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Why was the Hoka Clifton Edge discontinued and what are its best alternatives?
The Hoka Clifton Edge, known for its unique design, features a "J-Frame" technology, which helps control the foot's inward roll for stability during runs.
This makes it suitable for runners who experience mild overpronation.
The decision to discontinue the Clifton Edge may stem from a combination of market trends and sales performance.
Companies frequently assess their product lines and discontinue items that do not meet sales expectations or align with the brand's evolving aesthetic.
Hoka incorporates a high-resiliency foam in the Clifton Edge's midsole to provide a lighter and more spring-like feel compared to previous Clifton models.
This innovation aims to enhance energy return while maintaining comfort on longer runs.
The Clifton Edge has a pronounced flared heel collar designed to minimize Achilles tendon discomfort, a feature that can significantly benefit runners who experience irritation in that area.
Runners often look for alternatives to the Clifton Edge, such as the Hoka Clifton 9, which maintains a similar cushioning experience but with slight variations in design and weight for better performance.
Running shoe companies typically release updates to existing models every 12-18 months, providing enhancements based on consumer feedback, market research, and technological advancements.
The drop from heel to toe in the Clifton Edge is 5 mm, which promotes a more natural running stride compared to traditional running shoes with higher drops.
This can engage more muscle groups and potentially reduce impact on joints.
Alternatives to the Clifton Edge, like the On Cloudsurfer, utilize a 10 mm drop, appealing to runners who prefer a different foot angle and cushioning dynamic during their runs.
The Clifton Edge's rubberized EVA outsole contributes to its durability and grip on various surfaces, enhancing a runner's confidence and stability on the road.
Runners are increasingly considering environmental factors when choosing footwear, leading to a rise in demand for sustainably produced shoes with recycled materials.
This shift highlights a growing consciousness within the consumer base.
The biomechanics of running change with different shoe designs; for instance, shoes with a higher foam density can reduce ground contact time, optimizing speed and efficiency.
Potentially, the discontinuation of a product can create a collector's market among enthusiasts, especially if the model has unique features or a dedicated fanbase that appreciates its distinct characteristics.
Hoka's development team likely uses athlete feedback and biomechanical assessments to refine shoe designs and improve features like arch support and cushioning to cater to competitive runners.
Shoe companies may monitor social media channels and platforms like Reddit to gauge public sentiment, making it easier to anticipate trends or issues that may influence production decisions.
The Clifton Edge represents a specific category within running shoes often referred to as "maximalist" footwear, designed to provide extra cushioning and support without significantly increasing weight.
As running shoe technology advances, there is continual research on the impact of shoe design on running biomechanics, leading to innovations that further increase performance and comfort.
It is possible that Hoka plans to introduce a new model featuring refined versions of Clifton Edge’s technologies, balancing consumer demand for stability and comfort with innovative material designs.
Many runners are not aware that the choice of running shoe can influence their biomechanics significantly, potentially altering gait patterns and affecting injury risk over time.
Discontinuing a popular model like the Clifton Edge often correlates with a brand's strategy to refresh its product line and maintain consumer interest, involving an intricate balance of innovation and tradition.
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