Hoka Bondi 9
Best shock absorption, ideal for those who walk long distances.
Consolidated from 83 cited sources across 58 outlets
Where the cited sources landed, as we read them
- 1 enthusiastic source
- 58 positive sources
- 18 mixed sources
- 3 unconvinced sources
Pros & cons
- ✓ Outstanding shock absorption
- ✓ Comfortable for long walks
- ✓ Maximum cushioning
- ✓ Longevity of cushioning up to 200+ miles
- ✓ 41 mm stack provides lasting impact protection
- ✗ Tall stack introduces stability quirks
The sources behind this ranking
We searched the web and YouTube for what has been published about this product, then read the articles, video transcripts and comments we found.
Evidence 34 articles, 45 video reviews and 4 community sources
58 positive sources
Like the HOKA Clifton 10s and On Cloudsurfer 2s, we love these shoes for active recovery and daily road running. Ultimately, the HOKA Clifton and On Cloudsurfer won out in these guide because we like them more for slower paces and a focus on cushion, but the HOKA Bondi 9s work very well as a walking-and-running shoe, too. Learn more in our in-depth review of the HOKA Bondi 9 road running shoes .Read K
The Bondi has consistently been one of those shoes that starts out exciting for me but gets more and more boring as the miles pile on. But the Bondi 9 marked a substantial change from what the Bondi has typically been.Watch E
The Hoka Bondi 9 stands out as the best overall choice for runners with plantar fasciitis because it delivers exceptional cushioning without sacrificing responsiveness. Hoka’s philosophy of maximum cushioning paired with lightweight design translates perfectly to PF management—the shoe absorbs impact effectively while encouraging a natural running motion.Read T
It’s also a bit lighter, and hopefully should be able to deliver the familiar cushioned ride the Bondi line is known for while feeling a little livelier than the Bondi 8. Nick has been out for a couple of runs in the shoe so far, here’s his early impressions of the Hoka Bondi 9.Watch E
“Hoka’s Bondi line is one of the most cushioned on the market, offering significant shock absorption that helps reduce the load transferred up the legs and into the back,” says Alvarez. And he wasn’t the only one who recommended the Hoka Bondi—two other podiatrists also said this shoe is great for people with lower back pain.Read T
Testers Nick and Mike have been putting in the running time with the Bondi 9 to find out if it's a good upgrade on the Bondi 8 and is one of the best new cushioned daily trainers to buy in 2025.Watch I
The Bondi line has always been one of Hoka’s most recognisable shoes, and the Bondi 9 continues that reputation as a highly cushioned, comfort-focused daily trainer. It sits firmly in the max-cushion category and is designed for runners who prioritise protection, smooth transitions, and overall comfort rather than speed.Read R
It's been around for years and it's always been known as offering a very highly protective underfoot experience.Watch E
They just feel GOOD to run in. The updated midsole is my favorite feature. The previous Bondi versions were very cushioned, almost to the the point where it felt a little stodgy. The updated supercritical foam in the midsole gives the runner a little return on their energy.Read R
The HOKA Bondi 9 returns in 2025 and receives some of the biggest updates we've seen in years. With an all new supercritical foam compound similiar to what's seen in the Mach 6, the Bondi 9 get softer and even smoother for running, while still maintaining the classic inherent stability and all day comfort. The HOKA Bondi 9 will be available in January 2025 at Running Warehouse.Watch C
Since its release in early 2026, the HOKA Bondi 9 has quickly become the gold standard for maximalist cushioning. Building on the massive success of its predecessor, the Bondi 9 introduces a new supercritical foam that is significantly lighter and more responsive.Read S
They do it in men's and women's versions, and with every single variation, it just keeps getting better and better, and the nine really is no exception. So, starting at the bottom, we have their durabbrasion podular outsole. When you look at this, you can see these darker areas. Those are actually made out of rubber.Watch A
The Bondi's supercritical EVA lands soft but recovers quickly, so your foot keeps moving through the stride instead of sinking into the midsole. That foam recovery speed is what separates a recovery shoe that protects your legs from one that just feels squishy.Read Y
Redesigned for the 9th generation with a new foam, I loved all my early miles in this shoe. In this episode, I give my updated thoughts on the Bondi 9, put it through the lab and let you know who should buy it.Watch F
After expert input, hands-on testing and thorough research, we chose the Hoka Bondi 9 as our top overall pick thanks to its plush cushioning and thick, supportive sole. Meanwhile, the Hoka Clifton 10 is a stable option built for extended wear.Read Y
