Hoka Clifton shoes are celebrated for their plush cushioning and featherlight feel, making them a go-to choice for long-distance runners, casual joggers, and everyday walkers. However, they may not be the perfect fit for everyone—whether due to sizing, pricing, or personal preference. Fortunately, there are several top-quality alternatives that deliver similar performance benefits. Here are some of the best lightweight running shoes to consider as alternatives to the Hoka Clifton.
1. Brooks Ghost
The Brooks Ghost series is one of the most popular neutral running shoes on the market. Known for its balanced cushioning and smooth ride, it closely mirrors the comfort of the Hoka Clifton while offering a slightly firmer feel. The Ghost is ideal for daily training and long runs, and it provides excellent durability with a breathable mesh upper and DNA Loft cushioning for soft landings.
2. ASICS Novablast
The ASICS Novablast delivers a bouncy, energetic ride thanks to its FF Blast midsole foam. It’s a great option for runners who want a responsive shoe with more pop than the Clifton. While the Novablast feels springier and more dynamic, it still maintains the lightweight and cushioned profile many runners appreciate in the Hoka line.
3. Saucony Ride
The Saucony Ride series offers reliable, lightweight comfort with a touch of responsiveness. Featuring PWRRUN cushioning, the Ride feels soft underfoot without being overly squishy. It’s a great alternative for runners who like the Clifton’s cushioning but prefer a bit more ground feel and a slightly lower stack height.
4. New Balance Fresh Foam 880
The New Balance 880 combines plush Fresh Foam cushioning with a balanced design that works well for daily miles. It provides similar underfoot comfort to the Clifton but in a slightly more structured package. Runners who prefer a more traditional feel in a neutral trainer will appreciate the 880’s classic fit and smooth transition.
5. On Cloudmonster
For runners interested in a shoe with a bold, modern design and responsive cushioning, the On Cloudmonster is a worthy contender. While it feels firmer than the Clifton at first, its unique CloudTec cushioning system provides a propulsive and protected ride over time. It’s an ideal option for runners seeking a performance-focused shoe with a minimalist upper and unique outsole design.
6. Nike ZoomX Invincible Run
The Nike ZoomX Invincible Run offers one of the softest, most cushioned rides on the market—rivaling the Hoka Clifton in both comfort and stack height. With its ZoomX foam midsole, the Invincible Run delivers a luxurious feel while still offering bounce and support. It’s an excellent alternative for runners who want maximum cushioning for long training sessions or recovery runs.
7. Altra Torin
The Altra Torin stands out with its zero-drop platform and wide toe box, offering a more natural foot strike and anatomical fit. While the feel differs from the Clifton’s rocker-based ride, the Torin’s lightweight cushioning and breathable construction make it a viable alternative for runners who prioritize foot-shaped comfort and midfoot landing.
8. Adidas Adizero SL
The Adidas Adizero SL is a high-performing, lightweight daily trainer that blends Lightstrike and Lightstrike Pro foams for a smooth, fast feel. It’s less plush than the Clifton but offers a more responsive and agile ride, perfect for runners seeking versatility for both easy miles and uptempo workouts.
Conclusion
While the Hoka Clifton continues to be a benchmark in the world of cushioned, lightweight running shoes, there are many excellent alternatives available. Whether you’re looking for a firmer ride, a more responsive toe-off, or a different fit altogether, these options provide a range of experiences tailored to different running styles and preferences. Each alternative offers its own strengths, ensuring you don’t have to compromise on comfort or performance.
