Sounds like the “Constant” is a stability shoe whereas the Altra’s are more neutral. My problem with Hoka’s (Bondi 3 included) isn’t the width of the heel and midfoot, it’s with the toe box which is tiny. The problem with switching to Altra is that you can never go back…I now have a pair of almost new Clifton’s and Bondi3s in 9.5 and 10s that will never been worn again. I haven’t tried the Altra Olympus/Paradigm yet but will give them a try. If I were Hoka I’d copy the toe box of Altra and you’d have an amazing shoe.
I too have flipper feet (narrow heels and wide fronts). I have run in the Stinson, the Bondi3, and the Altra Olympus. The Altra is a great shoe for wide feet types. Took a little while to get used to the zero drop design, but now I would never go back. FYI, the new Bondi4 is supposed to have a wide feet version as well (January 2015?). Hope this helps.
GG
Hoka is coming out with a shoe called the “Constant” in 2015. I’m also a wide-forefooted guy and the Bondi 3 is the only Hoka I can wear, and it’s “just” wide enough in the toe box for me. I’ve tried the Altra Paradigm (too firm for me) and the Olympus (metal eyelet gave me a blister on the top of my foot). From Runblogger’s site:
“Description via HOKA: “The new Constant road shoe offers the most stable ride and generous fit in the HOKA lineup. The combination of cushioning EVA and RMAT® high-rebound material delivers guided stability and increased durability, while an over-sized active foot frame provides support. A mono-wrap tongue coupled with asymmetrical lacing supports the foot through the arch while reducing pressure across the top of the foot. The Constant will be available at specialty running stores for a suggested retail price of $160.””