Until now we have been used to seeing carbon plates associated only with pure performance shoes, suitable only for fast runners with near-perfect running technique. Lightweight, fast, responsive but forgiving shoes for “normal” runners.
So far, that is.
HOKA thought, however, to take the responsiveness and propulsion qualities of the carbon insert and pair them with its workhorse for long runs, the Bondi. Thus was born the
HOKA ONE ONE Bondi X
.
Admittedly, the Deckers Group brand has had it relatively easy because, from the point of view of the technologies used, HOKA models are already born with a natural propensity for responsiveness thanks to the 5-mm drop and the now well-known Meta-Rocker near the instep that makes the roll very smooth, shifting the momentum forward.
Clearly Bondi X and Bondi 7 are not the same shoe and do not have the same behavior. The carbon fiber plate in the midsole of Bondi X brings with it stiffer and more efficient supports during stride. Simply put: it is drier. While Bondi 7 continues to convey its very smooth feel.
In both cases, however, we are dealing with shoes that are suitable for any type of runner and mileage. They simply fit different styles and tastes.
Another interesting element is HOKA’s focus on the pairing of fast and cushioned shoes, creating true ecosystems where you can choose two different models to alternate depending on your use (long, slow workouts or quality sessions or races). In this case, by pairing Bondi X with HOKA Carbon X 2, you end up with a system suitable for any specific use but with similar behaviors. And this, in my opinion, is a very good starting point.
Yes, before you ask: we are testing them and will give you a full, in-depth review soon.
Meanwhile, you can go to paragonshop.com for: