The Brooks Ghost 15 and Hoka Bondi 8 are two of the most popular neutral cushioned running shoes on the market today. Both shoes provide soft, responsive cushioning and good shock absorption for daily training runs.
In this in-depth comparison review, we’ll analyze the key features and performance of these two cushioned trainers to help you decide which is the better choice for your running needs.
Similarities And Differences Between Ghost 15 And Bondi 8:
| Features | Brooks Ghost 15 | Hoka Bondi 8 |
|---|---|---|
| Launched In | 2022 | 2022 |
| Stability | Neutral | Neutral |
| Flexibility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Sizing | Men’s 7-15, 12.5 wide; Women’s 7-13, 11 wide | Men’s 7-15, 12.5 wide; Women’s 7-13, 11 wide |
| Weight | 10 oz (men’s), 8.7 oz (women’s) | 10.8 oz (men’s), 9.8 oz (women’s) |
| Cushion | DNA Loft v2 (Brooks proprietary foam) | EVA foam |
| Outsole | Blown rubber | Blown rubber |
| Midsole | DNA Loft v2 | EVA foam |
| Upper | Engineered mesh | Engineered mesh |
| Retail Price | $140 | $165 |
Features Comparison: Ghost 15 Vs Bondi 8
Here we will see some major differences between the features of Ghost 15 and Bondi 8 to see who excels.
1) Materials
The Ghost 15 uses Brooks’ DNA Loft v2 foam in the midsole, which provides soft, adaptive cushioning that is durable and responsive. The blown rubber outsole ensures good traction and flexibility. The engineered mesh upper offers breathability and stretch.
The Bondi 8 features a full-length EVA midsole foam that gives exceptional plush cushioning. This thick foam stack makes the ride ultra-soft. The blown rubber outsole supplies flexibility and reliable traction. The engineered mesh upper is highly breathable and secure.
Overall, the DNA Loft foam in the Ghost 15 provides a slightly firmer and more responsive cushioning, while the EVA foam in the Bondi 8 gives a plusher, softer ride.
2) Durability
In terms of durability, both shoes are well-constructed using high-quality materials that will last for many miles of running.
The Ghost 15’s DNA Loft foam retains its cushioning properties and responsiveness even after high mileage training. The rubber outsole also shows minimal wear over time.
Similarly, the Bondi 8’s EVA foam has proven to be extremely durable, maintaining its cushioning and shock absorption even after extensive use. The outsole rubber also withstands abrasive surfaces well.
One difference is that some runners have reported the mesh upper on the Bondi 8 starts to show small holes and tears earlier than the Ghost 15’s upper.
Overall, both shoes will go the distance, but the Ghost 15 may have a slight edge in upper durability.
3) Fit
The Ghost 15 runs true to size for most runners, with a secure midfoot hold and roomy toe box. The engineered mesh upper adjusts well to different foot shapes. The heel collar and tongue are padded for comfort. The shoe fits runners with medium to wide foot widths best.
The Bondi 8 also runs true to size. It has a wider fit through the midfoot and forefoot to accommodate swelling or splaying during longer runs. The upper fabric adapts to a variety of foot shapes. The padded tongue and collar lock down the ankle comfortably.
In direct comparison, the Ghost 15 offers a closer, more precise fit for narrow to medium feet, while the Bondi 8 has more room through the midfoot and forefoot for wider feet who need a roomier toe box. Those with narrow feet may find the Bondi 8 too loose.
4) Stability
Since both shoes are neutral trainers, they do not have pronounced stability features to control overpronation. The Ghost 15 offers mild arch support from its raised midsole walls to guide the foot gently through the gait cycle. The secure upper wrap also contributes to a stable feel, especially for medium to high arches.
The Bondi 8 has a wider base and flared midsole for subtle motion control. However, very flat-footed or severe overpronators may require additional orthotics for more arch support in both shoes.
When compared directly, the Ghost 15 will provide slightly better stability for neutral runners who need mild arch support, while the Bondi 8 has greater midsole width for inherently more support, but may not suffice for serious overpronators without added inserts.
5) Cushioning
Cushioning is where these shoes differ the most. The Ghost 15 features a soft, marshmallowy DNA Loft foam that provides plush cushioning while still returning energy to the runner. The heel is segmented for soft landings and smooth transitions. Moderate-paced runners will enjoy the responsive, supportive cushioning.
