Today, we’ll be comparing two incredibly popular and highly cushioned road runners: the Brooks Glycerin vs Hoka Bondi. Both feature the highest amount of cushion that their respective brands have to offer, and while they may appear similar at first glance, there are a few notable differences that could determine whether you love or regret your shoe choice. To better help you make the right decision, below we’ll break down the key differences, specs, images, and provide in-depth reviews for both.
Brooks Glycerin vs Hoka Bondi
- Both are Neutral road running shoes. And are the most cushioned road runners each brand offers.
- The Men’s Brooks Glycerin is slightly lighter. Weighing 10.1 oz compared to the Hoka Bondi weighing 10.80 oz.
- While the Women’s Hoka Bondi is lighter. Weighing 8.9 oz. vs the women’s Glycerin at 9.1 oz.
- There is an 8mm drop on the Brooks Glycerin. 2x larger than the Bondi, which has a modest 4mm drop.
- The Men’s Bondi stack height is 1 mm higher. At 33 mm vs 32 mm on the Glycerin.
- While the Women’s Bondi stack height is much higher. At 32 mm compared to a 26 mm drop on the Women’s Glycerin.
- For me, the Bondi has noticeably more arch support. And is even noticeable in the images below.
Brooks Glycerin
MSRP Price: $160
Mne’s Link – Click Here
Women’s Link – Click Here
Surface: Road Running
Weight Men’s: 10.1oz / 286.2g
Weight Woman’s: 9.1oz / 258.1g
Stability: Neutral
Drop/Offset Men’s: 10mm
Drop/Offset Women’s: 10mm
Men’s Stack Height: 32mm / 22mm
Women’s Stack Height: 26mm / 16mm
Cushion: Most Cushion
Volume (cushioning): Not Listed
Hoka Bondi
MSRP Price: $165
Men’s Link: Click Here
Women’s Link: Click Here
Surface: Road Running
Weight Men: 10.80 oz / 306g
Weight Women: 8.9 oz / 252g
Stability: Neutral
Drop/Offset Mens: 4mm
Drop/Offset Women’s: 4mm
Men’s Stack Height: 33mm / 29mm
Women’s Stack Height: 31mm / 27mm
Cushion: Plush
Volume (cushioning): 842.00cm3
Performance Summary
Founded in Philadelphia over 100 years ago, Brooks is one of the oldest and most trusted brands in running. This legacy is evident in some of their models, including the Glycerin, which is now entering its 20th plus iteration. On the other hand, Hoka is one of the newer brands in running but has quickly become one of the fastest-growing. Specializing in thick soles with a ton of cushion, their unique look, initially mocked by some, has become a recent fashion trend. With comfort prevailing over a sleek look, below, I’ll go more in-depth, reviewing two of their more comparable and popular models: the Brooks Glycerin vs Hoka Bondi.
Brooks Glycerin
One great aspect of a shoe that’s been around as long and is as popular as the Brooks Glycerin is the variety of color options. The Glycerin 20, currently available in 15 color options, allows you to customize your style. Out of the box, the shoes feel thick but not too heavy for the amount of cushion they offer, aligning well with the Bondi on weight.
On the feet, the Glycerin feels a bit narrow, but the 20s are nearly a half size larger than the 19s, making the need to half-size up less of a big deal than in past models. The toe box feels a bit larger, with the shoes fitting more true to size than ever. However, if you are coming from past models, it will be noticeable.
On the road, the first thing I notice is that the cushion feels a bit firm, offering less energy return than I initially expected. Overall, I feel like the turnover is pretty quick for the size of the shoe, which may be attributed to the 8mm drop. After about 25 miles, the cushion did soften up a bit but never got ‘soft’ for me. They did feel a bit prone to roll because of the height and lack of give. The stack height is much lower on the women’s model, so this may not be as big of an issue.
Hoka Bondi
The Hoka Bondi is one of the brand’s most iconic running shoes, featuring the signature thick-cushioned soles that have continued to grow in popularity over the years. Despite feeling heavy initially, the Bondi’s extra weight makes sense once your feet hit the ground, providing ample cushioning that effectively eliminates road shock during running. This feature makes the Bondi ideal for logging extensive training miles or for larger runners seeking to protect their joints.
Like other Hoka models, the shoe is designed with a slight rock that propels the feet and weight forward, which may require some adjustment for those switching from other brands.
The few criticisms of the Bondi are less negative and more personal preference-based. The shoe’s significant arch support may be noticeable and a bit too much for those with lower arches, although it will break in over time. Additionally, some runners may find that the weight-to-spring ratio does not feel perfect for them, which could be attributed to their height, weight, or stride ratio. However, many runners, particularly those who are taller or heavier, will find themselves loving running in the Bondi.
Image Comparison
Brooks Glycerin 20
Hoka Bondi 8
Below you can see the two shoe models have a similar shape from above.
Brooks Glycerin 20
Hoka Bondi Top View
Both soles have a similar shape foot bed. Providing plenty of traction, even on slightly wet surfaces.
Brooks Glycerin 20 Soles
Bondi 8 Soles
Conclusion – Brooks Glycerin vs Hoka Bondi
If you’re in search of a highly cushioned road runner and comparing the Brooks Glycerin vs. Hoka Bondi, you are considering two of the better choices on the market. The Glycerin stands out as the most cushioned shoe in Brooks’ road running lineup, offering a quick-feeling 8mm drop on a firmer-cushioned sole. On the other hand, the Bondi provides a much more modest drop, great arch support, and cushion that feels like a pillow once broken in. But which one is right for you?