HOKA Bondi 9 Introduction
HOKA’s Bondi 9 takes the series to higher heights. The midsole grows by 2mm over previous versions. However, despite that increase in thickness, the new foam helps the shoe lose weight overall. The new super critical foam brings more softness and bounce to the always popular max cushion cruiser. Whilst it was not their most hyped shoe at TRE, that we reserved for the Cielo X1 2.0, there is a huge Bondi fanbase out there. What will they think of the latest iteration?
The Bondi 9 brings a streamlined new look
Andy: The Bondi 9 is a lot of shoe. From the knit upper to the increased stack midsole, the Bondi exudes plushness. This is certainly true of the upper where the step in feel is top notch. Firstly, the well padded tongue wraps the top of the foot in cushioned comfort. Then the stout but not overtly hard heel cup helps to complete a solid lockdown for the foot.
The padding around the heel and ankle sections does the job of protecting the foot from rubbing and bumping well. That said, now the temperatures have started to hit double figures, my feet have begun to run a little warm. On the other hand, I have been able to mitigate this warmth by wearing thinner socks. Although, when it has been wet, it shares the similar problem of the Clifton 10 whereby it retains water rather and can take a while to dry out back at home.
During my runs, I have had no issues at all with the upper. The toe box has enough room for the foot to expand on longer runs. Meanwhile, the midfoot is narrow enough to hold everything in place when the going is undulating. In runs from 5 to around 18km, I have no complaints about the fit. I received this shoe in my usual size and it fits true.
Overall, the upper does what is needed for a daily shoe. It is comfortable, feels well made and holds the foot where it needs to be. The Bondi 9 is also available in wider fits so if you are an outlier, you will still be able to enjoy the comfort.
Ivan: Let me start by saying that I personally find the new HOKA Bondi much more visually appealing than the Bondi 8, largely due to the redesigned upper. The previous iteration looked quite clunky in the forefoot, appearing much broader than necessary. Given that the Bondi is already a substantial shoe, I prefer it not to look even bulkier.
The upper, especially in the front, has been streamlined in this version, which enhances its aesthetics but comes at a cost. While the Bondi 8 offered decent space in the forefoot, the Bondi 9 feels significantly tighter. This is a recurring issue I experience with HOKA shoes, as they tend to taper dramatically around my pinky toes and feel quite shallow near the edges, leading to some discomfort.
That said, I really like the more structured upper, which comfortably secures my heel and midfoot with a well-balanced level of padding. The padding feels just right – I haven’t experienced any overheating issues. Overall, the upper is very comfortable, well-balanced, and made with quality materials without feeling excessive.
Just be mindful of the tapered toe box, or consider opting for the wide version.
Easy comfort on every run
Andy: Thankfully, the step in comfort of the Bondi 9 also translates to the road. The new super critical EVA foam gives the Bondi a very pleasant ride. It isn’t super lively but it isn’t meant to be. It’s a comfort cruiser for daily distance and fun running and that is exactly what it delivers. That said, I was absolutely rinsed on a 600m rep by a chap wearing a pair of these so they can turn up the pace on the right legs!
What the ride does offer is a soft bed with a very easy rocker. These combine to make the kilometres vanish. Unlike the Clifton which has moved to an 8mm drop, the Bondi retains the traditional HOKA 5mm offset. While the overall ride of the Bondi may not break new ground, the new foam compound elevates it. Were it not for the new geometry and foam of the Clifton, this would be my favourite HOKA daily shoe. As a couple, they make a very pleasant weekly rotation.
While the Clifton offers a bit more versatility for me, the Bondi excels as an easy day shoe. When the pace is not needing to be pushed, when the miles are what matter, the Bondi is a very capable and dependable companion. From beginners to those with many miles in their legs, the majority of runners could find a home for the Bondi in their shoe rack. Despite the high stack, the way the midsole sidewalls cup the foot mean that the Bondi never feels unstable.
