Hey there, fellow runners and shoe enthusiasts! Today, we’re diving into a head-to-head battle between two popular running shoes: the Hoka Bondi 8 and the Saucony Ride 17. Whether you’re a seasoned marathon pro or just someone who enjoys a casual jog around the block, finding the right shoe can make a world of difference.
We’re going to break down everything you need to know about these two contenders to help you figure out which one might be your perfect match. So, lace up and let’s get this showdown started!
key takeaways:
- The Hoka Bondi 8 excels in maximum cushioning and comfort, making it ideal for easy runs, recovery days, and all-day wear. It’s especially suitable for those with foot issues like plantar fasciitis.
- The Saucony Ride 17 offers a more versatile and responsive ride, suitable for a variety of paces and distances. Its lighter weight and PWRRUN+ foam make it a great all-around trainer.
- For walking and standing all day, the Hoka Bondi 8’s plush cushioning gives it an edge, while the Saucony Ride 17’s responsive feel might appeal to more active users.
- The Bondi 8 has a slight advantage in durability and stability due to its zonal rubber placement and extended heel, while the Ride 17 focuses on balanced performance.
- Price-wise, the Saucony Ride 17 ($140) offers great value for a versatile shoe, while the Hoka Bondi 8 ($165) justifies its higher price with maximum cushioning and eco-friendly materials.
Comparison Table between Hoka Bondi 8 And Saucony Ride 17:
| Feature | Hoka Bondi 8 | Saucony Ride 17 |
|---|---|---|
| Stability | Neutral | Neutral |
| Flexibility | Moderate | Moderate to High |
| Sizing | True to size | True to size |
| Weight | 10.8 oz (Men’s) | 9.9 oz (Men’s) |
| Cushion | Plush, Soft | Soft, Springy (PWRRUN+) |
| Outsole | Durabrasion rubber | Increased coverage rubber |
| Midsole | Lightweight, resilient foam | PWRRUN+ foam |
| Upper | Engineered mesh (50% recycled) | Engineered mesh |
| Retail Price | $165 | $140 |
Hoka Bondi 8 vs Saucony Ride 17: Features Comparison
Material: outsole, insole, upper sole
When it comes to materials, both shoes bring their A-game. The Hoka Bondi 8 features a Durabrasion rubber outsole for durability and grip, while the Saucony Ride 17 boasts an increased coverage rubber outsole for enhanced protection.
For the insole, Hoka utilizes an Ortholite® hybrid sockliner, providing comfort and support. Saucony doesn’t specify their insole technology, but their PWRRUN+ foam extends throughout the shoe.
The upper on both models is constructed with engineered mesh, with Hoka incorporating 50% recycled polyester in theirs. This focus on sustainability gives the Bondi 8 a slight edge in eco-friendliness.
Durability
Durability is crucial for any running shoe, and both models aim to deliver. The Hoka Bondi 8’s Durabrasion rubber outsole is specifically designed for longevity, with zonal rubber placement to reinforce high-wear areas while saving weight.
Saucony’s Ride 17 counters with its increased outsole coverage, suggesting improved durability over its predecessor. Both shoes use high-quality engineered mesh uppers that should withstand regular use.
However, the Bondi 8’s more extensive use of rubber in key areas might give it a slight advantage in overall durability, especially for heel strikers or those who put in high mileage.
Fit
Finding the right fit is essential, and both shoes aim to please. The Hoka Bondi 8 features a partially gusseted tongue and a memory foam collar, cradling the ankle for a secure, comfortable fit. Its engineered mesh upper provides a balance of structure and flexibility.
The Saucony Ride 17 boasts an enhanced fit based on user feedback from the previous model, focusing on “comfort-first performance.” Both shoes are reported to run true to size, accommodating a variety of foot shapes. However, the Bondi 8’s memory foam collar might provide a more personalized fit, especially for those with narrower heels.
Cushioning
Cushioning is where these shoes really diverge. The Hoka Bondi 8 is known for its maximum cushioning, featuring a high bed of soft, ultralight resilient foam.
It’s designed for a plush, forgiving impact and ride, ideal for those seeking ultimate comfort. The Saucony Ride 17, on the other hand, utilizes PWRRUN+ foam, described as their “softest-feeling foam” that’s “unbelievably plush and springy.”
