I’ve been waiting for the updated Hoka One One Bondi 7 for what feels like years. Most people that have run with me know of my love for the Hoka Bondi. Why? I like how cushioned it is, and it’s one of my favorite shoes for easy runs. Recently, it’s my go-to on the treadmill.
Make no mistake, it’s a lot of shoe. Some people find it’s too much shoe, but I like the cushion. You aren’t going to break any speed records but if you’re looking for a high cushioned and durable trainer, the Hoka Bondi 7 is great.
In fact, you are looking for the most cushioned shoe from Hoka, it’s the Hoka Bondi 7. Plus unlike many shoes in the running industry, the Bondi is only updated once every 2 years (versus every year). The seventh edition only has minor updates so if you’ve liked previous versions, you’ll probably like the Hoka Bondi 7.
Hoka One One Bondi 7 Quick Facts:
Weight: 8.9 oz
Heel to Toe Drop: 4 mm
Hoka One One Bondi 7 Upper:
Most Hoka shoes fit fairly wide. The Hoka Bondi 7 is slightly more narrow than previous versions, which is surprising! That being said, it’s not “too narrow”, plus there is a wide version available.
The upper of the Hoka Bondi 7 is consists of a multi-layer engineered mesh. What does that mean?
The breathability is fine but not the greatest and lightest upper out there. One thing to note is, there are a few overlays around the perimeter of the toe box which give the Hoka Bondi 7 some extra protection, especially if your toes seem to poke through the top.
While there isn’t a lot, it seems like I haven’t talked about what is actually new with the Hoka Bondi 7. This year, the Bondi has a memory foam collar to keep the back of your heel feeling good. According to Hoka, the new memory foam collar with accommodate narrower heels and help with less sliding. I did find the narrower heel to be welcomed.
Typically in women’s shoes I wear between a size 10-11 wide. Some years I’ve worn a size 11 but this year the 10.5 is perfect.
Hoka One One Bondi 7 Ride:
The seventh version is similar to previous versions so you won’t find huge differences in the ride. The midsole is made of the traditional EVA foam. EVA is not responsive like TPU or Peebax, but responsiveness isn’t the purpose of the Hoka Bondi 7. It’s made for cushion and luxury.
About Hoka shoes:
If you are new too Hoka shoes, they are known for their Meta-Rocker midsole geometry. The meta-rocker is designed to roll you from heel to toe.
The Meta-Rocker is then broken down further into “early-stage meta-rocker” or “late-stage” meta-rocker. The Hoka Bondi 7 is an early stage Meta-Rocker which means the shoe works similar to a rocking chair. It’s stiff and rolls through transitions versions bending and being flexible.
Another minor update is in the transitions. It’s smoother than the 6, and the midsole is made from a single foam. The smooth transitions make the weight, “not a big deal” because you don’t feel like you’re picking up and putting down your feet.
Is it stable? Is it neutral? What’s the deal? While there is no stability piece, the wider base provides inherent stability. Another update for the new Hoka Bondi 7 is the “guide rail” around the shoe’s perimeter to keep your foot from pronating.
There is plenty of rubber on the bottom of the Hoka Bondi 7, so it has good traction in inclement conditions.
It’s not designed to break speed workouts but a great easy run or recovery shoe. That what it remains for me. The days after a hard workout or a day I just want it to take it easy. Right now, it’s also my go to staple for the treadmill.
Hoka One One Bondi 7 Conclusion:
If you are looking for a maximum cushioned Hoka shoe, the Bondi is a great choice. There is plenty of cushions to keep your legs and feet happy during easy and recovery runs. While you won’t break any speed records, it’s a great option for those easy days.
Current Rotation:
Easy/Daily Runs Saloman Sonic 3 Balance, Brooks Glycerin 18, Mizuno Rider Waveknit 3, Nike Pegasus 37, New Balance 1080 v10, Diadora Mythos Blushield Blushield Hip 5, Hoka Bondi 7, Asics GlideRide.
Speed Work: New Balance FuelCell Rebel, Reebok Float Ride Run fast Pro,
Long Runs: Hoka Clifton Edge, New Balance FuelCell Rebel, Hoka Cavu 2
Trail Running/Hiking: Hoka Torrent 2, Saucony Peregrine 10, New Balance Hierro v5
Races: Asics MetaRacer, New Balance Fuelcell 5280, Nike Next%, Saucony Endorphin Pro, New Balance fuelcell TC, Reebok Run fast Pro
You Can See All Current Shoe Reviews Here.
Looking to learn more about running shoes? In my ebook, I talk about why you need a good running shoe, the anatomy of a shoe, neutral vs. stable, and even myths of running shoes.
Questions for you:
Have you tried Hoka or the Hoka Bondi before?
What is your favorite easy run shoe?
Guess I know what I am buying my mother again this year for xmas!