8 much better than 7
Having a wide size with planter fasciitis and pronation with tendency to turn or be unsteady on an ankle, I have usually bought other brands. But last year I tried the Bondi 7 and while nice still had both toe box issues and pronation issues but really loved the sneakers. Last week I purchased the Bondi 8, as the design clued me in to MAYBE somebody had figured the issues out and WOW what a difference! The Bond 8, has a more splaid sole offering a 'check' against the pronation and ankle flipping, and it has a better wrap-around of material at ankle AND better toe box. Wider toe box. I can choose my socks more easily to wear. I wear my sneakers to run around in daily job of teaching, stairs, distances between schools, currently constantly in hospitals and rehabs for ... MoreHaving a wide size with planter fasciitis and pronation with tendency to turn or be unsteady on an ankle, I have usually bought other brands. But last year I tried the Bondi 7 and while nice still had both toe box issues and pronation issues but really loved the sneakers. Last week I purchased the Bondi 8, as the design clued me in to MAYBE somebody had figured the issues out and WOW what a difference! The Bond 8, has a more splaid sole offering a 'check' against the pronation and ankle flipping, and it has a better wrap-around of material at ankle AND better toe box. Wider toe box. I can choose my socks more easily to wear. I wear my sneakers to run around in daily job of teaching, stairs, distances between schools, currently constantly in hospitals and rehabs for family at fast moments and they are making it possible for me to turn on a dime to help without losing my balance. And they are LIGHT on the feet. The only comment of suggestion is that the designers need to make the insole slightly wider or different design to make the interior edge at the arch not rub. It requires ME to figure that issue out and for the price it's an easy fix by the company. FIX IT PLEASE. Outside of that I highly recommend these Bondi 8's for everyday wear.... Show more
Lorifran
originally posted on hoka.com
Everyone was right...
About Hoka having the most comfortable shoes ever! Yes, admittedly they look quite huge and some of the colorways practically scream at you, but they are much lighter than they look and I'm really liking the newer colors they have available now. I'd seen Hokas in stores for a few years and just kept passing them by until a couple of months ago when the new Clifton 9 caught my eye and I've been hooked ever since. I'm not a runner but I do love to walk and I now own 3 pairs of Hokas, including the Bondi 8 which is the reason for this review.It's the biggest Hoka style I currently have (that is until I decide on purchasing the Bondi X, hehe) but it's not a heavy shoe at all. I had to have the Cherries Jubilee color and it arrived just as pictured. Simply gorgeous! ... MoreAbout Hoka having the most comfortable shoes ever! Yes, admittedly they look quite huge and some of the colorways practically scream at you, but they are much lighter than they look and I'm really liking the newer colors they have available now. I'd seen Hokas in stores for a few years and just kept passing them by until a couple of months ago when the new Clifton 9 caught my eye and I've been hooked ever since. I'm not a runner but I do love to walk and I now own 3 pairs of Hokas, including the Bondi 8 which is the reason for this review.It's the biggest Hoka style I currently have (that is until I decide on purchasing the Bondi X, hehe) but it's not a heavy shoe at all. I had to have the Cherries Jubilee color and it arrived just as pictured. Simply gorgeous! Took them on a trip to the San Diego zoo, walked six miles with no problem and no sore feet. Plenty of room for my somewhat wide feet even though I purchased a regular width as that was all that was available for the color. Loved them so much I'm now waiting on a second pair in the Shifting Sands color ;)... Show more
NewHokaFanMom
originally posted on hoka.com
I HATE BONDI 8!
I've been a Hoka-Bondi customer since the Bondi 4 came out. In my opinion the Bondi 7 is the best running shoe ever made (period, hands down!). Now, we have the Bondi 8, and I am very unhappy. Where do I start with one of the poorest-designed shoes ever made. First of all, the toe box is lower, and narrow (compared to the Bondi 7). The shoe laces are made of a cheaper material than the Bondi 7, and are so short you cannot tie a 'runner's lace' using the top hole for the laces. The tongue of the shoe is sewn into the side of the shoe (for no reason I can think of), so it cannot be adjusted. And, no, sorry, I am not done yet. The tab used to pull the shoe on (on the top portion of the heel) is sewn on vertically instead of horizontally, and is made of cheaper fabric ... MoreI've been a Hoka-Bondi customer since the Bondi 4 came out. In my opinion the Bondi 7 is the best running shoe ever made (period, hands down!). Now, we have the Bondi 8, and I am very unhappy. Where do I start with one of the poorest-designed shoes ever made. First of all, the toe box is lower, and narrow (compared to the Bondi 7). The shoe laces are made of a cheaper material than the Bondi 7, and are so short you cannot tie a 'runner's lace' using the top hole for the laces. The tongue of the shoe is sewn into the side of the shoe (for no reason I can think of), so it cannot be adjusted. And, no, sorry, I am not done yet. The tab used to pull the shoe on (on the top portion of the heel) is sewn on vertically instead of horizontally, and is made of cheaper fabric that is not reflective. And, now, for my least favorite part of the shoe. The whole bottom portion of the shoe is outright silly. What the heck are those 'waves' about that extend from the footbed to the ground? This is especially bad for a runner (like myself) who supinates. My feet are constantly trying to run on the outside of the shoe, but can't because of the wide base of the shoe. Two good things about this shoe are the cushioning, and the color (love the purple).... Show more
Mona
originally posted on hoka.com
I will be returning this pair.