Finally, despite losing a few grams from the previous version, the Bondi is no lightweight. Weighing in at close to 300g, it’s not going to be challenging the Pro Evo v1 any time soon. That said, for me, this is not a penalty for the purpose of the shoe. Even on the longest runs I have taken in the Bondi, it hasn’t felt heavy. The geometry and foam work in tandem to ensure that the scale weight doesn’t impact the run.
Ivan: The redesign of the HOKA Bondi 9 is immediately noticeable – not just in the upper, but also as soon as you lace up the shoe. The step-in feel is significantly softer, which made me eager to see if that sensation would carry over into my first run.
A few years ago, the HOKA Bondi had few direct competitors in the maximalist trainer category. Now, the market is flooded with alternatives like the New Balance More and On Cloudeclipse, many of which offer a softer ride and are gaining traction among runners. I believe the Bondi 9’s softer foam formulation is a direct response to this shift in demand. However, while some extra softness is evident, it’s less pronounced when actually running. Instead, I’d describe the cushioning as pleasantly dampening, complemented by a subtle rocker for smooth transitions.
One thing that stood out is the so-called “dynamic drop,” which feels noticeably higher than the stated 5mm – more in the range of 8-10mm with my running gait. Personally, I don’t mind this, but some runners might notice a greater sink-in sensation at the rear. Another noteworthy change is the platform, which actually feels even broader than the previous version, despite the more streamlined fit. I suspect this helps stabilize the softer midsole.
With its plush cushioning and wide platform, the Bondi 9 remains best suited for easy daily runs, particularly recovery runs. That has always been the essence of the Bondi, and it still holds true in this iteration which is primarily built to provide comfort and protection.
A new outsole makes the Bondi 9 more flexible and less rigid
Andy: The outsole of the Bondi 9 has proven to be very capable so far. In fact, it seems to offer more durability than that of the Clifton. While having a similar amount of miles in both, the Bondi outsole is showing a lot less evidence of use. This is a good thing especially as it comes in $20 heavier in the price tag than its sibling.
The rubber has handled everything that the conditions have thrown at it and I can’t ask much more than that.
Ivan: The Bondi has always been one of the stiffest running shoes on the market without a plate. However, with the Bondi 9, HOKA has introduced fully exposed horizontal grooves in the outsole, adding a touch of flexibility to make the ride feel less rigid and clunky. This is likely further enhanced by the softer supercritical EVA foam compound.
The rubber outsole provides excellent traction, and I haven’t experienced any grip issues – even on frosty Scandinavian winter mornings.
A new look but the same DNA
Andy: Were it not for the Clifton 10, this would be my favourite HOKA daily shoe. The difference for me is in the slightly softer foam and bigger drop of the Clifton suiting my preferences slightly more. However, the Bondi is a very pleasant shoe which will remain in my rotation for as long as it lasts. When I just want a shoe to head out for a run where pace is not a priority and I want my legs to be babied, this will be a top choice.
It is a shoe which I think will suit a wide range of runners. The majority of footstrikes should be catered for and it will work for more whippet-like runners to the Clydesdales amongst us. The only place it really loses out for me is in its versatility. But, there are plenty of shoes on the market which are tempo and race focussed. The Bondi will be your buddy for anything outside of those runs.
Ivan: The more streamlined design and tweaked midsole compound in the HOKA Bondi 9 feel like both a necessary and strategic update in the increasingly competitive maximalist daily trainer category. With brands continuously refining their cushioning technologies, HOKA has responded by making the Bondi 9 softer and more balanced while maintaining its signature protective feel.
Despite these changes, Bondi’s core DNA remains intact, and its intended use hasn’t shifted. It continues to shine as a daily workhorse built for easy, steady-paced runs, regardless of distance. Whether you’re logging recovery miles, tackling long runs, or simply seeking maximum cushioning for everyday wear, the Bondi 9 remains a reliable option.
One thing to keep in mind is the fit – if you have wide feet, the standard version may feel too snug, particularly in the forefoot. In that case, opting for the ‘Wide’ version would be a smart choice. Other than that, there’s little to criticise. For those prioritising comfort, protection, and a smooth, cushioned ride, the Bondi 9 delivers exactly what you’d expect from a premium maximalist trainer.
