Our editors independently select these products. Making a purchase through our links may earn Well+Good a commission
I always wanted to be the kind of runner who could rock a pair of On running shoes. Those quirky hollowed-out soles look so Euro chic. And what could sound more appealing than running on something called CloudTec®?
board-certified podiatric foot and ankle surgeon at Luxe Podiatry
The problem: My feet hate firm running shoes, and despite the literal airiness of the material, I always felt landings in On designs to be surprisingly stiff and clunky.
The brand’s newest model, however, finally delivers something that feels close to “running on clouds.” Entering the ever-growing maximalist trend, the Swiss company has launched the Cloudmonster, which offers more vertical and horizontal cushioning by expanding the brand’s signature “clouds.” And to avoid that feeling of sinking into the shoe with each step, the design features a steep upward angle under the toes that makes for a decisively bouncy push-off.
“We were interested to see how far we could take the technology, and add more comfort, more cushion,” says On footwear design lead Olli Hirvonen. He adds that the six millimeter drop allowed his team to bring more cushion to the forefoot in particular, and the extended rocker makes for an aggressive transition from the metatarsals to the toes to give you that kick as you roll through the foot.
My experience trying the On Cloudmonster
The company describes it as a “playful sensation,” and they’re not wrong. Heading out for a run in the shoes, I definitely feel like I’m further away from the ground, but I don’t really mind it because there’s an easy snap to my stride. A few miles in, I notice my calves haven’t tired as quickly they sometimes do—my feet just keep turning over, one step rolling into the next.
I’d ordered the recommended half size up, which felt like the right call: There’s plenty of room, without any sliding around. And between the soft upper and cushy sole, the shoes just feel exceptionally…comfortable.
But my paranoid brain can’t help wondering—is so much cushion healthy?
As with most things when it comes to our health, the answer varies. “It depends on the person, their applications, foot type, and what they’re used to,” says podiatrist Suzanne Fuchs, DPM, of LuxePodiatry in Jupiter, Florida. Of course, the surfaces you’re running on matter too, she adds; a softer track or trail might not call for so much shoe because there’s already more give on the ground.
But because the extra cushioning in maximalist designs helps to absorb the shock going into your foot, these shoes can be a lifesaver for those with painful foot issues like plantar fasciitis, neuromas, metatarsalgia, bunions, or arthritis in the big toe joint. And you don’t have to be a runner to get the benefit: Dr. Fuchs also recommends super-cushioned pairs for people who walk a lot, or who stand on their feet all day, like healthcare providers or restaurant workers.
For runners without any foot problems, however, Dr. Fuchs warns against using them on every run. “From my experience, if you’re always wearing very cushioned shoes, the foot and ankle muscles could weaken or atrophy,” she says. “If you’re younger and your feet are healthier, it’s beneficial to do most of your runs in more minimal shoes if you can safely.”
That doesn’t mean there’s no place for maximalist shoes if you have healthy feet. Dr. Fuchs simply recommends saving them for long runs when that diminished stress and strain on the joints will really come in handy.
That advice falls pretty much right in line with the aim of On’s design. “We wanted to build something for long runs to take out the impact, but we wanted to make it a runner’s shoe in the sense that if you picked up the pace you’d be able to do that,” says Hirvonen.
While I do see how it logically makes sense to set them aside for long runs, I have to admit the comfort of the Cloudmonster is so enticing it has me wanting to lace them up for easy runs, too—especially now that I can finally rock that holey design. But I’ll do my best to restrain myself.
Want to be the first to hear about the latest (and greatest) SHOP product drops, custom collections, discounts, and more? Sign up to have the intel delivered straight to your inbox.
Sign Up for Our Daily Newsletter
Get all the latest in wellness, trends, food, fitness, beauty, and more delivered right to your inbox.
Our editors independently select these products. Making a purchase through our links may earn Well+Good a commission
If clouds could turn into sneakers, they’d probably feel a lot like the Hoka Bondi 8. Known for its ultra-cushioned midsoles and (somewhat dramatic) signature rocker-bottom shape, Hoka has become the go-to brand for walkers and long-distance runners looking for that ideal blend of support and bounce. Feather-light, breathable, and designed to keep you moving comfortably for miles, the shoes have earned a cult following—including the stamp of approval from podiatrists, thanks to their American Podiatric Medical Association Seal of Acceptance.
