The open engineered mesh construction that has been added to the new design is supposed to allow proper air circulation and durability. Although this upgraded mesh is softer than the Bondi 5 and features strategically placed openings to improve airflow, it turned out to be a drawback, according to some customers. While still being somewhat breathable, the new mesh upper construction has proven to be of lower quality, when compared to the Bondi 5.

A number of runners loved the thinned and silkier feel of the mesh on the previous version, and are quite disappointed with the less breathable and more absorbent upper on the upgraded model. Many wearers agreed that when they are running in hot and humid weather, theses Hoka running shoes seem to lack the ability to wick away sweat.

On the other hand, despite the less breathable and more absorbent mesh, some runners considered that the new redesigned upper is actually an improvement, in terms of flexibility.

While this new model in the Hoka family was designed as a running shoe, many customers agreed that, due to the comfort it provides, the Hoka 6 could be worn by anyone who stays on their feet for extended period of time. When we are talking about the comfort of this model, we want to mention all the elements contributing to it. And in this design, they are many. Starting from the full-length compression molded EVA foam midsole, the Hoka 6 provides optimal comfort for those long runs or long hours at work. Another part of this style that adds to its comfort is the newly engineered mesh upper that helps improve breathability.

In addition, there is a lot of cushion under the foot, which feels great on tired legs. Even though the Hoka 6 is not as soft as the Hoka Clifton, which is known to be the softest in the Hoka family, this model still maintains its softness even after extended wear. Some runners complained that the Bondi 5 model had lost some of its signature cushioning, but the upgrade on the Hoka 6 has brought back the marshmallow feel that the early Hoka trainers were famous for. Much like its predecessors, the Hoka 6 features a rocker design that makes the transition smoother.

Furthermore, the redesigned heel area of the upper is highly praised, and considered to be one of the best upgrades applied to the 6th iteration. This time around, the heel area is made of lycra, and many runners agreed that it improves comfort and gives the Hoka 6 design a premium feel. Adding to the overall comfort of the Hoka 6 model is its lightweight, besides the bulky look. A number of runners agreed that this model has been very comfortable, so much so that even after hundreds of miles, the Hoka 6 caused no rubbing and left them blister-free.

The rubber outsole received an upgrade that made the Hoka One One 6 more durable and able to put early wearing away on hold. This enhanced rubber outsole, even though it gives an appearance of a bulky and heavy trainer, it is surprisingly light.
Many customers agreed that Hoka 6 is made of premium quality elements that make this design highly durable. They said that even after hundreds of miles, the rubber outsole still remains its original shape and the cushioning is as soft as day one. Other customers complained about some durability issues where the upper meets the midsole. They said that over time, the glue between the upper and the midsole started to fail, which caused the top to separate from the midsole.

Because of the thick cushioning, this design had to sacrifice some of its flexibility.
Both Bondi 5 and Bondi 6 styles don’t offer a lot of flexibility. Much like its predecessor, the Hoka One One Bondi 6 has a meta-rocker technology applied to its sole that lets you gently rock onto your toes and spring you forward, thanks to which you don’t need a lot of flexing. The new responsive mesh upper is supposed to allow more natural foot movement which helps a lot during long runs and walks. While some customers said that the soft, rocking feature of the sole gave them some flexibility, others agreed that the Bondi 6 design had a stiff feel.

There are some nice upgrades applied to the 6th iteration of the Hoka One One Bondi style. First, there is the new open engineered mesh upper that offers decent breathability, comfort, and stability. Second, the redesigned heel area constructed with lycra provides a perfect locked-in fit and great support. The Hoka 6 has a smooth ride thanks to the Meta-rocker technology applied to the sole. The full-length compression molded EVA midsole ensures a plush, springy ride. At the bottom, the outsole has been redesigned to minimize weight and increase durability. Despite its bulky appearance and thick cushioning, the Hoka 6 weighs 10.9 ounces, making it slightly lighter than the Hoka 5 model.

The midsole of the Hoka One One Bondi 6 is constructed of supersoft EVA foam, making this design 30% softer than other standard Hoka models. It is also known to be an excellent shock absorbent, making this model great for your daily runs. This style is considered to be Hoka One One’s most cushioned sneaker. The new EVA material made of two-layered foam is of firmer consistency than the Hoka 5 and provides a softer, springy ride. Thanks to the two-layer rocker midsole, the Hoka 6 provides stable cushioning with a smooth transition.

