About HOKA
In 2009, minimalist shoes were all the rage—runners and athletes everywhere were joining the barefoot movement.
But the founders of HOKA One One (pronounced O-nay O-nay), which roughly translates to "soar over the land" or "fly over the earth" in Maori, had entirely different shoes in mind. Nicolas Mermoud and Jean-Luc Diard, seasoned trail runners and former employees of Salomon SAS—a sports equipment manufacturing company headquartered in Annecy, France—ventured to create a shoe that allowed for faster downhill running.
The result? Highly cushioned new shoes with an oversized outsole. Yes, they were bulky, but they offered more cushion than any other shoe on the market at the time, providing unmatched comfort and stability. The shoes were initially a hit among ultramarathoners but quickly became popular among other types of runners, from serious athletes to casual runners to recovery runners.
In 2013, HOKA One One was acquired by California-based Deckers Brands, the parent company of footwear brands UGG, Teva, and Sanuk. In 2021, it officially became "HOKA," a move that aimed to simplify the brand's identity and make it more accessible to a broader audience.
Although "HOKA" has become synonymous with maximalist, highly cushioned shoes, the brand offers a diverse range of footwear types, including:
- Performance road running shoes
- Stability shoes
- Trail running shoes
- Hiking shoes and boots
- Walking shoes
- Training and gym shoes
- Lifestyle and casual shoes
- Recovery footwear
What are HOKA Bondi 8 women's shoes good for?
The HOKA Bondi 8 for women is a type of women's neutral shoes, and it's easily one of the best cushioned running shoes for long-distance runners. The soft but beefy midsole foam, combined with the extended heel that absorbs more shock, provides a stable foundation for a smoother, more seamless ride.
The Bondi 8 is an excellent cushioned shoe option for long-distance runs, recovery runs, casual runs, and even tempo runs. They're best for various types of runners, including:
- Runners who want joint protection
- Everyday runners who seek cushioned comfort and support
- Heavier runners who may require more shock absorption in their running shoes
- Beginner runners
What are the features of the HOKA Bondi 8 cushioned road running shoes?
The HOKA Bondi 8 for women has several standout features:
Lightweight, resilient EVA foam
- Soft cushion that's maximally plush
- Absorbs more shock without the added weight
Extended heel
- Extended, reshaped heel for better shock absorption and stability
- Smoother transition from heel strike to toe off
Ortholite hybrid sockliner
- Removable layer of material that helps distribute pressure evenly across the foot
- Wicks moisture away to keep feet dry during runs
Engineered mesh upper
- Allows for better airflow to keep the feet cool
- Adapts to the shape of the foot for a snug but comfortable fit
Durable rubber outsole
- Designed for traction on road surfaces, ensuring grip and stability
- Built to withstand wear and tear
Early-stage meta-rocker
- Slight curvature of the sole, creating a "rocking chair" effect
- Propels the runner forward, enhancing running efficiency
Plush padding around the ankle collar
- Soft padding that minimizes friction, reducing the risk of blisters
- Ensures secure fit around the ankles
Wide platform for stability
- A broader base for runners needing a bit more balance
Reflective details
- For enhanced visibility in low-light conditions
Depending on your running style, weight, and the surfaces you run on, HOKA Bondi 8 cushion shoes typically last around 400 miles. Proper care and regular rotation with other shoes can extend their lifespan.
What types of cushioning do the HOKA women's Bondi 8 running shoes offer?
With the Bondi 8, HOKA has stayed true to its proprietary ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) foam padding. This lightweight, resilient foam provides excellent cushioning and shock absorption, reducing impact on the joints while ensuring a comfortable, smooth ride even during extended use.
Are the women's HOKA Bondi 8 shoes suitable for non-runners?
Yes, they are. The Bondi 8 women's cushioned running shoes are a good shoe option for people who spend a lot of time on their feet. They're incredibly soft and a great choice for walking, running errands, or standing for long periods.
What surfaces are the Bondi 8 HOKA women's shoes designed for?
The Bondi 8 running shoe model is designed for road running. But its excellent cushioning and support also make it suitable for various paved surfaces, including tracks and sidewalks.
HOKA Bondi 7 vs. Bondi 8 HOKA: What's the difference?
The HOKA Bondi line of women's shoes offers some of the most cushioned running shoes in the market. The Bondi 7 is already highly cushioned, but compared with the Bondi 8, it has slightly less cushioning.
Although the Bondi 8's midsole is more cushioned and softer, it's less responsive compared to the Bondi 7, says one review. Another reviewer says the Bondi 8's extended rear crash pad affords more stability and a smoother glide.
Here's how they compare:
Bondi 7
- Slightly firmer cushioning that's more responsive
- Traditional HOKA heel design
- Comfortable and well-ventilated upper
- Provides a more familiar feel for runners who prefer the previous versions of the Bondi
Bondi 8
- More cushioned midsole
- Extended heel geometry for a smoother transition from heel strike to toe off
- Redesigned upper for a more secure fit and improved breathability
- Less responsive than the Bondi 7, which may affect energy return
How should I clean and care for my HOKA Bondi 8 women's shoes?
If you sometimes venture off pavement when running, outsoles caked with mud can compromise traction. Also, if your shoe uppers are always dirty, grit and grime can work their way into your shoes via the mesh or fabric, which can feel extremely uncomfortable, like sandpaper.
Not only that—an occasional, gentle scrub can prolong the lifespan of your Bondi 8 running shoes.
Some general tips on caring for your HOKA Bondi 8:
- Disassemble your shoes. Your laces can go into the laundry with your running clothes.
- Hand wash your shoes and insoles with cold water using a gentle detergent or soap. Scrub them with a soft-bristled toothbrush until you work a lather.
- Wipe off dirty water with a dry towel as you go.
- If still wet, blot them dry with a dry cloth.
- Air-dry when done. Keep them away from direct sunlight or heat—these can warp them.
- Machine-washing or using a dryer will age your shoes considerably.
A more comprehensive care and cleaning guide can be found on the HOKA website.
Are there different color options available for the HOKA Bondi 8 women's shoes?
Yes, HOKA Bondi 8 women's shoes come in various colors, including shades of black, blue, gray, orange, red, pink, purple, and white. Seasonal colors are likewise available, such as shadow/dusk, cream/vanilla, airy blue/sunlit ocean, and solar flare/lettuce.
You might want to check out the bestselling harbor mist/lunar rock color as well.
Visit the HOKA website or your local athletic store for a full list of the colors they have in stock.
Where can I buy HOKA Bondi 8 women's shoes?
Athletic Annex is a trusted Indianapolis athletic wear distributor of HOKA shoes. Our collection of HOKA running shoes includes not just the Bondi 8 but other fan favorites like the Clifton 9 and the Mach 6.
Athletic Annex also offers products from other footwear brands, including Brooks, Nike, and Saucony.
Need your gait analyzed? Worried about an existing injury? We offer free screenings to help you find the best footwear and prevent future issues.
Want to connect with our team? Fill out this form or email sales@athleticannex.com. We'll get back to you within 24-48 hours.
