Hoka Clifton 9

New compression-moulded EVA midsole is animated and peppy ; Early-Stage Meta-Rocker is as good as it's always been ; Updates improve the overall running experience

Standard width upper is very tight (wide option available) ; Hard to recommend it over cheaper daily trainers (e.g. Nike Pegasus 39)

The Hoka Clifton 9 feels different from its predecessor but in a good way. The new compression-moulded EVA midsole is bouncy and energetic, and the early-stage Meta-Rocker is spot on, as always. Apart from the tight upper, it's hard to find anything to...

, as both of these have more sink-in, plush midsole foams.