Despite costing $15 more, the Glycerin 21 wins with modern DNA LOFT v3 foam, APMA certification, and documented reliability. The Clifton's warranty concerns and outdated CMEVA foam (52% energy return) can't compete.

Brooks

Hoka
R3 Research Verdict
Despite costing $15 more, the Glycerin 21 wins with modern DNA LOFT v3 foam, APMA certification, and documented reliability. The Clifton's warranty concerns and outdated CMEVA foam (52% energy return) can't compete.
Research-backed recommendation
The Glycerin 21 wins despite costing more. The upfront savings on the Clifton evaporate when you factor in shorter lifespan (250-400 miles vs 400-500), outdated foam technology, and documented warranty issues. Sometimes paying slightly more upfront saves money long-term.
Quick summary of each product's strengths and weaknesses
Brooks
Pros
Cons
Hoka
Pros
Cons
A quick breakdown of how these products compare head-to-head
Clifton $15 cheaper upfront
DNA LOFT v3 is modern; CMEVA is outdated
Glycerin significantly more responsive
Hoka has documented claim denials
Medical endorsement matters
Clifton offers X-Wide
Glycerin lasts longer
Personalized recommendations based on your priorities


Detailed attribute-by-attribute breakdown
| Attribute | Brooks | Hoka | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price Clifton $15 cheaper upfront | $165 | $150 | Hoka |
| Midsole Foam DNA LOFT v3 is modern; CMEVA is outdated | DNA LOFT v3 | CMEVA | Brooks |
| Energy Return Glycerin significantly more responsive | ~60% | 52.3% | Brooks |
| Warranty Trust Hoka has documented claim denials | Standard | Concerns | Brooks |
| Certification Medical endorsement matters | APMA Certified | None | Brooks |
| Width Options Clifton offers X-Wide | 2 widths | 3 widths | Hoka |
| Durability Glycerin lasts longer | 400-500 mi | 250-400 mi | Brooks |
Clifton $15 cheaper upfront
DNA LOFT v3 is modern; CMEVA is outdated
Glycerin significantly more responsive
Hoka has documented claim denials
Medical endorsement matters
Clifton offers X-Wide
Glycerin lasts longer
The Clifton's $15 savings disappear when you'll need replacement 100-150 miles sooner. Cost-of-ownership favors the Glycerin.
Skip the Clifton 10 unless you find it under $100 on clearance. At any price near MSRP, the Glycerin 21 or Ghost 17 are better investments.
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