve, there seems to be a large amount of scores falling within 1 standard deviation from the mean

[@collinhall4041]

:QOD: I'd love to know each shoe's primary purpose. IF you were to buy it, what would be its best use? For example, I was recently in the market for a purely easy day shoe. A "bopping around" recovery day shoe. That would have been an incredibly useful tool to sort through the myriad shoes.

[@Ipadairpro8636]

Just got my Clifton 7 ☀️！I can not run due to injury, but I use them for walking.

[@raysollarsthehappyjogger5907]

Update: Woohoo!!! My "Butter My Bread" T-Shirt just arrived and I'm off for a 4 miler with it in my Skecher Razor 3's. Are we blessed children or are we blessed? Cue the chicken, cue the chicken!

[@AbleHammer]

You’re right. The Cliftons have a hard sole. The best version was the Clifton 1

[@fokkesimonsz]

So you had Kilian on, you were excited about the Pulsar and the red road shoe. We’ve seen the Pulsar on twitter... I’m really looking forward to your insights because its a more particular shoe and its up your ally. More than a Clifton maybe?

[@j.taveras8447]

Great review. Appreciate the comparison. Quick question. What is that hat , please share. Love the colors.

[@beornsvensson8129]

Not the question of the day but would be great to have a top list on the website with the shoes ordered based on the score. Maybe an overall list but also individual per running type (easy, tempo etc)

[@ferencantal708]

Hey Seth! I would like to see a Mizuno Mujin 8 or 9 test if it is gonna be possible. Would you make a test pls?

[@raysollarsthehappyjogger5907]

I have a question if you find time to answer: I did an experiment. I have run the same distance in several different shoes. I have found that regardless of weight or purpose of the shoe, my pace which is currently about 11 minutes/mile tops, is the same. I don't forsee at age 64 I will ever be any faster than 10 minutes a mile. Could it be true that when you are a slow runner, the shoe will not help you run any faster? I ask this because I will focus future purchases of running shoes much differently. Hey, if I can run just as fast in a Clifton or even a Bondi, why not enjoy the cushion. I don't need a shoe rotation.

[@Nick2014B]

The most comfortable shoes ever

[@ohrneric]

Hi, Seth. Thanks for the review. I'm really surprised you didn't comment that the toe box is super narrow. I found the Clifton 7 to be so narrow it gave me crazy blisters. For reference, I found the Nike Peg 37 was wider and people think that is pretty narrow. So if the Clifton 8 is a little wider than the 7, I would guess it is still really narrow. Can you comment, maybe comparing toe box width of Clifton to Pegasus to Endorphin Speed (which I also have and find perfectly wide).

[@rub3s]

I tried the Clifton 7 and the NB 1080v10, and I liked the 1080v10 a lot more. Somehow the Hoka hurt my footarch. I also don't have good experience with the durability of the Hoka Rincon.

[@vagsousariina]

And if they are both at the same price? You still continue choosing the 7? Thanks for all the great videos you put out every day 👍👍👍

[@Isaac-ts6iz]

I have the Clifton 7s and I love them

[@thomasdamato9430]

Good morning dgr

[@katkat4986]

switching from altras, this pair feels good.

[@georgiosmichailidis9168]

I run my first marathon with Asics Nimbus 22 but now it's heavy for me. Would you suggest Clifton 8 for my second, faster marathon? I plan to run it in 4:15 minutes.

[@markoljustina]

Nimbus cant compare whit c8

[@georgiosmichailidis9168]

@Marko Ljuština I know. Completely different shoes.

[@miha5618]

QD: Another one. Where or how is a Threshold set for each category to get a score 10 (and on the other side, score 1). It is realy rare for you to give score 10, and I've never see you give 1 (2 or 3).

[@username19237]

How would the 8 compare to the Ride 13 in regards to midsole? Are they both Eva? I’m looking for a daily trainer with a little more cushion. Would the Clifton 7 be better to pick up on sale?

[@thomaskong5]

In your late 2020 Running Shoe Matrix, you recommended the clifton 7 as soft easy day shoe. What would you recommend now in 2021?

[@topoisomerace]

You captured my pre-purchase conclusion: Not exciting enough. There are more fun (and probably better) options out there.

[@weuek]

I've got both Cliftons: 7 (mileage: 600 km) and 8 (200 km). The 8 is a worse shoe. Why? OK, it's 10 g lighter in my size (US 9.5), but the sole uses less dense foam that is too soft and it simply bottoms out under my weight (only 65 kg). It is particularly noticeable while running fast downhill. I agree that the 7 has a bit less volume in the toebox and much less volume in the upper, but it's simply a better shoe for running, while the 8 seems to be a better lifestyle shoe (or just for walking). And finally, the most serious disappointment: the tongue slides! Every time I go for a run it does slide. The gusseting does not seem to help. I think is the smoother fabric that contributes to this effect (tried different socks - the same). Final comment: The 7 feels much better after 600 km than the 8 after just 200.

