Hoka Bondi has always been unapologetically maximalist. It’s big, bold and sky touching throne Which brought a revolution in running shoes. But despite its extraordinary comfort, it is used by everyone from nurses to marathonersPrevious versions felt more like walking shoes than true running shoes due to their bulkiness. Now—with the release of the redesign Hoka Bondi 9 ($170)—This shoe is finally working up to its full potential. With softer foam, a more responsive feel, and a stable base, this version is ready to go.
Hoka Bondi 9 – $170.00
Colour: 6 | size: US 4 – 12 | weight: 9.3 ounces | Falling from heel to toe: 5mm
- Cushioned but stable for various motions
- Advanced supercritical EVA foam for a softer, more responsive feel
- Durable for daily training
- The ankle cuff is relatively stiff
- Not the fun color selection I expected 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 – but it’s still all about comfort. Right out of the box, the thick padding looked as attractive as ever. I inserted my thumb into the foam to assess its softness and rebound and was pleasantly surprised to find that it was slightly more plush than foam. Bondi 8.
However, the aesthetics left me feeling a little disappointed. The pair I tested came in minty green (Blue Spark/Mint Fluorite) with a contrasting black ankle cuff that seemed mismatched. When I checked out other available palettes online, I was disappointed to see that few of them provided Hoka’s usual vibrant, head-turning colors. Hopefully more options will emerge in the future.
my review
what i like
Over two weeks, I logged more than 25 miles in the Bondi 9 sneakers, testing them during walking and running workouts that included hour-long “lengths” on the treadmill and interval training.
I was most impressed by their performance during brisk walks and as I picked up speed during running intervals. The cushioning feels a bit firm at slow speeds but has a satisfying bounce when going faster. For full transparency, I am prone to shin splints, and while running at a slow pace I felt a little discomfort in the shin, but when I started running at a faster pace the pain disappeared.
That said, the new Supercritical EVA foam is a big step up from the Bondi 8, which I consider more of a walking shoe than a running shoe due to its firmer, less reactive cushioning. The Bondi 9 offers a softer, springier feel, making it versatile for both activities.
On the treadmill, I noted the shoe’s exceptional stability. Many max-cushioned shoes can feel wobbly underfoot (especially on the treadmill, where I tend to freak out), but the Bondi 9’s wide base and “Active Foot Frame” technology create a secure, supportive ride.
And in my short testing period, this shoe felt extremely durable. Hoka also included “Durabrasion rubber” in the outsole to deal with high wear areas, which should increase the longevity of the shoe. I haven’t tested it long enough to see any degradation, but knowing the heritage of the Bondi Line, I have no doubt it will last for hundreds of miles.
what i don’t like
That said, Bondi 9 does have some shortcomings. I found the toe box comfortable during the first few miles, requiring a slight break-in period before I felt completely comfortable. If you have wide feet, consider ordering the wide version to avoid this problem. I also feel that the padded upper can feel a little thick in hot weather, as it lacks breathability.
final thoughts
The Bondi 9 isn’t the flashiest or fastest alternative to Hoka (it’s my go-to for speed work). mach x and i like clifton 9 to last), but it’s really a solid shoe with durability that’s better than anything else the brand offers. Unlike race-day shoes that you need to care for like a baby, this is a pair you can wear confidently for daily training, errands, and long walks without worrying about the cushioning wearing out too quickly. It will get spoiled.
If you’re a beginner runner and curious about maximum cushioning, the Bondi 9 is a great place to start. It’s cushioned, versatile, and plush without feeling unstable—a rare combo for a max-cushioned shoe.
Our editors independently select these products. Well+Good may receive commission when purchasing through our links.