I’m a Frequent Flier, and These Are the Comfy Sneakers I See in Almost Every Airport Lounge Across the U.S.

I fly a lot. Maybe not as much as short-haul fliers who are taking off every week (I see you, consultants), but I find myself 35,000-plus feet in the air quite often (at least once a month) — and on very different flights: long-haul, short-haul, red-eye… you get the gist. But one thing that stays the same is the footwear that my fellow travelers are sporting: the Hoka Bondi 8 Running Shoes. 

Over the last year, I've spotted a pair of the popular Hoka shoes in almost every airport lounge that I've spent time in, from Los Angeles to New York and Detroit to Atlanta. If there's one thing to know about me, it's that I’m going to be in a lounge whenever I can, wherever I can. Whether it's from my Delta status, an American Express travel card, Priority Pass, and sometimes, splurging for an oh-so-good business or first class seat, I'll be in an airport lounge piling up a plate of goodies, cheersing to life with champagne, and, of course, people-watching.

Hoka Women’s Bondi 8 Running Shoes

Which is why I can tell you with certainty that the jet-setters (myself included) are loving the Hoka Bondi 8s; they've also racked up more than 2,000 five-star ratings from Zappos shoppers, who love the "top notch" shoes for being "comfortable and supportive right out of the box." 

They're easy to spot because of their bold colorways and unique-looking shapes; the bottom heel is sort of fanned or billowed out to provide exceptional cushioning. The distinctive design feature also provides the wearer with a well-supported stride that makes walking through the airport a super comfortable and pain-free experience.

Hoka Women’s Bondi 8 Running Shoes

And it's not just me who's saying this. They’ve received the American Podiatric Medical Association’s Seal of Acceptance for promoting good foot health. Translation? Your feet are going to be super happy in these babies. When I wear them, I feel like I’m walking on a cloud. They also have padded tongues and the type of heel padding that cradles your feet in a really nice way. I have flat feet, so the arch support is enough to make a difference in my stride without being too much (or hurting me — flat girlies, I know you feel me). What's more, their sturdy rubber soles deliver in the traction department, and you won't have to worry about sliding over the slick airport tiles or tripping on uneven surfaces. 

I’ve seen these sneakers on fliers of all ages, all body types, and all sorts of travelers — from moms running after their kids to athleisure-wearing jet-setters who are on their third sauvignon blanc. Like I mentioned before, the Hoka Bondi 8 Running Shoes are available in a variety of colors, but it's the gray ones that seem to be the most popular among travelers. However, I’ve also seen the vibrant orange and blue hues in the mix. 

Hoka Women’s Bondi 8 Running Shoes

Outside of the airport lounges, they're the perfect travel shoes because their ample cushioning, support, stability, and traction makes them excellent for city walking, as well as hitting the hotel gym or local (beginner-level) trails. And, depending on the color that you choose, you can easily wear them with casual outfits (think: jeans, flowy dresses, skirts, etc.) for a laidback look as you're making your way through your itinerary. 

The Hoka Bondi 8 Running Shoes are clearly taking over the travel world. Take a cue from your fellow travelers and add a pair to your Zappos cart before your next trip, or keep scrolling to explore the other popular Hoka running shoes out there. 

More Comfy Hoka Shoes at Zappos: 

Hoka Women’s Clifton 9 Running Shoes

Hoka Women’s Mach 6 Running Shoes

Hoka Women's Kawana 2 Running Shoes

Hoka Women’s Gaviota 5 Running Shoes

Hoka Women’s Solimar Running Shoes

At the time of publishing, the price started at $165. 

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