HOKA Skyward X 2 vs Bondi 9

Skyward X 2 or Bondi 9? Here’s how they compare on feel, fit, brand specs and price, from the fitting team at The Run House.

The short answer

Want the most cushion you can get, with stability? Get the Skyward X 2.

Want max cushion with a firmer, more supportive feel? Get the Bondi 9.

Get the Skyward X 2 if

• You want the softer, more cushioned ride
• You like a stiffer, rocker-style forefoot that rolls you forward

Get the Bondi 9 if

• You like a firmer, more stable feel
• You’re on your feet all day or walk a lot
• You like a less rigid forefoot
• You want the lighter shoe, by about 0.5 oz

On the run

Skyward X 2: Max cushion with a carbon plate. Ultra-cushioned and remarkably stable for its height, with a carbon plate and rockers at both ends that keep you rolling. Lovely for slow long runs, but stiff and not built for speed.

Bondi 9: The supportive max-cushion tank. A huge, protective slab of foam that’s firmer than it looks, more supportive than squishy. The rocker keeps it moving, but it’s built for easy miles and long days on your feet, not speed.

Specs side by side

Stack, drop and weight come from each brand’s own website. Numbers marked * aren’t published by the brand and come from other published specs. Weights are for the size each brand quotes. Expected life is our estimate.

Fit

Skyward X 2. Runs slightly short, so if you’re between sizes, go up a half. Secure fit with a plush upper. Standard width only.

Bondi 9. Lower volume, with a toebox that tapers, so wide feet should go straight to the wide. The heel counter is stiff, so it isn’t a sockless shoe.

Try them on

Come try on both at The Run House in Walpole, Needham or Falmouth. Gait analysis is always free.

Shop the Skyward X 2 · Shop the Bondi 9 · Compare other running shoes