[@tylerbox5517]

QOD: I think it is extremely helpful when you let us know if the upgraded model is worth the extra cost as Running warehouse always discounts older version when new one is coming out. This could be added to all reviews of models that get refresh every year.

[@miha5618]

QD: How much "weight" does each category bring to final score? How do you give score for the price, when a racing shoe with durability of 200miles and $200 can get 8.0 and daily t. with 500m and $130 can get 8.0? What makes the difference in 0.25 score (in all categories)? Would shoes from 3 years ago get lower score if you would test them today? And many more questions from me 🙃

[@fransarmiento7295]

Hey Seth, When do you expect the Rincon 3 to be realised?

[@draganradonja3578]

Seth could you please test the Salomon ultra glide... Seems like a great light trail shoe and they advertise major improvements... Would love to hear your thoughts on it... Greathings from Sarajevo, Bosnia.

[@adityaraut2191]

Hey I wanted to know if I should go for the wide one? What do you recommend? I wear the pegasus 37 normal ones as of now

[@MattD86]

Not sure the 29mm / 24mm stack height is correct as noted at 11:00 … I’m reading elsewhere it’s 37mm / 32mm

[@limwowo5902]

Did you see it under men's shoes? sometimes it's different heights for women & men's shoes

[@TheSleve22]

I have a wider foot. For my there are two options: clifton or NB 1080. I had the 1080 and it wore down super quickly. I love my 7s. Ill try the 8 but probably also buy another 7. PS. Ive tried other wides from Brooks and Nike. Not a fan.

[@matthewlubey9316]

I might just have to stick to the 7. Ran my third half marathon in them and Pr by a whole 2 minutes. 1:27:45

[@matthewlubey9316]

I also have to mention I have 500 miles on the Clifton 7 and I can still run with them, but is time for new shoes. Also tho I am not a heavy runner, 100 lbs so...

[@jeremiahrenfrow1268]

It would be cool on the website if you had the predicted miles listed with the shoe

[@runshoottech]

The Clifton 7’s and the Pegasus 37’s are my first official running shoes and I’m disappointed in the performance of the EVA foam, 237 miles on the pegs and 207 on the Clifton’s and the outsole is wrecked and it’s fallen flat/dead/non responsive definitely not as bouncy before I got to 100 miles.

[@samratd21]

Which is best daily road running shoes for 15km daily

[@markoljustina]

C8

[@markkendhammer5932]

Any word on the Hoka Rincon 3 release?

[@ChefCIntencity]

Can you explain how you looped the last holes and the purpose for it ?

[@carloscolon4539]

The Clifton was not meant to feel bouncy and responsive??? Is an every day trainer/long run trainer which it makes sense that it would be more plush and not bouncy. If you want bounce there’s other shoes for that. You don’t always want to feel bounce specially on easy runs

[@killerkhatiby009]

Seth, what would be your recommendation for the absolute softest and the plushest road running shoe for constant easy/recovery days? I'm trying to get back into running after stopping completely about a year ago due to knee pain so I'm looking for a shoe that will protect my joints, legs, & feet as much as possible from the impacts of running. I'm not looking to race or set any records, just a light jog 3 to 5 days a week at a very easy pace for health and fitness purposes only. I love feeling like I'm running on clouds and not pavement or a treadmill :)

[@chrislucero1824]

Nike invincible

[@tedmccarthy1401]

Get out and do your best!!! 🏃‍♀️🏃🏃‍♀️🏃🏃‍♀️🏃

[@timothyloe6218]

Which shoe has the best trampoline feel?

[@SaschaRobitzki]

Not any current Hoka.

[@jordanyoung2772]

I’m currently training for the Columbus Half (my first) and debating between these and the Mach 4s. I noticed you suggested these as “Easy Day Trainers” in your review of the New Balance More. If I’m in search of a daily trainer running anywhere between 2.5 and 10 miles, which would you suggest?

[@markoljustina]

C8 is best option of that 3.

[@markoljustina]

Did you buy somethig in dutime?

[@markoljustina]

imo columbus isnt shoe at all😀

[@BrendonBressan]

Which camera does he use?

[@tommytfaa]

HA! When I bought my Mach 4's I bought another pair of 7's for 100 beans. Yeah i am 6'3" 205 and I get ceases quick... QOD "None needed I truest you 100 percent"

[@BlueMoonDrinker]

Question: how do you control the drones when you take videos while running?

[@jazzjingjing]

I think the drone has ‘following’ function to follow its controlling person.