Among Hoka’s many standout styles, the Bondi reigns supreme. I laced up the Hoka Bondi 8 ($116) and put it to the test—logging miles over the course of a month to see if it lives up to the hype. Spoiler: It just might be one of the most supportive sneakers I’ve ever worn.
What do podiatrists think of Hoka?
You'll find a ton of podiatrists singing Hoka's praises, especially the best-selling Bondi. In fact, they're so beloved by foot doctors that many of the brand's models have earned the Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association or APMA. Shoes awarded with the APMA Seal of Acceptance have been found to promote good foot health. (You can find a list of shoes that have earned the seal on the official website of the APMA.)
Hoka’s Bondi 8 is a reliable sneaker that is designed for a wide variety of physical activity levels. The pair features the brand’s signature “Meta-Rocker,” a rocker-shape bottom to propel walkers and runners forward like a slingshot while providing ample cushioning to reduce fatigue on the feet, knees, and hips. Additionally, the Hoka Bondi 8 features a mesh upper that allows for maximum breathability and padded memory-foam collar to provide welcome ankle support. What’s more, its rubber outside is durable and provides plenty of traction to keep you steady on your feet as you walk or run. The aforementioned features of the Hoka Bondi 8 has earned it legions of fans, among whom I count myself.
The Hoka Bondi 8 versus the Hoka Bondi 7
The Hoka Bondi 8 has a lot in common with its predecessor, the Hoka Bondi 7. They both have a rocker-shape bottom and plenty of underfoot cushioning, with a few notable tweaks. The Hoka Bondi 8 features a lighter-weight padding and reinforced heel cushion to provide an extremely comfortable step, along with a padded tongue that is gusseted to keep it in place while preventing dirt, debris, and water from getting into the shoe—all of which make quite the difference in the overall Hoka Bondi 8 performance.
My Hoka Bondi 8 review
I’ve long worn the Hoka Bondi 7 on my daily dog walks, which on average is about three miles per day on mostly pavement, but sometimes on grass and dirt. As supportive walking shoes, it was perfect. The pair was soft and bouncy yet stable, which is of utmost importance when walking two dogs, each one 90 pounds of sheer power.
I was initially skeptical of whether the Hoka Bondi 8 could offer the same level of stability and safety as its predecessor. The soles are cartoonishly thick, even more so than the Bondi 7. However, after completing my first standard three-mile walk—with my two 90-pound dogs in tow, no less—I was impressed by the Honka Bondi 8’s performance and its comfortable support.
Just the memory foam-cushioned collar alone was a huge selling point, as so many supposedly “supportive walking shoes” rub my ankles raw. However, the memory-foam cushioning cradles my ankles like an embrace, which is essential whenI’m walking long distances—and, sometimes, without stopping.
The pair’s cushioned midsoles offer incredible support as I walk, while its sturdy rubber soles keep me from slipping on uneven terrain. While the Hoka Bondi 8’s stacked underfoot support makes it comfortable to wear for walking or running, its highly cushioned sole isn’t typically recommended for hiking, weight-lifting, or high-intensity activities.
Photo: Courtesy of author
When it comes to running, I can’t speak to the Hoka Bondi 8’s performance. (I consider myself as more of a walker than a runner). However, Alice Wright, professional runner and 10-time NCAA All-American, previously told Well+Good it’s a great sneaker for easy runs, offering the ideal amount of cushion and support for the endeavor.
The Hoka Bondi 8 also fits well. The model’s padded collar and gusseted tongue prevents shifting in the shoe—keeping in mind that the fit is narrower than the Bondi 7. My feet are neither too narrow nor too wide, and the regular-width version was just right for me, though wide-width options are available and in sizes ranging from five to 12.
The pair’s mesh upper keeps things airy as I log in my miles, and even after a 45-minute walk in humid 80-degrees-Fahrenheit weather, it kept my feet from getting swampy. Better yet, the shoes don’t require any break-in time. On the contrary, my feet were less sore after wearing them—a further testament to their comfortability.
