Hoka Bondi 6 VS Bondi 7: What Should I Buy?

The Bondi 6 and Bondi 7 are two of Hoka’s most popular neutral trainers, known for their cloud-like cushioning and comfort over long miles. But with two great options, which Bondi is best for you?

In this comparison review, we’ll break down the key features and performance of the Hoka One One Bondi 6 and Bondi 7 to help you decide which version suits your running needs.

We’ll compare these two maximal cushion shoes across various categories including fit, cushioning, stability, weight, and value. Read on to find out if the tried-and-true Bondi 6 or the updated Bondi 7 is the better pick!

Similarities And Differences Between Hoka Bondi 6 And Bondi 7:

Specs Hoka Bondi 6 Hoka One One Bondi 7
Launched In 2019 2020
Stability Neutral Neutral
Flexibility Moderate Moderate
Sizing True to size Runs small, consider sizing up 0.5
Weight 10.7 oz (men’s), 9.5 oz (women’s) 10.7 oz (men’s), 9.5 oz (women’s)
Cushion Maximum Maximum
Outsole Durable rubber Durable rubber
Midsole CMEVA Foam CMEVA Foam + Meta-Rocker technology
Upper Engineered mesh Engineered mesh
Retail Price $377 $170

Features Comparison:

Let’s now see how the features of the former Bondi 6 compare against the newer Bondi 7.

Materials:

The Bondi 6 and Bondi 7 share a similar construction, with durable rubber outsoles, CMEVA foam midsoles, and engineered mesh uppers.

BONDI 6
BONDI 7

The main update in the Bondi 7 is the addition of Meta-Rocker technology in the midsole, which is designed to promote smooth heel-to-toe transitions. The outsoles and uppers are nearly identical between the two models.

Durability:

In terms of durability, both the Bondi 6 and Bondi 7 perform well, offering runners several hundred miles of use before signs of wear appear. The rubber outsoles are built to handle abrasive road surfaces, while the mesh uppers show minimal creasing or tear over time.

Some Bondi 6 users report the foam cushioning packing down more quickly than previous versions, but overall both provide good durability.

Fit:

The Bondi 6 fits true to size for most runners, with a roomy toe box and secure midfoot wrap.

BONDI 6 TOP VIEW
BONDI 7 TOP VIEW

However, the Bondi 7 runs small – many users recommend sizing up by 0.5 for a comfortable fit.

The upper has a more snug fit overall in the 7 versus the 6. Both models cater to medium to wide foot shapes. The Bondi 7 also has a slightly narrower toe box according to some wearers.

Stability:

As neutral running shoes, the Bondi 6 and 7 offer minimal stabilization features beyond a supportive frame around the foot. The wider profile helps keep runners with moderate overpronation in alignment.

For those needing more stability, the Bondi models may not provide enough pronation control. Overall, neither shoe is ideal for severe overpronators.

Cushioning:

With a focus on soft comfort, both the Bondi 6 and 7 deliver exceptional cushioning. The plush CMEVA foam midsoles and moderate 4mm drop provide noticeable shock absorption without feeling overly squishy or unstable.

The Meta-Rocker shape in the Bondi 7 does not drastically change the cushioned ride – it’s incremental enhancement versus a redesign. Both shoes excel at providing maximal, marshmallow-like cushioning.

Value For Money:

The Bondi 6 has a higher retail price of $377, which is typical for an older model that is harder to find. The Bondi 7 is the newer release at $170 MSRP.

Considering the Bondi 6 is not readily available at its original pricing, the Bondi 7 provides better value with its lower current selling price.

Even though the Bondi 6 is a proven cushioned model, the limited remaining stock makes it pricier and more difficult to purchase.

The Bondi 7 has enhanced midsole technology while costing significantly less than the aged Bondi 6.

For runners looking for maximum Hoka cushioning on a budget, the Bondi 7 is the better value pick given its lower and more accessible pricing. The 6 simply costs too much for an older model.

Performance Comparision:

Both Bondi 6 and 7 are exceptional shoes that can take you for a ride. So here we are going to compare performance of these two shoes to see how they excel.

For Walking:

The Bondi 6 and 7 both make comfortable walking shoes thanks to their well-cushioned midsoles and easy-fitting uppers. The ample foam softens impact while the roomy toe boxes allow natural toe splay.

The Meta-Rocker shape of the Bondi 7 offers a slightly more fluid walking gait, but overall both models provide a smooth and pain-free walking experience.

For Running:

As maximally cushioned trainers, the Bondi 6 and Bondi 7 are ideal for longer-distance runs at easy paces. The soft midsoles keep legs feeling fresh mile after mile.

The rockered soles encourage an efficient heel-to-toe transition that conserves energy on runs. The Bondi 7’s Meta-Rocker aims to enhance that smooth rolling sensation but the difference is modest. For easy runs, long runs, and recovery days, both models deliver.

For Plantar Fasciitis:

The highly cushioned midsoles of the Bondi 6 and Bondi 7 provide ample shock absorption for runners with plantar fasciitis and similar conditions. The soft foam and beveled heel designs diffuse impact away from pressure points along the foot. The spacious toe boxes allow room for orthotics if needed. For reducing pain and irritation along the plantar fascia, both Bondis can aid recovery.

For Standing All Day:

While not workplace shoes per se, the well-cushioned Bondi 6 and Bondi 7 help take pressure off feet during prolonged standing or walking. The plush foam underfoot maintains comfort even over hours of wear.

The roomy toe boxes accommodate minor foot swelling. While lacking workplace shoe features like slip resistance, both provide welcome relief from hard floors when on your feet all day.

Final Verdict:

In the battle between the Bondi 6 versus the Bondi 7, there is no clear winner. The Bondi 7 makes incremental improvements on the 6 with a new Meta-Rocker midsole shape and slightly snugger upper. However, the overall maximally cushioned character and performance remain largely similar.

For runners with wider feet or seeking a more spacious toe box, the Bondi 6 may be the better pick. But for those wanting a smoother heel-to-toe transition and updated styling, the Bondi 7 takes the lead. Both deliver ultra-cushioned comfort ideal for long mileage days.

In the end, deciding between the tried-and-true Bondi 6 and the new Bondi 7 comes down to fit and pricing.

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