let you know why it's now a shoe to consider if you're in the market for max cushion.Watch F
The HOKA Bondi 9 is a fan favourite for HOKA fans. One of the original ‘max-cushioned’ running shoes and now, this, the ninth version, sees that deep stack of cushioning increased even further and replaced with a new, supercritical-EVA foam.Read Y
This does look like something Sean Payton would rock or any NFL coach who's getting up there in years and wants something comfortable and supportive for his legs. It's the Sean Payton 9s. Yeah, we have the all new Hoka Bondi 9. I did get these from Hoka. You know why? It's a secret hookup. It's a secret hookup. They sent me the secret thing.Watch R
The Bondi 9 fixes almost everything that bugged me about the Bondi 8. The biggest win is the cushioning system . The Bondi 8 felt a bit dense and stiff, but the Bondi 9’s new foam is bouncier and has that marshmallow vibe (in a good way).Read R
So, when it comes to how well the shoes attach to your foot, Bondi clearly wins. Second thing you notice, comfort. Lock down plays a role here, so it makes sense to talk about them together. Like I said, Bondi has that amazing combo of being loose yet secure. On top of that, you get the signature Hoka deep heel cup, which keeps your foot locked in and avoids wobbling.Watch F
The result is a lighter, more responsive ride that maintains all the signature Hoka cushioning but with a bit more pop underfoot. The 4mm heel-to-toe drop from the previous model remains in the Bondi 9.Read F
So, let's start with the safest for most people, and that's the Hoka Bondi 9. If your main problem is hard floors beating your feet up, the Bondi 9 is one of the most protective shoes you can wear on concrete. The key thing here isn't just how thick the midsole is, it's how wide and stable the platform is underneath your foot.Watch P
“The Hoka Bondi 9 is a max cushioning shoe and is recommended for individuals with foot arthritis, heel pain, or those who spend long hours standing and walking,” explains Sharkey.Read F
Its wide platform, large sidewalls, and sole flare create excellent stability and all-day comfort, making it one of the best shoes for walking, standing jobs, and recovery runs.Watch H
If you’re after max cushioning for long shifts—and don’t mind the chunky Hoka look—the Bondi 9 has your back—and your heels.Read F
The Bondi 9 is softer, more cushioned, and ideal for all-day comfort, walking, standing, and easy runs. The Gaviota 6 is firmer, more stable, wider in the toe box, and better if you need extra support or pronation control.Watch R
The Bondi 9 isn’t clunky like past Bondis; new midsole foam makes the shoe more responsive and dynamic for faster efforts.Read F
It's very soft, very plush in the Bondi 9. In the Clifton 11, we've got the CMEVA cushioning, which is a little bit firmer, a little bit bouncier, and a little bit more energetic, especially if you're on the move a lot. And the geometry influences this as well. So, you can see the curve upward in the forefoot of the Clifton 11.Watch W
Soft landing, smooth transition, predictable ride. Nothing fancy. Just comfortable and exactly what I needed.Read R
The Bondi 9 boasts an upgraded plush super-critical EVA midsole and an improved fit for an even better experience.Watch E
More podiatrist-recommended shoes for sciatica are the Vionic Walk Max Skyline Sneaker and Hoka Bondi 9.Read R
And really the way they made the changes from the previous version to the Bondi 9, nothing but thumbs up for us. Now, honestly, for us in our shop, the most popular Hoka might not be the most popular for other run shops, but for us, it's the Gaviota. This is a high cushion, high stability shoe.Watch P
So, if stability is what you are looking for, the winner is the Hoka Bondi 9, hands down.Read E
Bondi 9 in één woord: Comfortabel!Watch A
If your rotation has a gap at the easy end, the Hoka Bondi 9 fills it well.Read A
The Hoka Bondi 9 is the latest in Hoka's line of max-cushioned daily trainers, delivering a soft, stable, and reliable ride for recovery runs, long walks, and all-day comfort. Featuring an upgraded supercritical foam midsole, a 5mm drop, and a revamped design, it offers plush cushioning with a natural feel.Watch A
My pick: the Bondi 9 — the supercritical EVA makes the difference between a shoe that protects your legs on recovery day and one that just feels soft.Watch R
The midsole of the Hoka Bondi 9 has received a nice upgrade and I feel like the Bondi is now more runnable. Support and cushion always has been a staple for the Bondi, now it's even better.Watch J
Looking for the perfect running shoe? Discover the Hoka Bondi 9, the ultimate women's everyday running shoe that combines unmatched cushioning, durability, and style. In this review, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the Bondi 9, including its supercritical EVA midsole, breathable engineered mesh upper, durable outsole, and more.Watch J
