Last updated: 01-Nov-18
The last time I used HOKAS for any period of time was for the Marathon des Sables, so I was very interested to try out the Claytons for training on the roads, which is a lot of what I have to do in terms of training, even though I love to get out on the trails.
Photo credit: Hokaoneone.com
Features and Geometry
- PRO2LITE technology
- Soft heel for cushioning
- Firmer forefoot for propulsion
- Oversize Active Foot Frame
- Early Stage Meta-Rocker
- RMAT® outsole layer
Men’s
- Offset: 4mm
- Heel: 24mm
- Forefoot: 20mm
Women’s
- Offset: 4mm
- Heel: 23mm
- Forefoot: 19mm
PROS: What’s good about the Hoka One One Clayton
These shoes are really light: 235g for the men’s and 198g for women’s. You can absolutely appreciate that lightness as you run and they feel positively airy.
Cushioning is what HOKA does and the Claytons do not disappoint. I could definitely feel that comfort when I was running, less stress on my knees and less jarring through my feet.
The midsole is in two parts with a softer foam at the back to protect you heel and a more responsive but firmer foam at the forefoot that forces your foot forward to the take off phase. I am not sure I could feel all that when I was running but I did feel that there was a smooth run.
The size was perfect for me. I ordered a 7 ½ and it was exactly right. I wore them the first day with slightly thicker socks but I think that was a mistake as there was a bit of rubbing on the interior of my heels.
The fit is wide enough to accommodate some foot swelling.
CONS: What’s not so good about the Hoka One One Clayton
The positive of the HOKAS’ cushioning, is slightly countered by the lack of feel for the road. I did feel rather removed and somewhat clumsy.
I find that the HOKAS do change my gait a bit which I have mixed feelings about. I did have a slight pain in my right hip as a result although that did fade within two more outings.
I felt rubbing on my inner heels, but that quickly dissipated when I changed to thinner socks.
CONCLUSION
Hokas are like marmite so you are likely to already have a view on them, but if you haven’t tried out the Claytons, I would recommend that you do. The light feel and the cushioning make them a pleasure to run in. I liked them because I felt less fatigue by the end of runs. The only reservation I have is whether they force my gait slightly.
Photo credit: Hokaoneone.com
This is the latest update to the Clayton – Clayton 2, with some brand new colours for Spring/Summer.
| Score | |
| Design | 8/10 |
| Features | 8/10 |
| Performance | 9/10 |
| Value | 7/10 |
| Total | 8/10 |
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All images Alice Morrison except when stated.
