As a runner who’s logged countless miles, I’ve worn out plenty of shoes searching for the perfect blend of comfort, support, and durability. The Brooks Glycerin and HOKA Bondi are two heavyweights in the max-cushion running shoe world, each promising a plush ride for long runs and recovery days.
In this article, I’ll compare these two popular models, breaking down their pros, cons, and key features to help you decide which shoe fits your stride. From cushioning to fit, I’ll share my experience to guide your next purchase.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Brooks Glycerin Max | HOKA Bondi 9 |
| Weight | Men: 10.5 oz, Women: 9.3 oz | Men: 10.8 oz, Women: 8.9 oz |
| Heel-to-Toe Drop | 6 mm | 4 mm |
| Stack Height | Heel: 45 mm, Forefoot: 39 mm | Heel: 43 mm, Forefoot: 38 mm |
| Cushioning | DNA Tuned Nitrogen-Infused Foam, large heel cells, smaller forefoot cells | Supercritical EVA Foam, ultra-soft |
| Rocker Design | Aggressive late forefoot rocker | Meta-Rocker, moderate toe spring |
| Upper Material | Engineered mesh, plush collar | Engineered mesh, 55% recycled polyester |
| Fit | True to size, spacious forefoot, snug midfoot | True to size, wide toe box, snug heel |
| Stability | Moderate, slight forefoot stiffness | High, wide platform, extended heel |
| Best For | Long runs, recovery runs, versatile use | Walking, standing, recovery runs |
| Price | ~$200 | ~$165 |
| Durability | High, durable outsole | High, high-abrasion rubber outsole |
My Journey With Max-Cushion Shoes
I’ve been running for over a decade, from city streets to rugged trails, and my knees have a lot to say about cushioning. Max-cushion shoes like the Brooks Glycerin and HOKA Bondi have been game-changers for me, especially on long runs or days when my joints beg for mercy.
These shoes are designed to absorb impact and provide a cloud-like feel, but they’re not identical twins. Each has its own personality, and I’ve spent hours pounding pavement in both to understand what sets them apart.
The Brooks Glycerin Max, the latest in the Glycerin line, is a plush powerhouse with a nitrogen-infused foam midsole. The HOKA Bondi 9, on the other hand, is the poster child for maximalist cushioning, with its supercritical EVA foam and iconic meta-rocker design.
Both are neutral shoes, meaning they’re built for runners who don’t need aggressive stability features, but they cater to slightly different needs. Let’s break it down.
Brooks Glycerin Max: Features And Performance
When I first slipped into the Brooks Glycerin Max, it felt like stepping onto a cushioned mattress.
The DNA Tuned nitrogen-infused midsole is the star of the show, with larger cells in the heel for soft landings and smaller, denser cells in the forefoot for a springy toe-off.
This dual-density setup gives the shoe a balanced feel—plush but not sloppy.
I noticed a smooth transition from heel to toe, thanks to the aggressive late forefoot rocker, which propels you forward without excessive toe spring.
The upper is a breathable engineered mesh with a padded collar and tongue that hug your foot like a cozy sock.
I found the fit true to size, with a spacious forefoot that let my toes splay naturally, though the midfoot felt snug, which I appreciated for stability during longer runs.
At 10.5 ounces for men and 9.3 ounces for women, it’s slightly lighter than the Bondi 9, which made a difference on runs over 10 miles.
On the road, the Glycerin Max shines for long, easy runs and recovery days. The 45mm heel stack and 39mm forefoot stack provide ample cushioning, absorbing shock like a sponge. I ran a half-marathon in these, and my knees felt fresh afterward—no small feat for a 40-year-old runner.
The outsole, with its generous rubber coverage, gripped wet pavement well and showed minimal wear after 100 miles.
Pros of The Brooks Glycerin Max
- Responsive Cushioning: The DNA Tuned foam strikes a perfect balance between softness and energy return, making it versatile for running and walking.
- Smooth Transitions: The rocker geometry ensures a fluid stride, reducing fatigue on long runs.
- Spacious Fit: The wide forefoot is a blessing for runners with broader feet or those who hate cramped toe boxes.
- Durability: The outsole holds up well, even after heavy use on abrasive surfaces.
- Versatile Use: Great for both running and casual walking, with a plush feel that doesn’t sacrifice responsiveness.
Cons of The Brooks Glycerin Max
- Pricey: At around $200, it’s a significant investment compared to other max-cushion shoes.
