The Hoka Bondi has at all times been unapologetically maximalist. It’s massive, daring, and has sky-high cushioning that kicked off a revolution in trainers. However regardless of its standout consolation utilized by everybody from nurses to marathoners, previous variations felt extra like strolling footwear than true trainers due to their bulk. Now—with the discharge of the redesigned Hoka Bondi 9 ($170)—this shoe is lastly dwelling as much as its full potential. With softer foam, a extra responsive really feel, and a steady base, this model is able to run.
Hoka Bondi 9 — $170.00
Colours: 6 | Sizes: US 4 – 12 | Weight: 9.3 oz | Heel-to-toe drop: 5 mm
- Cushioned however steady for quite a lot of paces
- Upgraded supercritical EVA foam for a softer, extra responsive really feel
- Sturdy for day by day coaching
- Ankle cuff is comparatively stiff
- Not the enjoyable coloration choice I’ve come to count on from Hoka
First impressions of the Hoka Bondi 9
The Bondi 9 stays true to Hoka’s roots, and my first thought when unboxing it was that it hasn’t gotten any sleeker—nevertheless it’s nonetheless all concerning the consolation. Proper out of the field, the thick cushioning seemed as inviting as ever. I pushed my thumb into the froth to evaluate its softness and rebound and was pleasantly shocked to search out it a bit extra plush than the Bondi 8.
The aesthetics left me feeling a bit underwhelmed although. The pair I examined got here in a minty inexperienced (Blue Spark/Mint Fluorite) with a contrasting black ankle cuff that felt mismatched. Once I checked the opposite obtainable palettes on-line, I used to be disenchanted to search out that few of them delivered Hoka’s typical vibrant, head-turning colours. Hopefully, extra choices will roll out sooner or later.
My assessment
What I really like
Over two weeks, I logged greater than 25 miles within the Bondi 9 sneakers, testing them throughout strolling and operating exercises, together with hours-long incline “hikes” on the treadmill and interval coaching.
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I used to be most impressed by their efficiency throughout brisk walks and once I picked up the tempo for operating intervals. The cushioning feels barely agency at slower speeds however has a satisfying bounce when operating quicker. For full transparency, I’m susceptible to shin splints, and I felt a little bit of shin discomfort throughout gradual jogs, however the ache disappeared once I transitioned to a quicker tempo.
That mentioned, the brand new supercritical EVA foam is a big step up from the Bondi 8, which I thought of extra of a strolling shoe than a operating shoe as a result of its firmer, much less responsive cushioning. The Bondi 9 gives a softer, springier really feel, making it versatile for each actions.
On the treadmill, I seen the shoe’s distinctive stability. Many max-cushioned footwear can really feel wobbly underfoot (particularly on the treadmill, the place I are likely to house out), however the Bondi 9’s large base and “Energetic Foot Body” expertise create a safe, supportive trip.
And in my quick testing interval, this shoe felt tremendous sturdy. Hoka additionally integrated “durabrasion rubber” into the outsole to fight high-wear areas, which ought to lengthen the shoe’s longevity. I haven’t examined it lengthy sufficient to note any degradation, however realizing the legacy of the Bondi line, I’ve no doubts it would final for a whole bunch of miles.
What I do not love
That mentioned, the Bondi 9 has a number of downsides. I discovered the toe field comfortable through the first few miles, which required a little bit of a break-in interval earlier than I felt totally snug. You probably have wider toes, take into account ordering the large model to keep away from this situation. I additionally suppose that the padded higher may really feel a bit thick in scorching climate, because it lacks breathability.
Last ideas
The Bondi 9 isn’t Hoka’s flashiest or quickest choice (My go-to for pace work is the Mach X and I want the Clifton 9 for lengthy runs), nevertheless it’s a extremely strong shoe with critical sturdiness that outlasts the rest that the model gives. In contrast to race-day footwear that you have to look after like a child, this can be a pair you possibly can confidently put on for day by day coaching, errands, and lengthy walks with out worrying concerning the cushioning sporting out too shortly.
When you’re a newbie runner inquisitive about max cushioning, the Bondi 9 is a incredible place to begin. It’s comfortable, versatile, and plush with out feeling unstable—a uncommon combo for a max-cushioning shoe.
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