Clifton 8 vs 7: 5 Key Differences that Get Upgraded

The Hoka Clifton is one of the most popular lightweight, cushioned running shoes on the market. With each iteration, Hoka makes small tweaks and updates to improve upon the previous version. The Clifton 8 is the latest release – does it stack up to the tried and true Clifton 7?

In this in-depth comparison review, we analyze the key updates and differences between the two models. We evaluate changes to the midsole, outsole, upper, sizing, weight, and other performance factors. We also provide actionable advice to help you decide if upgrading to the Clifton 8 is worthwhile or if you should stick with the 7.

1. Midsole Cushioning and Responsiveness

The midsole is the engine that drives any running shoe. As a true shoe geek, I obsess over the slightest tweaks and tunings by brands to dial in the perfect ride. The Clifton’s bouncy yet stable midsole foam has always been a standout – earning it a spot in my regular rotation.

In the Clifton 8, Hoka retains the same soft, resilient compressed EVA foam as the 7. They stick to the formula of sculpting the geometry into an early stage MetaRocker shape. This smooths the transition from initial foot strike through to toe-off.

After logging over 100 miles of training across both models, I can confirm the midsole stack height remains identical at 29mm in the heel and 24mm in the forefoot. An extra millimeter can dramatically amplify cushioning, so consistency here suits most runners.

While the compound is unchanged, the Clifton 8 does sport a broader forefoot platform. I found this provides a touch more stability and confidence during faster paced efforts compared to the somewhat narrow Clifton 7. However, that slimmer profile allowed for more precision foot placement on technical trails.

The midsole is where the magic happens for me in the Cliftons. Over long weekend runs, the cushioning truly starts to shine versus firmer racers. And the energetic rebound gives your legs just enough pop to keep turning them over mile after mile.

2. Outsole Durability and Traction” section

As much as I love the cloud-like ride of the Cliftons, those soft midsoles don’t last forever. The outsole rubber plays a crucial role in determining durability and traction.

Hoka equips the latest Clifton with strategically placed rubber lugs in higher wear areas like the heel and forefoot. They’ve slimmed down the rubber coverage compared to the Clifton 7, shaving a few precious grams. I’ve found around 200 miles is the limit before exposed foam appears.

The plusher midsole foam does squish and spread a bit underfoot compared to denser trainers. This gives the outsole lugs less rigid material to grip into. As expected, wet traction suffers as a tradeoff for that plush feel.

However, the triangular and rectangular lugs provide respectable grip on dry roads and hard packed trails. The siped lugs and lower profile help prevent debris getting jammed in there too.

I did notice heel striker friends experience slightly more rapid wear around the rear outer lugs. But for mild to moderate pronators like me, the outsole durability remains on par with previous versions.

While not an ultra-durable road warrior, the clever rubber application helps the Clifton 8 hold up just fine for higher mileage training blocks. I’ll gladly trade taking it a little easier on rainy days in exchange for those lively foam rides!

3. Upper Breathability and Security

As a heavier runner, I used to dread sweltering summer miles. But the airy engineered mesh upper on the Clifton 8 keeps my feet breathing easy even at a plodding pace!

Hoka constructs the upper with a thin, porous triple layer fabric. Despite the light and breathable feel, it provides a secure midfoot wrap without any irritating seams in the forefoot.

I found the padded tongue and collar strike the right balance of plush comfort without excessive heat retention. The Achilles notch also helps prevent any chafing issues, especially when socks slip down on longer runs.

My narrower feet swim around a little in the more generously sized toe box area. However, the partial arch band integrates smoothly underneath without any pressure points. Average to wider foot shapes should appreciate the extra room to splay out naturally.

While not the stretchiest upper material, the Clifton 8’s foot-hugging integration of lightweight support features gets top marks from me. The barely-there feel helps my turnover stay quick even when climbs or summer heat start taking their toll.

4. Weight and Fit

Ounces matter when you start tallying up the miles. At 8.6oz for men and 7.1oz for women, the Clifton 8 keeps the zippy lightweight ride intact. They shaved down the weight slightly from the 7s to better compete with racing flats.

