Hoka Bondi vs Arahi
- The Hoka Bondi is a neutral running shoe. Meaning it will be a good choice for most runners not looking for a stability shoe.
- Hoka’s Arahi is a stability shoe. Featuring Hoka’s J-Frame(TM) technology designed to prevent excessive inward roll and overpronation.
- The Bondi weighs well over 1 once more than the Arahi. Coming in at 10.8 ounces compared to 9.3 oz for the Arahi.
- The Bondi is considered Hoka’s most cushioned road running shoe. Which accounts for the extra weight of the shoe.
- Hoka lists the Bondi as a “Plush” cushioned shoe (see above). While they list the Arahi as a “balanced” cushioned shoe.
- There is a 1mm difference in drop between the two shoes. With the Bondi having a 4mm drop and the Arahi having a 5mm drop.
- The Bondi has high arch support. Compared to the Arahi which has more of a medium arch support.
- The Arahi is more comparable to the Hoka Clifton. Just with the added support in the form of their J-Frame technology.
- Although the Bondi is over a bigger shoe. Both have a very similar overall design and sole shape.
- The Bondi 7 is a bit less plush compared to previous models (the popular 5 and 6 series). And has a bit more narrower toe box.
Hoka Bondi 8
MSRP Price: $165
Men’s Link – Click Here
Women’s Link – Click Here
Surface: Road
Weight Men’s: 10.8oz
Weight Woman’s: 8.9oz
Stability: Neutral
Ride/Cushion: Plush
Drop: 4mm
Volume Men’s: Not Provided
Volume Women’s: Not Provided
Spring Men’s: Not Provided
Spring Women’s: Not Provided
Hoka Arahi 6
MSRP Price: $140
Men’s Link: Click Here
Women’s Link: Click Here
Surface: Road
Weight Men: 9.3oz
Weight Women: 7.6oz
Stability: Stability
Ride/Cushion: Balanced
Drop: 5mm
Volume Men’s: 667 cm3
Volume Women’s: 521 cm3
Spring Men’s: 33 x 23 mm
Spring Women’s: 29 x 20 mm
Performance Summary
There is a reason why so many runners have started wearing Hoka running shoes. The brand’s combination of cushion, comfort, and performance has left both first-time and seasoned runners wondering why other brands have lacked this balance for so many years. The Bondi and Arahi models serve as perfect examples of how function meets comfort. Below, we’ll delve into the details of each shoe to help you make the right choice for your feet.
The Hoka Bondi
The Bondi stands out as one of the brand’s most popular road running shoes, designed for runners seeking a neutral shoe that won’t affect their gait or overcorrect their form. It holds the distinction of being Hoka’s most cushioned road shoe, featuring an asymmetric sole and a breathable top build suitable for almost any weather.
On the feet, the Bondi is notably heavier than most other running shoes on the market, owing to the significant amount of cushion it offers. Although recent models seem less plush compared to older versions like the 5 and 6, some users have noted that the newer models require more time to break in. Hoka may have intentionally kept them firm initially to enhance the longevity of the cushioning.
The Bondi also boasts higher arch support, which might be noticeable for those with low to medium arches. Users with medium arches, like myself, may immediately sense this upon wearing them. The latest models have seemingly lost some room in the toe box, a feature loved in older models, possibly to reduce weight and material costs. Nevertheless, the Bondi remains one of the most cushioned runners on the market, making it an excellent choice for heavier runners seeking to minimize road shock on their legs.
The Hoka Arahi
Derived from the design of the brand’s most popular road running shoe, the Clifton, the Arahi is a stability shoe featuring Hoka’s J-frame technology to prevent inward roll and overpronation. The “J frame” can be observed in the white section of the sole that runs along the side wall of the inner shoe and around a third of the way on the side wall of the outer shoe, forming a distinctive “J” shape.
On the feet, the Arahi surprises with its lightness for a stability shoe, weighing well over an ounce less than the Bondi. The weight is noticeably lighter during both walking and running. Despite its lightness, Hoka doesn’t compromise on cushioning. The Arahi strikes a balance between comfort and agility during runs and at faster speeds.
The Arahi features a medium arch, suitable for those with low or medium-sized arches. However, if extra support in this area is needed, the Bondi might be the better choice. Similar to the Bondi, the Arahi has a slightly smaller toe box than previous models, and it’s unclear whether this adjustment was made for runners’ preferences or to save on material costs.
It’s essential to note that the J-frame support in the Arahi is mild to medium, so if you have a significant issue with overpronation, you may need a more supportive option. Overall, the Arahi impressively combines the best features of the Clifton with just enough support for those who need it.
Image Comparison
Overall the two shoes share a very similar shape. With the Bondi just being bigger. And you will see the J-Frame on the Arahi, which is the white section of the sidewall.
Hoka Bondi 8
Hoka Arahi 6 Profile
The top view of both models. They are very similar.
Hoka Bondi Top View
Hoka Arahi 6 Top View
As you can see below, the sole patterns of the two shoes offer different flexion but are very close in shape.
Bondi Sole
Hoka Arahi 6 Sole
Conclusion – Hoka Bondi vs Arahi
When comparing the Hoka Bondi vs Arahi, there is a lot to love about each of these shoes. Both were designed with a specific purpose and do an excellent job of hitting the mark they were intended for. That said, they are two very different shoes. Therefore, I can see why someone would prefer one over the other based on their preferences, while another person may have a completely different view of the same shoe.
Which running shoe would I buy?
Note: If you love the Bondi but want/need a stability running shoe, check out the Gaviota here.