While both offer excellent cushioning, the Bondi 8 leans towards a softer, more cloud-like feel, while the Ride 17 aims for a balance of softness and energy return. Your preference here will depend on whether you prioritize max cushion or a more responsive ride.
Stability
Despite both being neutral shoes, they approach stability differently. The Hoka Bondi 8 features a symmetrical bed of cushion without additional prescriptive technologies, designed to provide support without being overly controlling. Its wide base and extended heel contribute to overall stability.
The Saucony Ride 17 doesn’t highlight specific stability features, relying on its well-balanced design and PWRRUN+ foam to provide a stable platform. For runners who need a touch more stability without moving into a support shoe category, the Bondi 8’s wider platform and extended heel might offer a slight advantage.
Value For Money
Assessing value involves balancing price with features and durability. The Hoka Bondi 8, priced at $165, is the more expensive option but offers maximum cushioning, durable materials, and eco-friendly elements like recycled polyester in the upper and strobel board.
The Saucony Ride 17, at $140, provides a more budget-friendly option with its responsive PWRRUN+ cushioning and versatile design. Both shoes offer high-quality construction and materials, but the choice comes down to your priorities.
If maximum cushioning and sustainability are top concerns, the Bondi 8 might justify its higher price. For those seeking a balanced, versatile shoe at a lower price point, the Ride 17 offers excellent value.
Hoka Bondi 8 vs Saucony Ride 17: Performance Testing
For Walking
When it comes to walking, both shoes shine but in different ways. The Hoka Bondi 8, with its maximum cushioning and wide, stable base, excels in comfort for long walks or all-day wear. Its plush feel makes it ideal for those who spend hours on their feet.
The Saucony Ride 17, while not as heavily cushioned, offers a more responsive feel that some walkers might prefer. Its lighter weight (9.9 oz compared to Bondi’s 10.8 oz) could be advantageous for longer distances. Ultimately, if pure comfort is your goal for walking, the Bondi 8 has a slight edge, but the Ride 17 offers a more versatile, energetic option.
For Running
For running, these shoes cater to different preferences. The Hoka Bondi 8, with its plush cushioning and 4mm heel-to-toe drop, is ideal for easy, long runs where comfort is key. It shines in recovery runs and for those who need maximum impact protection.
The Saucony Ride 17, featuring PWRRUN+ foam and an 8mm drop, offers a more versatile running experience. It’s suitable for daily training, tempo runs, and even some speedwork.
The Ride 17’s lighter weight and more responsive cushioning make it better suited for faster-paced runs. Choose the Bondi 8 for ultimate comfort on easy runs, or the Ride 17 for a do-it-all trainer.
For Standing All Day
When it comes to standing all day, the Hoka Bondi 8 takes the lead. Its maximum cushioning and wide, stable base provide excellent support for prolonged standing. The memory foam collar and Ortholite® hybrid sockliner enhance overall comfort, reducing fatigue.
The Saucony Ride 17, while comfortable, may not offer the same level of all-day standing comfort. However, its PWRRUN+ foam does provide good energy return, which some users might prefer for active jobs.
If your priority is pure cushioning for static standing, the Bondi 8 is the clear winner. For more active, on-your-feet jobs, the Ride 17 could be a compelling alternative.
For Plantar Fasciitis
For runners dealing with plantar fasciitis, both shoes offer benefits, but the Hoka Bondi 8 might have an edge. Its maximum cushioning and 4mm drop can help reduce strain on the plantar fascia. The wide base and stable platform provide good support, which is crucial for managing this condition.
The Saucony Ride 17, while not specifically designed for plantar fasciitis, offers good cushioning with its PWRRUN+ foam. Its 8mm drop might be preferable for some sufferers.
However, the Bondi 8’s superior cushioning and stability make it a better choice for most people dealing with plantar fasciitis, especially during recovery phases.
Conclusion: Which Is Better For You
Choosing between the Hoka Bondi 8 and Saucony Ride 17 ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If maximum cushioning, comfort, and stability are your top priorities, especially for easy runs, recovery days, or all-day wear, the Hoka Bondi 8 is your go-to shoe. It’s also the better choice for those dealing with foot issues like plantar fasciitis.
However, if you’re looking for a more versatile, responsive shoe that can handle a variety of paces and distances, the Saucony Ride 17 offers great value. Its lighter weight and energetic feel make it suitable for both daily training and faster runs.
Consider your running style, comfort preferences, and budget to make the best choice for your feet.