This is the Hoka Bondi 9, known as the king of comfort.Watch M
So, if you want the most plush ride possible, this shoe gives you exactly that. Now, the Brooks Ghost Max 3 has a DNA Loft V3 foam. It's still extremely comfortable, but the difference is I felt a lot more spring and energy return in these shoes, rather than the Bondi 9's just pure cushioning. But, the Brooks absorbs, but also gives you a nice little push forward.Watch M
The Bondi 9 is one of our best rated walking shoes of this year.Watch T
Should you buy the shoe? Yeah, this shoe right here. But before I dive into all that goodness, I do have to let you guys know one thing.Watch C
Discover the Hoka Bondi 9 Black, a sneaker celebrated for its exceptional cushioning, making it an ideal choice for anyone prioritizing comfort during their daily runs. This latest model features a revamped design with a higher stack height and a premium foam midsole, ensuring a soft, resilient ride regardless of distance.Watch T
Renowned as the hardest working shoe in the Hoka line up, this ultra-cushioned game-changer is the perfect option for the runner seeking peak plushness on their daily and longer runs.Watch 1
And you probably can run longer and faster with these because they are very light and they also uh bounce you off the ground uh better because of the extremely thick soles and they also have another layer in the middle. So it's very comfortable to wear and the top is also like a mesh like material so that it probably you probably have airflow going through it.Watch R
Experience unmatched cloud-like comfort with Hoka Bondi 9 running shoes. The perfect partner for long runs, lightweight cushioning, and style!Watch F
It has proactive cushioning that is geared towards, I would say, speed over comfort and it's very protective under your foot. This shoe in general is wider. I will say this allows for more consistent footing um when you're walking around in every day or running. So, it has a big wide base for your shoe to land on.Watch F
You still get a familiar Bondi ride, but the extra cushioning and new foam now creates plenty of bounce and a bit more pop, while the meta rocker helps to gently ease you through your stride.Watch J
The BONDI 9 surprised me!Watch B
I personally chose the Bondi 9 because of its maximum cushioning, support, and relief for my flat feet, over-pronation, and plantar fasciitis. After wearing them for a couple months, my hip, knee, and ankle pain has greatly subsided.Watch B
Cuz I'm like, "Have I told you how much I love my Hokas lately?" Because these are so much better than any other shoe you will ever wear. And here is a close-up so you can see how it's built and the color. So you can see the thickness of the sole. This is what makes it feel like you are walking on clouds. Oh, it just feels so good. All that. Now look here. This has the stability.Watch G
I am having a great time running on the trails and the streets in the new Hoka Bondi 9. I use the wide fit option for all my running shoes (when available). It will be the shoe I run in every other day, paired with the Saucony Triumph 24. Stay safe!Watch J
The Hoka Bondi 9 is here …one of the most cushioned daily trainers on the market.Watch I
They're super easy to slip on and it just it's the best shoes I've ever worn. It's hard to describe what it feels like to have it on, but the sole is just so comfortable. You got a thick sole as you can see. Gives me a good bit of height. If I lift my other foot off the ground, it's about almost an inch and a bit off the ground just wearing these shoes. Here's what they look like.Watch E
And to be honest, I would recommend them to anyone if you're going to run a lot and want to spend that sort of money. My last ones, I got about 600 odd miles out of them, which is pretty good.Watch A
It's a wrap, consumers activation with series of activites and installations for the launch of HOKA Bondi 9 in Jakarta to showcase its features and superiority towards consumers.Watch D
The Hoka Bondi 9 is not just a shoe. It is the most cushioned, most comfortable running shoe Hoka has ever made. The Bondi 9 has the highest stack height Hoka has ever put in the Bondi line. A new premium foam midsole delivers a soft, yet resilient ride, >> whether you are running 5 miles or standing on your feet all day. Structured knit upper with zonal breathability keeps your feet cool.Watch
18 mixed sources
Just giving a quick update. The shoe is way lighter, and great for walking. The toe lift is something I didn’t realize the bondi 9 had and something I still need to get used to. It is definitely a more snug fit around the toe area. Not sure if they are the right shoe for me for everyday wear. I really liked the bondi 7 and bondi 8.Read thread U
I have to say, these are VERY comfortable! But maybe too cushy to my taste for an ultra marathon.Watch R
