Here’s How It Stacks Up:
Brooks Ghost 17, New Balance 880v15, and On Cloudsurfer 2
If you’re shopping for a daily running shoe right now, you’re probably staring down a shortlist that includes the HOKA Clifton 10, Brooks Ghost 17, New Balance 880v15, and On Cloudsurfer 2. Four excellent shoes. Four distinct philosophies. And one that just dropped to $124 at Brown’s Shoe Fit Co. — which makes this comparison a lot more interesting.
Let’s break down exactly how these shoes stack up, and why, if you’ve been on the fence about the Clifton 10, right now might be your last chance to grab it at this price.
âš¡ Sale Alert: The HOKA Clifton 10 is available now at Brown’s Shoe Fit Co. for $124 (regular price $155 — that’s $31 off). Stock is limited. Once it sells out, it will not be restocked. The Clifton 11 is coming soon, which means this window is closing.
The Contenders: A Quick Overview
| Spec | HOKA Clifton 10 | Brooks Ghost 17 | NB 880v15 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stack Height | 29mm / 24mm — Most Cushioned | 26mm / 20mm | 28mm / 22mm |
| Weight (M9) | ~8.9 oz | ~9.5 oz | ~9.8 oz |
| Drop | 5mm | 12mm | 6mm |
| Midsole | Full EVA + Meta-Rocker — Smoothest Ride | DNA LOFT v3 | Fresh Foam X |
Note: On Cloudsurfer 2 specs are covered in the narrative section below, as it occupies a slightly different comparison category.
HOKA Clifton 10: The Benchmark
The HOKA Clifton 10 is the gold standard of what the running industry calls a “max cushion daily trainer.” That term gets thrown around a lot, but the Clifton 10 earns it in a way most competitors don’t fully match.
What Makes the Clifton 10 Special
- Full-compression EVA midsole — The entire midsole is one unified piece of EVA foam, engineered to provide consistent cushioning from heel to toe. No varying density zones, no “windows,” just pure, reliable plush.
- Meta-Rocker geometry — HOKA’s signature rocker-shaped outsole promotes forward momentum and reduces the effort of toe-off. Runners describe it as “rolling forward” rather than pushing off.
- Breathable engineered mesh upper — A more structured, form-fitting mesh that balances breathability with a locked-down fit.
- Extended heel geometry — A wider base at the heel creates a landing platform that naturally stabilizes the foot on impact — ideal for overpronators and high-mileage runners.
- Weight-to-cushion ratio — At approximately 8.9 oz (men’s size 9), the Clifton 10 delivers a stack height that rivals shoes weighing significantly more. That’s the engineering achievement that made HOKA famous.
The Clifton 10 is what happens when a brand spends a decade refining the same great idea until it’s nearly perfect. It’s not flashy. It’s not experimental. It’s just consistently, reliably, remarkably good.
HOKA Clifton 10 vs. Brooks Ghost 17
The Brooks Ghost 17 is one of the best-selling running shoes in America, and for good reason. It’s comfortable, reliable, well-made, and incredibly versatile. This is a close matchup — so let’s be fair about it.
Where the Ghost 17 Wins
- Higher heel drop (12mm) is ideal for heel strikers transitioning to more cushioned shoes
- DNA LOFT v3 foam has a slightly more responsive, springy feel underfoot
- Wider availability of widths and colorways
Where the Clifton 10 Wins
- Greater overall cushion (29mm stack vs. 26mm)
- Lighter on foot despite more foam
- Meta-Rocker geometry creates a more effortless stride cycle
The verdict: If you’re a heel striker who loves a springy, high-drop shoe, the Ghost 17 is fantastic. But if you want the most cushion per ounce and a smoother rolling ride, the Clifton 10 wins — and right now at Brown’s, it’s on sale at $124.
HOKA Clifton 10 vs. New Balance 880v15
The New Balance 880 series is a beloved workhorse. It’s been updated through 15 versions for a reason — runners keep coming back. The v15 features Fresh Foam X and a refined upper that fits a wide variety of foot shapes.
