Hoka Bondi 9 Review: Lighter, Higher, and More Stable
GEAR & SHOE REVIEWS
The Bondi line has been around long enough to earn its reputation as Hoka’s plush, reliable, no-nonsense workhorse. But with the Bondi 9, Hoka claims to be taking a significant step forward. After logging miles in both the Bondi 8 and Bondi 9—and wearing them for everything from errands to travel—I can say this update does, in fact, feel like the biggest shift the model has had in years.
Purpose and Positioning
The Bondi has always lived squarely in the “everyday trainer” category. It’s the shoe you reach for on easy runs, recovery days, long stretches on your feet, and yes—just as many walkers and healthcare workers do—daily life. I’ve worked in my Bondis, traveled in them, and even mowed the lawn in them. Comfort is still the defining feature of this line.
Weight, Stack Height, and What Actually Changed
One of the most surprising updates is the weight: despite some early spec sheets suggesting otherwise, the Bondi 9 is lighter.
Using my own scale:
Bondi 8 (women’s 8.5): 10.4 oz
Bondi 9 (women’s 8.5): 9.2 oz
A drop of over an ounce is significant in this category, and you feel it underfoot.
The stack height also increases to 43 mm with a 5 mm drop (the Bondi 8 was 4 mm). That difference is subtle on foot, but notable for fans who track geometry changes.
Both versions remain neutral, highly cushioned trainers—but the Bondi 9 introduces meaningful updates to how that cushioning behaves.
Key Updates: Upper, Foam, and Stability
1. New Knit Upper
The Bondi 9 gets a knit upper—slightly stretchy compared to the more structured mesh of the Bondi 8. It still holds the foot securely, but with a softer feel and a cleaner look.
2. 3D Molded Heel Collar
One of my favorite updates. The heel collar is firm, structured, and stays put even if you try to crush it down. It creates a secure hold without pressure or Achilles irritation.
3. Supercritical EVA Midsole
This is the biggest performance upgrade. The Bondi 9 switches to a supercritical EVA foam, which is lighter and bouncier than the traditional EVA in the Bondi 8. It’s similar to what Hoka uses in the Mach X and Max Cushion 6—durable enough for high mileage but livelier underfoot.
This is not racing-foam bounce. It’s more subtle: a smoother rollover, slightly more energy return, and a less dense feel with each step.
4. Rearfoot-Focused Active Foot Frame
The new platform cradles the rearfoot more deeply, adding inherent stability without posting or guidance elements. The Bondi has always been a steady shoe, but this version feels more controlled—especially on tired legs.
5. Updated Outsole
A Durabrasion rubber outsole adds grip and reinforcement without excess weight.
Price and Color Options
The Bondi 9 retails for $170, a slight increase from the Bondi 8’s original $165. The Bondi 8 is now widely discounted, often around $115 from reputable retailers.
As always, Hoka offers an extensive color lineup, including:
Starlight Glow (the colorway I tested)
Vanilla Birch
Black/Rose Gold
Cosmic Gray
Several white and all-black options
The model is also available in wide widths.
Fit and First Impressions
The first thing I noticed when stepping into the Bondi 9 was the width. The Bondi 8 has more forefoot room, while the Bondi 9 narrows slightly. It’s not restrictive, but it’s noticeably less “clown-shoe” in appearance. If you loved the generous platform of the Bondi 8, you may prefer the wide version of the Bondi 9.
The upper padding is substantial in both versions—more than I personally prefer for hot, humid Florida runs—because extra padding can retain sweat. But the comfort is undeniably high.
The heel tab is gone, and surprisingly, I didn’t miss it. The molded collar makes entry easy and secure.
On the Run
This is where the Bondi 9 delivers its biggest improvement: the ride feels smoother and more fluid. The lighter weight and new foam help the shoe roll forward more naturally, making long, easy miles feel less laborious than they did in the Bondi 8.
The cushioning is plush—but not in a marshmallow, bouncy way. It’s stable plush. Supportive plush. You get shock absorption without sink.
If you’re seeking maximum softness, there are plusher options:
Mizuno Neo Zen
Adidas Adizero Evo SL
Both offer a more pillowy sensation. But the Bondi line has always leaned more toward structured comfort, and the Bondi 9 preserves that character.
Daily Use and Versatility
Because of the sleeker silhouette and lighter feel, I see myself using the Bondi 9 for more than just runs—travel days, long errand blocks, maybe even airport-to-hotel days when I want one shoe to do everything.
It’s not built for tempo or speedwork, but that’s the point. The Bondi knows its lane and excels in it.
Final Verdict
The Hoka Bondi 9 is a meaningful, well-executed update. It’s lighter, smoother, and more stable, and the new foam gives the ride a welcome lift without sacrificing durability.
If you rely on a daily trainer that protects your legs, handles long hours on your feet, and pairs well with easy miles, this is a strong choice—and one I’ll keep in my rotation.