It’s funny how fashion works—what was once old becomes new again. Just take a look at my daughter’s wardrobe, filled with baggy sweatpants and oversized sweatshirts, styles that harken back to years past. If apparel can circle back, why not running shoes? Enter the Hoka Clifton One9—a nostalgic nod to a time in running history many of us can only vaguely recall.
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We won’t be doing an exhaustive performance breakdown of the Clifton One9 here, as it’s more than just a running shoe. Sure, you can take it for a run, but this model feels equally at home as a fashion statement, celebrating its heritage with a fresh, updated twist.
The Clifton One9 is essentially a modern homage to the original Clifton 1 (by the way, keep an eye out for our review of the Clifton 10 coming soon!). Its upper design is a throwback to 2014, featuring an open-hole mesh underlay and a chunkier aesthetic—both visually and structurally. For me, it’s a trip down memory lane; 2014 was when I first got serious about running, and my early shoes looked eerily similar to this design.
Thankfully, the Clifton One9 isn’t just about the past—it’s a fusion of nostalgia and modern performance. Technology has come a long way in just the last few years, let alone over a decade. HOKA has outfitted the Clifton One9 with contemporary features like their signature Meta-Rocker, Active Foot Frame, and a cushioned midsole. So, while it may look retro, it’s built to perform like a shoe of today.
If you’re after a shoe that blends a love for running history with updated comfort and tech, the HOKA Clifton One9 might just be your perfect match.
Hoka Clifton One9 $150
Summary
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Thank you to HOKA for providing us with test shoes. Please read our transparency page for info on how we do our reviews.