Where the 880v15 Wins
- Fresh Foam X has a slightly more “ground feel” — you’re aware of the road beneath you
- Excellent wide width options, great for runners with wide feet or bunions
- Very durable outsole rubber, built for high-mileage training
Where the Clifton 10 Wins
- Lighter (880v15 comes in at ~9.8 oz)
- Meta-Rocker provides a more efficient toe-off, reducing fatigue on long runs
- More stack height — more cloud underfoot
The verdict: The 880v15 is the better shoe for runners who want to feel the road and value durability above all else. The Clifton 10 is the better choice for pure comfort, lighter feel, and a more efficient stride. At $124 on sale at Brown’s, it’s an easy call for comfort-first runners.
HOKA Clifton 10 vs. On Cloudsurfer 2
The On Cloudsurfer 2 is a different kind of shoe, and that’s worth acknowledging up front. Where the Clifton, Ghost, and 880 are all in the “cushioned daily trainer” category, the Cloudsurfer occupies a unique space: stylish, lightweight, and engineered around On’s CloudTec sole system.
Where the Cloudsurfer 2 Wins
- Exceptionally stylish — doubles as a lifestyle shoe better than any of the others
- Featherlight feel, one of the lightest daily trainers available
- Helion superfoam provides lively, responsive energy return
Where the Clifton 10 Wins
- More overall cushioning — the CloudTec pods don’t deliver the same plush feel as the Clifton’s full EVA stack
- Better for high mileage — holds up better over a 400+ mile range
- Wider last options — Clifton 10 is available in wide widths; Cloudsurfer runs narrow
The verdict: If you’re buying a shoe to wear to brunch and occasionally run in, get the Cloudsurfer 2. If you’re buying a shoe to run in — and run a lot — the HOKA Clifton 10 is the superior daily trainer every time.
The Bottom Line: Why Now Is the Time
Here’s something that doesn’t show up in spec charts: the HOKA Clifton 10 has been one of the most consistently loved, most frequently re-purchased running shoes of the last three years. Runners don’t just wear it — they come back for it. They buy a backup pair. They tell their friends. That kind of loyalty isn’t built through marketing. It’s built through a shoe that genuinely delivers on its promise, every single day, for hundreds of miles.
And right now, at Brown’s Shoe Fit Co., that shoe is $124.
The Clifton 11 is coming soon, which means Clifton 10 stock will not be replenished. When it’s gone, the window is closed. If you’re a daily runner, someone who spends long hours on their feet, or anyone who has ever said “I just want a comfortable shoe” — the HOKA Clifton 10 is your answer. At $124 with limited stock remaining, this is one of the best footwear values of the year.
Shop now at brownsshoefitco.com or visit any of our 73 locations. Our fit experts are ready to help you find the right size, width, and color before they’re gone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the HOKA Clifton 10 good for beginners?
Yes. The Clifton 10 is one of the most beginner-friendly running shoes available. Its plush cushioning protects joints during the adaptation phase of running, and the Meta-Rocker geometry naturally encourages proper running mechanics.
Can I wear the HOKA Clifton 10 for walking?
Absolutely. The Clifton 10 is an excellent walking shoe, especially for those who spend extended periods on their feet. Many healthcare workers, retail employees, and teachers wear it exclusively as a comfort shoe.
How does the HOKA Clifton 10 fit?
The Clifton 10 runs true to size with a slightly roomy toe box. For runners with wide feet, we recommend going up a half size or selecting a wide width option. Our Brown’s fit experts are available in-store to help with proper sizing.
Why is the HOKA Clifton 10 on sale?
The HOKA Clifton 11 is coming soon, which means the Clifton 10 is at end-of-life pricing. This is completely normal for athletic footwear and represents a genuine opportunity to purchase a top-tier shoe at a significant discount before stock runs out.
Where can I buy the HOKA Clifton 10 on sale?
The HOKA Clifton 10 is currently available for $124 (regularly $155) at Brown’s Shoe Fit Co. — online at brownsshoefitco.com and in-store at any of our 73 locations across the Midwest and beyond.
Why Buy Yours From Brown’s Shoe Fit Co.?
With 73 locally owned and operated locations across the Midwest, Brown’s Shoe Fit Co. has been a trusted name in footwear since 1911. Known for our personalized service and commitment to quality, Brown’s Shoe Fit is the go-to destination for comfortable, quality footwear for all ages. Each of our stores offers a footwear selection unique to the needs of our communities, with a knowledgeable staff trained to give every customer the best fit possible. To learn more about us, visit brownsshoefitco.com or find a store near you!