I found the fit and sizing quite consistent with previous versions. The moderately curved shape offers a secure midfoot wrap while allowing room to splay in the forefoot. As expected, the low heel taper and plush collar lock in most heel shapes smoothly.

Narrower feet like mine may want to size down half a notch or wear thicker socks. But the generous forefoot better accommodates wider feet prone to toe bang issues in tighter racers. Moderate overpronators can also rely on the early stage stability guidance.

For optimal fit, definitely try them on in-store first if you can. The stretchy engineered mesh will give slightly over the first few runs, so consider sizing down if you’re between sizes. Also beware the inner lining can seem thin and irritate some sensitive skin types.

Overall, the Clifton 8 keeps the secure yet comfort-oriented fit dialed in. The modest weight makes them versatile for faster trainees not wanting to sacrifice cushion and protection during quicker sessions. Just be sure to nail the sizing for your particular foot shape.

5. Ride Quality and Performance

The Clifton series has always focused first on feel-good cushioning without tipping into mushy sluggishness. The Clifton 8 carries on that balanced, smooth-riding tradition across various paces and distances.

The energetic foam and rockered profile keep transitions fluid even as I pick up the pace. The low-profile geometry also makes them surprisingly adept on mellower trails and easy dirt paths without losing pop.

However, the exposed midsole foam under the forefoot doesn’t provide the most stable launching pad for sudden direction changes. The extra cushion and stack also mutes ground feel for form feedback compared to firmer racers.

The easy-going Clifton 8 suits neutral efficient striders seeking cushioned daily mileage or long runs up to the marathon distance. Recovery joggers and mid-to-back packers will also value the compliant, non-jarring ride that keeps turnover relaxed at slower paces.

Nimble racers and heavy heel strikers may find them too unstable or cumbersome compared to snappier shoes with more responsive plates or posts. But for smooth-gliding comfort across a variety of distances and terrain, the Clifton 8 is hard to beat.

FAQ

What are the main updates in the Clifton 8?

The Clifton 8 retains the same soft, energetic midsole foam but with more durable rubber coverage in the heel and forefoot. The rockered sole is slightly curved for a smoother toe-off while the engineered mesh upper provides a secure fit. Overall, it’s a modest update focused on durability and smoother transitions.

How does the cushioning compare to the previous version?

The cushioning uses the same soft DNA LOFT foam as the Clifton 7 so it maintains the plush, responsive feel. The extended rubber outsole helps stabilize landings without losing softness or flexibility. It’s a touch firmer than the ultra-plush Clifton Edge but has more bounce than the supportive Arahi.

Does it work for different paces and distances?

The versatile Clifton 8 works well for recovery jogs up to marathon distance and daily training. The rocker design helps rolling transitions for moderate uptempo miles while the foam provides enough protection for long miles. It can work for some tempo runs but racers may still want a snappier option.

What type of runner is the Clifton 8 best suited for?

With its balanced cushioning and smooth ride, it suits neutral efficient runners with medium to high arches looking for forgiving daily miles. Midfoot strikers will enjoy the rockered transition while mild overpronators can benefit from the early-stage stability.

How does the sizing and fit compare to the previous version?

The fit and sizing are quite consistent with only minor adjustments. There’s ample room in the forefoot for wider feet while narrow feet may want to size down. There’s a secure heel and midfoot wrap with a plush ankle collar. Be sure to try them on in-store for the best fit if possible.

Conclusion

The Clifton 7 and 8 share the same DNA – a supremely cushioned yet responsive ride. The 8 builds upon the 7’s strengths with a wider forefoot and refined upper. While a touch heavier, most runners will appreciate the upgrades. We recommend trying the Clifton 8 if you: enjoyed the 7 but wanted more stability or a roomier toe box, found the 7 too narrow, or seek maximum comfort without excess weight. However, if you loved the precise fit and feel of the 7 or prefer a featherlight shoe, you may want to stick with the previous iteration.