There’s an argument to be made that running has never been more centred in the zeitgeist than right now. Participation in the Sydney Marathon has increased by 400% since 2022, the Melbourne Marathon had a record number of entries in 2024, and you don’t need us to tell you that run clubs are enjoying something of a boom – we’re sure you’ve already spent many Saturday mornings with your feed inundated by pre-sunrise workouts.
People are running like never before, and less than a month into the new year, it’s not too late to start 2025 by picking up a healthy habit. Easier said than done though, right? Because even if we discount a lack of motivation and a love-hate relationship with exercise, there lies a fairly huge barrier to getting started with running – finding the right shoe.
Not to worry though, for while there are plenty of options out there, one particular new release has set itself apart from the pack – the HOKA Bondi 9. It’s the most ultra-cushioned shoe HOKA makes, meaning its perfect for both daily miles and longer runs. It’s also surprisingly lightweight, which is something you won’t get from any other max-cushioned shoes.
At the launch of the Bondi 9 at HOKA’s flagship store in Melbourne, Women’s Health caught up with HOKA President Robin Green, one of the few women to head up a global footwear brand. She walked us through everything there is to like about the Bondi 9, including who it’s right for and the thinking behind its design, but first and foremost, where HOKA found inspiration for the ‘Bondi’ name.
“Generally the names are inspired by a running location that represents what the shoe is all about,” Green said. “Coming to Bondi and seeing the lifestyle that’s all about being joyful, outgoing and going outdoors really captured HOKA’s attention and it became a natural source of inspiration. The shoe itself was inspired by the culture surrounding Bondi Beach.”
Green also explained why the Bondi 9 could be the shoe for you, because choosing a running shoe is an overtly personal undertaking. There are aesthetic factors at play, with every individual’s personal taste an important factor in their final decision. Ultimately though, you should look for a shoe that suits your needs.
If you prefer to hit the trails, a specialised trail running shoe is probably a good fit. If you’re more of a road racer, a durable, comfortable trainer could be your speed. The Bondi 9 is made for those that need extra cushioning, as Green explained. “If you’re looking for an industry leader in premium cushioning that’s still lightweight and looks good, the Bondi 9 is the shoe for you,” she said. “Also if you have a history of injuries – maybe you’ve had knee or ankle issues – this is a shoe that will give you support to run longer.”
While it may be specifically suited to runners looking for supreme cushioning, Green believes the Bondi 9 has benefits for every type of runner. “We have shoes for everyone’s needs from the highly innovative Cielo to the more broadly appealing Clifton,” she said. “But the Bondi is a shoe that we believe everyone can find enjoyment in.”
We know what you’re thinking: is it really worth splurging on a shoe that just released? In short, yes. According to Green, the Bondi line has improved with every iteration, and due to constant developments in performance footwear, it pays to have the latest innovations on your feet. “We haven’t updated the Bondi just for the sake of updating it,” she said. “As we’ve continued to innovate, we’ve begun diving deeper into the geometry of the shoe itself. We’ve looked at how we can make it even smoother and how we can elevate the underfoot experience. And, as new materials are developed, we keep finding ways to make shoes better and better.”
Chief among the many improvements made to the Bondi 9 is a new midsole. Featuring supercritical EVA foam, the Bondi 9 takes the line’s famously plush ride to another level with a midsole that is more resilient for a bouncier yet softer underfoot feeling.
As Green said, the shoe’s geometry has also been updated with the addition of a rearfoot-focused Active Foot Frame, offering enhanced stability and support. The Bondi 9’s midsole is also stacked 2mm higher than its predecessor, which, in combination with a MetaRocker profile, provides an ultra-smooth ride that is even more cushioned.
Up top, the Bondi 9 has also been updated. A new structured knit upper with zonal breathability allows for a more comfortable fit, while a 3D moulded collar makes for an easy step-in and further softness. The outsole, meanwhile, is made with durabrasion rubber to protect high wear zones, adding a measure of durability to the shoe’s impressive traction.
If you’re keen on getting a closer look at the Bondi 9, HOKA is offering previews of the new shoe at North Bondi Surf Life Saving Club from 12pm-7pm on January 22nd and from 6am-7pm daily from January 24th-26th, with the club transforming into ‘the Cushion House’.
The exterior of the building will be completely redecorated with giant-sized versions of shoe cushioning, in a nod to the Bondi 9’s signature design. As part of the activation, daily community runs, healthy snacks, coffee, a customisation station and a daily four hour DJ set are also on the itinerary.
It’s all part of HOKA’s belief that community is everything and that running should bring people together. “We engage with running communities all around the world. Whether we sponsor them or are part of them,” Green said. “That’s where running really happens.”
Find out more about the HOKA Bondi 9 here.