Knowing how comfortable my Bondi 7s are, I was looking for another pair in black with black soles to take to Japan where I knew I would be doing a lot of walking. The only style I could find in my size with black on black were the Bondi 8s. I wore this pair walking on streets, climbing stairs, hiking, and in light rain. I was very disappointed to find that this pair was not as comfortable as my Bondi 7s. It felt as like the Bondi 8 didn't have as much cushioning, which made my feet tire out and hurt by the end of the day. When I couldn't take it any longer, I wore my other pair of shoes (different manufacturer), and my feet felt fine at the end of the day. I put the Bondi 8s back in my luggage and never brought them back out again. To add to this, the Bondi 8s are ... MoreKnowing how comfortable my Bondi 7s are, I was looking for another pair in black with black soles to take to Japan where I knew I would be doing a lot of walking. The only style I could find in my size with black on black were the Bondi 8s. I wore this pair walking on streets, climbing stairs, hiking, and in light rain. I was very disappointed to find that this pair was not as comfortable as my Bondi 7s. It felt as like the Bondi 8 didn't have as much cushioning, which made my feet tire out and hurt by the end of the day. When I couldn't take it any longer, I wore my other pair of shoes (different manufacturer), and my feet felt fine at the end of the day. I put the Bondi 8s back in my luggage and never brought them back out again. To add to this, the Bondi 8s are very unattractive, being very wide on top. My sister also bought Bondi 8s for the same trip, and she also complained about the discomfort. We referred to them as our duck shoes because it looked as if we had duck feet when we had them on. Very disappointed all around.... Show more
Japan traveler
originally posted on hoka.com
Like Heaven For Midfoot Arthritis
Hoka's are the only sneakers I put my collapsing worn out feet into. Why? Because no other brand helps my feet with the pain as much as some select styles of Hoka do. Even my doctors recommend Hoka over Brooks.Recently, I bought 2 different styles. The Gaviota 4 and Bondi 8, both 9 1/2, wide. The moment I put the Bondi 8 on, I knew they were a keeper. The insoles have great arch support (didn't need to replace with my custom orthotics). They push off without affecting my recent knee replacement & I felt like I was walking on air.I had a different experience with the Gaviota 4. Not as wide. Over all length seems shorter then Bondi 8 or my older Arahi 5 (another comfy sneaker). The Gaviota 4, to me, aren't as cushiony under the balls of the feet. They aren't as ... MoreHoka's are the only sneakers I put my collapsing worn out feet into. Why? Because no other brand helps my feet with the pain as much as some select styles of Hoka do. Even my doctors recommend Hoka over Brooks.Recently, I bought 2 different styles. The Gaviota 4 and Bondi 8, both 9 1/2, wide. The moment I put the Bondi 8 on, I knew they were a keeper. The insoles have great arch support (didn't need to replace with my custom orthotics). They push off without affecting my recent knee replacement & I felt like I was walking on air.I had a different experience with the Gaviota 4. Not as wide. Over all length seems shorter then Bondi 8 or my older Arahi 5 (another comfy sneaker). The Gaviota 4, to me, aren't as cushiony under the balls of the feet. They aren't as supportive in the arch area as Bondi or Arahi. Also, when I walked, they seemed to put a strain on the knee that had the arthroplasty surgery (3 months ago).If you don't have any real major foot problems, the Gaviota 4 should be fine (it's a nice looking sneaker). Just remember, wide feet might not be able to use this sneaker because it's not a true wide. For problem feet, go with Bondi 8. They are the most comfortable sneakers I HAVE EVER worn. At work, I do about 10,000 steps & unlike other sneakers, my feet are still feeling pretty decent by days end.... Show more
DPSF
originally posted on hoka.com
Love the cushion, hate the pain
I used to wear Brooks Adrenalines but decided to try these Bondis (size 8 in the lavender color) because of the extreme cushion. The shoes are beautiful and felt so springy while walking/running; however, the inner bottom of my feet started to BURN and cause pain after 15 or so minutes of wearing these. My feet had red lines (almost like a blister was about to form) from the shoes...I wore these for a week thinking I just needed to break them in (even though this has never happened with my Brooks), but the red line situation never improved. This also started impacting walking barefoot around my house and wearing other shoes.I wanted these to work so bad but ultimately returned them. Also, a google search lead me to find other reviews