The Bondi 8 takes cushioning to the extreme with its super thick midsole stack height. The pillowy EVA foam absorbs shock exceptionally well for hard landings and feels like walking on clouds, according to wearers. The exaggerated cushioning does reduce ground feel and responsiveness for some runners.
In summary, the Ghost 15 offers plush yet responsive cushioning versatility for many runners, while the Bondi 8 provides ultra-soft cushioning better suited to heavier runners or those wanting maximum impact protection.
6) Value
At a retail price of $140, the Ghost 15 delivers excellent performance and features at a reasonable price point compared to other daily trainers. The durable cushioning, smooth ride, and quality construction make this shoe a great value investment for high-mileage training.
The Bondi 8 has a higher retail price of $165, partly due to the increased amount of midsole foam. While the luxurious cushioning provides exceptional comfort, some runners may not find the additional $25 in cost justifiable, especially given the similar durability and lack of responsiveness compared to the Ghost.
In summary, while both shoes deliver comfort and support, the Ghost 15 offers comparable performance and technology at a more affordable price point, making it the better value purchase for most runners. Those wanting extra plushness may find the Bondi 8 worth the splurge.
Performance Comparison: Hoka Bondi 8 vs Brooks Ghost 15
So far we’ve seen a features comparison of both models. Now we will see who is actually better in daily life tasks.
1) Walking
For walking and casual use, both the Ghost 15 and Bondi 8 provide cushioned comfort right out of the box. The DNA Loft foam in the Ghost 15 absorbs shock well while feeling lively underfoot due to its mild responsiveness.
The Bondi 8’s ultra-plush EVA midsole feels extremely soft underfoot, greatly reducing pressure on the joints with each step. The added midsole height of the Bondi does take some adjustment to prevent feeling tipsy.
Overall, both shoes make walking a pleasure, with the Bondi 8 providing slightly better shock attenuation for longer walks.
2) Running
During runs, the Ghost 15 offers a smooth, moderately soft ride that transitions easily through the gait cycle. There is enough responsiveness to give good momentum on toe-off. The cushioning provides plenty of protection during impact without feeling dead.
In contrast, the Bondi 8 has a much softer ride that feels almost spongy underfoot. The thick cushioning absorbs shock impressively, but also reduces ground feel and energy return.
Heavier runners may appreciate the plusher cushioning for high mileage training, while lighter runners are likely to prefer the Ghost 15’s more responsive and agile ride. The Bondi 8 also feels less stable at faster paces.
3) Plantar Fasciitis
For runners with plantar fasciitis, both shoes provide ample cushioning to soften landings and reduce pain from heel strikes.
The Ghost 15’s DNA Loft foam cushions each step to minimize pressure on the plantar fascia, while providing enough responsiveness to avoid feeling dead underfoot.
Meanwhile, the Bondi 8 excels at shock absorption, greatly reducing impact on the heels and arches with its thick EVA foam. The soft cushioning envelops and protects the feet from jarring.
In direct comparison, the Bondi 8 wins out with its superior plushness and impact protection that will be most beneficial for sensitive, inflamed feet.
4) Standing All Day
For extended standing or walking, such as work shifts, both models deliver comfortable cushioning but the Bondi 8 has a slight advantage.
The extra foam thickness offers greater shock attenuation for hard floors, keeping feet, knees and hips happier. Also, the roomier forefoot of the Bondi 8 accommodates natural splaying and swelling that can occur when on your feet all day.
While the Ghost 15 is also softly cushioned, the Bondi 8’s plushness helps reduce fatigue better over many hours of standing and walking.
Final Verdict:
Overall, for most runners looking for an affordable, responsive neutral trainer, the Brooks Ghost 15 is an excellent choice with its smooth, soft ride and dialed-in fit. However, heavy runners and those wanting maximum cushioning for recovery days or pain relief will benefit more from the Hoka Bondi 8’s oversized midsole and ultra-plush cushioning.
Both provide great shock absorption, yet the Bondi goes overboard for more impact protection. While the Ghost 15 makes better contact with the ground, the Bondi 8 isolates your feet in pillowy-soft comfort.
In the end, choosing between these two excellent cushioned trainers comes down to your budget, preferred fit, and how much cushioning you want underfoot.
