8.5Staff pick
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Max Cushion · Hoka
Bondi 9
The original marshmallow, now with a livelier foam underfoot.
7.9 Solid
Runsletter Score out of 10. Good at its job, with clear limits.
Buy it if
- Huge, protective cushioning
- Livelier foam than previous versions
- Stable, wide platform
- Wide and extra-wide versions
Skip it if
- Heavy for anything quicker than easy pace
- Rocker and bulk feel clumsy on tight turns
$175
List price; often discounted in seasonal sales
Check price at retailers ↗When does it go on sale?We may earn a commission
- Weight
- 300 g
- Stack
- 43 mm
- Drop
- 5 mm
The verdict
The Bondi is the shoe that made maximalism mainstream. The 9 swaps in a livelier foam, so the ride has a bit more spring than the old marshmallow did. It's still very soft, very stable thanks to its broad base, and happiest at an unhurried pace.
This is a recovery and easy long-run shoe, and it's just as good for long days on your feet. It's heavier and less playful than the 1080 v14 or the Triumph 23. If all you want is maximum protection from the pavement, it's hard to beat.
The upper is plush and well padded, with an extended heel tab that makes it easy to get on. It fits true to size, and wide and extra-wide versions are easy to find.
“For recovery days and anyone whose knees have opinions.”
Specs
| Weight | 300 g |
|---|---|
| Stack height | 43 mm |
| Drop | 5 mm |
| Cushion | 5 / 5 |
| Plate | None |
| Support | Neutral |
| Surface | road |
| Best for | recovery, long |
| Midsole | Supercritical-processed EVA foam |
| Upper | Engineered mesh with heavy padding and an extended heel tab |
| Outsole | Durable rubber with broad ground contact |
| Fit | True to size, plush and secure |
| Widths | Standard, wide and extra wide |
We may earn a commission if you buy through our links. Scores are sample editorial data.
How it stacks up
Compare side by side →| Product | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Hoka Bondi 9 · this one | 7.9 Solid | $175 |
| ASICS Superblast 2 | 8.5 Elite | $200 |
| New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v14 | 8.1 Strong | $165 |
| Nike Vomero 18 | 8.0 Strong | $150 |
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