Hoka Bondi 7 and Brooks Glycerin 19 are known for their signature cushioned sole units. Though they have different stack heights, they provide similar comfort through their sole. The upper mesh is also breathable and lightweight to bear for miles.
But which one will last to the long miles you tend to go? I, personally, am a fan of Bondi 7, yet to give this pair a rest, I bought a new pair of Glycerin 19 and have been using it for several months.
Brooks Glycerin 19
Hoka Bondi 7 (Winner)
Now I want to share my thoughts on what I’ve realized using these shoes. So, let’s start the comparison of Hoka Bondi 7 vs Brooks Glycerin 19 regarding their sole, upper, durability, and many more attributes.
In case you like Brooks Glycerin 19 and also want to check out Glycerin 20, here’s a full comparison between Glycerin 19 and 20 to make your decision more precise.
Hoka Bondi 7 Vs Brooks Glycerin 19
As a professional runner, I know the importance of finding the perfect running shoe. The shoe must be able to provide unparalleled comfort, stability, and durability to keep you going the distance. You’ll have these aspects in the shoes, but the only question is how well or long they can treat you constantly.
Let me tell you about their features in detail.
Sole Unit
The Hoka Bondi 7 features a full-length EVA midsole, which provides exceptional cushioning and support. The shoe also includes Meta-Rocker technology, which provides a smooth transition from heel to toe. The outsole features durable rubber, making it ideal for outdoor running. This rubber provides excellent grip and durability, ensuring the shoe lasts for miles.
On the other hand, the Brooks Glycerin 19 features the brand’s signature DNA Loft technology, which provides a soft and responsive ride. The shoe’s outsole is made of blown rubber, which is durable and provides ample traction. However, I find the outsole a bit stiff, which can affect overall comfort during long runs. So, I only take this shoe for practice or short-term running.
Overall, the Hoka Bondi 7’s sole unit provides better cushioning and support, making it the perfect choice for someone like me who prioritize comfort over everything else.
Upper Unit
The Hoka Bondi 7 features a breathable mesh upper, which provides excellent ventilation to keep your feet cool and dry during long runs. The shoe’s upper unit has fewer overlays, which reduces the weight of the shoe while still maintaining structural integrity. It also features a padded tongue and collar, providing a snug and comfortable fit.
The Brooks Glycerin 19’s upper unit is made of a stretchy engineered mesh, which provides a secure and personalized fit. It features 3D Fit Print technology, which applies strategic overlays to the upper to enhance the shoe’s structure and support. The shoe also features a plush interior lining that provides an incredibly comfortable feel.
Overall, the Hoka Bondi 7’s breathable mesh upper unit provides better ventilation, while the Brooks Glycerin 19’s stretchy engineered mesh upper provides a more precise fit.
Durability
Both the Hoka Bondi 7 and the Brooks Glycerin 19 are incredibly durable shoes that can withstand miles of intense use. The Hoka Bondi 7 features a durable rubber sole and minimal overlay on top of a breathable mesh upper. The Brooks Glycerin 19 features a blown rubber sole and strategic overlays to enhance the shoe’s structure and support.
However, the Hoka Bondi 7’s superior build quality and minimal overlays provide a more durable shoe in the long run, making it a better choice for runners who need shoes that can handle intense use. In fact, my Bondi pair is now three years old without a sign of wearing.
Cushioning
Cushioning is a crucial factor for runners, as it can affect overall comfort during long runs. The Hoka Bondi 7 features a full-length EVA midsole that provides superior cushioning throughout the shoe. The shoe’s Meta-Rocker technology also enhances the shoe’s cushioning properties, providing an incredibly comfortable ride.
On the other hand, the Brooks Glycerin 19 features the brand’s DNA Loft technology, which provides a soft and responsive ride. While the cushioning might not be as smooth or thick as the Bondi 7, it still offers excellent comfort.
Overall, the Hoka Bondi 7 provides superior cushioning throughout the shoe, making it the only superior choice of mine.
Stability
Stability is essential for runners, especially those with overpronation issues like me. The Hoka Bondi 7 features a meta-rocker design that provides added stability, helping the feet transition smoothly from heel to toe. Additionally, the shoe’s wide base and higher stack height provide additional stability for runners.
The Brooks Glycerin 19 features a lightweight mesh upper and strategic overlays that enhance the shoe’s stability. It also has an interior liner that wraps around the midfoot and provides a secure and stable fit.
However, the Hoka Bondi 7’s meta-rocker design and wider base provide superior stability, making it the ideal choice for runners with overpronation issues.
Drop Size
The Hoka Bondi 7 has a 4mm heel-to-toe drop, which is relatively low compared to other shoes on the market. This drop size is perfect for runners who prefer a more natural feel during their runs, and it also promotes a more efficient stride.
The Brooks Glycerin 19, on the other hand, has a 10mm heel-to-toe drop, which is higher than the Hoka Bondi 7. This drop size is ideal for those who require additional cushioning and support during their runs.
Overall, the Hoka Bondi 7’s lower drop size provides a more natural feel that I like.
Overall Opinion
There is no doubt that both the Hoka Bondi 7 and Brooks Glycerin 19 are excellent running shoes. The Bondi 7 provides exceptional cushioning and support, while the Glycerin 19 provides a more personalized fit and superior responsiveness.
However, when it comes to overall comfort and durability, the Hoka Bondi 7 takes my vote. The shoe’s breathable mesh upper, Meta-Rocker technology, and wider base provide unparalleled comfort and stability, making it the perfect shoe for any professional runner.