Below is an in‑depth look at the current Hoka Clifton 9 deal—highlighting why this cushioned trainer has become a cult favorite, what makes this discount rare, and how it stacks up against other recent sales. You’ll learn about the key technical updates in this ninth iteration, see how different retailers price these shoes, and get tips on making the most of this limited‑time offer.
A Rare 20% Discount at Dick’s Sporting Goods
Dick’s Sporting Goods is currently offering the Hoka Clifton 9 for $115.99, down from its standard $145 retail price—a solid 20% markdown that rarely appears on this model (Money Saving Mom®, hoka.com). This price holds for both men’s and women’s styles, and Dick’s is including shipping in that figure, making it a straightforward deal for anyone who’s been waiting to try Hoka’s signature cushioning without paying full price (Money Saving Mom®).
What’s New in the Clifton 9?
The Clifton franchise has always balanced plush comfort with a surprisingly lightweight feel—and the Clifton 9 refines that formula further. Version 9 adds 3 mm of stack height while trimming 4 g off the weight, delivering a more buoyant underfoot sensation without the bulk (hoka.com). To streamline the build, Hoka removed overlays and hot‑melt accents, swapping them for a plush heel counter, a reflective heel panel, and a single‑side gusseted tongue that locks your foot in securely (hoka.com).
Key Specifications
- Midsole Foam: Refreshed responsive EVA that cushions and springs back on each stride (hoka.com)
- Heel‑to‑Toe Drop: 5 mm, promoting a natural transition through your gait (hoka.com)
- Weight: Approximately 8.7 oz (men’s size 9) for an effortless lift (hoka.com)
- Upper: Breathable engineered mesh, now stripped back for fewer seams and less irritation (hoka.com)
- Fit Options: Available in regular and wide widths for both men and women (hoka.com)
Performance and Comfort: Why Runners Love Them
At the heart of the Clifton 9 is Hoka’s early‑stage Meta‑Rocker geometry, which gently guides your foot from heel‑strike to toe‑off for a fluid ride (Pacers Running). Combined with the generous EVA midsole, this creates a plush, forgiving platform ideal for daily training runs, long walks, or even standing on concrete for hours. Podiatrists have praised the Clifton 9 for its shock absorption and foot‑friendly profile, with many models carrying the American Podiatric Medical Association Seal of Acceptance (Real Simple).
Despite the lofty cushioning, the Clifton 9 feels surprisingly nimble—reviewers note it “gets the basics right,” even if its $145 MSRP has climbed higher than previous generations (Solereview). At the discounted $115.99 price, however, value concerns fade, making it a far more compelling option than paying full price.
Comparing Other Retail Deals
While Dick’s Sporting Goods has the Clifton 9 at $115.99, some other outlets have pushed prices even lower:
- Zappos recently marked select Clifton 9 sizes down to $95, a 35% discount, and sold out in many colorways within days (Real Simple).
- EatingWell spotted variants on Zappos and other platforms as low as under $100, calling it the “lowest price I’ve seen” for this model (EatingWell).
- Amazon lists the men’s black/white Clifton 9 at about $116, with free returns, making it nearly identical to Dick’s pricing but with Amazon’s checkout convenience (亚马逊).
Even broader footwear‑sale roundups point to up to 31% off on multiple Hoka and other premium running shoes, but those deeper discounts often involve limited sizes and long shipping waits (EatingWell).
Making the Most of This Offer
- Act Quickly: These discounts vanish fast, especially on popular colorways and sizes (Money Saving Mom®).
- Check Return Policies: Dick’s offers free returns for most footwear—confirm before ordering since Hoka Haul events sometimes mark items final sale (Money Saving Mom®).
- Consider Sizing: If you’re upgrading from the Clifton 8 or another Hoka, stick to your usual Hoka size; the Clifton 9 retains similar internal volume despite a sleeker profile (Solereview).
- Compare Colors: Vans of “vibrant orange/impala” or “mint fluorite/snow melt” may fly off shelves; choose neutrals if you need guaranteed stock (hoka.com).
Final Thoughts
Scoring the Clifton 9 at $115.99 is one of the few times you’ll see a sub‑$120 price on a bestseller that routinely remains at full MSRP. With its refined cushioning, lightweight feel, and broad appeal for runners, walkers, and anyone on their feet all day, this deal is an excellent chance to experience Hoka’s signature comfort without the usual sticker shock. If you’ve been curious about the Clifton line—or you simply need a fresh pair for spring training—this Dick’s Sporting Goods sale is well worth exploring before sizes sell out.
