Hoka Bondi 9 vs Bondi 8 Review

Wwelcome to Flawless Shoe Reviews! Today, we’re diving into the Hoka Bondi 9, one of Hoka’s most popular recovery and lifestyle shoes. There have been some big updates with this version, including changes to the midsole, stack height, and upper. So, if you’re wondering whether it’s worth upgrading from the Bondi 8, stick around because we’re breaking it all down for you.

Bondi 9 vs. Bondi 8: The Key Specs

Let’s start with the basics. Here’s a quick comparison to see what’s changed:

More stack, a slightly higher drop, and a lighter weight—sounds promising, right? Let’s dive into the details.

Upper: A Snugger Fit with More Space Where It Matters

The updated upper is one of the first things you’ll notice about the Bondi 9. Hoka has done a great job improving the fit. Here’s what stood out to me:

• Heel and Midfoot Fit: They’ve really nailed the snug, locked-in feel. Your foot feels secure without being overly tight.
• Forefoot Room: The forefoot is wider than in the Bondi 8, which is a huge win for anyone with wider feet or issues like bunions. And don’t worry—if you still need extra space, it comes in wide and extra wide versions too.

One caveat: if you’ve got Haglund’s deformity or a sensitive heel, you might find the snug heel counter too compressive. But for most people, the fit is fantastic.

Midsole: Super Critical Foam for a Softer Feel

The big story here is the move to supercritical foam in the midsole. It’s a significant upgrade from the CMEVA foam in the Bondi 8. So, how does it feel?

• Walking: It’s soft, plush, and super comfortable. You really feel like you’re walking on clouds.
• Running: When you pick up the pace, you’ll notice a firm endpoint. It’s not overly mushy but still gives you enough softness for recovery runs.

Compared to competitors like the New Balance 1080 v13, this foam isn’t as squishy. And while it’s not as springy as the Brooks Glycerin Max or the Asics Gel-Nimbus 27, it’s still a step up from the Bondi 8.

Performance: What’s It Best For?

This shoe excels in specific areas:

• Easy Runs and Recovery Runs: It’s perfect for steady paces, thanks to its soft cushioning and smooth transitions.
• Lifestyle Use: If you’re standing all day or need a comfortable shoe for walking around, the Bondi 9 is a great pick.

That said, it’s not the shoe for speedwork. The transition from heel to forefoot feels a bit slow and clunky at faster paces, so I’d stick to recovery runs and day-to-day use.

Should You Upgrade from the Bondi 8?

Here’s the big question: is the Bondi 9 worth upgrading to?

• If you’re using the Bondi 8 for lifestyle or walking, the better fit and super critical foam in the Bondi 9 make it a worthwhile upgrade.
• If you’re using it solely for recovery runs, the difference might not be as noticeable. While the foam is softer, the change isn’t drastic enough to justify replacing a perfectly good pair of Bondi 8s.

Final Thoughts

The Hoka Bondi 9 stays true to its roots as a reliable recovery and lifestyle shoe. The updates to the upper and midsole are subtle but effective, making it even more comfortable for walking and steady runs. If you’re looking for a shoe that’s easy on your feet and fits like a dream, the Bondi 9 is a solid choice.

Want to pick up a pair? Check out the links in the articld. Buying through our links helps support the channel at no extra cost to you.

Thanks for reading! If you’ve got questions about the Bondi 9—or any other shoes—drop them in the comments. Other shoes that might be worth considering are the Gel-Nimbus 27 and the New Balance 880 V15.