Comparison:
Hoka Bondi 8 vs Hoka Bondi 7
The Bondi is Hoka's popular max-cushioned trainer. Here we will be comparing the Bondi 8 with the Bondi 7.
Comparison:
The Bondi is the softest, most cushioned Hoka trainer. In the Hoka lineup, the Bondi sits above the Clifton in terms of price and cushioning. The Bondi is extremely popular because of its high level of comfort and cushioning.
After reading this comparison, you'll be able to tell if the Bondi 8 or the Bondi 7 is better for you.
Similarity and differences: Hoka Bondi 8 vs Bondi 7
Expert score
7/10
7/10
Weight
10.8 oz
10.7 oz
Heel Drop
4 mm
4 mm
Verdict
The Bondi 8 is a cushy daily trainer that performs well on easy days and even better for recovery sessions. The Wider base and extended heel help runners glide through the gait cycle with stability and precision.
The Bondi 7 is supposed to be a max-cushioned, long-distance trainer but it rides more like a daily trainer.
Its stiff Meta-Rocker midsole helps roll you through transitions and makes the ride feel efficient, however the Bondi 7 is missing the signature Hoka “running on clouds” experience.
Version 7 has been updated with a new upper, the biggest addition being a comfortable memory foam collar. It maintains the same midsole and outsole as its predecessor.
Its stiff Meta-Rocker midsole helps roll you through transitions and makes the ride feel efficient, however the Bondi 7 is missing the signature Hoka “running on clouds” experience.
Version 7 has been updated with a new upper, the biggest addition being a comfortable memory foam collar. It maintains the same midsole and outsole as its predecessor.
Recommended for
Daily training, long distance racing
Daily training
Cushioning type
Balanced
Balanced
Cushioning amount
Highly cushioned
Medium cushioning
Flexibility
rigid
rigid
Stability
very stable
very stable
Sizing
true to size
true to size
Retail price
US$165
US$150
Sole unit: Hoka Bondi 8 vs Bondi 7
Both the Bondi 8 and the Bondi 7 have compression molded EVA midsoles. The ride of the Bondi series is a bit firmer than other max-cushioned trainers because the foam doesn’t compress as much as other, more modern foams.
The Bondi 8 has an updated CMEVA midsole which feels softer under foot than the Bondi 7. This results in a plusher ride. The Bondi 8 is better for slow runs such as easy/recovery runs.
The Bondi 7 with its firmer ride feels slightly faster so it’s easier to pick up the pace in the Bondi 7. This makes it better for faster runs and shorter distance runs.
When it comes to stability, the Bondi 8 wins. It has a wider base to there is less lean bias. If you need the extra stability, the Bondi 8 is better.
The 2 trainers have similar outsoles with the same amount of rubber coverage so outsole durability is equal.
Upper unit: Hoka Bondi 8 vs Bondi 7
The upper of the Bondi 8 overall more comfortable than the Bondi 7. This is due to the fact that it has more padding and it has an inner sleeve which the tongue is attached to. The tongue of the Bondi 8 has no tongue slide whereas the Bondi 7 does. The Bondi 7 is more suited to warm climates because it doesn’t have the inner sleeve and it has less padding.
When it comes to fit, both trainers are true to size bit have very narrow uppers. It’s recommended to get the wide version unless you have really narrow feet.
Which one to buy: Hoka Bondi 8 vs Bondi 7
Get the Bondi 8 if you want a plusher ride which can handle slower paces better. The softer midsole of the Bondi 8 gives it more long-distance comfort. If you need extra stability, you should also get the Bondi 8 because it has a wider base.
Get the Bondi 7 if you want a firmer ride which can handle faster paces better. The Bondi 7 midsole doesn’t compress as much as the Bondi 8 so you can pick up the pace more easily in the Bondi 7. You should also get the Bondi 7 if you want a cooler shoe for running in warm climates.
This expert review is written by
Brandon Law
Marathon Runner and Shoe Expert
Brandon is a South African who lives and trains in Malaysia. He is a marathon runner who eats, sleeps and dreams running shoes. While most people wear shoes to run, he runs to wear shoes.
