The time has come – Hoka One One just released their long-awaited updated Bondi model, the Bondi 8 – which has quickly earned the reputation as the ultra-cushioned game-changer shoe of the season!
While the new Hoka One One Bondi 8 is bigger and better than ever, it remains loyal to its roots and keeps its classic high cushioned profile and meta-rocker platform.
The new Bondi 8 incorporates an even softer EVA foam and a completely new upper making it the roomiest, most versatile and softest Bondi yet. But, don’t fret – while the Bondi 8 has updated, it’s still the tried-and-true Bondi that runners all around the world love.
If you are already familiar with how plush and cushioned the Hoka Bondi is, you will find this both impressive and hard to believe that this new model could be plusher than before!
This version also nails the aesthetics with sleek designs and color-way options. With these updated features the shoe looks and feels less bulky.
So, if you’re interested in this stellar Hoka Bondi 8 update, then keep reading for all the specs, details, and our team’s opinion.
| Pros | Cons |
| Ultra soft cushioning | Not ideal for speed, tempo, and races |
| Plush tongue and heel | Still bulky, (just less than before) |
| Wider upper and base | Pricier than comparable competitor shoes |
| Sleek design | |
| Stable and grippy |
Hoka Bondi 8 Impressions and feel
The hype over the Hoka Bondi has been increasing over the years from marathon runners to people who just want a comfortable shoe to wear all day (healthcare professionals, warehouse workers, and busy parents alike.
And, in the past, the Hoka Bondi has provided just that, but unfortunately in the past, these shoes have been big and bulky. Nonetheless, they have been functional but definitely not aesthetically pleasing.
The look of this shoe is one aspect of the Hoka Bondi 8 that really stood out to me this season.
It has a sleeker design with many color options and many widths. This shoe is offered in 2E (wide) and 4E (extra-wide) but has more color options in these categories than ever before!
These sleek features immediately pulled my eye towards the Bondi compared to other Hoka models in the store, looking so much better than previous renditions.
The feel of this shoe is the biggest update to this new model, with Hoka managing to add much more cushion but hardly increase the overall weight of the shoe. At only 0.1 oz heavier, the weight distribution of the upper actually makes it feels much lighter around the foot compared to the Bondi 7.
I prefer to feel the ground under my feet while running, so typically choose less cushioned shoes like the Hoka Clifton 8 or the Hoka Rincon 3. However for those looking for a lighter underfoot feel, this shoe is what you’re for.
Another important feature of this model that many people will appreciate is its wider base of support. This makes the Bondi 8 more versatile, keeping it in the “neutral” category while still providing some stability under the foot in the event that one needs it.
On first impressions, this shoe certainly promises an improvement on previous models! For runners who enjoy more cushion underfoot, I would give it an 8/10 overall. A personal 7/10 because I like firmer, springy shoes, but a 9/10 for those who are looking to log easy miles or are looking for pure comfort (which is what this shoe excels in).
Now onto the real details…
Hoka One One Bondi 8 Specs and Road Test
You’ve heard my opinion, now let’s get the rundown on what makes these updates the best yet!
Quick Specs
Weight: 10.8 oz (307 g) Mens, 8.9 oz (252.3 g) for Womens
Drop Height: 4 mm
Stack Height: 33mm in the heel to 29 mm in the forefoot
Category: Neutral
Upper
To start, the upper is a new design of Hoka’s traditional engineered mesh. But, on this version, the lines look like they are pulling back to the heel and this is not only a more modern design but has a specific function.
While designs on the upper may look cool, sleek, and modern, they actually serve a purpose in holding the foot securely in place and help guide the foot with every stride. The mesh on the Bondi 8 is placed to gently guide and secure the arch and midfoot.
The heel cup is another feature of the Bondi 8 that looks and feels amazing. Using a satin fabric overlayed with a memory-foam collar, the heel on this model is tapered compared to the previous wide heel, helping to secure and cradle the heel.
The laces and tongue on this model are a less noted element, but they are soft and lay flat against the foot. This helps the foot feel secure without hitting pressure points which could aggravate some higher arched individuals.
The tongue is also updated in this model, with a unique half-gusseted style – meaning only half is sewn into the side.
Midsole and Sole
The midsole and sole are the biggest change to the Bondi 8 which contributes to its increased cushioning and overall style.
The brand kept its classic engineered EVA foam that is durable and ultra plush. The foam is placed strategically in line with Hoka’s classic meta-rocker platform and under typical strike zones like the heel and midfoot.
There are beveled lines in the foam which look nice but serve the purpose of absorbing shock and helping move the stride forward. Additionally, the curved heel design helps “rock” the individual into their next stride.
Now, as with previous models, the Bondi 8 is considered a neutral shoe, meaning that it does not have any stability or guide features designed to change the way the foot strikes the ground.
However, this model does offer a much wider base under the foot, giving it a stable feel that distributes the landing impact over a larger surface area.
So, while this shoe technically is not corrective, its wider base provides a stable and shock-absorbant landing to toe-off, that will likely be sufficient for someone with mild to moderate pronation.
This is also an enhancement for those who are standing all day or have mild balance impairments because they have a wider platform to balance on.
Finally, Hoka kept their standard heel crash pad to help absorb the ground forces from walking and running and kept their zonal rubber on high-impact areas on the base of the foot.
Hoka One One Bondi 8 Takeaways
The Hoka Bondi 8 was built to handle miles on miles on miles, something crucial for marathon training and keeping muscles in optimal condition.
This model is especially suited for those who like the feel of a plush, soft ride. Like other Hoka models, it uses the meta-rocker platform to glide the foot and body forward with each stride.
This sensation is still pretty typical compared to the previous version. The key difference rests in that the Bondi 8 just has more cushion to offset the ground forces.
This latest model also has a crash pad and added rubber on the sole which makes it more durable, able to grip better and withstand high frequency force zones from the stride.
It handles well on most terrains, including roads and greenways and with the added rubber it seems to do well on slick surfaces.
Overall, the feel of this shoe is still a classic Bondi, just with a lot more cushion and an updated, modern look.
The Hoka Bondi 8 is becoming a go-to shoe in the running world and the general population.
And, this is no surprise. Like running on clouds all day, this shoe is ideal for easy runs or long slow distance runs. Even if you’re not a runner, this shoe is perfect for being on your feet all day.
There were some significant updates made to this model with increased cushioning being the star player. Other updates were increased widths and styles, as well as the mesh upper and tongue changing slightly.
Overall, this is a highly recommended shoe for its comfort, versatility, and durability.
So, if you are interested in checking out the Hoka Bondi 8 or other similar models click here!
Most comprehensive review thank you!
I’m recently retired from the business life style, wearing hard soled leather dress shoes for 35+years. My wife convinced me to start walking to keep from getting too fat and stay in somewhat shape. I found the Hoka shoe by accident.
I’m no expert but these are really comfortable shoes. I walk 2 miles a day now, they take some getting use to, sore calves only. I was having lower back issues but that’s gone now. Great shoes