Hoka wearers...Bondi 3?

[Fionn mac Cumhail]

I've got about 550 miles on my Hoka Cliftons, and should have retired them 100 miles ago...they're dead...they won't make my Feb 8 marathon.  I need to replace now so that I can have a solid 3 weeks of break in...I was thinking about the Cliftons, but I can get a Bondi 3 for $70 cheaper...and that ain't chump change...that's my fucking hotel room cost...

Yays?  Nays?

[joan]

I have no idea, but what marathon are you running?  It's coming up so you must be excited!

[caito]

I'd be hesitant to swap the model of my shoe so close to my marathon.  The Bondi is great, just a bit heavier and more substantial than the Clifton.

I fully recognize that others are not as neurotic about their shoe choices as I am though. 

[joan]

I agree with Caito; I wouldn't switch shoes so close to the marathon.  Could you get two pairs (one like the old model, one new) and rotate them?

[Fionn mac Cumhail]

I agree with Caito; I wouldn't switch shoes so close to the marathon.  Could you get two pairs (one like the old model, one new) and rotate them?

I'm trying to afford a single pair...which is why I'd prefer the pair that are essentially half the price

[Fionn mac Cumhail]

I have no idea, but what marathon are you running?  It's coming up so you must be excited!

I am!  I've had to adjust my goals from BQ to PR to have fun though, due to some setbacks...hard training + suspected iron deficiency makes it feel like I've already RUN several marathons this year... 

I'd be hesitant to swap the model of my shoe so close to my marathon.  The Bondi is great, just a bit heavier and more substantial than the Clifton.

I fully recognize that others are not as neurotic about their shoe choices as I am though. 

I tend to agree, but I'm not sure I have much of a choice...I'm pretty good at acclimating...I was trying desperately to get another 100 including the marathon on the Cliftons....but, I'm courting injury now...

The Bondi are showing about 4 oz heavier each...I'm not too concerned about the weight...I spit more weight than that in a marathon....

[joan]

Can you talk to someone from the company or a reputable running store about differences between the two shoes?  Big online running stores sites may have some helpful reviews you can read.   You can always go in a test run in the cheaper shoes (unless you're buying online).  You know your body, and if you're comfortable buying the cheaper shoes, and typically don't have injury issues and/or have finicky feet, then I'd consider it.  in my case, I'd go with what I know works for me -- but I'm an anxious person who wouldn't want to take any kind of chance this close to a marathon.

[Fionn mac Cumhail]

I read a gazillion reviews...and, I pulled the trigger...if I cripple myself, it's all your faults!!

[merigayle]

It will probably be ok and it may even be better, more cushion! I am anxiously awaiting the Bondi 4s, just a couple more weeks, in hopes that the newer ones fit my foot better with the upper section.

[Ice Cream]

I have run long distances  in brand new shoes. I would definitely do it if I have three weeks before the race. But I can run in almost any shoe that is stability or cushioned.

[Eco Ellen]

Rock on, dude.

[Fionn mac Cumhail]

Rock on, dude.

  I shall

[Fionn mac Cumhail]

Just arrived...I'll report back...

[diablita]

are we there yet?

[radial]

Swapped out my old Hokas for a new pair today.  Think I got my money's worth? 

[Fionn mac Cumhail]

are we there yet?

I'm 16 miles in...let me give it another couple of days for a full review 

Swapped out my old Hokas for a new pair today.  Think I got my money's worth? 

Think I did?!   

[merigayle]

Omg!

I just ordered online the Bondi 4s,  they fit better than the 3s which were unwearable for me.

[Belgian Lace]

Jeebus.  Those are some Fred Flinstone lookin' m-fers.

[Ice Cream]

I like the worn soles pics.

[Fionn mac Cumhail]

Review....after some breaking in (about 40 miles so far), and the normal aches from the difference in bio mechanics, I can say that I'm a fan...they're noticeably heavier than the Cliftons, but the soles seem much sturdier...and as you can see, I can chew up a shoe...

Not much of a review really....more like a "hey, these things are fine, y'all..."

And for half the price of the Cliftons?!  Winner....I've got my final 20 before the Tallahassee Marathon this Saturday, so I guess that'll be the real test...but, I'm confident in the shoes, if not my body