What makes the new Hoka Clifton UTL different from the regular Clifton?

Hoka's new Clifton UTL proves you can have the cushioned comfort of a running shoe in a sneaker designed for real life.Photo courtesy of HokaIf you purchase a product through a link on our site, we may receive compensation.Hoka is taking one of its most recognizable running shoes in a completely different direction. The new Clifton UTL keeps the cushioned feel that made the Clifton a standout, but gives it a tougher, more textured design meant for everyday life rather than logging miles.Priced at $150 and available in styles for men/women, the Clifton UTL is designed specifically for lifestyle wear, making it a notable departure from Hoka’s traditional Clifton running shoes. Instead of a streamlined performance look, the new version is built to handle the wear and tear of city streets, with a protective upper that gives it a more rugged appearance.New Hoka Clifton UTL for menColorway: Frost/Black$15 5at Hoka RELATED: Your favorite Hoka running shoes just got a major color upgrade with electric purple, dragonfruit, yuzu accentsSo, what makes the Clifton UTL different?The biggest change is happening on the outside. Hoka added raised, textured PU-molded detailing over a breathable mesh base, creating what the brand describes as a protective exoskeleton. The result is a sneaker that looks more substantial than the typical Clifton while still keeping the lightweight, cushioned feel shoppers expect from Hoka.It also gets reflective laces and webbing details, along with a Durabrasion rubber outsole designed to add durability for everyday wear. In other words, this isn’t just a Clifton with a new color or slightly updated upper. Hoka reworked the exterior to make the shoe better suited to everything from commuting and running errands to spending an entire day exploring a city.Does it still feel like a Clifton?Despite the rugged makeover, Hoka didn’t ditch the comfort that made the Clifton popular in the first place. The Clifton UTL uses a plush CMEVA midsole, giving the shoe the soft, cushioned ride associated with the Clifton family.The women’s version comes in four colorways, including Frost/Aurora Aqua, Alabaster/Dewy Pink, Cosmic Grey/Stellar Grey and Black/Black. Men’s options include Cosmic Grey/Stellar Grey, Black/Black and Frost/Black.The Clifton UTL is essentially Hoka’s answer for shoppers who love the cushioned feel of a running shoe but want something that looks and feels more at home on the sidewalk than the track.Shop Clifton UTL for menShop Clifton UTL for womenYour favorite Hoka running shoes just got a major color upgrade with electric purple, dragonfruit, yuzu accentsRebellious Willy Chavarria x Ugg collection is almost completely sold out - here’s what you can still grabYeti just made first-ever phone case with same legendary durability as coolersWinnie the Pooh’s iconic hunny pot just turned into most adorable coffee mug you’ll actually want to useDyson just launched new hair tool that’s way cheaper than Airwrap — it’s already getting great reviews tooAshley Palya is the commerce writer for Cleveland.com. She loves keeping up with trends and always has her eyes open for unmissable deals/top-rated products to share with readers. Previously, Ashley was a news...