Photo: Courtesy of author
Hoka Bondi 8: Pros and Cons
After wearing the Hoka Bondi 8 for a month, it's clear why this shoe is so popular. But that doesn’t mean they’re perfect for everyone and every foot. Here are some of the pros and cons you should know before buying.
advertisement
Pros
• Exceptional Cushioning: The Bondi 8 offers a highly cushioned ride, making it ideal for recovery runs and extended periods of walking or standing (hello, nurses!).
• Smooth Ride: The rocker-shaped outsole delivers a comfortable and smooth transition through the gait cycle (aka from when your heel hits the ground to when your toes push off).
• Durability: While I’m only a month into testing, other reviews have reported that the Bondi 8 maintains its structure and cushioning even after logging more than 300 miles.
• Podiatrist-Approved: The Bondi 8 has earned the American Podiatric Medical Association Seal of Acceptance, highlighting its supportive design beneficial for foot health.
Cons
• Heaviness: This is the brand’s max cushioned shoe, so if you’re looking for a lightweight running (or racing) shoe, the Bondi 8 may feel a bit on the heavy side. While excellent for easy or recovery runs, the Bondi 8 may not be best pick for speedier workouts like tempos and race-pace intervals due to its focus on cushioning over responsiveness.
advertisement
• Narrow Fit: This wasn’t an issue for me, I’ve heard from other testers that the forefoot area (especially on top of the foot) may feel snug and uncomfortable if you have a wide or high-volume foot.
• Breathability: When you hear mesh you assume breezy, but some testers felt like the upper mesh wasn’t quite as breathable as expected.
What is the Hoka Bondi 8 best for?
The Bondi 8 is ideal for “everyday running, walking, and comfort,” per Hoka—and it’s a sentiment that has been shared by podiatrists. For one, David J. Liss, DPM, FACPM, CWSP, foot and ankle specialist at Airport Podiatry Group, told Well+Good in an interview about the best Hoka shoes for plantar fasciitis that it’s an excellent shoe for “everyday wear, walkers, or runners.” It’s also favored by people who spend a lot of time on their feet. Take, for example, nurses. When asked about the best Hoka shoes for nurses, Jenny Kanelos, RN, a registered nurse at The Queen’s Health Systems in Hawaii, pointed to the Hoka Bondi 8. “My feet do not hurt at all at the end of my shift,” she told Well+Good in an interview, and added, “They’re my work shoe ride-or-die.”
Final verdict
There’s a reason why the Hoka Bondi 8 has become so popular among runners, walkers, and podiatrists. It’s comfortable, supportive, and comes in a wide range of sizes and colors. And, after more than a month of wearing a pair, I can easily say that they aren’t just ideal for recovery runs and long walks, but also long days on your feet.
However, the Hoka Bondi 8 isn’t for everyone; what might work for me might be the wrong choice for you. With this in mind, you may want to explore the Hoka’s shoe offerings to find your ideal pick. If you want lighter-weight shoes, for example, consider the Hoka Clifton 9, or if you prefer a lower sole, the Hoka Solimar. Conversely, people who want something extra cushy may like the Hoka Bondi SR.
Whatever your preference, you’re likely to find supportive walking shoes that are best suited for your lifestyle. As for me, it’s going to take a lot to switch to another sneaker brand for all my walks, let alone decide between the Hoka Bondi 7 and the Bondi 8—but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. It just means I have some solid footwear to choose from, and my feet are all the happier for it.
Another Hoka Bondi shoe worth shopping
The Bondi 8 may be my personal fave, but you can also shop another popular variation on the style. (Not a fan of the Bondi? Here are a few more of the best Hoka sneakers for women.)
Available sizes: 5-11 (with half sizes available), in regular and wide widths
The Hoka Bondi SR provides cushioned comfort to mitigate the impact of running on hard surfaces—and W+G contributor Kayla Hui has attested that she “didn’t experience any pain or popping with these shoes during high-impact activities.” The comfort comes by way of an EVA midsole, allowing you to comfortably pound the pavement or stand on your feet for long periods of time. The pair also comes with a water-resistant leather upper, plus a slip-resistant outsole to provide secure footing.
