BATTLE OF THICK BOYS | NEW BALANCE MORE v4 VS HOKA BONDI 8

Summary

In this comparison video, Alex reviews two top maximalist running shoes: the New Balance Fresh Foam More V4 and the Hoka Bondi 8. Both boast thick midsoles for deep cushioning, ideal for runners seeking leg-saving comfort. With a close weight of 360-350 grams and a 4mm drop, they cater to various foot types. The Bondi offers plush uppers and a more pronounced heel, while the More V4 provides a softer, more cushioned ride. Both are expected to last over 700 miles, with the More V4 being slightly more affordable. Viewers are encouraged to consider their running style and preferences when choosing between these two cushioned options.

Takeaways

• 👟 The video compares two maximally cushioned running shoes: the New Balance Fresh Foam More V4 and the Hoka Bondi 8.
• 🔍 Both shoes feature thick midsoles and are aimed at runners seeking extra cushioning and leg protection.
• 📦 The shoes were not sent by the same retailer, with the New Balance available at Running Warehouse in the US and the Hoka at Pro Direct Running in the UK.
• 📐 The weight and stack height of the shoes are very similar, with the Bondi having a slightly higher heel stack height but both having a 4mm drop.
• 📏 The More V4 is slightly wider than the Bondi, and both have wide platforms, which are good for those with wide feet.
• 💰 The price point for the More V4 is 160 Euros/150 dollars, and for the Bondi 8 it's 170 Euros/165 dollars, with the More V4 being slightly more competitive.
• 👕 The Bondi's upper is described as plush, especially the tongue, which feels like a pillow, while the More V4's tongue is preferred by the reviewer for being less plush.
• 👣 Both shoes have removable insoles, which is beneficial for those who use orthotics.
• 👣 The Bondi's upper in the forefoot is preferred for its thinner and more pliable mesh, which is breathable and pleasant against the feet.
• 🏃 The More V4 feels softer and more cushioned, especially for heel-to-midfoot strikers, while the Bondi has more roll and is better for heel strikers.
• 👎 The Bondi's outsole was a disappointment on greasy and wet pavements, feeling less secure, while the More V4's outsole performance was not detailed.
• 💡 The Bondi X, a plated version of the Bondi, is mentioned as a potentially better value option compared to the Bondi 8.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the video?

The video focuses on comparing two maximally cushioned running shoes: the New Balance Fresh Foam More V4 and the Hoka Bondi 8.

Who is the presenter of the video?

The presenter of the video is Alex.

What are the key features of the shoes being compared in the video?

The key features being compared are the cushioning, upper design, midsole geometry, weight, stack height, and price point of the two shoes.

What is the stack height in the heel of the Hoka Bondi 8?

The stack height in the heel of the Hoka Bondi 8 is 35 millimeters.

How does the weight of the New Balance Fresh Foam More V4 compare to the Hoka Bondi 8?

The New Balance Fresh Foam More V4 weighs 360 grams, which is very close to the 350 grams of the Hoka Bondi 8.

What is the price point for the New Balance Fresh Foam More V4?

The price point for the New Balance Fresh Foam More V4 is 160 Euros or 150 dollars.

What is special about the tongue of the Hoka Bondi 8 according to the video?

The tongue of the Hoka Bondi 8 is described as very plush, like a pillow on top of your feet, offering inherent comfort.

What is the difference in the cushioning feel between the two shoes?

The New Balance Fresh Foam More V4 feels a bit softer due to more compression with the foam, especially for heel to midfoot strikers.

How do the shoes perform for different types of runners?

The shoes adapt well to different running styles, especially at lower paces and for daily training. The Bondi may work better for cadence runners, while the More V4 might be better for stride runners.

What is the durability expectation for these shoes?

Both shoes are expected to last around 700 miles or 300 to 400 miles, with the Hoka Bondi 8 potentially having a slight edge in durability.

What is the presenter's opinion on the outsole of the Hoka Bondi 8?

The presenter was a bit disappointed with the outsole of the Hoka Bondi 8, noting it felt a little insecure on greasy roads and wet pavements.