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In the early years of Hoka's existence, was synonymous with the brand's expression and philosophy. Hoka aimed to revolutionize the market with big chunky midsoles and so-called rocker geometries. This strategy worked, and by now, I think few runners haven't encountered the brand . In Hoka's early days, Bondi was synonymous with the brand. Few shoe models avoid tweaks now and then, Bondi is no exception. Hoka has done this here too, without ever compromising the core idea behind Bondi, which was to be Hoka's most cushioned running shoe.
While we enjoyed the holiday season and perhaps gained a few extra pounds, Bondi did the opposite. Yes, Bondi has slimmed down. But let's not dwell on that, let's instead give Bondi a friendly pat on the back for the weight loss, especially since it hasn't affected comfort negatively. Quite the opposite.
Before we do that, here are some sharp facts about Hoka Bondi 9:
Facts:
Type: Volume trainer, neutral
Heel drop: 5mm
Stack-height: Men: 43mm in forefoot, 38mm in heel Women: 42mm in forefoot, 37mm in heel.
Midsole material: Supercritical EVA
Weight: 297g in US 9.5
Hoka Bondi 9 - Current Condition?
Good thing no one's checking my post-holiday form, but I've allowed myself to do that with Bondi 9, after all, it's “just” a running shoe, if you forgot. The midsole on Bondi 8 was huge, on Bondi 9 it's just big, makes sense? Hoka has trimmed unnecessary mm of foam, more on the side rather than underneath, so you no longer feel like you have two spaceships underfoot. Maybe you do, just without the extra gear, whatever that might be on a spaceship. It works really well, it's been a while since I wore Bondi and actually felt kind of light? I do with Bondi 9. Here we have the most obvious change, Bondi has slimmed down.
Hoka Bondi 9 - Supercritical EVA?
Bondi 9 has been treated to a major midsole update. The entire midsole is now made of Supercritical-EVA, which is both lighter and more responsive than pure EVA. Stack-height has also been increased, not much, but it didn't necessarily need it either. The midsole height is now 43mm in the heel and 38mm in the forefoot (men), which doesn't actually look it when placed next to the 8, but that's because it's been trimmed a bit on the sides. The foam isn't ultra-soft like Fuelcell, it's a bit more responsive. This harmonizes well with Hoka's meta-rocker, which has become one of Hoka's strongest features. Hoka excels at creating this rocker geometry, along with Saucony, I personally think they make it work best in their shoes. This leaves Hoka Bondi 9 with a smoother look, rather than the recovery look it previously had. It's become a popular way to create stability, but Hoka has done it for years, making a wide base underfoot, Bondi 9 has this too, and I think it fits really well again. It ups the comfort, which is still important for Bondi.
Hoka Bondi 9 - Upper
The upper is made of engineered mesh, well-balanced in thickness so the shoe can be used in summer and winter. It's an upper designed for mileage, especially noticeable around the ankle, where a bit of extra padding has been added for comfort. Overall, a balanced upper, where you can feel it's designed for comfort over many miles.
Hoka Bondi 9 - Conclusion
Hoka Bondi 9 could sneak into every runner's shoe rotation. I think it's gotten a more versatile expression, from being a dedicated recovery shoe in its last version, dare I say an excellent walking shoe? To now being crafted for the runner seeking comfort, because that's what you get with Hoka Bondi 9. It's still for your easy runs, your recovery days, your daily runs where you just want comfort. Bondi 9 lives on in spirit, as the name's origin suggests, dreaming of Bondi Beach in Australia, with sun, sand, well-being, and comfort. Doesn't sound too bad when I read it again, maybe I should book those tickets.
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