Compare: Brooks Ghost 14 vs. Hoka Bondi 7: Which Running Shoe Is Best?

I found several models of athletic running shoes in the market. But none of them are as comfortable as the Brooks Ghost 14 and Hoka Bondi 7. They are responsive and offer quality performance.

So, do they have differences? The difference between the Brooks Ghost 14 and Hoka Bondi 7 is their cushioning type. Ghost 14 has 100% DNA loft cushion, while Bond 7 features CMEVA foam. They also differ in sizing, width options, heel drop, and flexibility.

Brooks Ghost 14 vs Hoka Bondi 7: Comparison Chart

Both pairs are top-selling products on the market. Here, I made a comparison chart of the specifications between Brooks Ghost 14 and Hoka Bondi 7.

ParameterBrooks Ghost 14Hoka Bondi 7
Cushioning Type100% DNA LoftCMEVA foam
SizingTrue to sizeTrue to width and size
Width OptionsNarrow/Medium/Wide/XWideRegular/Wide/XWide
SupportNeutralNeutral
Heel Drop12 mm10 mm
FlexibilityFlexibleMedium
Best forEveryday run, RunningEveryday run, Walking

Brooks Ghost 14 and Hoka Bondi 7: Feature

Both shoes are praised and appreciated by the runners. They have their own set of features to provide comfort to the wearers. Let’s learn how they differ based on their features.

Upper

The thinner and breathable mesh in the Ghost 14 upper gives it a streamlined feel. However, some users feel warm on summer days. So, the footwear is ideal for the colder months. The heel tab, collar, and tongue have generous padding to give you a pillowy feel.

The Bondi 7 has a traditional engineered mesh upper, leaving a cool look. Also, TPU overlays in the mesh add a secure feel. A few wearers stated that the shoes fit a bit narrowly due to the TPU. Proper ventilation is confirmed to keep your feet dry. As a result, if you tend to overheat while running, wear Bondi 7.

Midsole

100% DNA loft is used to make the midsole of the Brooks 14. Such a construction ensures a smooth riding experience. The DNA Loft is well-known as the softest cushioning system. Thus, the shoes meet the cushioning requirements of individual runners. Wear these versatile pairs for medium, long-distance, tempo, or shooter runs.

Like all other Hokas, the Bondi 7 midsole is made of CMEVA foam. The cushioning is not maximum while offering protection to daily trainers. At the same time, thick midsoles provide adequate shock absorption and reduce impacts on joints.

Outsole

Two types of rubber are used in the outsole of Brooks Ghost 14. The forefoot and midfoot are designed with softer blown rubber. Moreover, harder rubber in the heel promotes durability. Additionally, the shoes provide outstanding traction regardless of the weather and surfaces.

The Bondi 7 is manufactured with blown rubber in the high-wear areas. Also, a generous amount of rubber leaves a soft and bouncy feel during each stride. The rubber is durable and performs as expected on various climate conditions and surfaces.

Stability

The Brooks Ghost 14 delivers decent stability to users. This footwear feels less cushy and soft in the toe box area. So, if you are an overpronator, it will be less suitable for you. Nevertheless, it is a flexible shoe for others, requiring a secure fit.

I found the Bondi 7 impressively stable. Moreover, I didn’t experience lean bias as the midsole is perfectly cushioned. A wide base confines planted foot strikes no matter which position you hit the surfaces. Furthermore, rocker technology confirms smooth and efficient rides all the time. Besides, maximum cushioning prevents overpronation.

Durability

Brooks 14 has a reputation for being durable. High-quality materials are used in every part, withstanding regular use. Also, you will barely find wear and tear after wearing it for long-distance running for many days. If you prefer longevity in your shoes, buy this pair.

Although the Hoka Bondi 7 is made of top-notch materials, its midsole has durability issues. The less exposed midsole in the midfoot is not covered with rubber, raising the durability concern. This area is damaged faster than the other parts of the shoes. Nonetheless, the pair retains its shape and performance under extensive use.

Sizing & Fit

The Ghost 14 is true to size but has a loose foot lockdown. For this reason, a few wearers expressed that they found the pair accurately fitted after buying a half-size down. The shoes have a spacious foot due to the thinner mesh. Interestingly, the shoe features 3D Fit Print technology for personalized fit. This way, the footwear offers a blister-free wearing experience.

On the other hand, the Bondi 7 is true to length. The size will fit perfectly if you choose the correct length. Hoka released this style in wide and extra-wide sizes. So, if you have wide feet, this pair will suit you.

Weight

The average weight of Brooks Ghost 14 is 10 oz. (283.5 g). The thin mesh upper makes it lightweight and provides a plush ride. It strikes perfectly on various surfaces and perfectly balances weight and responsiveness.

The Hoka Bondi 7 is lighter compared to the Ghost 14. Though it features a thicker midsole, the weight is saved because of the lesser amount of rubber in the midfoot.  

Brooks Ghost 14 vs. Hoka Bondi 7: Which One to Buy?

Both running shoes promise to deliver excellent performance. The choice between these pairs depends on your preferences. However, here are my recommendations:

I Suggest You Buy Brooks Ghost 14 IfI Suggest You Buy Hoka Bondi 7 If
You are a daily runnerYou want lightweight shoes
You prefer longevityYou are an overpronator
You need shoes for rough working sessionsYour preference is more cushioning

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