If you’re trying to decide between the Hoka Cielo X1 and the Hoka Bondi 8 running shoes, you’ve come to the right place. Both shoes are popular cushioned trainers from Hoka One One, but they have some key differences that may make one better suited for your needs.
Read on for a detailed comparison of the Cielo X1 vs the Bondi 8 – from weight and price to performance for walking, running, plantar fasciitis, and more.
Similarities And Differences Between Bondi 8 And Cielo X1:
| Feature | Hoka Cielo X1 | Hoka Bondi 8 |
|---|---|---|
| Launched In | 2024 | 2022 |
| Stability | Neutral | Very stable |
| Flexibility | Standard | Rigid |
| Sizing | Standard | Runs small, consider sizing up |
| Weight | 9.3 oz | 10.8 oz |
| Cushion | High stack height | Maximal cushioning |
| Outsole | Rubber | Rubber |
| Midsole | Carbon fiber plate, rockered EVA foam | Compression molded EVA foam |
| Upper | Engineered mesh | Engineered mesh |
| Retail Price | $275 | $165 |
Features Comparison:
Materials:
The Cielo X1 uses a lightweight engineered mesh upper with strategic overlays for structure and durability. The rockered EVA foam midsole incorporates a carbon fiber plate for propulsion. The thick rubber outsole provides traction and high abrasion resistance. The OrthoLite insole offers anti-microbial properties and high rebound.
The Bondi 8 also utilizes an engineered mesh upper but has a more plush interior lining for next-to-skin comfort. The midsole is compression molded EVA foam for soft cushioning from heel to toe. The outsole is high-abrasion rubber in a wider platform for stability. The removable insole is contoured for arch support.
Durability:
The Cielo X1’s rubber outsole and carbon fiber plate make it quite durable for a lightweight performance shoe, capable of holding up well to around 300-500 miles. The engineered mesh upper resists tearing or blowouts pretty well. The exposed foam midsole will show some creasing over time.
The Bondi 8 is built like a tank, with a very sturdy rubber outsole and a hardy EVA foam midsole that can easily surpass 500 miles of use. The upper also maintains its structure and has minimal overlays that could cause wear and tear issues. Overall, the Bondi 8 takes the cake for long-term durability.
Fit:
The Cielo X1 runs true to size for most in length but the upper is snug, especially in the toe box. Wide-footers may want to consider sizing up a half or full size. The lacing system is a bit tricky to dial in the ideal fit. Once laced up, the midfoot hold is secure.
The Bondi 8 tends to fit small, so sizing up a half or full size is recommended, particularly for wide-footers. The upper material has less stretch so accommodating different foot volumes is difficult.
However, once you get the sizing right, the overall fit is quite comfortable. The heel counter locks things down without irritation.
Stability:
The Cielo X1 provides decent midfoot stability courtesy of the broad platform and secure lacing, but it is not specifically designed as a stability shoe. The neutral ride allows for some natural movement ideal for efficient gait biomechanics. Mild overpronators can run comfortably in the Cielo X1.
In contrast, the Bondi 8 is made to provide exceptional stability for overpronators. The wide base, extended heel counter, and ample midsole cushion work together to prevent excessive inward rolling of the foot.
It effectively corrects overpronation issues while also maintaining plush, balanced cushioning. Severe overpronators may benefit most from the motion control of the Bondi 8.
Cushioning:
The Cielo X1 has a high 31mm stack height midsole plus an OrthoLite insole, providing abundant soft cushioning without feeling mushy or unstable. The rockered shape allows for smooth heel-to-toe transitions.
The carbon fiber plate adds some pop upon toe-off. Overall, the cushioning provides comfort on long runs while still feeling responsive at faster paces.
The Bondi 8 maxes out on cushioning with a 36mm stack height midsole and pillowy insole. There is plenty of sink-in softness to absorb shock on the most padded shoe from Hoka One One.
The broad platform keeps things laterally stable but also reduces ground feel sensation. The Bondi 8 offers cushioning over speed for recovery days and slow long runs.
Value:
With a $275 price tag, the Cielo X1 is a substantial investment for a shoe with around 300-500 miles of durability. The advanced carbon plate and lightweight performance design cater more to serious runners looking for a responsive shoe that can pick up the pace. More casual runners may not fully utilize the speed elements.
At only $165, the well-cushioned Bondi 8 offers excellent value, especially considering its high-mileage outsole and durable midsole foam. The ample stability and cushion make it suitable for daily training miles for a wide range of runners. Less experienced runners can appreciate the comfort and support in an affordable package.
Performance comparison:
Walking:
The thick cushioning of the Bondi 8 makes it the superior choice for walking. The plush midsole absorbs impact comfortably and the stability provides smooth transitions when changing directions.
In contrast, the Cielo X1 lacks the same cushion and support underfoot for walking. The snugger fit also reduces versatility across different activities.
Running:
For faster-paced running, the Cielo X1 certainly has the edge with its lightweight and propulsive carbon plate. The rockered geometry facilitates an easier toe-off motion at higher speeds.
In the Bondi 8, runners may feel somewhat bogged down by the hefty cushioning when trying to pick up the pace. The Bondi 8 shines more for slow to moderate jogging while the Cielo X1 covers training across paces.
Plantar Fasciitis:
The Bondi 8 is likely the better choice for runners with plantar fasciitis. The soft, well-cushioned midsole minimizes pressure on the sensitive heel and arch areas prone to plantar fasciitis pain.
The roomy toe box also reduces irritation. While the Cielo X1 is also cushioned, its snugger fit in the heel and forefoot could cause discomfort for some with plantar fasciitis.
Standing All Day:
Similarly, the Bondi 8 gets the nod for all-day standing comfort. The plush cushioning holds up well against fatigue and joint pain even after hours on your feet.
The spacious toe box avoids pinching and rubbing issues. The Cielo X1’s thinner midsole cushioning compresses down over time when standing for long periods.
final Verdict:
In summary, the versatile Bondi 8 is ideal for runners seeking supreme cushioning and stability in an affordable package. It works well as an everyday trainer for walking, recovery runs, and long distances.
On the other hand, the Cielo X1 better suits neutral runners looking to pick up the pace during training yet still crave soft cushioning.
The sleeker build and carbon plate make it more suitable for faster runs rather than all-day wear. Consider your training needs, fit preferences, and budget to decide if the Hoka Cielo X1 or Bondi 8 is the better choice for you.