- Weight: While lighter than the Bondi, it’s still heavier than some competitors, which might bother speed-focused runners.
- Snug Midfoot: The tighter midfoot fit could feel restrictive for runners who prefer a roomier feel.
- Not Ideal for Speed: The shoe’s design prioritizes comfort over quick turnover, making it less suited for tempo runs or races.
HOKA Bondi 9: Features And Performance
The HOKA Bondi 9 is like slipping your feet into a pair of clouds.
Its supercritical EVA foam midsole is softer than the Glycerin Max, with a 43mm heel and 38mm forefoot stack that feels like walking on pillows.
The meta-rocker design, a hallmark of HOKA, gently rolls you forward, making each step feel effortless.
I wore these for a 12-hour shift on my feet, and the cushioning kept my legs fresh—a testament to their reputation as a go-to for nurses and retail workers.
The upper, made with 55% recycled polyester, is breathable and lightweight, with a wide toe box that accommodates natural foot splay. Unlike the Bondi 8, which ran narrow, the Bondi 9 fits true to size and comes in wide and extra-wide options, a boon for runners with broader feet.
The extended heel adds stability, and I felt secure even on uneven sidewalks. At 10.8 ounces for men and 8.9 ounces for women, it’s slightly heavier than the Glycerin Max, but the weight feels justified by the plush ride.
On runs, the Bondi 9 excels at slower paces and recovery days. The soft foam absorbs impact beautifully, making it ideal for runners with joint pain or those logging high mileage. I took these on a 15-mile run, and while they didn’t have the same bounce as the Glycerin Max, the comfort was unmatched.
The high-abrasion rubber outsole gripped well on both dry and wet surfaces, and after 150 miles, it still looked nearly new.
Pros of The HOKA Bondi 9
- Unmatched Cushioning: The supercritical EVA foam delivers a cloud-like feel, perfect for long walks or standing all day.
- Wide Toe Box: Roomy fit accommodates wider feet or runners who need space for toe splay.
- Stable Platform: The extended heel and wide base provide excellent stability, even for heavier runners.
- Durable Outsole: High-abrasion rubber ensures longevity, even on rough terrain.
- Versatile for Walking: Ideal for non-running activities like commuting or long shifts on your feet.
Cons of The HOKA Bondi 9
- Limited Energy Return: The soft foam lacks the bounce needed for faster runs, making it less versatile.
- Weight: At 10.8 ounces for men, it’s heavier than the Glycerin Max, which can feel sluggish on longer runs.
- Heel Pressure: Some runners may experience discomfort at the heel, especially those with Haglund’s deformity or Achilles issues.
- Price: At $165, it’s not cheap, though it’s more affordable than the Glycerin Max.
Key Differences Between Brooks Glycerin And HOKA Bondi
- Fit and Feel
Fit is where these shoes start to show their differences. The Brooks Glycerin Max has a snug midfoot and a spacious forefoot, which worked well for my slightly wide feet. The heel counter locks in securely, preventing slippage during runs.
However, the tighter midfoot might feel constrictive for runners who prefer a looser fit. The HOKA Bondi 9, by contrast, offers a wider toe box and a snug heel, which I found ideal for long walks.
The Bondi’s fit is more forgiving, especially in wide sizes, but some runners might notice pressure at the heel, which I didn’t experience but read about in reviews.
The feel underfoot is another key distinction. The Glycerin Max’s DNA Tuned foam feels plush yet responsive, with a noticeable spring in the forefoot that makes it more versatile for running. I could push the pace slightly without feeling bogged down.
The Bondi 9, however, prioritizes softness over responsiveness. It’s like running on marshmallows—great for soaking up impact but less engaging for faster strides. If you’re a heel striker, the Bondi’s lower 4mm drop encourages a midfoot strike, which took me a few runs to adjust to.
- Cushioning and Rocker Design
Cushioning is the heart of both shoes, but they approach it differently. The Glycerin Max’s nitrogen-infused foam uses varying cell sizes to balance softness and energy return. I felt this most during transitions, where the rocker design guided my stride smoothly.
The 6mm drop suited my natural gait, absorbing impact without feeling too platform-like. The Bondi 9’s supercritical EVA foam, however, is softer and less responsive, prioritizing comfort over propulsion. Its meta-rocker, with a slight toe spring, made walking feel effortless but less dynamic for running.