Despite its comfort, the massive stack height is not for everyone. The shoe carries a noticeable amount of weight, which can feel burdensome if you prefer a nimble trainer. If you are a lighter runner, you might find the platform overkill. It can feel like you are lugging around extra gear rather than floating over the pavement.Read F
Both are standout neutral shoes—but which one is better for your foot type and purpose?Watch W
Similar in purpose as high-stack, comfort-focused trainers, the Bondi 9 is lighter but can feel less lively. Cody found the Wave Sky 9 smoother and more responsive, while still protecting legs just as well.Read F
Both shoes are wide-foot friendly, plush, and packed with comfort—but there are trade-offs to all that cushioning.Watch N
Since the Bondi 9s are so highly cushioned, they lift you off the ground by a few inches, which, at times, made Bowman tip his body forward. He also wasn’t always able to feel the road beneath him.Read R
The Bondi 9 features HOKA’s soft and energetic super critical foam, delivering a plush ride that’s ideal for long runs, recovery days, or when you want maximum protection. With a broader base and more cushioning underfoot, the Bondi is built for cruising in comfort.Watch M
While the Bondi 9 excels during long runs or slower, everyday training runs, the heavier, high cushion design is pretty limited when it comes to speed workouts or uptempo days.Read V
Reviewers consistently praise the shock absorption and all-day comfort, and just as consistently flag the narrower toe box as the thing to watch for if you have wider feet.Read R
If, however, you generally prefer firmer, snappier super shoes, you might struggle with such sponginess over a full marathon.Read R
What makes it the best? Comfort and stability seem polar opposites, but our walks with the HOKA Bondi 9 prove otherwise.Read G
A big, high-stack shoe that provides a lot of support, but surprisingly mediocre cushioning performanceRead S
The max-cushioned Hoka Bondi is great for recovery runs and keeping injuries at bayRead M
Users with narrow feet or low volume feet seeking precise, snug fitRead F Facebook Von Starky · owner
Do not buy Bondi 9 as the tear at the mesh where it meets sole.View post S
Not ideal for tempo runs, intervals, or <5:30 min/km speeds.Read W
Excessive cushioning not good for severe overpronationRead
3 unconvinced sources
I was disappointed by the performance of the Hoka Bondi 9 in comparison to the 8, finding it a tighter shoe with little improvement on the design of the 8, so it did not make it into my top 15.Read F Facebook Susie Trow · owner
I've recently upgraded to the Hoka Bondi 9's after owning two previous pairs of Bondis but I'm finding that the tongue is really uncomfortable and is digging into me.View post H r/Hoka u/Avocurry · owner
I had bought my normal size, mens size 10; ended up having to swap them out for a 10 wide, which is something I've never had to do before with any shoeRead thread
3 stance not read sources
The tread on the Clifton 9 is definitely grippier than the Bondi 9. The flared heel design also helps hold on to that extra bit of terrain you need during your heel-strike phase.Read D
Today we are diving into one of Hoka's most cushioned models, the Bondi 9, and how it's technically evolved from the Bondi 8. The Bondi line is known for its plush cushioning and all day comfort. But the Bondi 9, it brings some key updates, not just in looks, but in performance. The most significant change is the midsole. Bondi 9 uses reformulated compression molded EVA form.Watch R
Frequently asked questions
It ranks #2 of 17 on our walking shoes tier list, in A tier. That placement draws on 83 cited sources across 58 outlets.
3 of the 80 sources with a clear view are critical of it: Facebook, Fit&Well and r/Hoka. Tall stack introduces stability quirks.
On our walking shoes board, Hoka Bondi 9 ranks #2 (A tier) ahead of Hoka Clifton 10 at #3 (A tier). Hoka Clifton 10: Good balance of cushioning and stability for city walking.
On our walking shoes board, Hoka Bondi 9 ranks #2 (A tier) ahead of Hoka Bondi SR at #5 (A tier). Hoka Bondi SR: Overhyped and high-priced for the performance it delivers.
Ranked nearby in Walking Shoes
S tier #1 Brooks Ghost Max 3
A tier #3 2 of 12 research runs entered this as a product to avoid rather than a pick. Hoka Clifton 10
A tier #4 New Balance Fresh Foam X 880v15
A tier #5 1 of 3 research runs entered this as a product to avoid rather than a pick. Hoka Bondi SR
B tier #6 Asics Gel-Contend 9
B tier #7 Altra Experience Flow 3
F tier #15 4 of 12 research runs entered this as a product to avoid rather than a pick. Nike Motiva
F tier #16 6 of 10 research runs entered this as a product to avoid rather than a pick. Allbirds Wool Runner 2
F tier #17 6 of 9 research runs entered this as a product to avoid rather than a pick. Ryka Devotion Plus 3
F tier #18 4 of 7 research runs entered this as a product to avoid rather than a pick.