There is no question super shoes have made a huge impact on running. From being banned from certain races to being scientifically proven to make you faster. The addition of carbon plates to running shoes has completely changed the game. And if you’re interested in adding a carbon plated road running super shoe to your collection, I’ve got you covered with the Hoka Rocket X vs Bondi X.
Two models from one the best selling shoe brands in running. Covering different needs. And if you’re a Hoka fan trying to decide which shoe is nest, I’ve got you covered too. Below are the key differences, specs, images, and breakdown. Now enough with the small talk, let’s get to the shoes!
Hoka Rocket X vs Bondi X
- Both models are neutral road running shoes. Making them a great choice for most runners.
- The Hoka Rocket X is an “all gender” running shoe. Meaning it’s one size fits all for men and women.
- Both the Rocket X and Bondi X feature a full length carbon plate. Providing a proven rebound effect to increase speed and efficiency.
- The Hoka Bondi X is noticeably heavier. Weighing 11 oz compared to the Rocket X at 7.4 oz.
- Both shoes feature a 5mm drop. This is a very modest drop, and makes them great for long distances.
- Hoka lists the Rocket X as a “responsive” cushioned shoe. While the brand lists the Bondi X as “plush”.
- The Bondi X also has noticeably more cushioning, with a cushion volume of 884 cm3. While the Rocket X has 612 cm3.
Hoka Rocket X
MSRP Price: $200
Men’s – Click Here
Women’s – Click Here
Surface: Road Running
Weight Men’s: 7.4oz / 210g
Weight Woman’s: 7.4oz / 210g
Stability: Neutral
Drop/Offset Men’s: 5mm
Drop/Offset Women’s: 5mm
Cushion: Responsive
Plate: Carbon
Volume (cushioning): 612cm3
Spring (curvature of soul): 40x15mm
Hoka Bondi X
MSRP Price: $215
Men’s Link: Click Here
Women’s Link: Click Here
Surface: Road Running
Weight Men: 11oz
Weight Women: 9oz
Stability: Neutral
Drop/Offset Mens: 5mm
Drop/Offset Women’s: 5mm
Cushion: Plush
Plate: Carbon
Volume (cushioning): 884 cm3
Spring (curvature of shoe): 35 x 30 mm
Performance Summary
One is the brand’s premiere racing super shoe. Featuring a lightweight, low cushioned design. With a full length carbon plate to help propel you to a PR in the half or marathon distances. The other is a heavy weight, heavily cushioned road runner. Based on one of the brand’s best selling models, with the addition of a carbon plate for even more performance. Comparing Hoka Rocket X vs Bondi X, both shoes are going to give you a ton of rebound. BUt which one is right for you?
Hoka Rocket X
The first thing that stands out when unboxing the Hoka Rocket X is how incredibly light they are. They feel light in the hands, and incredibly light on the feet. That’s because the Rocket X is based on Hoka’s original super shoe, the Carbon X. Just stripped down, leaner, and lighter. This shoe feels like it’s meant to go fast.
One thing I did notice is that the sizing definitely runs narrow. I don’t have “wide” feet, and I went a half size up. But could have probably tried a full size. I believe this is because they are unisex sizing. So I’d highly recommend trying these on in the store. Or buying through someone like REI with an amazing return program.
Hitting the road in the Rocket X, these things feel fast. They are lightweight with an incredible turnover. Thanks to the full length carbon plate. I’m also a fan of how breathable these shoes are. They felt great on hot and humid days here in the south.
My only issue with the Rocket X is they are clearly built with one purpose. Going fast on race day. So if you have the luxury of having special race day shoes, then these will be a great choice. But for logging daily miles I question how well they would hold over a lot of training miles.
Hoka Bondi X
If you’re a fan of the original Bondi, then the Hoka Bondi X should be a welcomed addition to the Hoka shoe lineup. On first impression, when unboxing the Bondi X they could easily be confused with the traditional Bondi. The Bondi X only weighs an additional 0.2 oz compared to the original. And the only major tell that the two shoes are different is the extended tail on the Bondi X. A trademark that there lies a bit of extra power in the form of a carbon plate, running through the shoe’s sole.
On the feet the Bondi X also has very similar traits to the original design. The shoe fits roomy and even a bit wide. With plush cushioning running through the entire length of the shoe. Along with a good amount of arch support, these shoes really do stay true to the original. And as I mentioned above, even with the addition of the carbon plate, they weigh about the same. So if you are used to the original Bondi, switching to the Bondi X should be a smooth transition.
Another difference is the 5mm drop in the Bondi X. 1mm larger than the 4mm drop on the original. I think this is a great addition making them feel just a bit faster. And a clear sign these are designed for traditional Bondi wearers to use for race day.
The only issues I have with the Bondi X are the size of the shoe’s tongue. WHich for some reason is incredibly small. Not sure if this was to save weight, but it seems like a weird change to make. Next is the shoe’s weight. And while it weighs about the same as the original Bondi, both shoes would qualify as being heavy. SO if you like a lighter shoes, these might not be the right choice for you.
Image Comparison
Below is a side by side image comparison showing the Hoka Rocket X vs Bondi X. Here you will really notice the extra cushioning running through the bottom in the Bondi X.
Hoka Rocket X
Hoka Bondi X
Below you will see the larger heal padding on the Bondi X.
Hoka Rocket X Top View
Bondi X Top view
The Bondi X has slightly ore traction than the Rocket X.
Rocket X Sole
Bondi X Sole
Conclusion
There is a lot to like about both of these models. But when comparing the Hoka Rocket X vs Bondi X. Despite both featuring a full length carbon plate, these are two very different shoes. The Rocket X is lightweight, light on cushion, and fits snug. All with the goal of being light and fast on race day. While the Bondi X is heavy, plush with cushion, and runs wide compared to the Rocket X. With the goal of creating a faster shoe, that larger runners can use on race day to set new PRs. Both were designed with different purposes, and both serve those purposes well. But which one is right for you?
Which road running shoe to buy?
As I mentioned above, these are two very different shoes. And depending on your running style and body type, one might be a better choice than the other. For most runners looking for a fast race day super shoe (featuring a carbon plate) then the Rocket X will be more of what you are looking for. They are minimalis and designed to go head to head with other brands top of the line race shoes. So if this is the feel you’re looking for, then the Rocket X is a great choice.
Now if you are a larger runner, men over 200 lbs and women over 175 lbs, then the Bondi X may be the better choice. The Hoka Bondi has been known as one of the best running shoes for people that need a little extra cushion and don’t mind the extra weight that comes with it. And if this is you, then the Bondi X is the next step. Allowing you an option that is proven to make you faster on race day. So if you are a bigger runner / walker I’d recommend looking at the Bondi X.