The stack heights are close—45mm heel/39mm forefoot for the Glycerin Max versus 43mm heel/38mm forefoot for the Bondi 9—but the Bondi feels taller due to its softer foam.
For runners with joint issues, the Bondi’s extra cushioning might be a lifesaver, but the Glycerin Max’s responsiveness makes it better for those who mix running and walking.
- Stability and Support
Neither shoe is a stability model, but both offer enough support for neutral runners. The Glycerin Max has a slight forefoot stiffness and a snug midfoot that provide moderate stability, which I found sufficient for easy runs.
The Bondi 9, with its wider platform and extended heel, feels more planted, especially on uneven surfaces. I noticed this when walking on cracked sidewalks—the Bondi kept me steady, while the Glycerin Max required a bit more focus.
For runners with mild overpronation, the Bondi’s design, with the foot sitting slightly in the midsole, offers subtle motion control. The Glycerin Max relies more on its fit and rocker for stability, which might not suffice for those needing more support.
If stability is a priority, you might consider the Brooks Glycerin GTS or HOKA Gaviota.
- Durability and Value
Both shoes are built to last. The Glycerin Max’s outsole, with its robust rubber coverage, showed minimal wear after 100 miles, and the upper held up well against daily use.
The Bondi 9’s high-abrasion rubber outsole is equally durable, with testers reporting it lasting up to 400 miles. The Bondi’s upper, with its recycled polyester, feels slightly less sturdy but hasn’t torn or frayed in my experience.
Price-wise, the Glycerin Max at $200 is pricier than the Bondi 9 at $165. For the extra cost, you get a more responsive ride and a sleeker design, but the Bondi offers better value for walkers or those prioritizing cushioning. Both are investments, but their durability justifies the cost for high-mileage runners.
Who Are These Shoes For?
The Brooks Glycerin Max is my pick for runners who want a versatile max-cushion shoe. Its responsive foam and rocker design make it great for long runs, recovery days, or even casual walking.
If you’re a runner who likes to mix paces or needs a shoe that transitions well from running to daily wear, the Glycerin Max is a strong contender.
The HOKA Bondi 9 is the go-to for those who prioritize comfort above all else. It’s perfect for walkers, runners with joint pain, or anyone spending long hours on their feet, like nurses or teachers. If you’re logging slow miles or recovering from an injury, the Bondi’s plush cushioning is hard to beat.
My Experience With Brooks Glycerin And HOKA Bondi
I tested both shoes over a month, alternating between them for runs, walks, and long days on my feet. The Glycerin Max felt like a trusty all-rounder—comfortable for a 10-mile run but responsive enough to pick up the pace. I loved its bounce, especially on days when I felt sluggish.
The Bondi 9, however, was my savior during a weekend of standing at a music festival. Its soft cushioning made hours on concrete feel bearable, though I noticed the lack of energy return on faster runs.
One surprise was how much I appreciated the Bondi’s wide toe box. My feet felt free to move, which isn’t always the case with running shoes. The Glycerin Max, while spacious, had a snugger midfoot that kept my foot locked in during runs but felt slightly restrictive during casual wear.
Both shoes handled wet conditions well, but the Bondi’s wider base gave me more confidence on slick surfaces.
Also Read: Differences Between Hoka Arahi 7 And Clifton 9 Shoes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
It depends on your needs. The HOKA Bondi 9 is better for walking, standing, or recovery runs due to its ultra-soft cushioning and stable platform. The Brooks Glycerin Max is better for versatile running, offering a responsive ride for longer distances.
The Saucony Triumph 21 is a great alternative, offering plush cushioning, a 10mm drop, and a responsive ride, ideal for runners seeking a balance of comfort and energy return.
Podiatrists often recommend Brooks for their consistent fit, durable construction, and stability features like GuideRails, which help with overpronation and support natural foot alignment.
The New Balance Fresh Foam More v4 is comparable, with similar max-cushion softness, a wide platform, and a focus on comfort for long runs or walking.
Wrapping Up
Choosing between the Brooks Glycerin Max and HOKA Bondi 9 comes down to what you value most in a shoe. If you’re after a versatile runner that balances plush comfort with a lively bounce, the Glycerin Max is your match. Its responsive foam and smooth rocker make every mile feel effortless, whether you’re jogging or strolling.
If supreme cushioning and stability for walking or standing all day are your priorities, the Bondi 9’s cloud-like feel is unbeatable. Try them on, listen to your feet, and pick the shoe that feels like home for your stride.
