The Kiprun Kipride Max is Decathlon’s new maximalist shoe, while the Hoka Clifton Pro, also new, is the premium version of the well-known Clifton, released alongside the Clifton 11.
Two training shoes with high cushioning that part ways on how they feel underfoot.
The Kipride Max leans plush with its Softech+ foam (EVA, Peba and OBC): a well-balanced feel at impact, never over the top, and a genuinely enjoyable ride.
The Clifton Pro belongs to the ProGlide+ line: an SCF EVA foam, a very dense supercritical EVA. Its MetaRocker profile, more pronounced than on the Clifton 11, makes for a smooth stride.
The flip side is a noticeably firmer feel than the Kipride Max at impact, firm enough that some testers find it too firm.
Both shoes sit at the same height under the heel. The Kipride Max is a little taller at the forefoot, so its drop is a bit lower, while the Clifton Pro keeps a slightly higher drop (no adjustment needed). The Clifton Pro is a bit lighter, by about 15 g / 0.5 oz.
Both have enough responsiveness, just not super-shoe levels. The Kipride Max lets you pick up the pace in training, with a Peba that makes tempo work a lot of fun. The Clifton Pro does just as well and opens the door to marathon or half marathon pace.
Both engineered mesh uppers are very comfortable from the first step in, with a gusseted tongue. The Kipride Max gives the toes more room and breathes very well. The Clifton Pro’s tongue is a little short, and some testers find its fit a bit narrower than on the standard Clifton.
On durability, both hold up. The Kipride Max is rated for 800 to 1000 km, about 500 to 620 miles, with traction that does the job but a caveat on wet surfaces. The Clifton Pro’s Super Abrasion Rubber heel stretches the life of the outsole, with very good grip even on wet ground.
Kipride Max or Clifton Pro: Which Should You Choose?
If plush underfoot and comfort come first, the Kipride Max wins. For a single pair to run everything in, it is the one we recommend.
Prefer a firm feel, a more conventional drop and sure grip on wet ground? The Clifton Pro is the right pick for you.