stating the same issue -- ... MoreI used to wear Brooks Adrenalines but decided to try these Bondis (size 8 in the lavender color) because of the extreme cushion. The shoes are beautiful and felt so springy while walking/running; however, the inner bottom of my feet started to BURN and cause pain after 15 or so minutes of wearing these. My feet had red lines (almost like a blister was about to form) from the shoes...I wore these for a week thinking I just needed to break them in (even though this has never happened with my Brooks), but the red line situation never improved. This also started impacting walking barefoot around my house and wearing other shoes.I wanted these to work so bad but ultimately returned them. Also, a google search lead me to find other reviews stating the same issue -- something about how their insole padding or whatever comes up on the sides?). Either way, I'm thankful for Hoka's amazing return policy but will likely not buy their shoes again. I recommend people new to Hoka visit a store and try these on instead of buying them online. Hopefully this review helps some of you!... Show more
Alex
originally posted on hoka.com
No longer my perfect shoe
I have been wearing the Bondi shoes for five years. They have been a lifesaver for my terrible feet. I have always had three pair that I am wearing at any one time; one for outdoors, one pair for indoors only and the oldest pair are used for any messy activity. My podiatrist has advised me to never walk with bare feet. I replaced and rotated the shoes every 6-8 months. Recently, I purchased the newly redesigned Bondi 8 and unfortunately, they were uncomfortable from the start. I put them on and off, and readjusted many times. I continued this for 3 days. The toe box in the new shoe is not as roomy. The upper area rubbed against the top of my metatarsals and toes. Also, the tongue does not move freely. It is attached on one side making it difficult to stay exactly ... MoreI have been wearing the Bondi shoes for five years. They have been a lifesaver for my terrible feet. I have always had three pair that I am wearing at any one time; one for outdoors, one pair for indoors only and the oldest pair are used for any messy activity. My podiatrist has advised me to never walk with bare feet. I replaced and rotated the shoes every 6-8 months. Recently, I purchased the newly redesigned Bondi 8 and unfortunately, they were uncomfortable from the start. I put them on and off, and readjusted many times. I continued this for 3 days. The toe box in the new shoe is not as roomy. The upper area rubbed against the top of my metatarsals and toes. Also, the tongue does not move freely. It is attached on one side making it difficult to stay exactly where I wanted it. Finally, I sent them back. I am so disappointed and sad. These are the only shoes I have ever owned that fit perfectly the moment I put them on, no break-in period required. I have recommended them to many, many people. Sometimes when I'm out, people will stop and ask me how I like them. I'm not an athlete, just a regular person. These shoes have changed and improved my life more than I can explain and I'm not sure what I'm going to do now. I scoured the Internet trying to find a pair of Bondi 7's in my size, but could not find any. I see a number of other reviews with similar complaints. I hope that the Hoka company will reconsider the redesign of the formerly perfect shoe.... Show more
Sue the happy walker
originally posted on hoka.com
Not sure if I will buy again
I have been wearing Hoka One One Bondi since the very beginning. I have owned every version off the Bondi, and I have stocked up on my favorites 6 and 7, unisex suede versions, even some Valors. The spring measurement has decreased 4 in the forefoot, and increased by 3 in the heel. This puts more pressure on the metatarsals/ball of foot. I wear the Bondi because it used to protect the ball of my foot. I wear these shoes because I need them to walk pain free, not because they are pretty. The newest iteration is not as plush. I agree with other reviewers that the shoes can be squeaky at times, and white is never truly white. It is always a very light blue or lavender. The upper of the 8 is very narrow, but if I size up to wide the heel will pop up and down ( slip.)I ... MoreI have been wearing Hoka One One Bondi since the very beginning. I have owned every version off the Bondi, and I have stocked up on my favorites 6 and 7, unisex suede versions, even some Valors. The spring measurement has decreased 4 in the forefoot, and increased by 3 in the heel. This puts more pressure on the metatarsals/ball of foot. I wear the Bondi because it used to protect the ball of my foot. I wear these shoes because I need them to walk pain free, not because they are pretty. The newest iteration is not as