If you’re a runner you may already know that the Hoka Bondi 8 and Gaviota 5 are two powerhouse shoes from the company that have captured the hearts of runners around the world.
But which one truly stands out as the better choice when it comes to buying? To answer this we will deep dive and compare these two popular models across different factors such as Features and Performance to to help you make the best decision for your needs.
Similarities And Differences Between Hoka Bondi 8 And Gaviota 5:
| Feature | Hoka Bondi 8 | Hoka Gaviota 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Launched In: | 2022 | 2023 |
| Stability: | Neutral | Stable |
| Flexibility: | High | High |
| Sizing: | True to size length, narrow in forefoot (wide fit option available) | True to size |
| Weight: | 10.8 oz | 10.9 oz |
| Cushion: | Plush | Plush |
| OutSole: | Durabrasion rubber | Vibram Megagrip |
| Mid Sole: | Lightweight, resilient foam | Softer CMEVA foam with early rocker design |
| Upper: | Engineered mesh, 50% recycled polyester | Creel jacquard mesh |
| Retail Price: | $165 | $175 |
Features Comparison:
Materials: Outsole, Insole, Upper
The Hoka Bondi 8 features a durable Durabrasion rubber outsole designed for excellent traction and long-lasting wear.
The midsole is constructed with a lightweight, resilient foam that delivers a perfect blend of softness and responsiveness.
The upper boasts an engineered mesh construction with 50% recycled polyester, ensuring breathability and eco-friendliness.
On the other hand, the Hoka Gaviota 5 employs a softer CMEVA foam midsole than past models, creating a highly comfortable cruising ride thanks to Hoka’s signature early rocker design.
The outsole features the durable Vibram Megagrip compound for excellent grip. The upper utilizes a creel jacquard mesh that enhances airflow and keeps your feet cool during runs.
Durability:
Both shoes are built with high-quality materials and technologies to ensure long-lasting performance.
The Bondi 8’s Durabrasion rubber outsole is designed to withstand extensive wear and tear, making it a durable option for frequent runners. Additionally, the engineered mesh upper is constructed to withstand the rigors of regular use.
The Gaviota 5’s Vibram Megagrip outsole is known for its exceptional durability and traction, ensuring long-lasting performance. The creel jacquard mesh upper is also built to endure, providing breathability and support for countless miles.
Fit:
The Hoka Bondi 8 features a partially gusseted tongue and a memory foam collar that cradles the ankle in plush comfort, ensuring a snug and secure fit. The engineered mesh upper also contributes to a comfortable and adaptable fit.
Length-wise, the Bondi 8 runs true to size, but the forefoot area is a little narrow. However, Hoka offers a wide-fit option for those who need extra room in the forefoot area.
The Hoka Gaviota 5 boasts a plush tongue and collar designed to provide ankle-cradling comfort. The creel jacquard mesh upper allows for a breathable and accommodating fit, while the wider toe box ensures ample room for your feet to splay naturally. The Gaviota 5 sheds the narrow fit of past versions for a more true-to-size fit.
Stability:
The Hoka Bondi 8 is a neutral shoe, meaning it does not have additional stability features. It provides a symmetrical bed of cushion without prescriptive technologies, designed to support your natural gait.
In contrast, the Hoka Gaviota 5 is a stability shoe, featuring the innovative H-Frame™ technology. This stabilizing frame is engineered to prevent excessive inward roll or overpronation, providing inherent stability without overcorrecting your gait.
Cushioning:
Both shoes are designed to deliver a plush cushioning experience. The Hoka Bondi 8 features a higher bed of soft cushion, designed to provide a forgiving impact and ride. Its lightweight, resilient foam ensures a bouncy yet cushioned feel.
Similarly, the Hoka Gaviota 5 also boasts a higher bed of soft cushion for a forgiving impact and ride. The softer CMEVA foam midsole, combined with the early rocker design, contributes to the cloud-like cushioning experience, making it a great option for those seeking maximum comfort.
Value for Money:
The Hoka Bondi 8 retails for $165, which is a reasonable price for a high-quality, maximally cushioned running shoe from a reputable brand. With its durable construction, innovative technologies, and plush ride, it offers excellent value for money.
The Hoka Gaviota 5 retails for $175, which is a slightly higher price point compared to the Bondi 8. However, given its stability features, cushioning, durable Vibram outsole, and overall build quality, the Gaviota 5 still provides good value for runners seeking a stable and comfortable ride.
Performance Comparision:
for Walking:
Both the Hoka Bondi 8 and Hoka Gaviota 5 are excellent choices for walking. Their plush cushioning and supportive designs make them ideal for prolonged walking, whether leisure strolls or long-distance trekking.
The Bondi 8’s neutral design allows for a natural gait, while the Gaviota 5’s stability features support those who overpronate.
for Running:
When it comes to running, the Hoka Bondi 8 and Hoka Gaviota 5 cater to different needs. The Bondi 8 is a neutral shoe, suitable for runners with a neutral gait pattern who prioritize maximum cushioning and a bouncy ride.
On the other hand, the Gaviota 5 is a stability shoe, making it an excellent choice for runners who overpronate and require additional support to prevent excessive inward roll.
for Plantar Fasciitis:
Both shoes are well-equipped to help alleviate the discomfort associated with plantar fasciitis. The Bondi 8’s plush cushioning and rear crash pad work together to absorb impact and reduce strain on the plantar fascia.
Similarly, the Gaviota 5’s soft CMEVA foam and early stage MetaRocker™ technology promote a smooth heel-to-toe transition, reducing stress on the plantar fascia.
for Standing All Day:
If you spend long hours on your feet, either the Hoka Bondi 8 or Hoka Gaviota 5 can be an excellent choice. Their plush cushioning and supportive designs help alleviate the fatigue and discomfort associated with prolonged standing.
The Bondi 8’s neutral design may be preferred for those with a neutral gait, while the Gaviota 5’s stability features can benefit those who overpronate.
final verdict:
As we have already said the Hoka Bondi 8 and Hoka Gaviota 5 are two extreme powerhouse running shoes from the brand ultimately.
So, if you have a neutral gait pattern and prioritize maximum cushioning and a bouncy ride, the Hoka Bondi 8 is an excellent choice.
Its neutral design, lightweight resilient foam, and plush cushioning make it a top pick for neutral runners seeking a comfortable and responsive shoe.
However, if you overpronate or require additional stability, the Hoka Gaviota 5 is the way to go. Its innovative H-Frame™ technology provides inherent stability without overcorrecting your gait, while the softer CMEVA foam midsole and plush tongue and collar ensure a cushioned and comfortable ride.
Both shoes excel in various aspects, such as durability, breathability, and cushioning, making them fantastic options for runners, walkers, and those who spend long hours on their feet. Ultimately, the decision boils down to your specific needs and preferences regarding stability, cushioning, and overall ride experience.