Another upgrade worth mentioning is the redesigned outsole. Featuring Full Ground Contact construction, the Hoka 6 outsole has excellent slip-resistant abilities. Many customers even said that they had no issues running over ice or snow. The bottom features a high-traction rubber outsole and provides exceptional grip for steep paths and slick roads.
This high abrasion rubber is strategically placed along the entire length of the lateral side of the Hoka 6, exactly where the impact is the highest.

Thanks to its wide base, the Hoka 6 design feels very stable. It is regarded by many as excellent workout sneakers for long slow distance runs and walks. The model feels snug through the heel and midfoot, and although they lack stability for lateral movement, and use in the gym and HIIT classes, they are recommended for forward moving propulsion, like running and walking. However, similar to the Hoka 5, the Hoka 6 is said to provide excellent medial and lateral stability, thanks to its wide, supportive base in the midfoot area.

When it comes to support, the Hoka 6 offers a moderate amount. Although the support may not be enough for runners or walkers who overpronate, they are great for runners who need moderate support. Customers with severe plantar fasciitis and heel issues claim the Hoka 6 design feels like walking on clouds. Despite the design causing some runners to overpronate, they love the Bondi 6 design for its exceptional cushioning on hard terrain.
Also, wearers who have multiple foot problems, have wide forefoot with metatarsal issues and work long hour shifts, agree that the Hoka Bondi 6 design offers plenty of room in the toe box, and their feet don’t hurt after wearing this model.
The mesh upper stops the foot from overheating, while the heel lift helps some wearers with their Achilles problem.

The redesign of the Hoka Bondi 6 shows some improvements when compared to the Hoka Bondi 5. The first upgrade is the new engineered mesh material, which is not necessarily better than the Bondi 5 in terms of breathability. Although the soft mesh features strategically placed openings, some customers said that it feels less breathable and more absorbent than the Bondi 5 upper. The simple, self-adjustable flat lacing system that has an additional pair of lace holes when compared to the Hoka Bondi 5 helps keep your foot locked down, providing better stability.

The second update is the redesigned heel area, made of a lycra comfort frame and designed to provide better stability. Customers are also satisfied with the wider forefoot that allows for a comfortable room space for your toes. This gives your toes the ability to maintain a natural position throughout your easy day runs. In addition, the roomy toe box accommodates wider feet, making them desirable amongst many athletes and runners. When you add the padded collar and tongue together with the Ortholite footbed, you know you have an extremely comfortable design.

Despite its bulky look, the Bondi 6 is deceptively lightweight. This is due to the light midsole constructed with a very lightweight EVA foam. While this model may not be great for racing, it is ideal for running and walking. Some customers were very disappointed in the style in terms of look since it is not very fashionable. Not only does it feel big in both height and width, but it also looks very bulky. However, they all agreed that since it is so cushioned, comfortable and lightweight, they don’t mind the “ugly look” of the upgraded model. Weighing 9.3 ounces in a woman’s size 7, the Bondi 6 carries more weight than you need in a running model, but it surely gives you lasting softness in return. They will certainly not let you run fast, but it will allow runners to relieve pain and stress from their back and knees.

All Hoka styles are renowned for their optimal cushioning, minimal drop and their thick, but soft cushioned soles. From the Hoka family, the Hoka Clifton is known to be the most impressive, but the improved Hoka One One Bondi 6 design also shows an incredible amount of cushioning at a lightweight too. This design is an excellent sneaker for easy day runs. The best quality is its comfort, while its appearance is the worst. The new upper fits well and is somewhat breathable, but many were disappointed in the lack of ample airflow. The model runs true to size. The redesigned two-layered midsole provides stable cushioning, while the Meta-rocker technology applied to it creates a smooth turnover, making the Hoka 6 great choice for tired legs.

With a padded tongue and collar, self-adjustable lacing system with an extra pair of holes, and an Ortholite footbed, the Hoka 6 is great competition amongst sneakers with superior comfort. The outsole has more rubber added to it, and it has proven to be slip-resistant, providing excellent grip on rain and snow, and various type of terrain. The Hoka design is made of high-quality materials, and it is supposed to be durable, but some runners complained about the upper separating from the midsole very fast. Despite its bulky appearance, the sneaker is not that heavy. Weighing only 9.3 in a woman’s size 7.5, the Hoka 6 is not designed to make you fast, but it gives you long-lasting softness in return.

The Hoka 6 upgrade is an excellent option for daily low-intensity training, long distance runs and walks, or for people who spend long hours at work.
Overall, the Hoka One One Bondi 6 model is a nice upgrade to the Bondi line. If you are looking for comfort, this model makes a great choice. However, if you want to be fast and feel light, and look stylish at the same time, you may want to look somewhere else.