Hoka

Bondi 9

Women's

Initially I thought the Bondi 9 was perfection. I had a new pair of Bondi 7’s on when they arrived and it was like a “new and improved” version. Everything I loved about the Bondi 7 only even more cushioning and less of the large foot print of the Bondi 8. Two weeks into wearing them, I would wake up with my lower back and hips killing me. I do daily yoga and strength training so this made little sense. I went on to Hoka’s website and noticed others talk about how they make you walk on the outer edge of the shoe. I don’t know why the would change this shoe to the degree that it effects your gait, but it did mine and that was a huge disappointment. I had to send them back of course. I’ve worn every version of Bondi. Again, a horrible, unnecessary change.

Loved everything about the shoe except the width. I need extra width to accommodate bunions on both feet and the regular width was just not wide enough.

Bondi Lovers will like this new update. Soft step in, excellent arch support, 2mm taller than Bondi 8. The forefoot flair is a little more streamlined for those who thought was like a "clown shoe" but is still very stable. Heel counter holds the foot firmly so it's a great lockdown. Some think there needs to be more width and runs narrow- was not true in my case, I was good with my HOKA 9.5, regular width. The shape, to me, is Mach 6 (ish) with the same new foam, only taller. Recommended for easy runs, walking, healthcare, all day wear. I will be buying more colors as they release.

This shoe (in wide width) is very comfortable to accommodate my wide foot. The cushioning is very plush, especially the heel. If they weren't so expensive I'd get another color. I'm a teacher so these are great for supporting my feet at work.

The shoe pushed on my big toe knuckle causing some discomfort (I have arthritis there). Also, the extra padding of the sole is too much for me. I like a lower profile shoe.