plush. I agree with other reviewers that the shoes can be squeaky at times, and white is never truly white. It is always a very light blue or lavender. The upper of the 8 is very narrow, but if I size up to wide the heel will pop up and down ( slip.)I know those of you not familiar with Hoka before the 8 may like these, but I think Hoka needs tot go back to the drawing board. Hoka is getting away from the reason so many of us are loyal to the brand. Good, supportive, highly cushioned shoes, minimal heel to toe drop that alleviates forefoot pressure, plantar fasciitis, arthritis , and makes it possible for those of us with problem feet to be able to get out and walk, run and enjoy life with out pain. And keeps people without foot problems running and walking problem free.... Show more
anon
originally posted on hoka.com
Not the same as my old Bondi's
My absolute FAVORITE pair of shoes of my life are my old Hokas which are about 4-5 years old and the heel cracked in luggage about 6 months ago and I've been on a quest to replace them. The newer Bondi's are much more narrow and the wides are way too wide. The comfort is just not the same. My original pair was brand new when we did a trip to Italy and walked over 20 miles in a day and my feet were so happy! The new Bondi's don't compare. I got the same size and my toes were so squished that the first pair I purchased I donated after 2 weeks. Just not comfortable. I recently ordered the newest Bondi's in regular and wide, and tried a few other Hoka styles. The comfort doesn't compare. Not even close to my old ones with the cracked heel and hole in the toe even at 4+ ... MoreMy absolute FAVORITE pair of shoes of my life are my old Hokas which are about 4-5 years old and the heel cracked in luggage about 6 months ago and I've been on a quest to replace them. The newer Bondi's are much more narrow and the wides are way too wide. The comfort is just not the same. My original pair was brand new when we did a trip to Italy and walked over 20 miles in a day and my feet were so happy! The new Bondi's don't compare. I got the same size and my toes were so squished that the first pair I purchased I donated after 2 weeks. Just not comfortable. I recently ordered the newest Bondi's in regular and wide, and tried a few other Hoka styles. The comfort doesn't compare. Not even close to my old ones with the cracked heel and hole in the toe even at 4+ years old. I tried on so many different styles and finally settled on a new pair. Wore them one day on vacation and had to stop and buy sandals half way through the first day because I had so many blisters I could barely wal--the plastic on the side dug into my heel on both feet, the cushioning was not comfortable and I had blisters on the ball of my foot and side of my toe and under my heel. I think I may never find a pair that matches my originals. I wish I could get a pair of the originals. Really bummed out.... Show more
SM with sore feet
originally posted on hoka.com
Tongue is too flimsy
The first Hokas I ever purchased (about ten years ago) were Cliftons and I loved them. I migrated over to the Bondis when I started walking again a few years ago for the extra cushioning for my large (and aging) frame. I've lost about 30 lbs and wanted a more responsive shoe to match my longer and faster walks, so I ordered the Clifton 8s. I ordered the regular width a half size larger, which is what I typically do, as I have a wide toebox but narrow heels. The fit was fine but I had an issue with the flimsy tongue--it is just fabric and didn't provide the same padding that my older model Cliftons did and the current Bondi and Challenger models do. I tend to use all the lacing holes including the one at the very top towards the side because off the narrow heel. The ... MoreThe first Hokas I ever purchased (about ten years ago) were Cliftons and I loved them. I migrated over to the Bondis when I started walking again a few years ago for the extra cushioning for my large (and aging) frame. I've lost about 30 lbs and wanted a more responsive shoe to match my longer and faster walks, so I ordered the Clifton 8s. I ordered the regular width a half size larger, which is what I typically do, as I have a wide toebox but narrow heels. The fit was fine but I had an issue with the flimsy tongue--it is just fabric and didn't provide the same padding that my older model Cliftons did and the current Bondi and Challenger models do. I tend to use all the lacing holes including the one at the very top towards the side because off the narrow heel. The lacings felt too tight no matter how I tied them and after about two miles, the top of my foot felt bruised. I tried thicker socks but it didn't help. Sadly, these are going back, the first pair of Hokas I have ever returned.... Show more
JB
originally posted on hoka.com