Hoka Bondi 9 review: If achy knees put you off running like me, these could be the solution

There's no mistaking the Hoka Bondi 9 - its chunky, super cushioned design already has a worldwide cult following thanks to the popularity of the previous model. With new and improved features, is there even more to love about the Bondi 9? I've taken them for a spin to find out.

As woman&home's digital health editor, it will probably come as no surprise that I'm a keen walker and runner. I do about 13,000 steps a day and go running a couple of times a week - that is, I did until my knees started aching. I'm coming back from an injury that took me out of my trainers for a couple of months and now, back to my old routine, my joints are feeling the return.

Having taken the previous model - the Hoka Bondi 8 - for a spin when creating my roundup of the best running shoes, I was very curious to see how the new version (out now) would measure up. Could the Hoka Bondi 9 help support me through my return to running?

If you do have aching joints, it's important to consult a medical practitioner before taking up running. This review is for general interest and not intended as advice.

Hoka Bondi 9 review

Specifications

• Size range: 4 - 9
• Materials: EVA foam sole with 55% recycled polyester upper
• Weight per shoe: 263g
• Heel to toe drop: 5mm
• Waterproof? No
• Suitable for: Road running, walking
• RRP: £160

Hoka Bondi 9: Design

As you might be able to tell by looking at them, the Hoka Bondi 9 is very chunky. The sole flares out and up at the heel like the Bondi 8 but the sole is 2mm chunkier. I measured the cushioning height at just over 6mm at the highest point, meaning the shoe has even more padding underfoot than the previous model and more than most other running trainers generally.

Yet, the shoe has a compact construction so, despite the size, these didn't feel overly large or bulky sticking out the end of my workout leggings when I was actually walking or running in them. In fact, the streamlined design and padding meant I barely noticed they were there.

The toe box feels spacious and the shoe's upper is made from breathable and lightweight knitted polyester material, restructured to allow the foot a little more wiggle room on the move, without letting up support across the top.

A meta rocker in the sole helps propel you along as you're walking or running, making the movement slightly easier, and a durabrasion rubber outsole means the shoe is more resistant to wear that comes with constant use. It also offers a good grip on different surfaces.

There are six colourways to choose from with the Hoka Bondi 9, including the bright turquoise I took for a spin. While the black collar initially perplexed me, the two-tone design make these shoes a unique choice in my sea of white and black trainers. There are also two white and two black versions along a purple and red blended colourway.

Who is the Hoka Bondi 9 for?

The Hoka Bondi 9 is a super cushioned shoe with a metarocker, making it perfect for longer walks and runs where you need a little more support underfoot. From personal experience, I can also attest to how beneficial these shoes can be if you have achy knees or ankles and need more cushioning than average for shorter distances, or if you're new to running and unused to the impact.

Whether you're doing your first 5km, training for a marathon, or looking for a shoe that blends style with comfort to take on your next city break, these fit the bill.

However, this is not a hiking shoe. It's not a waterproof shoe. If you're looking for a shoe that can withstand anything more than a day exploring a new city or your next long run, you'd be better off opting for the Hoka Speedgoat 6, for example - a shoe in our round-up of the best walking shoes. While the grip on the shoe is good, it's not going to stand up to terrains rockier than a pavement or trail path.

The Hoka Bondi 9 is also not a shoe for wearing to the gym. The shoe's sole is fairly neutral (I didn't feel I was being pushed forward when standing still) but it has a meta rocker. This means you'll find yourself slightly more unstable than you should be for strength training and lower-body workouts. Instead, I'd recommend a completely flat-soled shoe, like the Lululemon strongfeel trainers.

What is the Hoka Bondi 9 like to wear?

The Hoka Bondi 9 running shoes are a dream to wear. They feel wide around the toes, stable across the entire foot up to the ankle, and super soft to run on, supporting my knees and other joints on a 15km and 10km run across pavements, canal paths, and trails.

These shoes faired up well on all terrains and I was particularly impressed with the grip on the shifting sand and grit of the trail ground, given these aren't billed as trail shoes.

As I sized up by half a size, as I do with all Hoka trainers, they felt roomier than my other running trainers. This gave me plenty of breathing room without feeling too big, giving me confidence that I'll be able to wear these without an issue in the summer when the temperature is significantly higher and feet tend to swell.

I also wore them walking to and from work and around the office all day, before heading into town for dinner. In total, I racked up 21,456 steps. While I'd normally feel anything upwards of 10,000 on my ankles the next morning, I bounced out of bed the next day.

Is the Hoka Bondi 9 worth buying?

Absolutely. While I'm careful about recommending a pair without someone having had a gait analysis test, I'm confident most people would benefit from the comfort and support of the Hoka Bondi 9 for running or walking. If you're looking for everyday support or a workhorse for your next long walk or run, these are perfect in my eyes.

The soft foam sole and supportive upper design make this shoe perfect for proud slow runners who love pounding the pavements and anyone wanting to walk or run longer distances or with more support for their joints.

At £160, they also sit at a mid-point in the price range, so while you can buy cheaper options, I think they are certainly good value for money given the durable design and improved comfort for only £10 more than the previous model.

The Hoka Bondi 9 is available to buy directly from Hoka.

How does the Hoka Bondi 9 compare?

If you're looking for an ultra-plush running shoe but you're not convinced by the Hoka Bondi 9, you could try the model down - the Hoka Bondi 8. You'll find similar support over the forefoot with excellent cushioning (albeit 2mm thinner) underfoot. Given the release of this new shoe, you might even be able to find a deal on them. At regular retail price, they are only £10 cheaper than the Bondi 9 though, so I'd recommend spending extra and opting for the new release.

Otherwise, I recommend the New Balance 1080v14 for a more versatile option. Having worn this shoe for both speed-focused runs and gentle jogs, it finds a great balance between being comfortable and supportive with a little more propulsion than the Hoka Bondi 9 underfoot.